Here is a classic thanksgiving message from Billy Graham:
The Mayflower's voyage to the new world was a "survival test" on a huge scale. The passengers had sold their possessions and had to work for years to pay for their passage. The ship had no heat or plumbing. Storms raged, and a main beam cracked in mid-ocean.
But after more than two months on the Atlantic Ocean, this band of 102 people arrived before Christmas, 1620. William Bradford wrote in his journal, "Being thus arrived at a good harbor, and brought safely to land, they fell on their knees and blessed the God of heaven who had brought them over the vast and furious ocean and delivered them from all the perils and miseries thereof." What a celebration that must have been!
But just after Christmas a serious sickness broke out, and in the next three months nearly half the Pilgrims died. Hunger and illness stalked them, but they never wavered in their purpose.
Today, if these Pilgrims could observe our troubled world with its disillusioned outlook, its rebelliousness and its erosion of traditional values, they would be not only dismayed but also shocked. However, since their time, certain things have not changed. There is still lust, greed, hatred and prejudice in the human heart. There is still persecution and war in the world.
With all of the world's churches and universities, we would do well to go back to the church and the school of early Plymouth to see what those pioneers can teach us.
Click here to read the rest of Dr. Graham's message.
November 26, 2009
Matthew 25 Resource 11/26/09-Freestore Foodbank (Cincinnati, OH)
In the last 40 years, we’ve grown from one man’s passion for helping his neighbors into one of the region’s largest food banks.
We distribute on 10 million pounds of food annually in 20 counties in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana through a trusted network of over 400 local members agencies such as soup kitchens and shelters, food pantries, churches, daycare and senior centers, and many other community and social services organizations.
Unlike other food banks in the area, we operate a Client Services Center in Over-the-Rhine, which works to meet the needs of our community’s most vulnerable citizens, including the homeless, the unemployed, the working poor, and families in crisis. By providing emergency food services, we work to determine the root causes of poverty and food insecurity are able to provide services aimed at creating self-reliance. When people come to us for food, we help them find the other things they may need -- a safe place to live, access to affordable healthcare, clothing or job skills and placement. For our work, food is not the end product rather it is the beginning of a much larger conversation to help our community’s citizens work towards self-reliance.
Core Values
Commitment: We will not accept hunger
Compassion: We embrace diversity
Respect: We are in service with our neighbors
Empowerment: Those we serve can succeed independently
Community: We collaborate with other in our region
Click here to find out more.
We distribute on 10 million pounds of food annually in 20 counties in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana through a trusted network of over 400 local members agencies such as soup kitchens and shelters, food pantries, churches, daycare and senior centers, and many other community and social services organizations.
Unlike other food banks in the area, we operate a Client Services Center in Over-the-Rhine, which works to meet the needs of our community’s most vulnerable citizens, including the homeless, the unemployed, the working poor, and families in crisis. By providing emergency food services, we work to determine the root causes of poverty and food insecurity are able to provide services aimed at creating self-reliance. When people come to us for food, we help them find the other things they may need -- a safe place to live, access to affordable healthcare, clothing or job skills and placement. For our work, food is not the end product rather it is the beginning of a much larger conversation to help our community’s citizens work towards self-reliance.
Core Values
Commitment: We will not accept hunger
Compassion: We embrace diversity
Respect: We are in service with our neighbors
Empowerment: Those we serve can succeed independently
Community: We collaborate with other in our region
Click here to find out more.
Using Religion As a Weapon
As a former member of the Roman Catholic faith, I (Jim) know that there are plenty of people devoted to the rituals and practices of the church who don't totally agree with the church's increasingly militant stand on political issues like abortion and same-sex marriage. It appears that the church is ready to withold the opportunity for full participation in the Eucharist (communion), perhaps the most sacred rite of Roman Catholicism, from people who don't sign up for their political agenda. This sickens us and makes us think that the Catholic Church needs to decide what it wants to be, a structure under which people can worship God, or a political and social service organizaton. It appears to be moving strongly in the direction of the latter. Here is an excerpt from an essay posted on the blog "Unite the Fight" that details the reasons for this concern.
In what Sen. Patrick Kennedy has admitted was a long time coming, Bishop Thomas Tobin of Rhode Island wrote the Catholic senator an email informing him that he will not be allowed to partake of the Eucharist, or what is commonly known as Communion, because of his support of reproductive rights, in particular when it comes to health care reform.
In a statement issued Sunday, Tobin made known he informed Kennedy in February 2007 that it would be "inappropriate" for him to continue receiving the fundamental Catholic sacrament, "and I now ask respectfully that you refrain from doing so."
The bishop is not deterred. The most recent development occurred Tuesday morning on a Rhode Island radio show on which Bishop Tobin appeared.
"If [Sen. Kennedy] cannot abide by the teaching of this church, not just this one but others and ... what it means to be a Catholic ... maybe he should find another fine Christian denomination where he can be more comfortable," the bishop said.
Bishop Tobin also has the ear of Rhode Island Gov. Carcieri, who is a member of the anti-LGBT National Organization for Marriage and, in a move many criticized has heartless, recently vetoed the bill that would have given domestic partners the right to make burial arrangements for each other.
But can we honestly be surprised that this is the direction that Catholic Church leadership is headed? Strong-arming politicians to craft secular law to reflect church law?
Patrick Kennedy told the Providence Journal that Tobin had barred him from receiving communion and instructed priests in the diocese not to administer the sacrament "because of the positions that I've taken as a public official."
Naturally the question arises, "What public policy positions will the church hound policy makers on next? Marriage equality?"
Michael Jones at Change.org says, "It was a narrowing of Catholic theology to strip issues like poverty and social justice from the forefront of the Church, and replace them with opposing abortion, gay marriage, and stem cell research. It was also a call to Catholic politicians: oppose abortion and gay marriage at all costs, or risk the threat of the Church denying you Communion and publicly tarring and feathering you as a sinner."
And he's right. The Archdiocese of Washington D.C. threatened to throw the poor and homeless under the bus, claiming they will end their charity work if the District City Council passed their same-sex marriage legislation.
Let's not forget to that they are issuing a new edict that will be signed by hundreds of U.S. Bishops that will strongly unite them all behind a common statement condemning the love between gays and lesbians. Behind this they can rally and step into public policy making more than ever before.
Moreover, the church has pledged $2 million to fight marriage equality, despite closing parishes left and right due to lack of funds.
Click here to read the rest of this essay.
In what Sen. Patrick Kennedy has admitted was a long time coming, Bishop Thomas Tobin of Rhode Island wrote the Catholic senator an email informing him that he will not be allowed to partake of the Eucharist, or what is commonly known as Communion, because of his support of reproductive rights, in particular when it comes to health care reform.
In a statement issued Sunday, Tobin made known he informed Kennedy in February 2007 that it would be "inappropriate" for him to continue receiving the fundamental Catholic sacrament, "and I now ask respectfully that you refrain from doing so."
The bishop is not deterred. The most recent development occurred Tuesday morning on a Rhode Island radio show on which Bishop Tobin appeared.
"If [Sen. Kennedy] cannot abide by the teaching of this church, not just this one but others and ... what it means to be a Catholic ... maybe he should find another fine Christian denomination where he can be more comfortable," the bishop said.
Bishop Tobin also has the ear of Rhode Island Gov. Carcieri, who is a member of the anti-LGBT National Organization for Marriage and, in a move many criticized has heartless, recently vetoed the bill that would have given domestic partners the right to make burial arrangements for each other.
But can we honestly be surprised that this is the direction that Catholic Church leadership is headed? Strong-arming politicians to craft secular law to reflect church law?
Patrick Kennedy told the Providence Journal that Tobin had barred him from receiving communion and instructed priests in the diocese not to administer the sacrament "because of the positions that I've taken as a public official."
Naturally the question arises, "What public policy positions will the church hound policy makers on next? Marriage equality?"
Michael Jones at Change.org says, "It was a narrowing of Catholic theology to strip issues like poverty and social justice from the forefront of the Church, and replace them with opposing abortion, gay marriage, and stem cell research. It was also a call to Catholic politicians: oppose abortion and gay marriage at all costs, or risk the threat of the Church denying you Communion and publicly tarring and feathering you as a sinner."
And he's right. The Archdiocese of Washington D.C. threatened to throw the poor and homeless under the bus, claiming they will end their charity work if the District City Council passed their same-sex marriage legislation.
Let's not forget to that they are issuing a new edict that will be signed by hundreds of U.S. Bishops that will strongly unite them all behind a common statement condemning the love between gays and lesbians. Behind this they can rally and step into public policy making more than ever before.
Moreover, the church has pledged $2 million to fight marriage equality, despite closing parishes left and right due to lack of funds.
Click here to read the rest of this essay.
Daily Devotional 11/26/09 When You Don't Feel Thankful
WHEN YOU DON'T FEEL THANKFUL
He who offers a sacrifice of thanksgiving honors me. - Psalm 50:23
What do you do when your life is going south? What do you do when it is “THANKSGIVING” and you have just lost a loved one… or just lost your job… or just lost your marriage? Surely you cannot be expected to give thanks… can you?
Sometimes thanksgiving is a sacrifice. Sometimes we must thank God through clenched teeth and chocked back tears. Thanksgiving in the midst of a terrible storm brings tremendous joy to His heart. It shows the Lord that we really trust Him… regardless of the adverse circumstances we are facing.
THE THANKSGIVING CONSTANT
Perhaps you are one this year who is having trouble finding good in your life. Look no further than Jesus. He never changes. Despite everything you might be facing, you can rejoice in Him. You can give thanks for Him and His love and care for you. You can give thanks that He promised to work all things together for good.
Train yourself to give thanks in everything. Remember… a sacrifice of thanksgiving brings honor to the Lord. Thank Him for that trial you are facing. Thank Him for that sorrow. He will use your thanks for His glory and your ultimate good!
He who offers a sacrifice of thanksgiving honors me. - Psalm 50:23
What do you do when your life is going south? What do you do when it is “THANKSGIVING” and you have just lost a loved one… or just lost your job… or just lost your marriage? Surely you cannot be expected to give thanks… can you?
Sometimes thanksgiving is a sacrifice. Sometimes we must thank God through clenched teeth and chocked back tears. Thanksgiving in the midst of a terrible storm brings tremendous joy to His heart. It shows the Lord that we really trust Him… regardless of the adverse circumstances we are facing.
THE THANKSGIVING CONSTANT
Perhaps you are one this year who is having trouble finding good in your life. Look no further than Jesus. He never changes. Despite everything you might be facing, you can rejoice in Him. You can give thanks for Him and His love and care for you. You can give thanks that He promised to work all things together for good.
Train yourself to give thanks in everything. Remember… a sacrifice of thanksgiving brings honor to the Lord. Thank Him for that trial you are facing. Thank Him for that sorrow. He will use your thanks for His glory and your ultimate good!
November 25, 2009
LGBT Helping Hands 11/25/09-AIDS Project of Central Iowa (Des Moines)
Our agency has a long history of serving people living with HIV. In 1987, an involved group calling themselves the Central Iowa AIDS Project voluntarily began the task of addressing HIV incidence in and around Des Moines. In 1990, the Mayor’s Task Force on AIDS recommended this coalition form an independent agency.
What is now known as the AIDS Project of Central Iowa (The Project) opened its doors in December 1991, becoming a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in 1993. The Project has grown and is now the largest HIV/AIDS service and prevention agency in the state of Iowa. Our agency provides personalized direct care services to hundreds of people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS, as well as provides prevention services to thousands of Iowans at-risk for contracting the disease.
Click here to find out more.
What is now known as the AIDS Project of Central Iowa (The Project) opened its doors in December 1991, becoming a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in 1993. The Project has grown and is now the largest HIV/AIDS service and prevention agency in the state of Iowa. Our agency provides personalized direct care services to hundreds of people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS, as well as provides prevention services to thousands of Iowans at-risk for contracting the disease.
Click here to find out more.
What to Make Out of the ENDA Delay
The Bilerico Project has a post up looking at the delay in Congress considering the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) that would protect LGBT people for being fired because they are LGBT across the nation. It's not an optimistic view:
It was a surprise to most people that the markup of ENDA, scheduled for last Wednesday morning at 10 am, was abruptly postponed on Monday night at 6:30 pm, heralded by a terse red notice on the House Committee on Education and Labor website. After all, ENDA had been touted for months as the next promise to be kept to our community, with LGBT House leaders embracing a vote in September or October.
The ENDA delay is ominous, and likely to be long. As The New York Times reported yesterday, a massive legislative logjam is building up in the Senate.. Once the Senate is done debating health care, there will be dozens of priority bills.
At the same time, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is setting a new legislative priority: the immediate creation of a jobs bill from scratch in the House, and Senator Reid has said the same for the Senate. Jobs are, of course, very important, but that effort will likely suck all the oxygen from the room for quite a while. Delaying ENDA puts it behind everything else. And then midterm elections will hit. And DADT is scheduled for next year, and DADT could easily supercede ENDA.
This delay is also giving the fundies more time to heat up their branding irons. In addition, the more delay, the more that the Committee doing the "tweaks" is going to start getting pressure to tinker with the "gender identity" provisions.
Click here to read more of the analysis of this issue.
It was a surprise to most people that the markup of ENDA, scheduled for last Wednesday morning at 10 am, was abruptly postponed on Monday night at 6:30 pm, heralded by a terse red notice on the House Committee on Education and Labor website. After all, ENDA had been touted for months as the next promise to be kept to our community, with LGBT House leaders embracing a vote in September or October.
The ENDA delay is ominous, and likely to be long. As The New York Times reported yesterday, a massive legislative logjam is building up in the Senate.. Once the Senate is done debating health care, there will be dozens of priority bills.
At the same time, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is setting a new legislative priority: the immediate creation of a jobs bill from scratch in the House, and Senator Reid has said the same for the Senate. Jobs are, of course, very important, but that effort will likely suck all the oxygen from the room for quite a while. Delaying ENDA puts it behind everything else. And then midterm elections will hit. And DADT is scheduled for next year, and DADT could easily supercede ENDA.
This delay is also giving the fundies more time to heat up their branding irons. In addition, the more delay, the more that the Committee doing the "tweaks" is going to start getting pressure to tinker with the "gender identity" provisions.
Click here to read more of the analysis of this issue.
Daily Devotional 11/25/09 When You Meet the Lord
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord,
the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day. -- 2 Timothy 4:7-8
In AD 67, the Apostle Paul was in prison in Rome awaiting his execution. He knew that the time of his departure from planet earth was coming… and he was so excited to meet the Lord in glory. You see, Paul had lived his Christian life sold out to Jesus. He was not perfect, but he definitely was not lukewarm either. He finished the race in full stride, still on fire for Jesus Christ.
WHEN YOU MEET THE LORD?
All too often, people face death without the humble confidence and joyful expectation that Paul had. So many people face death with regret and shame, knowing that they wasted much of their life pursuing money and things and pleasure and stuff… and did not really seek first His kingdom and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33).
Paul knew he would have to give an account of His life to the Lord one day. He knew that it paid to serve Jesus… and that kept him faithful to the end, even when times were tough and he wanted to quit.
YOU CAN FINISH LIKE PAUL
No matter where you are today in your spiritual life, “it ain’t over till it’s over.” If you still have breath, you still have time to turn it around for Christ. Maybe you have fallen on the track and not gotten back up… or maybe you have said the fight is too hard and have left the ring. The Lord’s hand is outstretched to you. He says, “I know you have blown it… but I am not through with you yet. My grace is sufficient for you. Take my hand… get back in the race… and finish strong.”
Will you make it your life’s ambition to finish strong so that when the time for your departure comes, you too can have confidence when you meet Jesus in glory?
the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day. -- 2 Timothy 4:7-8
In AD 67, the Apostle Paul was in prison in Rome awaiting his execution. He knew that the time of his departure from planet earth was coming… and he was so excited to meet the Lord in glory. You see, Paul had lived his Christian life sold out to Jesus. He was not perfect, but he definitely was not lukewarm either. He finished the race in full stride, still on fire for Jesus Christ.
WHEN YOU MEET THE LORD?
All too often, people face death without the humble confidence and joyful expectation that Paul had. So many people face death with regret and shame, knowing that they wasted much of their life pursuing money and things and pleasure and stuff… and did not really seek first His kingdom and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33).
Paul knew he would have to give an account of His life to the Lord one day. He knew that it paid to serve Jesus… and that kept him faithful to the end, even when times were tough and he wanted to quit.
YOU CAN FINISH LIKE PAUL
No matter where you are today in your spiritual life, “it ain’t over till it’s over.” If you still have breath, you still have time to turn it around for Christ. Maybe you have fallen on the track and not gotten back up… or maybe you have said the fight is too hard and have left the ring. The Lord’s hand is outstretched to you. He says, “I know you have blown it… but I am not through with you yet. My grace is sufficient for you. Take my hand… get back in the race… and finish strong.”
Will you make it your life’s ambition to finish strong so that when the time for your departure comes, you too can have confidence when you meet Jesus in glory?
November 24, 2009
In Our Own Words 11/24/09-The LGBTS Church Is a Sleeping Giant!
Jim's essay was originally published in the Unidiversal Times Nov-Dec issue.
Those are the words I heard from the Lord during our amazing Fall Renewal gathering at Believers Covenant Fellowship, at which I also had the wonderful opportunity to worship with Robbie and Don once again.
As I write this, it’s been a week since the Lord gave me that word, and here’s how I believe He has led my wife Brenda and I to understand it and act upon it.
Our Fall Renewal came only a couple of days after same-sex marriage was struck down by the voters in Maine, marking the 31st consecutive time that issue has lost at the ballot box. In most cases, it has been “the church” that has been the leading voice of opposition and that has provided much of the resources used to campaign against LGBT equality. Clearly, the political process has seldom worked, and when it has like it did in Maine early in the year, it can be overturned making a lasting victory extremely difficult to obtain.
Those who are in the LGBTS (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and straight ally) Christian community know where lasting victory has been achieved and that is at the cross, where Jesus Christ died to redeem us from our sins. Many other Christians believe that, but we in the LGBTS camp know that Jesus did not withhold certain blessings and rights from certain groups of people. He died for us ALL so that WHOSOEVER comes to Him shall have everlasting life.
Brothers and sisters, we had just about every gender orientation represented at the Fall Renewal, and the Holy Spirit flowed over and through everyone. Brenda and I didn’t get an extra dose because we are straight; EVERYONE shared in the power of the Lord and the blessings He wants so badly to bestow upon us. Although LGBTS Christians are a minority, we are a powerful minority because the Word of the Lord will break people out of bondage and set them free (Romans 8:21)!
I believe that in many parts of this country the LGBTS church is a well kept secret. The dynamic preachers we heard last weekend; Apostle Dale Jarrett at BCF, Pastor David Thomas from Abundant Grace Church, Sister Evelyn Shave (another straight ally), and Apostle Randy Morgan bring messages from the Lord that can change lives and people need to hear them! The music from Apostle Dale and Pastor Debbie George is truly anointed—people need to hear this stuff so they can find a new place in their spirits where they are drawn close to God! A loyal, diligent minister like Robbie Ousley, one of the people who inspires our Straight, Not Narrow ministry, is someone people need to know. They need to see the messages at the Unidiversal website and be touched by his sincerity and spirit of servanthood.
Okay, so how can we make this happen? Here are some thoughts:
1) Adopt the attitude that people NEED these messages, these songs, and these relationships. They NEED to know that LGBT and Christian are not mutually exclusive and then to see positive examples of it. We can post them on Facebook, Twitter, and any other social media you participate in. We can talk about them with friends and family who are not accepting of LGBT people.
2) We need to live a life that makes people ask questions like “Why do have this sense of peace about you?” or “How have you been able to over [fill in the blank].” They we need to praise God as the answer.
3) We need to be out of our closets. If people know you are LGBT, do they know you are Christian? If you are a straight ally, do people know that? I know my boss at work just doesn’t get what Brenda and I are doing ministering within the LGBTS community, but I pray that over time he will seriously consider opening his heart and embrace equality.
4) Do NOT underestimate the power of God and His desire for everyone to live a full life in Him. I believe He hates how His word has been twisted and people abused and discriminated against in His name. His strength is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9) and He expects us to use it for His glory. We are all part of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19) and we all have a role to play in presenting the Gospel to the world.
Let’s not accept the idea that a LGBT ministry is no more than a “niche” ministry. Don’t allow the right-wing church to marginalize our body. We have a message to share and the Lord will provide opportunities to share it with the world if we are serious about doing so and actively seek opportunities.
I realize some of you reading this have already shown great dedication to spreading God’s word and have been working very hard in ministry for a while. I believe that time is growing short and we will all be seeing more doors open and be able to connect with more people who need to hear what the Lord would have us say to them.
The Lord told me that the LGBTS church is a sleeping giant and we had two different confirmations with people also hearing the word “awake”. It’s time to wake up folks!
Those are the words I heard from the Lord during our amazing Fall Renewal gathering at Believers Covenant Fellowship, at which I also had the wonderful opportunity to worship with Robbie and Don once again.
As I write this, it’s been a week since the Lord gave me that word, and here’s how I believe He has led my wife Brenda and I to understand it and act upon it.
Our Fall Renewal came only a couple of days after same-sex marriage was struck down by the voters in Maine, marking the 31st consecutive time that issue has lost at the ballot box. In most cases, it has been “the church” that has been the leading voice of opposition and that has provided much of the resources used to campaign against LGBT equality. Clearly, the political process has seldom worked, and when it has like it did in Maine early in the year, it can be overturned making a lasting victory extremely difficult to obtain.
Those who are in the LGBTS (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and straight ally) Christian community know where lasting victory has been achieved and that is at the cross, where Jesus Christ died to redeem us from our sins. Many other Christians believe that, but we in the LGBTS camp know that Jesus did not withhold certain blessings and rights from certain groups of people. He died for us ALL so that WHOSOEVER comes to Him shall have everlasting life.
Brothers and sisters, we had just about every gender orientation represented at the Fall Renewal, and the Holy Spirit flowed over and through everyone. Brenda and I didn’t get an extra dose because we are straight; EVERYONE shared in the power of the Lord and the blessings He wants so badly to bestow upon us. Although LGBTS Christians are a minority, we are a powerful minority because the Word of the Lord will break people out of bondage and set them free (Romans 8:21)!
I believe that in many parts of this country the LGBTS church is a well kept secret. The dynamic preachers we heard last weekend; Apostle Dale Jarrett at BCF, Pastor David Thomas from Abundant Grace Church, Sister Evelyn Shave (another straight ally), and Apostle Randy Morgan bring messages from the Lord that can change lives and people need to hear them! The music from Apostle Dale and Pastor Debbie George is truly anointed—people need to hear this stuff so they can find a new place in their spirits where they are drawn close to God! A loyal, diligent minister like Robbie Ousley, one of the people who inspires our Straight, Not Narrow ministry, is someone people need to know. They need to see the messages at the Unidiversal website and be touched by his sincerity and spirit of servanthood.
Okay, so how can we make this happen? Here are some thoughts:
1) Adopt the attitude that people NEED these messages, these songs, and these relationships. They NEED to know that LGBT and Christian are not mutually exclusive and then to see positive examples of it. We can post them on Facebook, Twitter, and any other social media you participate in. We can talk about them with friends and family who are not accepting of LGBT people.
2) We need to live a life that makes people ask questions like “Why do have this sense of peace about you?” or “How have you been able to over [fill in the blank].” They we need to praise God as the answer.
3) We need to be out of our closets. If people know you are LGBT, do they know you are Christian? If you are a straight ally, do people know that? I know my boss at work just doesn’t get what Brenda and I are doing ministering within the LGBTS community, but I pray that over time he will seriously consider opening his heart and embrace equality.
4) Do NOT underestimate the power of God and His desire for everyone to live a full life in Him. I believe He hates how His word has been twisted and people abused and discriminated against in His name. His strength is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9) and He expects us to use it for His glory. We are all part of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19) and we all have a role to play in presenting the Gospel to the world.
Let’s not accept the idea that a LGBT ministry is no more than a “niche” ministry. Don’t allow the right-wing church to marginalize our body. We have a message to share and the Lord will provide opportunities to share it with the world if we are serious about doing so and actively seek opportunities.
I realize some of you reading this have already shown great dedication to spreading God’s word and have been working very hard in ministry for a while. I believe that time is growing short and we will all be seeing more doors open and be able to connect with more people who need to hear what the Lord would have us say to them.
The Lord told me that the LGBTS church is a sleeping giant and we had two different confirmations with people also hearing the word “awake”. It’s time to wake up folks!
Encouraging Words 11/25/09-"With No Thought to the Future"
From Rev. Vera I. Bourne at Whosoever.org.
One of the most exciting stories in the New Testament is the calling of the John and James from their occupation as fisherman. Here were two brawny men, used to the rigors of fishing, busily tending their father's nets. Yet, at the command of a total stranger, they left their work, and, ignoring their duty to their father, followed Jesus. They left all that represented security and home life for what? What was so compelling about this stranger that made the two Zebedee brothers walk away from their livelihood? Not only did they leave their families and their work but they also invited other fishermen to do the same.
But it was not just fishermen who gave up their security to follow Jesus. Zacchaeus, though small of stature demonstrated a giant faith as he left his work as a tax collector to follow Jesus. Having made reparation to those he had cheated and amply provided for those who were poor, he was free to exchange physical security for spiritual certainty. Mary from Magdala, healed by Jesus, became the woman who appears to have been responsible for organising food and shelter for her beloved Master during the time he was travelling and preaching. In fact, those who heard him were torn between continuing the day-by-day business of living and satisfying the spiritual hunger Jesus had awakened in their souls. Those who could trust God to care for them just as God cared for the lilies of the field and the birds of the air; chose Jesus.
Throughout history countless other men and women have left family and friends and the security of home and occupation to follow Jesus. These Christians are those who have moved beyond the God of Deuteronomy and Leviticus - the God of the Law who demands punishment for all the mistakes we make in our lives. They have moved beyond the God who is the Absolute Other - the Holy Priest - who cannot bear to associate with sinners - who can acknowledge us only when we have become pure through sacrificial blood. They have encountered Yahweh, the God who Jesus called Abba. This is the God who waits for us to return and then welcomes us as did the father of the Prodigal son, with abundant blessings. This is the same God who knows our fears, who has witnessed our pain, who stands with us when everything we know and love has turned to ashes.
Click here to read the rest of this essay.
One of the most exciting stories in the New Testament is the calling of the John and James from their occupation as fisherman. Here were two brawny men, used to the rigors of fishing, busily tending their father's nets. Yet, at the command of a total stranger, they left their work, and, ignoring their duty to their father, followed Jesus. They left all that represented security and home life for what? What was so compelling about this stranger that made the two Zebedee brothers walk away from their livelihood? Not only did they leave their families and their work but they also invited other fishermen to do the same.
But it was not just fishermen who gave up their security to follow Jesus. Zacchaeus, though small of stature demonstrated a giant faith as he left his work as a tax collector to follow Jesus. Having made reparation to those he had cheated and amply provided for those who were poor, he was free to exchange physical security for spiritual certainty. Mary from Magdala, healed by Jesus, became the woman who appears to have been responsible for organising food and shelter for her beloved Master during the time he was travelling and preaching. In fact, those who heard him were torn between continuing the day-by-day business of living and satisfying the spiritual hunger Jesus had awakened in their souls. Those who could trust God to care for them just as God cared for the lilies of the field and the birds of the air; chose Jesus.
Throughout history countless other men and women have left family and friends and the security of home and occupation to follow Jesus. These Christians are those who have moved beyond the God of Deuteronomy and Leviticus - the God of the Law who demands punishment for all the mistakes we make in our lives. They have moved beyond the God who is the Absolute Other - the Holy Priest - who cannot bear to associate with sinners - who can acknowledge us only when we have become pure through sacrificial blood. They have encountered Yahweh, the God who Jesus called Abba. This is the God who waits for us to return and then welcomes us as did the father of the Prodigal son, with abundant blessings. This is the same God who knows our fears, who has witnessed our pain, who stands with us when everything we know and love has turned to ashes.
Click here to read the rest of this essay.
Matthew 25 Resource 11/24/09-Food Bank of the Rockies
Food Bank of the Rockies (FBR) was founded in 1978 and was known as the Colorado Food Clearing House. Operating from a 900-square-foot schoolroom in northwest Denver, the fledgling organization collected food from nearby Safeway stores and distributed it to one agency.
Today, FBR has extended its reach across Northern Colorado and Wyoming , providing food supplies to more than 1000 hunger-relief programs. In its first 30 years, FBR has provided nearly 325 million pounds of food to our member agencies, which translates to more than 250 million meals for people in need. Last year, we distributed over 26 million pounds of food, enough to provide more than 56,000 meals each day to children, seniors and families in need. FBR is a member of Feeding America.
FBR has a staff of 57 employees in Denver, 4 in Wyoming, and 3 on the Western Slope. Additionally FBR has a pool of more than 1000 volunteers who last year donated 73,500 hours of time - the equivalent of 35 full-time employees.
Click here to find out more.
Today, FBR has extended its reach across Northern Colorado and Wyoming , providing food supplies to more than 1000 hunger-relief programs. In its first 30 years, FBR has provided nearly 325 million pounds of food to our member agencies, which translates to more than 250 million meals for people in need. Last year, we distributed over 26 million pounds of food, enough to provide more than 56,000 meals each day to children, seniors and families in need. FBR is a member of Feeding America.
FBR has a staff of 57 employees in Denver, 4 in Wyoming, and 3 on the Western Slope. Additionally FBR has a pool of more than 1000 volunteers who last year donated 73,500 hours of time - the equivalent of 35 full-time employees.
Click here to find out more.
Is a New Marriage Strategy Needed?
LGBT leaders are still disecting the most recent loss for marriage equality at the ballot box in Maine. Long-time activist Leland Traiman shares his belief for a new strategy in Bay Area Reporter. Here's an excerpt:
Same-sex marriage has never won an election. Maine was our 33rd loss. On the other hand, domestic partnership has never, on its own, lost an election. Washington state continued that winning streak, barely. The attempt to repeal comprehensive domestic partnerships was too close for liberal Washington State, 47 percent. This means trouble for us. Our enemies, undoubtedly, are already planning domestic partnership repeals in more conservative areas. Even in California, instead of fighting for the rites of marriage, we may be forced to defend the rights of marriage we have already won through domestic partnerships. (California law says that all laws, regulations, and court decisions that apply to spouses in a marriage equally applies to registered domestic partners.) Even if California's domestic partnership law is not in jeopardy, certainly other states with domestic partnerships or other forms of recognition are at risk.
Our original long term strategy for achieving marital rights was to create a parallel and legally equal category, domestic partnerships. Eventually people would say, "It is stupid having two categories doing the same thing. Let's combine them." No tears, just a housekeeping measure. Much less flashy than the current marriage-only strategy but it was working. More important, comparing the trajectory domestic partnerships was on when the strategy was halted with the continuous defeats and heartache the marriage-only strategy has given us, it is clear that the domestic partnership strategy would have brought us to one, unified category of marital rights for both heterosexuals and LGBT folk much, much sooner. Unfortunately, like the previous presidential administration, which left the country in a mess, our current marriage-only strategy has left our community in an electoral mess. Our community's unquestioning devotion to the marriage-only strategy, which is only a strategy, not a cause or an ideal, has given our enemies the opportunity to undo our progress. Our enemies attacked Washington's domestic partnership law as if it was marriage, which it is not, but it almost worked. We must have a new strategy.
All civil rights struggles have had a series of steps and compromises along the way. Our struggle is no different. But, what if I am wrong and separate is not equal? What if comprehensive domestic partnerships are only "almost" equal? At this point in time, I would still love to be "almost" equal because, as of today, we are nowhere near equal! Let us get to equality (or almost equality) first. Once we have achieved that, we can start to worry about possible inequalities. We may not find any. Until then, it is just academic ruminations. (Commissions in New Jersey and Vermont "proving" that civil unions were not equal to marriage were cleverly stacked with marriage-only advocates whose conclusions had been decided upon before each commission met.)
Click here to read the rest of Traiman's essay and let us know what you think.
Same-sex marriage has never won an election. Maine was our 33rd loss. On the other hand, domestic partnership has never, on its own, lost an election. Washington state continued that winning streak, barely. The attempt to repeal comprehensive domestic partnerships was too close for liberal Washington State, 47 percent. This means trouble for us. Our enemies, undoubtedly, are already planning domestic partnership repeals in more conservative areas. Even in California, instead of fighting for the rites of marriage, we may be forced to defend the rights of marriage we have already won through domestic partnerships. (California law says that all laws, regulations, and court decisions that apply to spouses in a marriage equally applies to registered domestic partners.) Even if California's domestic partnership law is not in jeopardy, certainly other states with domestic partnerships or other forms of recognition are at risk.
Our original long term strategy for achieving marital rights was to create a parallel and legally equal category, domestic partnerships. Eventually people would say, "It is stupid having two categories doing the same thing. Let's combine them." No tears, just a housekeeping measure. Much less flashy than the current marriage-only strategy but it was working. More important, comparing the trajectory domestic partnerships was on when the strategy was halted with the continuous defeats and heartache the marriage-only strategy has given us, it is clear that the domestic partnership strategy would have brought us to one, unified category of marital rights for both heterosexuals and LGBT folk much, much sooner. Unfortunately, like the previous presidential administration, which left the country in a mess, our current marriage-only strategy has left our community in an electoral mess. Our community's unquestioning devotion to the marriage-only strategy, which is only a strategy, not a cause or an ideal, has given our enemies the opportunity to undo our progress. Our enemies attacked Washington's domestic partnership law as if it was marriage, which it is not, but it almost worked. We must have a new strategy.
All civil rights struggles have had a series of steps and compromises along the way. Our struggle is no different. But, what if I am wrong and separate is not equal? What if comprehensive domestic partnerships are only "almost" equal? At this point in time, I would still love to be "almost" equal because, as of today, we are nowhere near equal! Let us get to equality (or almost equality) first. Once we have achieved that, we can start to worry about possible inequalities. We may not find any. Until then, it is just academic ruminations. (Commissions in New Jersey and Vermont "proving" that civil unions were not equal to marriage were cleverly stacked with marriage-only advocates whose conclusions had been decided upon before each commission met.)
Click here to read the rest of Traiman's essay and let us know what you think.
Daily Devotional 11/24/09 Responding With a Kind Heart
From: From His Heart
To sum up, let all be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit, not returning evil for evil, or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing. 1 Peter 3:8-9
How do you react when someone is rude to you? Do you return evil for evil… insult for insult… rudeness for rudeness? Do you have a tendency to tear people up with your tongue?
One known for his sharp tongue was Sir Winston Churchill. One day his nemesis, Lady Aster, said in disgust, “Sir Winston, if you were my husband, I would put arsenic in your tea.” To which Churchill quickly replied, “And Lady Aster, if I were your husband, I would gladly drink it.” What a classic example of evil for evil, insult for insult.
The Lord tells us that we are to give a blessing EVEN when someone insults us. He says, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Rom. 12:21). Truly, “a gentle answer turns away wrath” (Prov. 15:1).
RESPONDING WITH A KIND HEART
When you are kindhearted, you respond to people by cutting them some slack and giving them the benefit of the doubt. Remember, rude, mean people are that way for a reason. Like the lion with a thorn in his paw, mean, angry folks have a deep hurt in their lives… that is why they are mean, cruel and argumentative. Kindness always tries to see things from the other’s perspective. Kindness always responds with patience, gentleness and understanding.
IN YOUR HOME
Let’s be honest, many homes are filled with insults. Brothers and sisters insult each other… spouses so often are mean and cutting with each other. What happened to “home, home on the range… where seldom is heard a discouraging word?” The good news is this: you can change the atmosphere in your home by keeping your tongue from insults… and giving a blessing instead.
Remember, when Jesus was dying on the cross, being laughed at and reviled, He did not revile in return. He prayed for those who crucified Him. His response of blessing for curses surprised the crowd. That hardened Roman Centurion who oversaw His death was so moved by His response that he declared, “Truly this was the Son of God!” WOW!
YOU CAN DO IT!
With all those you come in contact with today, make a special point of giving them a blessing. Compliment them on something they do well. Encourage them in their daily life. Take criticism… learn from it… and bless the person who was mean to you. You will be amazed at how God will work when you do things His way.
To sum up, let all be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit, not returning evil for evil, or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing. 1 Peter 3:8-9
How do you react when someone is rude to you? Do you return evil for evil… insult for insult… rudeness for rudeness? Do you have a tendency to tear people up with your tongue?
One known for his sharp tongue was Sir Winston Churchill. One day his nemesis, Lady Aster, said in disgust, “Sir Winston, if you were my husband, I would put arsenic in your tea.” To which Churchill quickly replied, “And Lady Aster, if I were your husband, I would gladly drink it.” What a classic example of evil for evil, insult for insult.
The Lord tells us that we are to give a blessing EVEN when someone insults us. He says, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Rom. 12:21). Truly, “a gentle answer turns away wrath” (Prov. 15:1).
RESPONDING WITH A KIND HEART
When you are kindhearted, you respond to people by cutting them some slack and giving them the benefit of the doubt. Remember, rude, mean people are that way for a reason. Like the lion with a thorn in his paw, mean, angry folks have a deep hurt in their lives… that is why they are mean, cruel and argumentative. Kindness always tries to see things from the other’s perspective. Kindness always responds with patience, gentleness and understanding.
IN YOUR HOME
Let’s be honest, many homes are filled with insults. Brothers and sisters insult each other… spouses so often are mean and cutting with each other. What happened to “home, home on the range… where seldom is heard a discouraging word?” The good news is this: you can change the atmosphere in your home by keeping your tongue from insults… and giving a blessing instead.
Remember, when Jesus was dying on the cross, being laughed at and reviled, He did not revile in return. He prayed for those who crucified Him. His response of blessing for curses surprised the crowd. That hardened Roman Centurion who oversaw His death was so moved by His response that he declared, “Truly this was the Son of God!” WOW!
YOU CAN DO IT!
With all those you come in contact with today, make a special point of giving them a blessing. Compliment them on something they do well. Encourage them in their daily life. Take criticism… learn from it… and bless the person who was mean to you. You will be amazed at how God will work when you do things His way.
November 23, 2009
In Our Own Words-Top 25 Gay Rights & Activism Blogs
The blog "Online Paralegal Degree" has compiled a list of what they consider to be the Top 25 Gay Rights & Activism Blogs. We are happy to be notified that Straight, Not Narrow made this list at #23. We appreciate Laura Wright notifying us of this distinction.
We are always pleased to receive positive recognition, not to glorify what we do but because it tells us that we are properly representing what we believe is a critical part of the message of Jesus, which is His love for ALL mankind. Christianity, properly carried out, is a "whosoever" faith, one that takes extra care to reach out to those who have been pushed aside and cast off. That's a revelation we carry with us in our hearts, and we're glad the Online Paralegal Degree blog thinks our blog is sharing it clearly with others.
We are always pleased to receive positive recognition, not to glorify what we do but because it tells us that we are properly representing what we believe is a critical part of the message of Jesus, which is His love for ALL mankind. Christianity, properly carried out, is a "whosoever" faith, one that takes extra care to reach out to those who have been pushed aside and cast off. That's a revelation we carry with us in our hearts, and we're glad the Online Paralegal Degree blog thinks our blog is sharing it clearly with others.
Encouraging Words 11/23/09-BCF Praise Report
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might!"
Ephesians 6:10
Greetings BCF Friends and Family!
No matter what the enemy may try to throw your way, RIGHT NOW-remember and BE STRONG IN THE LORD and in the power of His might! The Lord our God is with us and He is mighty to deliver us and keep us! Worship service was wonderful as always at BCF yesterday. Once again, Lauren led worship on her guitar and incorporated Linda on hers, as well as the beautiful voices of our praise team. It was sweet and ebbed and flowed with the moving of the Holy Spirit in sweet accord.
Brother Josh Weiberg then proceeded to share a powerful word of exhortation to the Body of Christ from Ephesians 6- exhorting all of us to remember that if the heat is on and various trials and temptations are going on in our lives- it's NOT our brothers and sisters in Christ causing us trouble, hurting us, or doing something against us- to remember that we are fighting a spiritual war against satan and the kingdom of darkness!
Folks, the devil is REAL. He is a fallen angel named Lucifer, who has an army of fallen angels called demons who are intent on establishing a kingdom of darkness and enslaving and destroying God's humanity! He is jealous of us! He is jealous that God loves us so much and has anointed US with His Glory! He wants it, but he can't have it! So if he can't have it, the next best thing he can do is get us into strife and offense, to turn against the Word of God/Jesus, and trick us into missing out on what God has in store for us! And how does he often do that? By getting us to be offended and in strife with one another! If he can divide us, stop our unconditional love for one another, get us to sin- then he can affect every area of our lives and ministries!
Josh gave us the KEY to standing against the attacks of the enemy- WARFARE! To fight BACK! But....not to fight people, one another, especially our brothers and sisters in the faith- NO! Our warfare is not carnal with weapons, or with our mouths (the tongue can be used as a weapon!) but rather- we WAR ON THE FLOOR! We are to run to our Heavenly Father- we are to fall on our face and WORSHIP HIM! We are to run to Him and pray for all of the situations or circumstances we find ourselves in! Run to the Throne, not the phone!! If we PRAY and SEEK HIS FACE- He will hear from Heaven and HEAL....and in this case- the Lord Sabbaoth will rise up and deliver His People!
I encourage us all to ask the Holy Spirit to put a guard over our mouths so that we don't sin against the Lord- (Words are powerful, they give life or death!) and most of all PRAY IN THE HOLY SPIRIT! Oh, it's so important to be born again and to be FILLED with the Holy Spirit- and receive the evidence of the infilling with speaking in tongues! Tongues is a GIFT from God that empowers us in the Holy Spirit- He will pray Father's Perfect Will and Perfect HEART for whatever the situation may be!
Remember this scripture:
"Since then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory!
But you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with it's practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in the knowledge in the image of it's Creator.
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over ALL these virtues put on LOVE, which binds them all together in perfect UNITY!
Colossians 3:1-4, 8-10, 12-14
Let's all just give the enemy of our lives a swift spiritual KICK out the doorway of our lives by purposing to pray for one another and to LOVE one another no matter what! Nothing will do damage to his plans faster than all of us hanging on and determining to love and cover each other no matter what!!
It's thanksgiving week here in the USA, and Garrey and I are so blessed to host over 15 people in our home this Thursday. It's going to be a REAL FAMILY THANKSGIVING- and we have so much to be thankful for. I'm also so excited that Minister Zoila Aguilar is coming to fellowship with us and will be leading a prophetic training workshop NEXT SATURDAY, November 28th, at BCF. REMEMBER that we will be uStreaming the workshop from 10 AM (est) until 2 PM, with a lunch break mid way through.
I hope you will join us live and/or go back and watch what we archive.
Meanwhile, KNOW THAT WE LOVE YOU and WE DEEPLY CARE ABOUT YOU! We are praying for you and are so thankful that you are praying for us! Through our God- and TOGETHER- we shall do valiantly!!
Have a wonderful week and Happy Thanksgiving!
Shalom and in Christ's faithful love and friendship,
Apostle Dale
Ephesians 6:10
Greetings BCF Friends and Family!
No matter what the enemy may try to throw your way, RIGHT NOW-remember and BE STRONG IN THE LORD and in the power of His might! The Lord our God is with us and He is mighty to deliver us and keep us! Worship service was wonderful as always at BCF yesterday. Once again, Lauren led worship on her guitar and incorporated Linda on hers, as well as the beautiful voices of our praise team. It was sweet and ebbed and flowed with the moving of the Holy Spirit in sweet accord.
Brother Josh Weiberg then proceeded to share a powerful word of exhortation to the Body of Christ from Ephesians 6- exhorting all of us to remember that if the heat is on and various trials and temptations are going on in our lives- it's NOT our brothers and sisters in Christ causing us trouble, hurting us, or doing something against us- to remember that we are fighting a spiritual war against satan and the kingdom of darkness!
Folks, the devil is REAL. He is a fallen angel named Lucifer, who has an army of fallen angels called demons who are intent on establishing a kingdom of darkness and enslaving and destroying God's humanity! He is jealous of us! He is jealous that God loves us so much and has anointed US with His Glory! He wants it, but he can't have it! So if he can't have it, the next best thing he can do is get us into strife and offense, to turn against the Word of God/Jesus, and trick us into missing out on what God has in store for us! And how does he often do that? By getting us to be offended and in strife with one another! If he can divide us, stop our unconditional love for one another, get us to sin- then he can affect every area of our lives and ministries!
Josh gave us the KEY to standing against the attacks of the enemy- WARFARE! To fight BACK! But....not to fight people, one another, especially our brothers and sisters in the faith- NO! Our warfare is not carnal with weapons, or with our mouths (the tongue can be used as a weapon!) but rather- we WAR ON THE FLOOR! We are to run to our Heavenly Father- we are to fall on our face and WORSHIP HIM! We are to run to Him and pray for all of the situations or circumstances we find ourselves in! Run to the Throne, not the phone!! If we PRAY and SEEK HIS FACE- He will hear from Heaven and HEAL....and in this case- the Lord Sabbaoth will rise up and deliver His People!
I encourage us all to ask the Holy Spirit to put a guard over our mouths so that we don't sin against the Lord- (Words are powerful, they give life or death!) and most of all PRAY IN THE HOLY SPIRIT! Oh, it's so important to be born again and to be FILLED with the Holy Spirit- and receive the evidence of the infilling with speaking in tongues! Tongues is a GIFT from God that empowers us in the Holy Spirit- He will pray Father's Perfect Will and Perfect HEART for whatever the situation may be!
Remember this scripture:
"Since then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory!
But you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with it's practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in the knowledge in the image of it's Creator.
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over ALL these virtues put on LOVE, which binds them all together in perfect UNITY!
Colossians 3:1-4, 8-10, 12-14
Let's all just give the enemy of our lives a swift spiritual KICK out the doorway of our lives by purposing to pray for one another and to LOVE one another no matter what! Nothing will do damage to his plans faster than all of us hanging on and determining to love and cover each other no matter what!!
It's thanksgiving week here in the USA, and Garrey and I are so blessed to host over 15 people in our home this Thursday. It's going to be a REAL FAMILY THANKSGIVING- and we have so much to be thankful for. I'm also so excited that Minister Zoila Aguilar is coming to fellowship with us and will be leading a prophetic training workshop NEXT SATURDAY, November 28th, at BCF. REMEMBER that we will be uStreaming the workshop from 10 AM (est) until 2 PM, with a lunch break mid way through.
I hope you will join us live and/or go back and watch what we archive.
Meanwhile, KNOW THAT WE LOVE YOU and WE DEEPLY CARE ABOUT YOU! We are praying for you and are so thankful that you are praying for us! Through our God- and TOGETHER- we shall do valiantly!!
Have a wonderful week and Happy Thanksgiving!
Shalom and in Christ's faithful love and friendship,
Apostle Dale
LGBT Helping Hands 11/23/09-Outright Vermont
Outright Vermont (Outright) was founded in 1989 following the release of a 1988 national youth risk survey showing that gay and lesbian youth in particular had very high rates of depression and suicide. A group of community activists gathered to form Outright, which began as a “once a week” support group. Our Friday Night support group has continued ever since, every Friday over the past 20 years. Today, Outright is a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQQ) ‘queer’ youth center and statewide advocacy organization.
The Mission of Outright is to build safe, healthy, and supportive environments for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning youth (ages 13-22). Our goal is to make Vermont the safest, most supportive and empowering state for queer youth in America.
Outright’s organizing strategy is based on a youth empowerment, social change model that tells us that youth power is an essential element in the fight for equal rights. We describe youth empowerment in two parts – providing the safe space and resources so that youth can do the heavy lifting themselves and adjusting the fundamental power dynamics so that their hard work can achieves results.
Click here to find out more.
The Mission of Outright is to build safe, healthy, and supportive environments for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning youth (ages 13-22). Our goal is to make Vermont the safest, most supportive and empowering state for queer youth in America.
Outright’s organizing strategy is based on a youth empowerment, social change model that tells us that youth power is an essential element in the fight for equal rights. We describe youth empowerment in two parts – providing the safe space and resources so that youth can do the heavy lifting themselves and adjusting the fundamental power dynamics so that their hard work can achieves results.
Click here to find out more.
LGBT News Digest 11/23/09
John Corvino writes at 365gay.com about the "slippery slope of religious exemptions" in regards to enforcement of gay rights laws.
In the UK, the European Commission is putting pressure on the government to drop those types of exemptions from their laws according to PinkNews.
Pam's House Blend reports that Gordon Brown, the Prime Ministry of the UK, stood up strong in support of Transgender People on their Day of Rememberance.
Gay Agenda posts an essay from Rev. Jerry Maneker titled "The Irony and Irrationality of Minority Homophibla."
Google News has information about the continuation of the Washington Blade newspaper, retitled "DC Agenda" and run by much of the former Blade's staff.
Google News also looks around the world at events commemorating the Transgender Day of Rememberance.
In the UK, the European Commission is putting pressure on the government to drop those types of exemptions from their laws according to PinkNews.
Pam's House Blend reports that Gordon Brown, the Prime Ministry of the UK, stood up strong in support of Transgender People on their Day of Rememberance.
Gay Agenda posts an essay from Rev. Jerry Maneker titled "The Irony and Irrationality of Minority Homophibla."
Google News has information about the continuation of the Washington Blade newspaper, retitled "DC Agenda" and run by much of the former Blade's staff.
Google News also looks around the world at events commemorating the Transgender Day of Rememberance.
Daily Devotional 11/23/09 Persevering Tribulations
From: Daily in Christ
James 1:2, 3 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.
There certainly are a lot of distractions, diversions, disappointments, trials, temptations and traumas which come along to disrupt the process of becoming the person God wants you to be. Every day you struggle against the world, the flesh and the devil, each of which are opposed to your success at being God's person.
But Paul reminds us that the tribulations we face are actually a means of achieving our supreme goal of maturity: "We also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us" (Romans 5:3-5). James offers similar encouragement: "Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing" (James 1:2-4).
Maybe you thought your goal as a Christian was to escape tribulations. But God's goal for you is maturity in Christ, becoming the person He designed you to be. And tribulation just happens to be one of the primary stepping-stones on the pathway. That's why Paul says we exult--meaning to express heightened joy--in our tribulations. Why? Because persevering tribulations is the doorway to proven character, which is God's goal for us.
Our hope lies in proven character, not in favorable circumstances nor in the manipulation of others. Neither circumstances nor people can keep you from being what God wants you to be. Trials and tribulations are the most common means for bringing about His goal for your life.
Prayer:
Lord, help me see my trials as stepping-stones, not obstacles. Give me grace to persevere and develop proven character.
James 1:2, 3 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.
There certainly are a lot of distractions, diversions, disappointments, trials, temptations and traumas which come along to disrupt the process of becoming the person God wants you to be. Every day you struggle against the world, the flesh and the devil, each of which are opposed to your success at being God's person.
But Paul reminds us that the tribulations we face are actually a means of achieving our supreme goal of maturity: "We also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us" (Romans 5:3-5). James offers similar encouragement: "Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing" (James 1:2-4).
Maybe you thought your goal as a Christian was to escape tribulations. But God's goal for you is maturity in Christ, becoming the person He designed you to be. And tribulation just happens to be one of the primary stepping-stones on the pathway. That's why Paul says we exult--meaning to express heightened joy--in our tribulations. Why? Because persevering tribulations is the doorway to proven character, which is God's goal for us.
Our hope lies in proven character, not in favorable circumstances nor in the manipulation of others. Neither circumstances nor people can keep you from being what God wants you to be. Trials and tribulations are the most common means for bringing about His goal for your life.
Prayer:
Lord, help me see my trials as stepping-stones, not obstacles. Give me grace to persevere and develop proven character.
November 22, 2009
Live Affirming Worship at Rainbow Community Church 9:00 PM est
Click here to join Rainbow Community Church in Vancouver, BC Canada for worship via a live video stream at 9:00 PM est.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
We are a Christian, evangelical, non-denominational, community-based church seeking to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ; which are simple, loving, and inclusive.
We consist of a group of people from mixed church backgrounds. We are concerned about people, not labels. Rainbow Community Church is a place where ALL people are welcome. Our desire is to create a place where we can worship and serve God as the people He created us to be. A place to be at home: spiritually, emotionally, socially and relationally.
We have a motto, "The Church that Jesus is building". As love is such a force in our lives - we all look for love, need to be loved and need to give love - our goal as a community of believers is to be filled with God's love; to share God's unconditional love; to demonstrate God's love to others - whoever they are, whatever their background; to declare and show by our actions that God loves all and has no pre-existing conditions for loving all of His creations - especially you and me.
Rainbow Community Church desires to help reconcile all people to God through sharing the Word of God by way of preaching, teaching, seminars, music and community involvement.
We desire to encourage each other in living a Christ-centred life. We desire to network with other churches that have a special outreach to our community. We understand you, like many of us, may have been hurt by the voice of church people.
Regardless of what you were told or how you were treated, God loves you unconditionally. You are His child through faith in Jesus Christ.
Visitors are always welcome. If you don't have a church home, we invite you to consider making Rainbow Community Church of Vancouver yours. We look forward to proudly serving our community for many years to come.
Click here to find out more.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
We are a Christian, evangelical, non-denominational, community-based church seeking to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ; which are simple, loving, and inclusive.
We consist of a group of people from mixed church backgrounds. We are concerned about people, not labels. Rainbow Community Church is a place where ALL people are welcome. Our desire is to create a place where we can worship and serve God as the people He created us to be. A place to be at home: spiritually, emotionally, socially and relationally.
We have a motto, "The Church that Jesus is building". As love is such a force in our lives - we all look for love, need to be loved and need to give love - our goal as a community of believers is to be filled with God's love; to share God's unconditional love; to demonstrate God's love to others - whoever they are, whatever their background; to declare and show by our actions that God loves all and has no pre-existing conditions for loving all of His creations - especially you and me.
Rainbow Community Church desires to help reconcile all people to God through sharing the Word of God by way of preaching, teaching, seminars, music and community involvement.
We desire to encourage each other in living a Christ-centred life. We desire to network with other churches that have a special outreach to our community. We understand you, like many of us, may have been hurt by the voice of church people.
Regardless of what you were told or how you were treated, God loves you unconditionally. You are His child through faith in Jesus Christ.
Visitors are always welcome. If you don't have a church home, we invite you to consider making Rainbow Community Church of Vancouver yours. We look forward to proudly serving our community for many years to come.
Click here to find out more.
Live Affirming Worship at Living Water Fellowship 1:30 PM est
Click here to join Living Water Fellowship in Kenmore, WA for worship via a live video stream at 1:30 PM est.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
We invite you to come and be a part of our church family. We exist to bring the unconditional love of Jesus Christ to all people regardless of age, ethnicity, or orientation. Our heart is to see each person that crosses our path know that they are loved and accepted by God.
Our goal is to minister to the whole person; body, soul and spirit.
We provide a place to not only heal but to grow in your relationship with God and each other.
Have you gone to other churches and felt unwelcome or unaccepted because you didn't quite fit in? Have you been looking for a place where you can be yourself and pursue a deeper relationship with God?
You are welcome and accepted at Living Water Fellowship.
We are a family of people who desire to touch and better the lives of others in our community through various events including a homeless outreach, Isaiah 58 monthly food bank, weekly ministry center and various other outreach and ministry events.
You can find us at 7204 NE 175 ST, Kenmore, WA 98028
Click here to find out more.
Click here to be blessed by Worship leader and Psalmist Debbie George's CD "Shining Through."
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
We invite you to come and be a part of our church family. We exist to bring the unconditional love of Jesus Christ to all people regardless of age, ethnicity, or orientation. Our heart is to see each person that crosses our path know that they are loved and accepted by God.
Our goal is to minister to the whole person; body, soul and spirit.
We provide a place to not only heal but to grow in your relationship with God and each other.
Have you gone to other churches and felt unwelcome or unaccepted because you didn't quite fit in? Have you been looking for a place where you can be yourself and pursue a deeper relationship with God?
You are welcome and accepted at Living Water Fellowship.
We are a family of people who desire to touch and better the lives of others in our community through various events including a homeless outreach, Isaiah 58 monthly food bank, weekly ministry center and various other outreach and ministry events.
You can find us at 7204 NE 175 ST, Kenmore, WA 98028
Click here to find out more.
Click here to be blessed by Worship leader and Psalmist Debbie George's CD "Shining Through."
Live Affirming Worship from Glory Tabernacle Christian Center 1:00 PM est
Click here to join Glory Tabernacle Christian Center in Long Beach, CA for worship via a live video stream at 1:00 PM est.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
We are a unique Christian church with a special message of God's inclusive love through Jesus Christ. GTCC is welcoming of everyone. We are also defined by our special ministry of sharing God's incredible love and acceptance.
Over the past 28 years, GTCC has provided a place where individuals have come to know and accept Jesus Christ in a real way. Wherever you are at in your spiritual journey with God, I know that you will find something to hold on to here at GTCC that will change your life. My prayer is that you will feel called to join with us in this unique ministry of sharing God's love through Jesus Christ to everyone! I believe that GTCC is a unique church for three important reasons besides the fact that we are inclusive of everyone. What makes us so unique is that we are: Christ-Centered, Charismatic and Commissioned.
Christ - Centered
We are a Christ-centered church which means that our message has to do with the person of Jesus Christ. We acknowledge Jesus Christ as central to the message of the Bible believing the Old Testament points to the coming of Christ Jesus while the New Testament reveals the work of Christ Jesus as Savior, Baptizer, Healer and Soon Coming Ruler! Everyone is invited to begin their relationship with God by accepting Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. God's word tells us that everyone can be saved by grace, (a free gift) and through faith. Many people have been turned away from religious organizations or from other churches for various reasons. Nevertheless, at GTCC, we believe that the person of Jesus Christ calls each of us to COME enter into a relationship with God regardless of who you are.
Charismatic
At GTCC we acknowledge the work of the Holy Spirit in our world today and in our lives as believers. When we believe in Jesus Christ and are saved, then not only are we made spiritually alive, but God's Spirit actually lives in our spirit. (Ephesians 1:13,14) As if this was not exciting already, then we are invited to ask Jesus Christ to baptize us or fill us completely with the Holy Spirit. This begins a whole new way of living and we call this being "Spirit-filled" or "Charismatic". The term "charismatic" comes from the Greek word "charisma" referring to God's gifts of grace and the workings of the Holy Spirit. As believers, the Holy Spirit works in our lives through the baptism, gifts and fruit of the Holy Spirit. I would like to invite you to join us at GTCC as we welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit so that we are refreshed, continually filled, hear God's voice, receive power, become bold witnesses, and are transformed. Our church seeks to be on the forefront of the move of the Holy Spirit in the world during this new millennium.
Commissioned
The exciting thing about following Christ and living out your faith in the world is that you can't contain God's wonderful love. When we accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior and then are filled with the Holy Spirit in power, we all desire to share our experience with our friends, families and others. This is no less true for the Church! Therefore, as a church we take seriously Christ's commission to us: "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the heavenly Parent, the Son and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." (Matthew 28:19, 20) At GTCC we strive to share this wonderful love of God with our local community as well as to the nations. As we begin this new millennium together, there is so much to do for Christ in that there are many individuals who have yet to hear the truth of God's love through Christ Jesus. Every believer can be a part of this exciting endeavor of sharing God's love with others and seeing their lives changed.
Click here to find out more.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
We are a unique Christian church with a special message of God's inclusive love through Jesus Christ. GTCC is welcoming of everyone. We are also defined by our special ministry of sharing God's incredible love and acceptance.
Over the past 28 years, GTCC has provided a place where individuals have come to know and accept Jesus Christ in a real way. Wherever you are at in your spiritual journey with God, I know that you will find something to hold on to here at GTCC that will change your life. My prayer is that you will feel called to join with us in this unique ministry of sharing God's love through Jesus Christ to everyone! I believe that GTCC is a unique church for three important reasons besides the fact that we are inclusive of everyone. What makes us so unique is that we are: Christ-Centered, Charismatic and Commissioned.
Christ - Centered
We are a Christ-centered church which means that our message has to do with the person of Jesus Christ. We acknowledge Jesus Christ as central to the message of the Bible believing the Old Testament points to the coming of Christ Jesus while the New Testament reveals the work of Christ Jesus as Savior, Baptizer, Healer and Soon Coming Ruler! Everyone is invited to begin their relationship with God by accepting Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. God's word tells us that everyone can be saved by grace, (a free gift) and through faith. Many people have been turned away from religious organizations or from other churches for various reasons. Nevertheless, at GTCC, we believe that the person of Jesus Christ calls each of us to COME enter into a relationship with God regardless of who you are.
Charismatic
At GTCC we acknowledge the work of the Holy Spirit in our world today and in our lives as believers. When we believe in Jesus Christ and are saved, then not only are we made spiritually alive, but God's Spirit actually lives in our spirit. (Ephesians 1:13,14) As if this was not exciting already, then we are invited to ask Jesus Christ to baptize us or fill us completely with the Holy Spirit. This begins a whole new way of living and we call this being "Spirit-filled" or "Charismatic". The term "charismatic" comes from the Greek word "charisma" referring to God's gifts of grace and the workings of the Holy Spirit. As believers, the Holy Spirit works in our lives through the baptism, gifts and fruit of the Holy Spirit. I would like to invite you to join us at GTCC as we welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit so that we are refreshed, continually filled, hear God's voice, receive power, become bold witnesses, and are transformed. Our church seeks to be on the forefront of the move of the Holy Spirit in the world during this new millennium.
Commissioned
The exciting thing about following Christ and living out your faith in the world is that you can't contain God's wonderful love. When we accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior and then are filled with the Holy Spirit in power, we all desire to share our experience with our friends, families and others. This is no less true for the Church! Therefore, as a church we take seriously Christ's commission to us: "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the heavenly Parent, the Son and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." (Matthew 28:19, 20) At GTCC we strive to share this wonderful love of God with our local community as well as to the nations. As we begin this new millennium together, there is so much to do for Christ in that there are many individuals who have yet to hear the truth of God's love through Christ Jesus. Every believer can be a part of this exciting endeavor of sharing God's love with others and seeing their lives changed.
Click here to find out more.
Live Affirming Worship From Oasis Fellowship Ministries at 12:00 PM
Click here to join Oasis Fellowship Ministries in Casselberry, FL for worship via a live video stream at 12:00 PM est.
Click here to see video of previous services.
Oasis Fellowship Ministries... is a ministry of reconciliation. We are dedicated to teaching, exemplifying, and representing the radically inclusive love of Jesus Christ. We welcome all persons regardless of gender, age, physical ability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, or socio-economic status. We firmly commit ourselves to be a church for all people. In Christ, we celebrate, affirm, and embrace you, the rich diversity of God's good creation.
Our intention is to worship God in community where we allow the Creator to liberate all people to explore, fulfill and achieve their divine purpose. We are a people of prayer, who stand to be faithful in worship, given to the attentive study of the Word and invite all to fellowship at the Table.
We are an open and affirming congregation to all those who have lost, left, or never had a church home. We welcome and encourage you, your children, your spouses, your partners, your parents, and friends to become an active member of this church family. Oasis will make your life brand new!
Click here to find out more.
Click here to see video of previous services.
Oasis Fellowship Ministries... is a ministry of reconciliation. We are dedicated to teaching, exemplifying, and representing the radically inclusive love of Jesus Christ. We welcome all persons regardless of gender, age, physical ability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, or socio-economic status. We firmly commit ourselves to be a church for all people. In Christ, we celebrate, affirm, and embrace you, the rich diversity of God's good creation.
Our intention is to worship God in community where we allow the Creator to liberate all people to explore, fulfill and achieve their divine purpose. We are a people of prayer, who stand to be faithful in worship, given to the attentive study of the Word and invite all to fellowship at the Table.
We are an open and affirming congregation to all those who have lost, left, or never had a church home. We welcome and encourage you, your children, your spouses, your partners, your parents, and friends to become an active member of this church family. Oasis will make your life brand new!
Click here to find out more.
Live Affirming Worship at Covenant Community Church 12:00 PM & 8:00 PM est
Click here to join Covenant Community Church in Birmingham, AL for worship via a live video stream at 12:00 PM est. They also have a praise and worship service at 8:00 PM est on the same link, along with video of previous services.
Our vision is to be an inclusive community of faith: Offering Hope + Showing Faithfulness + Sharing Joy!
We invite you on a journey of discovering God's unconditional love for all people without the guilt of religion.
We believe in the Good News! Jesus the Master Teacher, who lived that we might know how to live, died to overcome our fear of death, and came back to share this life with us; abundant life here and eternal life hereafter! "God didn't send Jesus into the world to condemn us, but to rescue us!" (John 3:17)
We believe that God has empowered us to proclaim this Good News so that others can be 'set free to be.' You too can experience this!
Every service includes the celebration of the Holy Communion, because Jesus said, 'Do this...remember me.' We celebrate an open communion, you do not have to be a member of Covenant Community Church, or any church, to receive communion, only have a desire to have a closer walk with Jesus. In doing so, we continue this tradition which was a central part of gathering and celebration of the early church in the Acts of Apostle
Click here to find out more.
Our vision is to be an inclusive community of faith: Offering Hope + Showing Faithfulness + Sharing Joy!
We invite you on a journey of discovering God's unconditional love for all people without the guilt of religion.
We believe in the Good News! Jesus the Master Teacher, who lived that we might know how to live, died to overcome our fear of death, and came back to share this life with us; abundant life here and eternal life hereafter! "God didn't send Jesus into the world to condemn us, but to rescue us!" (John 3:17)
We believe that God has empowered us to proclaim this Good News so that others can be 'set free to be.' You too can experience this!
Every service includes the celebration of the Holy Communion, because Jesus said, 'Do this...remember me.' We celebrate an open communion, you do not have to be a member of Covenant Community Church, or any church, to receive communion, only have a desire to have a closer walk with Jesus. In doing so, we continue this tradition which was a central part of gathering and celebration of the early church in the Acts of Apostle
Click here to find out more.
Live Affirming Worship at Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship 12:00 PM
Click here to join Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship in Winston Salem, NC for worship via a live video stream at 12:00 PM est.
They also have video of previous services at the same link.
Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship is a church that lives with a consciousness of the gift of the Holy Spirit and his continual indwelling in our lives 1 Corinthians 6:19.
We live in accordance with Psalms 34: 1-3 & with 1Corinthians 13 Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship is a church with a unique and wonderful ministry rooted in 2Corinthians 5:18-20. Through continual inward discovery, personal recovery, and affectionate outreach we minister the ministry of reconciliation to all persons regardless of background, race, color, ancestry, age, gender, affectional orientation, and those who are specially abled. This is done in an attempt to lead all persons to a true personal and intimate relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ and to embrace the message of radical inclusion of all persons regardless of their margin status.We strive to display the characteristics of the Holy Spirit by producing the fruits thereof: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.We uphold our fundamental believe in:
1. The Birth-representing the completion of the promise.
2. The Death-representing the remission of sins and the renewed right fellowship with God.
3. The Resurrection-representing the hope of eternal life in Christ Jesus and the peace of a victorious tomorrow.
It is our call and design to be a church that is:
Answering God's call to a Ministry of Reconciliation to an age of dissimilation
Click here to find out more.
They also have video of previous services at the same link.
Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship is a church that lives with a consciousness of the gift of the Holy Spirit and his continual indwelling in our lives 1 Corinthians 6:19.
We live in accordance with Psalms 34: 1-3 & with 1Corinthians 13 Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship is a church with a unique and wonderful ministry rooted in 2Corinthians 5:18-20. Through continual inward discovery, personal recovery, and affectionate outreach we minister the ministry of reconciliation to all persons regardless of background, race, color, ancestry, age, gender, affectional orientation, and those who are specially abled. This is done in an attempt to lead all persons to a true personal and intimate relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ and to embrace the message of radical inclusion of all persons regardless of their margin status.We strive to display the characteristics of the Holy Spirit by producing the fruits thereof: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.We uphold our fundamental believe in:
1. The Birth-representing the completion of the promise.
2. The Death-representing the remission of sins and the renewed right fellowship with God.
3. The Resurrection-representing the hope of eternal life in Christ Jesus and the peace of a victorious tomorrow.
It is our call and design to be a church that is:
Answering God's call to a Ministry of Reconciliation to an age of dissimilation
Click here to find out more.
Live Affirming Worship at Diversity Christian Fellowship International at 12:00 PM est
Click here to join Diversity Christian Fellowship International in Tulsa, OK for worship via a live video stream at 12:00 PM est.
Click here to watch video of previous services.
DCFI is a Bible-based church preaching the uncompromised Word of God.
It is not just a place for those who don't fit in at other churches. It is a place for those who are spiritually hungry for God. DCFI is for those who seek to develop an intimate relationship with the Father, to further their understanding not only of the Gospel but who desire to find the way to apply it to their every day life.
We invite you to experience an anointed praise and worship service with Biblical, evangelistic style preaching.
We are a non-denominational, non-political, affirming, Word of faith church committed to God's purpose for every person to hear the GREAT NEWS of His unfailing love, the message of the cross.
The past few years, God has shown us that He has great plans for us to minister the life changing TRUTH and POWER of God's love for ALL people.
Click here to find out more.
Click here to watch video of previous services.
DCFI is a Bible-based church preaching the uncompromised Word of God.
It is not just a place for those who don't fit in at other churches. It is a place for those who are spiritually hungry for God. DCFI is for those who seek to develop an intimate relationship with the Father, to further their understanding not only of the Gospel but who desire to find the way to apply it to their every day life.
We invite you to experience an anointed praise and worship service with Biblical, evangelistic style preaching.
We are a non-denominational, non-political, affirming, Word of faith church committed to God's purpose for every person to hear the GREAT NEWS of His unfailing love, the message of the cross.
The past few years, God has shown us that He has great plans for us to minister the life changing TRUTH and POWER of God's love for ALL people.
Click here to find out more.
Live Affirming Worship At Believers Covenant Fellowship 11:00 AM est
Click here to join Believers Covenant Fellowship in Vienna, VA for worship via a live video stream at 11:00 AM est.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
Believers Covenant Fellowship is a Christian Ministry and an Apostolic, Full Gospel, Charismatic Church. We believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, that He died for EVERYONE's sins on the Cross of Calvary, that God raised Him from the dead, and He is alive even now. He will soon be coming back to set up His Kingdom and reign on the Earth!
Ultimately, it is our mission to show the world that Jesus Christ really IS the Answer to all of our problems! His ways are best and He has provided a way back to a personal love relationship with our Creator, our heavenly Father, by cleansing us of our sins. In this relationship, the Holy Spirit begins to help us see and understand that the bible is like an instruction manual. It is full of wisdom meant for us to embrace. It is also a history book testifying to God's reality, God's supreme power and dominion, God's faithfulness, God's love, and even more! It is not just a history book of the past, it is also a prophetic book detailing and outlining the wonderful future that God has in store for those who will love Him and seek His ways. It is ALL good! ALL positive!
We desire to be bridge builders in the Christian community. We are a congregation that seeks to bridge the non-gay community with the gay and lesbian communities through our relationship with Christ. Our primary purpose is to minister to the spiritual needs of the gay and lesbian community in the metro Washington, DC, area by providing a safe, nurturing environment for praise and worship, Christian fellowship, and study of the practical application of Bible-based principles of how to live a spiritually fruitful and prosperous life through our covenant relationship with our Heavenly Father!
Freely you have received, freely give.
~Jesus Christ, Matthew 10:8
We worship every Sabbath Sunday morning at 11:00 AM. Our dress code is casual and comfortable. Apostle Dale Jarrett is available to answer your questions or provide you more information about our ministry. Our telephone number is (703) 813-6250.
BCF Worship & Ministry Center
8466 Tyco Road
Vienna, Virginia 22182
Click here to find out more.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
Believers Covenant Fellowship is a Christian Ministry and an Apostolic, Full Gospel, Charismatic Church. We believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, that He died for EVERYONE's sins on the Cross of Calvary, that God raised Him from the dead, and He is alive even now. He will soon be coming back to set up His Kingdom and reign on the Earth!
Ultimately, it is our mission to show the world that Jesus Christ really IS the Answer to all of our problems! His ways are best and He has provided a way back to a personal love relationship with our Creator, our heavenly Father, by cleansing us of our sins. In this relationship, the Holy Spirit begins to help us see and understand that the bible is like an instruction manual. It is full of wisdom meant for us to embrace. It is also a history book testifying to God's reality, God's supreme power and dominion, God's faithfulness, God's love, and even more! It is not just a history book of the past, it is also a prophetic book detailing and outlining the wonderful future that God has in store for those who will love Him and seek His ways. It is ALL good! ALL positive!
We desire to be bridge builders in the Christian community. We are a congregation that seeks to bridge the non-gay community with the gay and lesbian communities through our relationship with Christ. Our primary purpose is to minister to the spiritual needs of the gay and lesbian community in the metro Washington, DC, area by providing a safe, nurturing environment for praise and worship, Christian fellowship, and study of the practical application of Bible-based principles of how to live a spiritually fruitful and prosperous life through our covenant relationship with our Heavenly Father!
Freely you have received, freely give.
~Jesus Christ, Matthew 10:8
We worship every Sabbath Sunday morning at 11:00 AM. Our dress code is casual and comfortable. Apostle Dale Jarrett is available to answer your questions or provide you more information about our ministry. Our telephone number is (703) 813-6250.
BCF Worship & Ministry Center
8466 Tyco Road
Vienna, Virginia 22182
Click here to find out more.
Live Affirming Worship at Potter's House International Fellowship 11:00 AM est
Click here to join Potter's House International Fellowship in Tampa, FL for worship via a live video stream at 11:00 AM est.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
Potter's House International Fellowship seeks to be the open arms of Christ to all people without distinction. We are an Intentionally Radically Inclusive spirit-filled church welcoming all God's children home. We stand together for the purpose of worship, fellowship, ministry, and evangelism.
Our Vision is to grow a lively, vibrant, cross-cultural, multi-racial, inclusive and affirming expression of the Christian community.
At Potter's House International Fellowship all are welcome at the table of the Lord regardless of gender, age, physical ability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, or socio-economic status.
Potter's House International Fellowship is dedicated to exemplifying the Radically Inclusive love of Jesus Christ.
We worship with prayer, preaching, and song. This combination produces an uplifting experience that will fill your soul to overflowing with the Love of God. If you are in need of the love of Jesus Christ; come to the Potter's House where the pieces of your life can be mended. Lives are being changed and the name of the Lord Jesus Christ is being lifted up!
Click here to find out more.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
Potter's House International Fellowship seeks to be the open arms of Christ to all people without distinction. We are an Intentionally Radically Inclusive spirit-filled church welcoming all God's children home. We stand together for the purpose of worship, fellowship, ministry, and evangelism.
Our Vision is to grow a lively, vibrant, cross-cultural, multi-racial, inclusive and affirming expression of the Christian community.
At Potter's House International Fellowship all are welcome at the table of the Lord regardless of gender, age, physical ability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, or socio-economic status.
Potter's House International Fellowship is dedicated to exemplifying the Radically Inclusive love of Jesus Christ.
We worship with prayer, preaching, and song. This combination produces an uplifting experience that will fill your soul to overflowing with the Love of God. If you are in need of the love of Jesus Christ; come to the Potter's House where the pieces of your life can be mended. Lives are being changed and the name of the Lord Jesus Christ is being lifted up!
Click here to find out more.
Welcome to Sunday Worship 11/22/09
If you don't have a welcoming church near you, or you just can't make yourself step into one, we're bringing worship to you. Here are links to some worship music and services from open and affirming ministries (all times eastern). I hope you are blessed and take time out of your busy schedule to enter into the Lord's day.
Don't forget to click on the tab on the upper right of this blog and leave your prayer requests in the comment section so we can petition the Lord for your needs.
If you know of a service we should add to our list, please send an e-mail and share it with us.
Live Sunday Services (all times Eastern)
VIDEO
FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa, 11:00 AM
VA-Believers Covenant Fellowship, Vienna, 11:00 AM
AL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham, 12:00 AM
NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem, 12:00 PM
FL-Oasis Fellowship Ministries, Casselberry, 12:00 PM
OK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa, 1:00 PM
CA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach, 1:00 PM
WA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore, 1:30 PM
Canada-Rainbow Community Church, Vancouver 9:00 PM
AUDIO
Canada, Vancouver-Christ Alive Community Church, 10:15 PM
FL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program) 4:30 PM
Video Archive
AL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham
CA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach
FL-Church of the Holy SpiritSong, Ft. Lauderdale
FL-Oasis Fellowship Ministries, Casselberry
FL-New Hope Christian Center, Pensacola
FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa
GA-Gentle Spirit Christian Church, Atlanta
GA-New Covenant Church of Atlanta
NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem
OK-Expressions Community Fellowship, Oklahoma City
OK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa
TX-The One Church, Garland
WA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore
Canada-Rainbow Community Church, Vancouver
Audio Archive
AZ-Community Church of Hope, Phoenix
AK-Open Door Community Church, Sherwood
CA-Christ Chapel of Long Beach
CA-Christ Chapel of the Valley, North Hollywood
FL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program)
FL-Body of Christ Church of God, Largo
FL-New Hope Christian Center, Pensecola
GA-New Covenant Church of Atlanta
KY-Covenant Community Church, Louisville
MD-Kittamaqundi Community, Columbia
NC-Revolution Charlotte
OH-Emmanuel Fellowship Church, Akron
OH-All Saints Community Church, Cortland
TN-Covenant of the Cross, Madison
TX-New Hope Fellowship Church, Dallas
TX-White Rock Community Church, Dallas
TX-Community Gospel Church, Houston
TX-Through Him Fellowship, Houston
UT-Glory to God Christian Church, Ogden
South Africa-Deo Gloria Family Church
Can we pray for you? E-mail straight_notnarrow@yahoo.com
Don't forget to click on the tab on the upper right of this blog and leave your prayer requests in the comment section so we can petition the Lord for your needs.
If you know of a service we should add to our list, please send an e-mail and share it with us.
Live Sunday Services (all times Eastern)
VIDEO
FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa, 11:00 AM
VA-Believers Covenant Fellowship, Vienna, 11:00 AM
AL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham, 12:00 AM
NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem, 12:00 PM
FL-Oasis Fellowship Ministries, Casselberry, 12:00 PM
OK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa, 1:00 PM
CA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach, 1:00 PM
WA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore, 1:30 PM
Canada-Rainbow Community Church, Vancouver 9:00 PM
AUDIO
Canada, Vancouver-Christ Alive Community Church, 10:15 PM
FL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program) 4:30 PM
Video Archive
AL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham
CA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach
FL-Church of the Holy SpiritSong, Ft. Lauderdale
FL-Oasis Fellowship Ministries, Casselberry
FL-New Hope Christian Center, Pensacola
FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa
GA-Gentle Spirit Christian Church, Atlanta
GA-New Covenant Church of Atlanta
NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem
OK-Expressions Community Fellowship, Oklahoma City
OK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa
TX-The One Church, Garland
WA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore
Canada-Rainbow Community Church, Vancouver
Audio Archive
AZ-Community Church of Hope, Phoenix
AK-Open Door Community Church, Sherwood
CA-Christ Chapel of Long Beach
CA-Christ Chapel of the Valley, North Hollywood
FL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program)
FL-Body of Christ Church of God, Largo
FL-New Hope Christian Center, Pensecola
GA-New Covenant Church of Atlanta
KY-Covenant Community Church, Louisville
MD-Kittamaqundi Community, Columbia
NC-Revolution Charlotte
OH-Emmanuel Fellowship Church, Akron
OH-All Saints Community Church, Cortland
TN-Covenant of the Cross, Madison
TX-New Hope Fellowship Church, Dallas
TX-White Rock Community Church, Dallas
TX-Community Gospel Church, Houston
TX-Through Him Fellowship, Houston
UT-Glory to God Christian Church, Ogden
South Africa-Deo Gloria Family Church
Can we pray for you? E-mail straight_notnarrow@yahoo.com
November 21, 2009
In Our Own Words 11/21/09-Back to Normal
We're back to our normal posting schedule, which means plenty of affirming Sunday Worship tomorrow. We've got our traditional aggregate posting coming up at 6:00 AM with music and links to over 20 affirming churches posting video or audio of their services, some live, some from previous weeks.
Then, beginning at 11:00 AM eastern time, we've got the first of nine live services that are posted individually throughout the day. We encourage you to pick one that fits the style you are most comfortable with and enter in! We will be participating in the Believers Covenant Fellowship service at 11:00--we hope you can join us in person if you're in the northern Virginia area, or online via our live video stream and chat room.
God bless!
Then, beginning at 11:00 AM eastern time, we've got the first of nine live services that are posted individually throughout the day. We encourage you to pick one that fits the style you are most comfortable with and enter in! We will be participating in the Believers Covenant Fellowship service at 11:00--we hope you can join us in person if you're in the northern Virginia area, or online via our live video stream and chat room.
God bless!
Daily Devotional 11/21/09 Acknowledging Your Emotions
From: Daily in Christ
Psalm 109:26, 30 Help me, O LORD my God. . . . With my mouth I will give thanks abundantly to the LORD.
Nancy was a college student with an inability to express the anger and resentment she felt. "My roommate gets to the point sometimes where she just explodes emotionally to let off steam. I have deep feelings too, but I'm not sure that a Christian is supposed to let off steam."
I opened my Bible to Psalm 109:1-13 and read David's angry words against an enemy. "What's that doing in the Bible?" Nancy gasped. "How could David pray all those evil things about his enemy? That's pure hatred."
"David's words didn't surprise God," I answered. "God already knew what he was thinking and feeling. David was simply expressing his pain and anger honestly to his God."
I encouraged Nancy that when she is able to dump her hurt and hatred before God she probably won't dump it on her roommate in a destructive way. I also reminded her that David was as honest about his need for God as he was about expressing his feelings. He closed the psalm by praying: "Help me, O LORD my God. . . . With my mouth I will give thanks abundantly to the LORD" (verses 26, 30).
I think the way David acknowledged his feelings is healthy. If you come to your prayer time feeling angry, depressed or frustrated, and then mouth a bunch of pious platitudes as if God doesn't know how you feel, do you think He is pleased? Not unless He's changed His opinion about hypocrisy. In God's eyes, if you're not real, you're not right.
Acknowledging your emotions also involves being real in front of a few trusted friends. During his travels, Paul had Barnabas, Silas or Timothy to lean on. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus expressed His grief to His inner circle of Peter, James and John. If you have two or three people like this in your life, you are truly blessed.
Prayer:
Thank You, Lord, that I can be real and honest with You. Help me develop a few trusted friends who will also welcome my emotional honesty.
Psalm 109:26, 30 Help me, O LORD my God. . . . With my mouth I will give thanks abundantly to the LORD.
Nancy was a college student with an inability to express the anger and resentment she felt. "My roommate gets to the point sometimes where she just explodes emotionally to let off steam. I have deep feelings too, but I'm not sure that a Christian is supposed to let off steam."
I opened my Bible to Psalm 109:1-13 and read David's angry words against an enemy. "What's that doing in the Bible?" Nancy gasped. "How could David pray all those evil things about his enemy? That's pure hatred."
"David's words didn't surprise God," I answered. "God already knew what he was thinking and feeling. David was simply expressing his pain and anger honestly to his God."
I encouraged Nancy that when she is able to dump her hurt and hatred before God she probably won't dump it on her roommate in a destructive way. I also reminded her that David was as honest about his need for God as he was about expressing his feelings. He closed the psalm by praying: "Help me, O LORD my God. . . . With my mouth I will give thanks abundantly to the LORD" (verses 26, 30).
I think the way David acknowledged his feelings is healthy. If you come to your prayer time feeling angry, depressed or frustrated, and then mouth a bunch of pious platitudes as if God doesn't know how you feel, do you think He is pleased? Not unless He's changed His opinion about hypocrisy. In God's eyes, if you're not real, you're not right.
Acknowledging your emotions also involves being real in front of a few trusted friends. During his travels, Paul had Barnabas, Silas or Timothy to lean on. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus expressed His grief to His inner circle of Peter, James and John. If you have two or three people like this in your life, you are truly blessed.
Prayer:
Thank You, Lord, that I can be real and honest with You. Help me develop a few trusted friends who will also welcome my emotional honesty.
November 20, 2009
Today--Transgender Day of Rememberance
From the International Transgender Day of Rememberance web site. Click on the link for more information.
The Transgender Day of Remembrance was set aside to memorialize those who were killed due to anti-transgender hatred or prejudice. The event is held in November to honor Rita Hester, whose murder on November 28th, 1998 kicked off the “Remembering Our Dead” web project and a San Francisco candlelight vigil in 1999. Rita Hester’s murder — like most anti-transgender murder cases — has yet to be solved.
Although not every person represented during the Day of Remembrance self-identified as transgender — that is, as a transsexual, crossdresser, or otherwise gender-variant — each was a victim of violence based on bias against transgender people.
We live in times more sensitive than ever to hatred based violence, especially since the events of September 11th. Yet even now, the deaths of those based on anti-transgender hatred or prejudice are largely ignored. Over the last decade, more than one person per month has died due to transgender-based hate or prejudice, regardless of any other factors in their lives. This trend shows no sign of abating.
The Transgender Day of Remembrance serves several purposes. It raises public awareness of hate crimes against transgender people, an action that current media doesn’t perform. Day of Remembrance publicly mourns and honors the lives of our brothers and sisters who might otherwise be forgotten. Through the vigil, we express love and respect for our people in the face of national indifference and hatred. Day of Remembrance reminds non-transgender people that we are their sons, daughters, parents, friends and lovers. Day of Remembrance gives our allies a chance to step forward with us and stand in vigil, memorializing those of us who’ve died by anti-transgender violence.
Daily Devotional 11/20/09 Indiscriminate Expression of Emotions
From: Daily in Christ
James 1:19, 20 Let everyone be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God.
Another unhealthy way to respond to emotions is to thoughtlessly let it all hang out, to tell anybody and everybody exactly how you feel. The apostle Peter is a great example of indiscriminate expression. Peter was the John Wayne of the New Testament--a real door slammer. He had no problem telling anyone what was on his mind or how he felt. I like to refer to him as the one-legged apostle because he always had one foot in his mouth.
Peter's impulsive nature got him into trouble more than once. In one setting, he was the spokesperson for God, and Jesus said to him, "Blessed are you Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven" (Matthew 16:17). Then moments later he spoke for Satan, and Jesus had to rebuke him: "Get behind me, Satan!" (verses 22, 23).
It was Peter who missed the point on the Mount of Transfiguration by suggesting that they build three tabernacles to honor Moses, Elijah and the Master. It was Peter who impulsively whacked off the ear of Caiaphas' servant during Jesus' arrest in Gethsemane. And it was Peter who promised to follow Jesus anywhere, even to the death, then swearing only hours later that he never knew Him. The fact that Peter became a leader in the New Testament church is evidence of the powerful transformation effected by the Holy Spirit.
Indiscriminate expression of emotions may be somewhat healthy for you, but it may be unhealthy for others. "There, I'm glad I got that off my chest," you may say after an outburst. But in the process you just destroyed your wife, husband, or children. Paul admonished: "Be angry, and yet do not sin" (Ephesians 4:26). If you wish to be angry and not sin, then be angry the way Christ was: Be angry at sin. He turned over the tables, not the money changers.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, teach me to express myself in a gracious way so I don't hurt others as I seek emotional release.
James 1:19, 20 Let everyone be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God.
Another unhealthy way to respond to emotions is to thoughtlessly let it all hang out, to tell anybody and everybody exactly how you feel. The apostle Peter is a great example of indiscriminate expression. Peter was the John Wayne of the New Testament--a real door slammer. He had no problem telling anyone what was on his mind or how he felt. I like to refer to him as the one-legged apostle because he always had one foot in his mouth.
Peter's impulsive nature got him into trouble more than once. In one setting, he was the spokesperson for God, and Jesus said to him, "Blessed are you Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven" (Matthew 16:17). Then moments later he spoke for Satan, and Jesus had to rebuke him: "Get behind me, Satan!" (verses 22, 23).
It was Peter who missed the point on the Mount of Transfiguration by suggesting that they build three tabernacles to honor Moses, Elijah and the Master. It was Peter who impulsively whacked off the ear of Caiaphas' servant during Jesus' arrest in Gethsemane. And it was Peter who promised to follow Jesus anywhere, even to the death, then swearing only hours later that he never knew Him. The fact that Peter became a leader in the New Testament church is evidence of the powerful transformation effected by the Holy Spirit.
Indiscriminate expression of emotions may be somewhat healthy for you, but it may be unhealthy for others. "There, I'm glad I got that off my chest," you may say after an outburst. But in the process you just destroyed your wife, husband, or children. Paul admonished: "Be angry, and yet do not sin" (Ephesians 4:26). If you wish to be angry and not sin, then be angry the way Christ was: Be angry at sin. He turned over the tables, not the money changers.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, teach me to express myself in a gracious way so I don't hurt others as I seek emotional release.
November 19, 2009
Daily Devotional 11/19/09 Suppression of Emotions
From: Daily in Christ
Psalm 32:3 NIV When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long.
Suppression of emotions is a conscious denial of feelings (repression is an un conscious denial). Those who suppress their emotions ignore their feelings and choose not to deal with them. Suppression is an unhealthy response to your emotions.
King David had something to say about the negative impact of suppressing his feelings in his relationship with God: "When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. . . . Let everyone who is godly pray to You while You may be found; surely when the mighty waters rise, they will not reach him" (Psalm 32:3, 6 NIV ). David is not saying that God takes Himself out of our reach. When extraneous circumstances loom larger to you than God, it will not take long for your emotions to overcome you. When suppressed emotions build up within you like "mighty waters," you won't turn to God. Your emotions will be in control. It's important to open up to God while you can, because if you bottle up your feelings too long, it will disrupt the harmony of your relationship with Him.
David also commented on the impact of suppression on relationships with people: "I said, 'I will guard my ways, that I may not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth as with a muzzle, while the wicked are in my presence.' I was dumb and silent, I refrained every from good; and my sorrow grew worse" (Psalm 39:1, 2).
Don't cover over your emotions. Suppression isn't good for you, for others, or for your relationship with God. God knows the thoughts and intentions of our hearts, and others can sense that something is wrong, because more is communicated nonverbally than verbally. When the verbal doesn't match the nonverbal, people believe the nonverbal. If we don't accurately express what we believe, people will believe our nonverbal messages about what we believe. Don't leave room for guesswork. Instead, "Speak truth, each one of you, with his neighbor, for we are members of one another" (Ephesians 4:25).
Prayer:
Lord, I want to live in honest agreement with You and others. Give me the grace to speak the truth in love.
Psalm 32:3 NIV When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long.
Suppression of emotions is a conscious denial of feelings (repression is an un conscious denial). Those who suppress their emotions ignore their feelings and choose not to deal with them. Suppression is an unhealthy response to your emotions.
King David had something to say about the negative impact of suppressing his feelings in his relationship with God: "When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. . . . Let everyone who is godly pray to You while You may be found; surely when the mighty waters rise, they will not reach him" (Psalm 32:3, 6 NIV ). David is not saying that God takes Himself out of our reach. When extraneous circumstances loom larger to you than God, it will not take long for your emotions to overcome you. When suppressed emotions build up within you like "mighty waters," you won't turn to God. Your emotions will be in control. It's important to open up to God while you can, because if you bottle up your feelings too long, it will disrupt the harmony of your relationship with Him.
David also commented on the impact of suppression on relationships with people: "I said, 'I will guard my ways, that I may not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth as with a muzzle, while the wicked are in my presence.' I was dumb and silent, I refrained every from good; and my sorrow grew worse" (Psalm 39:1, 2).
Don't cover over your emotions. Suppression isn't good for you, for others, or for your relationship with God. God knows the thoughts and intentions of our hearts, and others can sense that something is wrong, because more is communicated nonverbally than verbally. When the verbal doesn't match the nonverbal, people believe the nonverbal. If we don't accurately express what we believe, people will believe our nonverbal messages about what we believe. Don't leave room for guesswork. Instead, "Speak truth, each one of you, with his neighbor, for we are members of one another" (Ephesians 4:25).
Prayer:
Lord, I want to live in honest agreement with You and others. Give me the grace to speak the truth in love.
November 18, 2009
Fighting off Sickness
We're both struggling right now fighting off some physical ailments, so the posts over the next couple of days could be a bit light. Hopefully it's nothing serious and we'll be back up to speed shortly.
In Our Own Words 11/17/09-CNN Reports on Online Churches
CNN has posted an interesting piece on the growing trend of online churches. They report on the different approaches and goals ministries have for going online, and also the concern about the lack of face-to-face community that is lost by worshiping through the Internet vs. in a brick-and-mortar church building. Here's an excerpt:
Supporters of online churches have a common response to their skeptics: Try before you criticize. The virtual experience goes far beyond using live chat rooms to exchange emoticons instead of hugs and handshakes, they say.
Links allow congregants to "raise their hand" and publicly commit to Christ, while prayer requests and one-on-one guidance are a click way. Sermon notes can be shared and discussed. And many online churches are aided by volunteers, allowing them to hold services several times each day.
The Internet campus of the Flamingo Road Church in Cooper City, Florida, pulls in more than 2,000 congregants from around the world during its Sunday services. Pastor Doug Gramling said his three children are part of the Internet generation that will eventually decide the future of worship. They use Web tools to stay in constant connection with friends over vast distances, which Gramling says "gives me confidence that it can happen in online church."
But the disconnect from physical closeness is what Hyatt said he's "fighting hardest against." His own church offers online extensions such as podcasts and forums. But he believes "the computer
screen is a supplement, not a replacement."
That last statement is how we have approached the presentation of worship services here at Straight, Not Narrow. Although Jim sees this site moving more toward being a form of online church (Brenda doesn't), we strongly agree that anything we offer here is not a complete replacement for being an on-site participant in a live worship experience. We believe that the offerings here are best used for encouragement between church services, or as a closest-to-the-real-thing you might have if there is no affirming congregation near you.
We believe there is a lot of value in that, and we have seen that from the other side as our church, Believers Covenant Fellowship, is seeing significant growth in it's live broadcasting. So far, that is not keeping members away who are content to watch from home--it is broadening the reach of our ministry, involving people who don't have another place to call their church home. It is also helping us stay connected to sister churches on the West Coast by having the opportunity to participate online in each others' services.
We believe that people and churches who ignore the technology and the availability of some wonderful worship resources on the Internet are the ones who are losing. In effect, we think they are limiting God, saying He can't use cyberspace to bless and reach people.
Of course, when we do that, we're not really limiting God, just the blessings we are open to receiving from Him.
Supporters of online churches have a common response to their skeptics: Try before you criticize. The virtual experience goes far beyond using live chat rooms to exchange emoticons instead of hugs and handshakes, they say.
Links allow congregants to "raise their hand" and publicly commit to Christ, while prayer requests and one-on-one guidance are a click way. Sermon notes can be shared and discussed. And many online churches are aided by volunteers, allowing them to hold services several times each day.
The Internet campus of the Flamingo Road Church in Cooper City, Florida, pulls in more than 2,000 congregants from around the world during its Sunday services. Pastor Doug Gramling said his three children are part of the Internet generation that will eventually decide the future of worship. They use Web tools to stay in constant connection with friends over vast distances, which Gramling says "gives me confidence that it can happen in online church."
But the disconnect from physical closeness is what Hyatt said he's "fighting hardest against." His own church offers online extensions such as podcasts and forums. But he believes "the computer
screen is a supplement, not a replacement."
That last statement is how we have approached the presentation of worship services here at Straight, Not Narrow. Although Jim sees this site moving more toward being a form of online church (Brenda doesn't), we strongly agree that anything we offer here is not a complete replacement for being an on-site participant in a live worship experience. We believe that the offerings here are best used for encouragement between church services, or as a closest-to-the-real-thing you might have if there is no affirming congregation near you.
We believe there is a lot of value in that, and we have seen that from the other side as our church, Believers Covenant Fellowship, is seeing significant growth in it's live broadcasting. So far, that is not keeping members away who are content to watch from home--it is broadening the reach of our ministry, involving people who don't have another place to call their church home. It is also helping us stay connected to sister churches on the West Coast by having the opportunity to participate online in each others' services.
We believe that people and churches who ignore the technology and the availability of some wonderful worship resources on the Internet are the ones who are losing. In effect, we think they are limiting God, saying He can't use cyberspace to bless and reach people.
Of course, when we do that, we're not really limiting God, just the blessings we are open to receiving from Him.
LGBT Helping Hands 11/18/09-The Center Project (Columbia, MO)
The Center Project is Mid-Missouri's first and only lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning and ally community space. Located in downtown Columbia, Mo., we offer a friendly, safe facility for a wide variety of groups and events.
The Mid-Missouri Center Project strives to encourage respect, safety, inclusion, and compassion among people of all sexual orientations and/or identities. We exists to foster greater understanding, visibility, support, and appreciation of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and ally community in mid- Missouri. The Center Project promotes unity by providing educational outreach, community activities, a resource center, and a variety of support services.
Click here to find out more.
The Mid-Missouri Center Project strives to encourage respect, safety, inclusion, and compassion among people of all sexual orientations and/or identities. We exists to foster greater understanding, visibility, support, and appreciation of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and ally community in mid- Missouri. The Center Project promotes unity by providing educational outreach, community activities, a resource center, and a variety of support services.
Click here to find out more.
LGBT News Digest 11/18/09
Gay Agenda reports on ten things that President Obama HAS done since he's been in office.
The Washington Blade could have been saved, but an apparently viable offer was turned down by the corporate owner, Windows Media. More on that at The Bilerico Project. Google News has gathered reports about how the staff is working to revive the nation's oldest gay newspaper.
"Mr. Gay UK" is a policeman. Read about him at PageOneQ.
Bob Turtle Bulletin tells us about "a collection of the nation’s most obnoxious anti-gay activists" that gathered in Washington DC recently.
The DC City Council again turned back an attempt to put the issue of same-sex marriage on the ballot. Google News has the story.
The Washington Blade could have been saved, but an apparently viable offer was turned down by the corporate owner, Windows Media. More on that at The Bilerico Project. Google News has gathered reports about how the staff is working to revive the nation's oldest gay newspaper.
"Mr. Gay UK" is a policeman. Read about him at PageOneQ.
Bob Turtle Bulletin tells us about "a collection of the nation’s most obnoxious anti-gay activists" that gathered in Washington DC recently.
The DC City Council again turned back an attempt to put the issue of same-sex marriage on the ballot. Google News has the story.
Daily Devotional 11/18/09 God's Indicators
From: Daily in Christ
Proverbs 4:23 Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life.
I played sports as a young man and I have the scars on my knees to prove it. The incision of my first knee surgery cut across a nerve and I had no feeling around that area of my leg for several months. Sometimes I would sit down to watch TV and, without thinking, rest a cup of hot coffee on my numb knee. I couldn't feel anything, but before long I could sure smell something: my skin burning! For awhile I had a neat little brown ring on the top of my knee.
Your emotions are to your soul what your physical feelings are to your body. Nobody in their right mind enjoys pain. But if you didn't feel pain, you would be in danger of serious injury and infection. And if you didn't feel anger, sorrow, joy, etc. your soul would be in trouble. Emotions are God's indicators to let you know what is going on inside. They are neither good nor bad; they're amoral, just part of your humanity. Just like you respond to the warnings of physical pain, so you need to learn to respond to your emotional indicators.
Someone has likened emotions to the red light on the dashboard of a car which indicates an engine problem. There are several ways you can respond to the red light's warning. You can cover it with a piece of duct tape, "I can't see the light now," you say, "so I don't have to think about the problem." You can smash out the light with a hammer. "That'll teach you for glaring in my face!" Or you can respond to the light as the manufacturers intended for you to respond by looking under the hood and fixing the problem.
You have the same three options in responding to your emotions. You can respond by covering over them, ignoring them, stifling them. That's called suppression . You can respond by thoughtlessly lashing out, giving someone a piece of your mind, flying off at the handle. I call that indiscriminate expression . Or you can peer inside to see what's going on. That's called acknowledgment.
For the next few days, we will explore these responses and see why the first two are inappropriate.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for my emotions. Give me the courage to be emotionally honest and the grace to face the truth.
Proverbs 4:23 Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life.
I played sports as a young man and I have the scars on my knees to prove it. The incision of my first knee surgery cut across a nerve and I had no feeling around that area of my leg for several months. Sometimes I would sit down to watch TV and, without thinking, rest a cup of hot coffee on my numb knee. I couldn't feel anything, but before long I could sure smell something: my skin burning! For awhile I had a neat little brown ring on the top of my knee.
Your emotions are to your soul what your physical feelings are to your body. Nobody in their right mind enjoys pain. But if you didn't feel pain, you would be in danger of serious injury and infection. And if you didn't feel anger, sorrow, joy, etc. your soul would be in trouble. Emotions are God's indicators to let you know what is going on inside. They are neither good nor bad; they're amoral, just part of your humanity. Just like you respond to the warnings of physical pain, so you need to learn to respond to your emotional indicators.
Someone has likened emotions to the red light on the dashboard of a car which indicates an engine problem. There are several ways you can respond to the red light's warning. You can cover it with a piece of duct tape, "I can't see the light now," you say, "so I don't have to think about the problem." You can smash out the light with a hammer. "That'll teach you for glaring in my face!" Or you can respond to the light as the manufacturers intended for you to respond by looking under the hood and fixing the problem.
You have the same three options in responding to your emotions. You can respond by covering over them, ignoring them, stifling them. That's called suppression . You can respond by thoughtlessly lashing out, giving someone a piece of your mind, flying off at the handle. I call that indiscriminate expression . Or you can peer inside to see what's going on. That's called acknowledgment.
For the next few days, we will explore these responses and see why the first two are inappropriate.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for my emotions. Give me the courage to be emotionally honest and the grace to face the truth.
November 17, 2009
Encouraging Words 11/17/09-"In Word and Deed"
From Straight-Friendly:
Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. (Colossians 3.17)
The Bible frequently tells us to do, pray, or speak “in the name of…” Sometimes it’s simply “in Jesus’s name.” Other times it’s more general: “in the name of the Lord.” And still other scriptures spell out the entire Godhead: “in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.” We end our prayers in this fashion, just as we baptize, bless, and bury believers in Christ’s name. Indeed, many Christians start and end their lives in some form of Jesus’s name. Whether spoken audibly or in gesture via the sign of the cross, the name of Jesus is such a fixture in our worship and devotion it very easily can become a commonplace of life—a thing we do reflexively without consideration of what it means. This is by and large a result of modern indifference to names. Today, a person’s name is just a moniker; position in life signifies importance. And when anyone speaks or acts on another’s behalf, we evaluate his/her position as well. If the person isn’t legitimately connected to the other personally, professionally, or legally, his/her authority to represent the third party is dismissed.
In Biblical times, however, names were extremely important. A person who acted or spoke in another’s name without prior consent faced great peril. In contrast, the words and deeds of anyone legitimately authorized to do so were taken as those of the individual he/she represented. With this in mind, it’s good to remind ourselves that when we do anything in Jesus’s name, we act as His surrogate. In effect, we’re executing His power of attorney. Thus, when we pray in the name of Jesus, we’re actually praying as Him on our behalf. Jesus deeds us this right in John 14.13: “And I will do whatever your ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father.” Furthermore, as we discover in Colossians 3.17, our authority to speak and act in His name extends beyond prayer. It covers everything we do.
Click here to read the rest of this teaching.
Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. (Colossians 3.17)
The Bible frequently tells us to do, pray, or speak “in the name of…” Sometimes it’s simply “in Jesus’s name.” Other times it’s more general: “in the name of the Lord.” And still other scriptures spell out the entire Godhead: “in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.” We end our prayers in this fashion, just as we baptize, bless, and bury believers in Christ’s name. Indeed, many Christians start and end their lives in some form of Jesus’s name. Whether spoken audibly or in gesture via the sign of the cross, the name of Jesus is such a fixture in our worship and devotion it very easily can become a commonplace of life—a thing we do reflexively without consideration of what it means. This is by and large a result of modern indifference to names. Today, a person’s name is just a moniker; position in life signifies importance. And when anyone speaks or acts on another’s behalf, we evaluate his/her position as well. If the person isn’t legitimately connected to the other personally, professionally, or legally, his/her authority to represent the third party is dismissed.
In Biblical times, however, names were extremely important. A person who acted or spoke in another’s name without prior consent faced great peril. In contrast, the words and deeds of anyone legitimately authorized to do so were taken as those of the individual he/she represented. With this in mind, it’s good to remind ourselves that when we do anything in Jesus’s name, we act as His surrogate. In effect, we’re executing His power of attorney. Thus, when we pray in the name of Jesus, we’re actually praying as Him on our behalf. Jesus deeds us this right in John 14.13: “And I will do whatever your ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father.” Furthermore, as we discover in Colossians 3.17, our authority to speak and act in His name extends beyond prayer. It covers everything we do.
Click here to read the rest of this teaching.
Encouraging Music 11/17/09-"Midnight Cry" by Bob Peacock
We were blessed by Bob's singing at BCF's Fall Renewal, and his spouse Lloyd was kind enough to share the blessing of this video of Bob singing "Midnight Cry." Enjoy!
Matthew 25 Resource 11/17/09-Food Bank of Northeast Georgia
We are a network of friends and we work to feed the ill, needy, seniors, and minor children in our communities. In our 14 county service area there are over 81,000 individuals in need. Our goal is to distribute 100 pounds per person per year or 8.1million pounds. This is approximately 17,200 meals per day.
There are several ways in which the Food Bank works to meet this need. Primarily we partner with approximately 235 non profit agencies to distribute this much needed food. Through these soup kitchens, pantries, senior centers, churches, and other hunger relief organizations, individuals and families have access to food that might otherwise be wasted. Through our Mobile Pantry Program, approximately 250 families are given the opportunity to receive food through a direct commodities distribution in their own community. Our Food 2 Kids and Kids Café Programs target the needs of hungry children by providing food on the weekends and evenings when other food is not available. Our Brown Bag Program helps offset food cost for disabled individuals and senior by providing a grocery sack full of food once a month. The Charlie & Jessica Ostick “Stock the Pantry” Program is a partnership with Habitat for Humanity in which new home owners are given access to the Food Bank and are encouraged to stock the shelves of the pantry of their new home.
For every dollar we receive we are able to rescue $14 worth of food which might otherwise been wasted. Or in other words, we are able to distribute 4 meals into norhtest Georgia. On behalf of the over 81,000 Northeast Georgians who need help, but are unable to give personal thanks, thank you so much for participating in this outreach.
Click here to find out more.
There are several ways in which the Food Bank works to meet this need. Primarily we partner with approximately 235 non profit agencies to distribute this much needed food. Through these soup kitchens, pantries, senior centers, churches, and other hunger relief organizations, individuals and families have access to food that might otherwise be wasted. Through our Mobile Pantry Program, approximately 250 families are given the opportunity to receive food through a direct commodities distribution in their own community. Our Food 2 Kids and Kids Café Programs target the needs of hungry children by providing food on the weekends and evenings when other food is not available. Our Brown Bag Program helps offset food cost for disabled individuals and senior by providing a grocery sack full of food once a month. The Charlie & Jessica Ostick “Stock the Pantry” Program is a partnership with Habitat for Humanity in which new home owners are given access to the Food Bank and are encouraged to stock the shelves of the pantry of their new home.
For every dollar we receive we are able to rescue $14 worth of food which might otherwise been wasted. Or in other words, we are able to distribute 4 meals into norhtest Georgia. On behalf of the over 81,000 Northeast Georgians who need help, but are unable to give personal thanks, thank you so much for participating in this outreach.
Click here to find out more.
Daily Devotional 11/17/09 What Am I Looking At?
From: My Utmost for His Highest
"Look unto Me, and be ye saved." Isaiah 45:22
Do we expect God to come to us with His blessings and save us? He says - Look unto Me, and be saved. The great difficulty spiritually is to concentrate on God, and it is His blessings that make it difficult. Troubles nearly always make us look to God; His blessings are apt to make us look elsewhere. The teaching of the Sermon on the Mount is, in effect - Narrow all your interests until the attitude of mind and heart and body is concentration on Jesus Christ. "Look unto Me."
Many of us have a mental conception of what a Christian should be, and the lives of the saints become a hindrance to our concentration on God. There is no salvation in this way, it is not simple enough. "Look unto Me" and - not "you will be saved," but "you are saved." The very thing we look for, we shall find if we will concentrate on Him. We get preoccupied and sulky with God, while all the time He is saying - "Look up and be saved." The difficulties and trials - the casting about in our minds as to what we shall do this summer, or to-morrow, all vanish when we look to God.
Rouse yourself up and look to God. Build your hope on Him. No matter if there are a hundred and one things that press, resolutely exclude them all and look to Him. "Look unto Me," and salvation is, the moment you look.
"Look unto Me, and be ye saved." Isaiah 45:22
Do we expect God to come to us with His blessings and save us? He says - Look unto Me, and be saved. The great difficulty spiritually is to concentrate on God, and it is His blessings that make it difficult. Troubles nearly always make us look to God; His blessings are apt to make us look elsewhere. The teaching of the Sermon on the Mount is, in effect - Narrow all your interests until the attitude of mind and heart and body is concentration on Jesus Christ. "Look unto Me."
Many of us have a mental conception of what a Christian should be, and the lives of the saints become a hindrance to our concentration on God. There is no salvation in this way, it is not simple enough. "Look unto Me" and - not "you will be saved," but "you are saved." The very thing we look for, we shall find if we will concentrate on Him. We get preoccupied and sulky with God, while all the time He is saying - "Look up and be saved." The difficulties and trials - the casting about in our minds as to what we shall do this summer, or to-morrow, all vanish when we look to God.
Rouse yourself up and look to God. Build your hope on Him. No matter if there are a hundred and one things that press, resolutely exclude them all and look to Him. "Look unto Me," and salvation is, the moment you look.
November 16, 2009
LGBT News Digest 11/17/09
The Bilerico Project reports on the delay of the markup of ENDA.
The first gay marriage license has been issued in Buenos Aires. Pink News reports on that story.
PageOneQ reports on the closing of two of the most popular LGBT newspapers, Southern Voice in Atlanta and the Washington Blade.
Ex-Gay Watch reports on Exodus International belatedly sending an open letter to the Ugandan goverement opposing the Anti-Homosexuality Bill currently being considered.
A new study concludes that lesbians are better at raising children than conventional parents. Google news has reports on that story.
All new stories are being reported by the sites on our blog list and/or Google's LGBT Newsreel. Feel free to check there for updates throughout the day.
The first gay marriage license has been issued in Buenos Aires. Pink News reports on that story.
PageOneQ reports on the closing of two of the most popular LGBT newspapers, Southern Voice in Atlanta and the Washington Blade.
Ex-Gay Watch reports on Exodus International belatedly sending an open letter to the Ugandan goverement opposing the Anti-Homosexuality Bill currently being considered.
A new study concludes that lesbians are better at raising children than conventional parents. Google news has reports on that story.
All new stories are being reported by the sites on our blog list and/or Google's LGBT Newsreel. Feel free to check there for updates throughout the day.
Encouraging Words 11/16/09-BCF Praise Report
"And we, who with unveiled faces ALL reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into His likeness with ever-increasing GLORY, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit."
II Corinthians 3:18
Greetings BCF Family & Friends!
Wonderful! marvelous! GOD LOVES US SOOOOO MUCH and has done an amazing thing in our lives! Yesterday's service at BCF was just as awesome and powerful as the renewal weekend services! We were all basking in the GLORY of His presence and realized that God has truly released a new passion and FIRE into our being! Everyone is blessed and excited and ready to do His Will for their lives and the Church!
The worship portion of our service was just wonderful, and you can go join in with us on our ustream, through the www.BCFChurch.us website. I encourage you to do so, and press in!! You WILL be filled!!
The Holy Spirit led me to speak on "Seeking the Face of God" and pursuing Jesus. I shared some insight into the Aaronic Blessing "The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make His FACE to shine upon you and be gracious unto you, and give you peace." Numbers 6:22-26 In this text, the Lord Himself TOLD Aaron and his sons what they were to SAY over the people of God- and in that saying, was SOOOOOO MUCH BLESSING you have to study it to get all that God gives us in it. You know, it seems that so often anymore, we quickly brush over things that God has told us without really getting the complete revelation and benefit from it. Too many things have become religious rituals and traditions that we gloss over and MISS what God has given us! The benefit of having the FACE OF GOD shining upon us, so that we may gaze into His Face- is that as we look upon His Face, the FULLNESS of His glory and goodness, His character and attributes are transferred, imparted unto US! You remember the phrase, 'you are what you eat'....well in this case- YOU ARE WHAT YOU LOOK UPON!! If we will gaze intently into the Lord's Face- we will become more and more like Him!
And the most awesome TRUTH is: Because of the Blood of Jesus, we have been given FULL ACCESS to God's Face! On the contrary, if all we ever look upon is the world, the television, worldly books and publications- we will begin to look like THEM! I am confident that every one of US want to look, act, BE like Jesus! Right?!! So let's be determined and continue to make every effort to continually look into His Face, to look upon Him in worship, His Word, prayer and soaking, and remember that we ARE BEING transformed into more and more of His image- from Glory toooo GLORY!!!
Thanks to everyone who has emailed, called, or Facebooked their testimonies and comments about the Fall Outpouring. We at BCF are humbly grateful for your love and accolades, but we give ALL of the praise to the Lord Jesus. We are looking forward to continuing to build the bonds of love and UNITY in the Church across the globe- and there are sooo many things coming for us in 2010- I can hardly wait to get there! Please continue to pray for us all, especially standing against little attacks of the enemy that try to create strife and upset, division, withdrawal from each other- and physical attacks against our health. Several folks have been ill since the renewal weekend. Please PRAY for Pastor Linda Harris and Janice Lacount. Pastor Linda is still in the hospital in Tennessee. She is doing better, but we must continue to intercede for them. Also, Garrey is somewhat better from his back injury, and is going to an orthopedic doctor today. He is still in a lot of pain, though, and unable to work.
I love you, WE LOVE YOU, and even better than all of that GOD LOVES YOU!!! Have a fantastic week, keep your eyes on the Lord Jesus and not your circumstances. BE THANKFUL and do everything you can to maintain the unity of the faith and peace with one another- so that God can be glorified through our lives!
"Now the Lord BLESS YOU and KEEP YOU, the Lord make His FACE to shine upon you and be gracious unto you, and give you His SHALOM- perfect balance, harmony, rest, all that you need for life and Godliness, Divine Health, with nothing missing and nothing broken in your life or ministry!"
In Jesus' MIGHTY name,
Apostle Dale
II Corinthians 3:18
Greetings BCF Family & Friends!
Wonderful! marvelous! GOD LOVES US SOOOOO MUCH and has done an amazing thing in our lives! Yesterday's service at BCF was just as awesome and powerful as the renewal weekend services! We were all basking in the GLORY of His presence and realized that God has truly released a new passion and FIRE into our being! Everyone is blessed and excited and ready to do His Will for their lives and the Church!
The worship portion of our service was just wonderful, and you can go join in with us on our ustream, through the www.BCFChurch.us website. I encourage you to do so, and press in!! You WILL be filled!!
The Holy Spirit led me to speak on "Seeking the Face of God" and pursuing Jesus. I shared some insight into the Aaronic Blessing "The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make His FACE to shine upon you and be gracious unto you, and give you peace." Numbers 6:22-26 In this text, the Lord Himself TOLD Aaron and his sons what they were to SAY over the people of God- and in that saying, was SOOOOOO MUCH BLESSING you have to study it to get all that God gives us in it. You know, it seems that so often anymore, we quickly brush over things that God has told us without really getting the complete revelation and benefit from it. Too many things have become religious rituals and traditions that we gloss over and MISS what God has given us! The benefit of having the FACE OF GOD shining upon us, so that we may gaze into His Face- is that as we look upon His Face, the FULLNESS of His glory and goodness, His character and attributes are transferred, imparted unto US! You remember the phrase, 'you are what you eat'....well in this case- YOU ARE WHAT YOU LOOK UPON!! If we will gaze intently into the Lord's Face- we will become more and more like Him!
And the most awesome TRUTH is: Because of the Blood of Jesus, we have been given FULL ACCESS to God's Face! On the contrary, if all we ever look upon is the world, the television, worldly books and publications- we will begin to look like THEM! I am confident that every one of US want to look, act, BE like Jesus! Right?!! So let's be determined and continue to make every effort to continually look into His Face, to look upon Him in worship, His Word, prayer and soaking, and remember that we ARE BEING transformed into more and more of His image- from Glory toooo GLORY!!!
Thanks to everyone who has emailed, called, or Facebooked their testimonies and comments about the Fall Outpouring. We at BCF are humbly grateful for your love and accolades, but we give ALL of the praise to the Lord Jesus. We are looking forward to continuing to build the bonds of love and UNITY in the Church across the globe- and there are sooo many things coming for us in 2010- I can hardly wait to get there! Please continue to pray for us all, especially standing against little attacks of the enemy that try to create strife and upset, division, withdrawal from each other- and physical attacks against our health. Several folks have been ill since the renewal weekend. Please PRAY for Pastor Linda Harris and Janice Lacount. Pastor Linda is still in the hospital in Tennessee. She is doing better, but we must continue to intercede for them. Also, Garrey is somewhat better from his back injury, and is going to an orthopedic doctor today. He is still in a lot of pain, though, and unable to work.
I love you, WE LOVE YOU, and even better than all of that GOD LOVES YOU!!! Have a fantastic week, keep your eyes on the Lord Jesus and not your circumstances. BE THANKFUL and do everything you can to maintain the unity of the faith and peace with one another- so that God can be glorified through our lives!
"Now the Lord BLESS YOU and KEEP YOU, the Lord make His FACE to shine upon you and be gracious unto you, and give you His SHALOM- perfect balance, harmony, rest, all that you need for life and Godliness, Divine Health, with nothing missing and nothing broken in your life or ministry!"
In Jesus' MIGHTY name,
Apostle Dale
LGBT Hehlping Hands 11/16/09-The Bloomington Beacon (IN)
The Bloomington Beacon Center is a project of Bloomington Beacon, Inc., a 501(c)(3) corporation. The corporation's mission statement says, "Bloomington Beacon provides human services and educational, economic and cultural opportunities for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning (GLBTQ) communities in south-central Indiana. Bloomington Beacon also supports the civil and human rights of GLBTQ people in south-central Indiana by providing accurate news, information and commentary.”
The Bloomington Beacon Center will provide a safe, welcoming and positive space for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning (GLBTQ) people, their families and allies.
The center will strive to: build networks of support; deliver services; and provide educational, recreational, economic, cultural and volunteer opportunities, regardless of race, class, sex, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age or religion.
Click here to find out more.
The Bloomington Beacon Center will provide a safe, welcoming and positive space for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning (GLBTQ) people, their families and allies.
The center will strive to: build networks of support; deliver services; and provide educational, recreational, economic, cultural and volunteer opportunities, regardless of race, class, sex, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age or religion.
Click here to find out more.
LGBT News Digest 11/16/09
Hope you like the new format we are going to use for sharing new stories. If you know of a site you think we should add to our list on the right-hand column of the blog, please let us know.
Gay Agenda reports that Anti-Gays fear a takeover of Houston, TX if the out lesbian candiate for mayor Annise Parker wins the runoff.
The Bilerico Project, 365 Gay News, and the Washington Blade have more on the Catholic Church's threat to pull their social services if the Washington DC city council passes the same-sex marriage bill currently under consideration.
One of President Obama's advisors has split with him on the issue of same-sex marriage. PageOne Q has details.
PinkNews reports that voters in India are allowed a "third gender" option.
Google News shares reports of a conference for LGBT activists in Greensboro, NC.
The Mormon Church supporting anti-discrimination laws in Salt Lake City that would cover the LGBT community? Google News has reports showing it's absolutely true and analysis of why the church made that stunning move.
All new stories are being reported by the sites on our blog list and/or Google's LGBT Newsreel. Feel free to check there for updates throughout the day.
Gay Agenda reports that Anti-Gays fear a takeover of Houston, TX if the out lesbian candiate for mayor Annise Parker wins the runoff.
The Bilerico Project, 365 Gay News, and the Washington Blade have more on the Catholic Church's threat to pull their social services if the Washington DC city council passes the same-sex marriage bill currently under consideration.
One of President Obama's advisors has split with him on the issue of same-sex marriage. PageOne Q has details.
PinkNews reports that voters in India are allowed a "third gender" option.
Google News shares reports of a conference for LGBT activists in Greensboro, NC.
The Mormon Church supporting anti-discrimination laws in Salt Lake City that would cover the LGBT community? Google News has reports showing it's absolutely true and analysis of why the church made that stunning move.
All new stories are being reported by the sites on our blog list and/or Google's LGBT Newsreel. Feel free to check there for updates throughout the day.
Daily Devotional 11/16/09 Yes, but.......
From: My Utmost for His Highest
"Lord, I will follow Thee; but . . ." Luke 9:61
Supposing God tells you to do something which is an enormous test to your common sense, what are you going to do? Hang back? If you get into the habit of doing a thing in the physical domain, you will do it every time until you break the habit determinedly; and the same is true spiritually. Again and again you will get up to what Jesus Christ wants, and every time you will turn back when it comes to the point, until you abandon resolutely. "Yes, but - supposing I do obey God in this matter, what about . . . ?" "Yes, I will obey God if He will let me use my common sense, but don't ask me to take a step in the dark." Jesus Christ demands of the man who trusts Him the same reckless sporting spirit that the natural man exhibits. If a man is going to do anything worth while, there are times when he has to risk everything on his leap, and in the spiritual domain Jesus Christ demands that you risk everything you hold by common sense and leap into what He says, and immediately you do, you find that what He says fits on as solidly as common sense. At the bar of common sense Jesus Christ's statements may seem mad; but bring them to the bar of faith, and you begin to find with awestruck spirit that they are the words of God. Trust entirely in God, and when He brings you to the venture, see that you take it. We act like pagans in a crisis, only one out of a crowd is daring enough to bank his faith in the character of God.
"Lord, I will follow Thee; but . . ." Luke 9:61
Supposing God tells you to do something which is an enormous test to your common sense, what are you going to do? Hang back? If you get into the habit of doing a thing in the physical domain, you will do it every time until you break the habit determinedly; and the same is true spiritually. Again and again you will get up to what Jesus Christ wants, and every time you will turn back when it comes to the point, until you abandon resolutely. "Yes, but - supposing I do obey God in this matter, what about . . . ?" "Yes, I will obey God if He will let me use my common sense, but don't ask me to take a step in the dark." Jesus Christ demands of the man who trusts Him the same reckless sporting spirit that the natural man exhibits. If a man is going to do anything worth while, there are times when he has to risk everything on his leap, and in the spiritual domain Jesus Christ demands that you risk everything you hold by common sense and leap into what He says, and immediately you do, you find that what He says fits on as solidly as common sense. At the bar of common sense Jesus Christ's statements may seem mad; but bring them to the bar of faith, and you begin to find with awestruck spirit that they are the words of God. Trust entirely in God, and when He brings you to the venture, see that you take it. We act like pagans in a crisis, only one out of a crowd is daring enough to bank his faith in the character of God.
November 15, 2009
Live Affirming Worship at Rainbow Community Church 9:00 PM est
Click here to join Rainbow Community Church in Vancouver, BC Canada for worship via a live video stream at 9:00 PM est.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
We are a Christian, evangelical, non-denominational, community-based church seeking to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ; which are simple, loving, and inclusive.
We consist of a group of people from mixed church backgrounds. We are concerned about people, not labels. Rainbow Community Church is a place where ALL people are welcome. Our desire is to create a place where we can worship and serve God as the people He created us to be. A place to be at home: spiritually, emotionally, socially and relationally.
We have a motto, "The Church that Jesus is building". As love is such a force in our lives - we all look for love, need to be loved and need to give love - our goal as a community of believers is to be filled with God's love; to share God's unconditional love; to demonstrate God's love to others - whoever they are, whatever their background; to declare and show by our actions that God loves all and has no pre-existing conditions for loving all of His creations - especially you and me.
Rainbow Community Church desires to help reconcile all people to God through sharing the Word of God by way of preaching, teaching, seminars, music and community involvement.
We desire to encourage each other in living a Christ-centred life. We desire to network with other churches that have a special outreach to our community. We understand you, like many of us, may have been hurt by the voice of church people.
Regardless of what you were told or how you were treated, God loves you unconditionally. You are His child through faith in Jesus Christ.
Visitors are always welcome. If you don't have a church home, we invite you to consider making Rainbow Community Church of Vancouver yours. We look forward to proudly serving our community for many years to come.
Click here to find out more.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
We are a Christian, evangelical, non-denominational, community-based church seeking to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ; which are simple, loving, and inclusive.
We consist of a group of people from mixed church backgrounds. We are concerned about people, not labels. Rainbow Community Church is a place where ALL people are welcome. Our desire is to create a place where we can worship and serve God as the people He created us to be. A place to be at home: spiritually, emotionally, socially and relationally.
We have a motto, "The Church that Jesus is building". As love is such a force in our lives - we all look for love, need to be loved and need to give love - our goal as a community of believers is to be filled with God's love; to share God's unconditional love; to demonstrate God's love to others - whoever they are, whatever their background; to declare and show by our actions that God loves all and has no pre-existing conditions for loving all of His creations - especially you and me.
Rainbow Community Church desires to help reconcile all people to God through sharing the Word of God by way of preaching, teaching, seminars, music and community involvement.
We desire to encourage each other in living a Christ-centred life. We desire to network with other churches that have a special outreach to our community. We understand you, like many of us, may have been hurt by the voice of church people.
Regardless of what you were told or how you were treated, God loves you unconditionally. You are His child through faith in Jesus Christ.
Visitors are always welcome. If you don't have a church home, we invite you to consider making Rainbow Community Church of Vancouver yours. We look forward to proudly serving our community for many years to come.
Click here to find out more.
Live Affirming Worship From Oasis Fellowship Ministries at 12:00 PM
Click here to join Oasis Fellowship Ministries in Casselberry, FL for worship via a live video stream at 12:00 PM est.
Click here to see video of previous services.
Oasis Fellowship Ministries... is a ministry of reconciliation. We are dedicated to teaching, exemplifying, and representing the radically inclusive love of Jesus Christ. We welcome all persons regardless of gender, age, physical ability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, or socio-economic status. We firmly commit ourselves to be a church for all people. In Christ, we celebrate, affirm, and embrace you, the rich diversity of God's good creation.
Our intention is to worship God in community where we allow the Creator to liberate all people to explore, fulfill and achieve their divine purpose. We are a people of prayer, who stand to be faithful in worship, given to the attentive study of the Word and invite all to fellowship at the Table.
We are an open and affirming congregation to all those who have lost, left, or never had a church home. We welcome and encourage you, your children, your spouses, your partners, your parents, and friends to become an active member of this church family. Oasis will make your life brand new!
Click here to find out more.
Click here to see video of previous services.
Oasis Fellowship Ministries... is a ministry of reconciliation. We are dedicated to teaching, exemplifying, and representing the radically inclusive love of Jesus Christ. We welcome all persons regardless of gender, age, physical ability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, or socio-economic status. We firmly commit ourselves to be a church for all people. In Christ, we celebrate, affirm, and embrace you, the rich diversity of God's good creation.
Our intention is to worship God in community where we allow the Creator to liberate all people to explore, fulfill and achieve their divine purpose. We are a people of prayer, who stand to be faithful in worship, given to the attentive study of the Word and invite all to fellowship at the Table.
We are an open and affirming congregation to all those who have lost, left, or never had a church home. We welcome and encourage you, your children, your spouses, your partners, your parents, and friends to become an active member of this church family. Oasis will make your life brand new!
Click here to find out more.
Live Affirming Worship at Living Water Fellowship 1:30 PM est
Click here to join Living Water Fellowship in Kenmore, WA for worship via a live video stream at 1:30 PM est.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
We invite you to come and be a part of our church family. We exist to bring the unconditional love of Jesus Christ to all people regardless of age, ethnicity, or orientation. Our heart is to see each person that crosses our path know that they are loved and accepted by God.
Our goal is to minister to the whole person; body, soul and spirit.
We provide a place to not only heal but to grow in your relationship with God and each other.
Have you gone to other churches and felt unwelcome or unaccepted because you didn't quite fit in? Have you been looking for a place where you can be yourself and pursue a deeper relationship with God?
You are welcome and accepted at Living Water Fellowship.
We are a family of people who desire to touch and better the lives of others in our community through various events including a homeless outreach, Isaiah 58 monthly food bank, weekly ministry center and various other outreach and ministry events.
You can find us at 7204 NE 175 ST, Kenmore, WA 98028
Click here to find out more.
Click here to be blessed by Worship leader and Psalmist Debbie George's CD "Shining Through."
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
We invite you to come and be a part of our church family. We exist to bring the unconditional love of Jesus Christ to all people regardless of age, ethnicity, or orientation. Our heart is to see each person that crosses our path know that they are loved and accepted by God.
Our goal is to minister to the whole person; body, soul and spirit.
We provide a place to not only heal but to grow in your relationship with God and each other.
Have you gone to other churches and felt unwelcome or unaccepted because you didn't quite fit in? Have you been looking for a place where you can be yourself and pursue a deeper relationship with God?
You are welcome and accepted at Living Water Fellowship.
We are a family of people who desire to touch and better the lives of others in our community through various events including a homeless outreach, Isaiah 58 monthly food bank, weekly ministry center and various other outreach and ministry events.
You can find us at 7204 NE 175 ST, Kenmore, WA 98028
Click here to find out more.
Click here to be blessed by Worship leader and Psalmist Debbie George's CD "Shining Through."
Live Affirming Worship from Glory Tabernacle Christian Center 1:00 PM est
Click here to join Glory Tabernacle Christian Center in Long Beach, CA for worship via a live video stream at 1:00 PM est.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
We are a unique Christian church with a special message of God's inclusive love through Jesus Christ. GTCC is welcoming of everyone. We are also defined by our special ministry of sharing God's incredible love and acceptance.
Over the past 28 years, GTCC has provided a place where individuals have come to know and accept Jesus Christ in a real way. Wherever you are at in your spiritual journey with God, I know that you will find something to hold on to here at GTCC that will change your life. My prayer is that you will feel called to join with us in this unique ministry of sharing God's love through Jesus Christ to everyone! I believe that GTCC is a unique church for three important reasons besides the fact that we are inclusive of everyone. What makes us so unique is that we are: Christ-Centered, Charismatic and Commissioned.
Christ - Centered
We are a Christ-centered church which means that our message has to do with the person of Jesus Christ. We acknowledge Jesus Christ as central to the message of the Bible believing the Old Testament points to the coming of Christ Jesus while the New Testament reveals the work of Christ Jesus as Savior, Baptizer, Healer and Soon Coming Ruler! Everyone is invited to begin their relationship with God by accepting Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. God's word tells us that everyone can be saved by grace, (a free gift) and through faith. Many people have been turned away from religious organizations or from other churches for various reasons. Nevertheless, at GTCC, we believe that the person of Jesus Christ calls each of us to COME enter into a relationship with God regardless of who you are.
Charismatic
At GTCC we acknowledge the work of the Holy Spirit in our world today and in our lives as believers. When we believe in Jesus Christ and are saved, then not only are we made spiritually alive, but God's Spirit actually lives in our spirit. (Ephesians 1:13,14) As if this was not exciting already, then we are invited to ask Jesus Christ to baptize us or fill us completely with the Holy Spirit. This begins a whole new way of living and we call this being "Spirit-filled" or "Charismatic". The term "charismatic" comes from the Greek word "charisma" referring to God's gifts of grace and the workings of the Holy Spirit. As believers, the Holy Spirit works in our lives through the baptism, gifts and fruit of the Holy Spirit. I would like to invite you to join us at GTCC as we welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit so that we are refreshed, continually filled, hear God's voice, receive power, become bold witnesses, and are transformed. Our church seeks to be on the forefront of the move of the Holy Spirit in the world during this new millennium.
Commissioned
The exciting thing about following Christ and living out your faith in the world is that you can't contain God's wonderful love. When we accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior and then are filled with the Holy Spirit in power, we all desire to share our experience with our friends, families and others. This is no less true for the Church! Therefore, as a church we take seriously Christ's commission to us: "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the heavenly Parent, the Son and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." (Matthew 28:19, 20) At GTCC we strive to share this wonderful love of God with our local community as well as to the nations. As we begin this new millennium together, there is so much to do for Christ in that there are many individuals who have yet to hear the truth of God's love through Christ Jesus. Every believer can be a part of this exciting endeavor of sharing God's love with others and seeing their lives changed.
Click here to find out more.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
We are a unique Christian church with a special message of God's inclusive love through Jesus Christ. GTCC is welcoming of everyone. We are also defined by our special ministry of sharing God's incredible love and acceptance.
Over the past 28 years, GTCC has provided a place where individuals have come to know and accept Jesus Christ in a real way. Wherever you are at in your spiritual journey with God, I know that you will find something to hold on to here at GTCC that will change your life. My prayer is that you will feel called to join with us in this unique ministry of sharing God's love through Jesus Christ to everyone! I believe that GTCC is a unique church for three important reasons besides the fact that we are inclusive of everyone. What makes us so unique is that we are: Christ-Centered, Charismatic and Commissioned.
Christ - Centered
We are a Christ-centered church which means that our message has to do with the person of Jesus Christ. We acknowledge Jesus Christ as central to the message of the Bible believing the Old Testament points to the coming of Christ Jesus while the New Testament reveals the work of Christ Jesus as Savior, Baptizer, Healer and Soon Coming Ruler! Everyone is invited to begin their relationship with God by accepting Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. God's word tells us that everyone can be saved by grace, (a free gift) and through faith. Many people have been turned away from religious organizations or from other churches for various reasons. Nevertheless, at GTCC, we believe that the person of Jesus Christ calls each of us to COME enter into a relationship with God regardless of who you are.
Charismatic
At GTCC we acknowledge the work of the Holy Spirit in our world today and in our lives as believers. When we believe in Jesus Christ and are saved, then not only are we made spiritually alive, but God's Spirit actually lives in our spirit. (Ephesians 1:13,14) As if this was not exciting already, then we are invited to ask Jesus Christ to baptize us or fill us completely with the Holy Spirit. This begins a whole new way of living and we call this being "Spirit-filled" or "Charismatic". The term "charismatic" comes from the Greek word "charisma" referring to God's gifts of grace and the workings of the Holy Spirit. As believers, the Holy Spirit works in our lives through the baptism, gifts and fruit of the Holy Spirit. I would like to invite you to join us at GTCC as we welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit so that we are refreshed, continually filled, hear God's voice, receive power, become bold witnesses, and are transformed. Our church seeks to be on the forefront of the move of the Holy Spirit in the world during this new millennium.
Commissioned
The exciting thing about following Christ and living out your faith in the world is that you can't contain God's wonderful love. When we accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior and then are filled with the Holy Spirit in power, we all desire to share our experience with our friends, families and others. This is no less true for the Church! Therefore, as a church we take seriously Christ's commission to us: "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the heavenly Parent, the Son and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." (Matthew 28:19, 20) At GTCC we strive to share this wonderful love of God with our local community as well as to the nations. As we begin this new millennium together, there is so much to do for Christ in that there are many individuals who have yet to hear the truth of God's love through Christ Jesus. Every believer can be a part of this exciting endeavor of sharing God's love with others and seeing their lives changed.
Click here to find out more.
Live Affirming Worship at Covenant Community Church 12:00 PM & 8:00 PM est
Click here to join Covenant Community Church in Birmingham, AL for worship via a live video stream at 12:00 PM est. They also have a praise and worship service at 8:00 PM est on the same link, along with video of previous services.
Our vision is to be an inclusive community of faith: Offering Hope + Showing Faithfulness + Sharing Joy!
We invite you on a journey of discovering God's unconditional love for all people without the guilt of religion.
We believe in the Good News! Jesus the Master Teacher, who lived that we might know how to live, died to overcome our fear of death, and came back to share this life with us; abundant life here and eternal life hereafter! "God didn't send Jesus into the world to condemn us, but to rescue us!" (John 3:17)
We believe that God has empowered us to proclaim this Good News so that others can be 'set free to be.' You too can experience this!
Every service includes the celebration of the Holy Communion, because Jesus said, 'Do this...remember me.' We celebrate an open communion, you do not have to be a member of Covenant Community Church, or any church, to receive communion, only have a desire to have a closer walk with Jesus. In doing so, we continue this tradition which was a central part of gathering and celebration of the early church in the Acts of Apostle
Click here to find out more.
Our vision is to be an inclusive community of faith: Offering Hope + Showing Faithfulness + Sharing Joy!
We invite you on a journey of discovering God's unconditional love for all people without the guilt of religion.
We believe in the Good News! Jesus the Master Teacher, who lived that we might know how to live, died to overcome our fear of death, and came back to share this life with us; abundant life here and eternal life hereafter! "God didn't send Jesus into the world to condemn us, but to rescue us!" (John 3:17)
We believe that God has empowered us to proclaim this Good News so that others can be 'set free to be.' You too can experience this!
Every service includes the celebration of the Holy Communion, because Jesus said, 'Do this...remember me.' We celebrate an open communion, you do not have to be a member of Covenant Community Church, or any church, to receive communion, only have a desire to have a closer walk with Jesus. In doing so, we continue this tradition which was a central part of gathering and celebration of the early church in the Acts of Apostle
Click here to find out more.
Live Affirming Worship at Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship 12:00 PM
Click here to join Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship in Winston Salem, NC for worship via a live video stream at 12:00 PM est.
They also have video of previous services at the same link.
Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship is a church that lives with a consciousness of the gift of the Holy Spirit and his continual indwelling in our lives 1 Corinthians 6:19.
We live in accordance with Psalms 34: 1-3 & with 1Corinthians 13 Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship is a church with a unique and wonderful ministry rooted in 2Corinthians 5:18-20. Through continual inward discovery, personal recovery, and affectionate outreach we minister the ministry of reconciliation to all persons regardless of background, race, color, ancestry, age, gender, affectional orientation, and those who are specially abled. This is done in an attempt to lead all persons to a true personal and intimate relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ and to embrace the message of radical inclusion of all persons regardless of their margin status.We strive to display the characteristics of the Holy Spirit by producing the fruits thereof: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.We uphold our fundamental believe in:
1. The Birth-representing the completion of the promise.
2. The Death-representing the remission of sins and the renewed right fellowship with God.
3. The Resurrection-representing the hope of eternal life in Christ Jesus and the peace of a victorious tomorrow.
It is our call and design to be a church that is:
Answering God's call to a Ministry of Reconciliation to an age of dissimilation
Click here to find out more.
They also have video of previous services at the same link.
Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship is a church that lives with a consciousness of the gift of the Holy Spirit and his continual indwelling in our lives 1 Corinthians 6:19.
We live in accordance with Psalms 34: 1-3 & with 1Corinthians 13 Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship is a church with a unique and wonderful ministry rooted in 2Corinthians 5:18-20. Through continual inward discovery, personal recovery, and affectionate outreach we minister the ministry of reconciliation to all persons regardless of background, race, color, ancestry, age, gender, affectional orientation, and those who are specially abled. This is done in an attempt to lead all persons to a true personal and intimate relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ and to embrace the message of radical inclusion of all persons regardless of their margin status.We strive to display the characteristics of the Holy Spirit by producing the fruits thereof: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.We uphold our fundamental believe in:
1. The Birth-representing the completion of the promise.
2. The Death-representing the remission of sins and the renewed right fellowship with God.
3. The Resurrection-representing the hope of eternal life in Christ Jesus and the peace of a victorious tomorrow.
It is our call and design to be a church that is:
Answering God's call to a Ministry of Reconciliation to an age of dissimilation
Click here to find out more.
Live Affirming Worship at Diversity Christian Fellowship International at 12:00 PM est
Click here to join Diversity Christian Fellowship International in Tulsa, OK for worship via a live video stream at 12:00 PM est.
Click here to watch video of previous services.
DCFI is a Bible-based church preaching the uncompromised Word of God.
It is not just a place for those who don't fit in at other churches. It is a place for those who are spiritually hungry for God. DCFI is for those who seek to develop an intimate relationship with the Father, to further their understanding not only of the Gospel but who desire to find the way to apply it to their every day life.
We invite you to experience an anointed praise and worship service with Biblical, evangelistic style preaching.
We are a non-denominational, non-political, affirming, Word of faith church committed to God's purpose for every person to hear the GREAT NEWS of His unfailing love, the message of the cross.
The past few years, God has shown us that He has great plans for us to minister the life changing TRUTH and POWER of God's love for ALL people.
Click here to find out more.
Click here to watch video of previous services.
DCFI is a Bible-based church preaching the uncompromised Word of God.
It is not just a place for those who don't fit in at other churches. It is a place for those who are spiritually hungry for God. DCFI is for those who seek to develop an intimate relationship with the Father, to further their understanding not only of the Gospel but who desire to find the way to apply it to their every day life.
We invite you to experience an anointed praise and worship service with Biblical, evangelistic style preaching.
We are a non-denominational, non-political, affirming, Word of faith church committed to God's purpose for every person to hear the GREAT NEWS of His unfailing love, the message of the cross.
The past few years, God has shown us that He has great plans for us to minister the life changing TRUTH and POWER of God's love for ALL people.
Click here to find out more.
Live Affirming Worship At Believers Covenant Fellowship 11:00 AM est
Click here to join Believers Covenant Fellowship in Vienna, VA for worship via a live video stream at 11:00 AM est.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
Believers Covenant Fellowship is a Christian Ministry and an Apostolic, Full Gospel, Charismatic Church. We believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, that He died for EVERYONE's sins on the Cross of Calvary, that God raised Him from the dead, and He is alive even now. He will soon be coming back to set up His Kingdom and reign on the Earth!
Ultimately, it is our mission to show the world that Jesus Christ really IS the Answer to all of our problems! His ways are best and He has provided a way back to a personal love relationship with our Creator, our heavenly Father, by cleansing us of our sins. In this relationship, the Holy Spirit begins to help us see and understand that the bible is like an instruction manual. It is full of wisdom meant for us to embrace. It is also a history book testifying to God's reality, God's supreme power and dominion, God's faithfulness, God's love, and even more! It is not just a history book of the past, it is also a prophetic book detailing and outlining the wonderful future that God has in store for those who will love Him and seek His ways. It is ALL good! ALL positive!
We desire to be bridge builders in the Christian community. We are a congregation that seeks to bridge the non-gay community with the gay and lesbian communities through our relationship with Christ. Our primary purpose is to minister to the spiritual needs of the gay and lesbian community in the metro Washington, DC, area by providing a safe, nurturing environment for praise and worship, Christian fellowship, and study of the practical application of Bible-based principles of how to live a spiritually fruitful and prosperous life through our covenant relationship with our Heavenly Father!
Freely you have received, freely give.
~Jesus Christ, Matthew 10:8
We worship every Sabbath Sunday morning at 11:00 AM. Our dress code is casual and comfortable. Apostle Dale Jarrett is available to answer your questions or provide you more information about our ministry. Our telephone number is (703) 813-6250.
BCF Worship & Ministry Center
8466 Tyco Road
Vienna, Virginia 22182
Click here to find out more.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
Believers Covenant Fellowship is a Christian Ministry and an Apostolic, Full Gospel, Charismatic Church. We believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, that He died for EVERYONE's sins on the Cross of Calvary, that God raised Him from the dead, and He is alive even now. He will soon be coming back to set up His Kingdom and reign on the Earth!
Ultimately, it is our mission to show the world that Jesus Christ really IS the Answer to all of our problems! His ways are best and He has provided a way back to a personal love relationship with our Creator, our heavenly Father, by cleansing us of our sins. In this relationship, the Holy Spirit begins to help us see and understand that the bible is like an instruction manual. It is full of wisdom meant for us to embrace. It is also a history book testifying to God's reality, God's supreme power and dominion, God's faithfulness, God's love, and even more! It is not just a history book of the past, it is also a prophetic book detailing and outlining the wonderful future that God has in store for those who will love Him and seek His ways. It is ALL good! ALL positive!
We desire to be bridge builders in the Christian community. We are a congregation that seeks to bridge the non-gay community with the gay and lesbian communities through our relationship with Christ. Our primary purpose is to minister to the spiritual needs of the gay and lesbian community in the metro Washington, DC, area by providing a safe, nurturing environment for praise and worship, Christian fellowship, and study of the practical application of Bible-based principles of how to live a spiritually fruitful and prosperous life through our covenant relationship with our Heavenly Father!
Freely you have received, freely give.
~Jesus Christ, Matthew 10:8
We worship every Sabbath Sunday morning at 11:00 AM. Our dress code is casual and comfortable. Apostle Dale Jarrett is available to answer your questions or provide you more information about our ministry. Our telephone number is (703) 813-6250.
BCF Worship & Ministry Center
8466 Tyco Road
Vienna, Virginia 22182
Click here to find out more.
Live Affirming Worship at Potter's House International Fellowship 11:00 AM est
Click here to join Potter's House International Fellowship in Tampa, FL for worship via a live video stream at 11:00 AM est.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
Potter's House International Fellowship seeks to be the open arms of Christ to all people without distinction. We are an Intentionally Radically Inclusive spirit-filled church welcoming all God's children home. We stand together for the purpose of worship, fellowship, ministry, and evangelism.
Our Vision is to grow a lively, vibrant, cross-cultural, multi-racial, inclusive and affirming expression of the Christian community.
At Potter's House International Fellowship all are welcome at the table of the Lord regardless of gender, age, physical ability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, or socio-economic status.
Potter's House International Fellowship is dedicated to exemplifying the Radically Inclusive love of Jesus Christ.
We worship with prayer, preaching, and song. This combination produces an uplifting experience that will fill your soul to overflowing with the Love of God. If you are in need of the love of Jesus Christ; come to the Potter's House where the pieces of your life can be mended. Lives are being changed and the name of the Lord Jesus Christ is being lifted up!
Click here to find out more.
You can also view video of previous services at the same link.
Potter's House International Fellowship seeks to be the open arms of Christ to all people without distinction. We are an Intentionally Radically Inclusive spirit-filled church welcoming all God's children home. We stand together for the purpose of worship, fellowship, ministry, and evangelism.
Our Vision is to grow a lively, vibrant, cross-cultural, multi-racial, inclusive and affirming expression of the Christian community.
At Potter's House International Fellowship all are welcome at the table of the Lord regardless of gender, age, physical ability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, or socio-economic status.
Potter's House International Fellowship is dedicated to exemplifying the Radically Inclusive love of Jesus Christ.
We worship with prayer, preaching, and song. This combination produces an uplifting experience that will fill your soul to overflowing with the Love of God. If you are in need of the love of Jesus Christ; come to the Potter's House where the pieces of your life can be mended. Lives are being changed and the name of the Lord Jesus Christ is being lifted up!
Click here to find out more.
Welcome to Sunday Worship 11/15/09
If you don't have a welcoming church near you, or you just can't make yourself step into one, we're bringing worship to you. Here are links to some worship music and services from open and affirming ministries (all times eastern). I hope you are blessed and take time out of your busy schedule to enter into the Lord's day.
Don't forget to click on the tab on the upper right of this blog and leave your prayer requests in the comment section so we can petition the Lord for your needs.
If you know of a service we should add to our list, please send an e-mail and share it with us.
Live Sunday Services (all times Eastern)
VIDEO
FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa, 11:00 AM
VA-Believers Covenant Fellowship, Vienna, 11:00 AM
AL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham, 12:00 AM
NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem, 12:00 PM
FL-Oasis Fellowship Ministries, Casselberry, 12:00 PM
OK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa, 1:00 PM
CA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach, 1:00 PM
WA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore, 1:30 PM
Canada-Rainbow Community Church, Vancouver 9:00 PM
AUDIO
Canada, Vancouver-Christ Alive Community Church, 10:15 PM
FL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program) 4:30 PM
Video Archive
AL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham
CA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach
FL-Church of the Holy SpiritSong, Ft. Lauderdale
FL-Oasis Fellowship Ministries, Casselberry
FL-New Hope Christian Center, Pensacola
FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa
GA-Gentle Spirit Christian Church, Atlanta
GA-New Covenant Church of Atlanta
NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem
OK-Expressions Community Fellowship, Oklahoma City
OK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa
TX-The One Church, Garland
WA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore
Canada-Rainbow Community Church, Vancouver
Audio Archive
AZ-Community Church of Hope, Phoenix
AK-Open Door Community Church, Sherwood
CA-Christ Chapel of Long Beach
CA-Christ Chapel of the Valley, North Hollywood
FL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program)
FL-Body of Christ Church of God, Largo
FL-New Hope Christian Center, Pensecola
GA-New Covenant Church of Atlanta
KY-Covenant Community Church, Louisville
MD-Kittamaqundi Community, Columbia
NC-Revolution Charlotte
OH-Emmanuel Fellowship Church, Akron
OH-All Saints Community Church, Cortland
TN-Covenant of the Cross, Madison
TX-New Hope Fellowship Church, Dallas
TX-White Rock Community Church, Dallas
TX-Community Gospel Church, Houston
TX-Through Him Fellowship, Houston
UT-Glory to God Christian Church, Ogden
South Africa-Deo Gloria Family Church
Can we pray for you? E-mail straight_notnarrow@yahoo.com
Don't forget to click on the tab on the upper right of this blog and leave your prayer requests in the comment section so we can petition the Lord for your needs.
If you know of a service we should add to our list, please send an e-mail and share it with us.
Live Sunday Services (all times Eastern)
VIDEO
FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa, 11:00 AM
VA-Believers Covenant Fellowship, Vienna, 11:00 AM
AL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham, 12:00 AM
NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem, 12:00 PM
FL-Oasis Fellowship Ministries, Casselberry, 12:00 PM
OK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa, 1:00 PM
CA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach, 1:00 PM
WA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore, 1:30 PM
Canada-Rainbow Community Church, Vancouver 9:00 PM
AUDIO
Canada, Vancouver-Christ Alive Community Church, 10:15 PM
FL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program) 4:30 PM
Video Archive
AL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham
CA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach
FL-Church of the Holy SpiritSong, Ft. Lauderdale
FL-Oasis Fellowship Ministries, Casselberry
FL-New Hope Christian Center, Pensacola
FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa
GA-Gentle Spirit Christian Church, Atlanta
GA-New Covenant Church of Atlanta
NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem
OK-Expressions Community Fellowship, Oklahoma City
OK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa
TX-The One Church, Garland
WA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore
Canada-Rainbow Community Church, Vancouver
Audio Archive
AZ-Community Church of Hope, Phoenix
AK-Open Door Community Church, Sherwood
CA-Christ Chapel of Long Beach
CA-Christ Chapel of the Valley, North Hollywood
FL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program)
FL-Body of Christ Church of God, Largo
FL-New Hope Christian Center, Pensecola
GA-New Covenant Church of Atlanta
KY-Covenant Community Church, Louisville
MD-Kittamaqundi Community, Columbia
NC-Revolution Charlotte
OH-Emmanuel Fellowship Church, Akron
OH-All Saints Community Church, Cortland
TN-Covenant of the Cross, Madison
TX-New Hope Fellowship Church, Dallas
TX-White Rock Community Church, Dallas
TX-Community Gospel Church, Houston
TX-Through Him Fellowship, Houston
UT-Glory to God Christian Church, Ogden
South Africa-Deo Gloria Family Church
Can we pray for you? E-mail straight_notnarrow@yahoo.com
November 14, 2009
In Our Own Words 11/14/09-More Worship!
One of the things the Lord led us to during the Fall Renewal at our church last weekend was that we needed to focus more on posting worship at Straight, Not Narrow. You will see the next step toward that tomorrow, when we will have nothing but posts with live church services following our traditional Sunday Worship aggregate post at 6:00 AM.
At this time, we have nine independent affirming churches that broadcast live video streams over the Internet. The first two start at 11:00 AM est, while the last one begins at 9:00 PM est with several others falling in-between. These nine churches encompass several different styles so we be believe we are offering a variety of worship experiences hoping you will find at least one to bless you.
We want to remind you that we do not post these an a substitute for attending church and participating worship, but we do believe that for those unable or just not ready at this time to visit a church that we are offering a valuable alternative.
We are also going to experiment with how we present our LGBT news stories. We'll be presenting a daily digest from the sites that feed into our news aggregator on the right hand side of our home page starting Monday morning. We hope you like it.
We appreciate your feedback on these and future changes, be it positive or negative. We seek to present information in the most interesting and useful manner for our regular readers and so that it might attract new ones.
Thanks and God bless,
Jim and Brenda
At this time, we have nine independent affirming churches that broadcast live video streams over the Internet. The first two start at 11:00 AM est, while the last one begins at 9:00 PM est with several others falling in-between. These nine churches encompass several different styles so we be believe we are offering a variety of worship experiences hoping you will find at least one to bless you.
We want to remind you that we do not post these an a substitute for attending church and participating worship, but we do believe that for those unable or just not ready at this time to visit a church that we are offering a valuable alternative.
We are also going to experiment with how we present our LGBT news stories. We'll be presenting a daily digest from the sites that feed into our news aggregator on the right hand side of our home page starting Monday morning. We hope you like it.
We appreciate your feedback on these and future changes, be it positive or negative. We seek to present information in the most interesting and useful manner for our regular readers and so that it might attract new ones.
Thanks and God bless,
Jim and Brenda
Encouraging Words 11/14/09-Cardboard Testimonies
If you were standing by the side of the road holding a sign, what would you want it to say about you? That's the topic of this video from the Glory Tabernacle Christian Center in Long Beach, CA. Watch and be blessed as people show what God has done in their lives.
Matthew 25 Resource 11/14/09-Danville House of Hope (VA)
Danville House of Hope proudly welcomes your friendship and support for the "House of Hope" homeless shelter. The facility serves homeless people from any gender, race, young or old in the City of Danville, Pittsylvania County, and Martinsville.
Located in the heart of Southside Virginia, the House of Hope demonstrates kindness and goodwill to our area homeless people. We provide safe overnight stay, hot meals, and a variety of support services. Professional counseling is available.
Concerned citizens from around the region are lending their special skills and resources towards a better solution for Danville’s homeless population. We thank all members and volunteers for your continued support. If you would like to donate or volunteer, contact Steve Anderson, Director - House of Hope.
Click here to find out more.
Located in the heart of Southside Virginia, the House of Hope demonstrates kindness and goodwill to our area homeless people. We provide safe overnight stay, hot meals, and a variety of support services. Professional counseling is available.
Concerned citizens from around the region are lending their special skills and resources towards a better solution for Danville’s homeless population. We thank all members and volunteers for your continued support. If you would like to donate or volunteer, contact Steve Anderson, Director - House of Hope.
Click here to find out more.
Are Clergy's Rights Being Violated By Prohibiting Same-Sex Marriage?
That's the question a "PFLAG dad" named Ron Goetz is asking. He is proposing a lawsuit based on that premise. Here is the story posted on Cross Left:
Turning the Tables on the Bigots
Here is an interesting approach. Ronald Goetz, a "Proud PFLAG Dad" is proposing a lawsuit on behalf of clergy and churches whose rights are being violated because they cannot perform marriages for same-gender couples. This is a turn the tables approach on those Christians who argue that marriage equality somehow violates their freedom of religion. What do you think? Mr. Goetz is looking for advice and input.
"Proposed Class-Action Lawsuit on Behalf of Churches and Ordained Clergy Because of the Violation of their First Amendment Right to Free Exercise of Religion"
There are many denominations that are on record as supporting Marriage Equality and want to marry same-sex couples as a matter of religious faith.
There are thousands of Open and Affirming congregations nationwide that support Marriage Equality and want to marry same-sex couples as a matter of religious faith.
There are additional thousands of ordained clergy who want to marry same-sex couples because of their religious faith.
The first amendment states, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.”
Congress includes state and local jurisdictions, which cannot violate your civil rights either.
Thousands of churches and ordained clergy are being denied the free exercise of their religion in violation of their first amendment right.
I urge that this violation of the constitution be resisted through a class-action lawsuit, or some other appropriate vehicle. We are also guaranteed the right to petition the government for redress of grievances.
I would like responsible parties (clergy, denominational officials, attorneys) and enthusiastic supporters to contact me. I need input, encouragement, and pro bono advice.
Please contact me at kings.lgbt [at] hotmail [dot] com and let me know what you think. Thanks!
And please forward this to anyone you think might be interested.
Ronald Goetz
Proud PFLAG Dad
(Above courtesy of Rev. John Shuck of shuckandjive.org)
We are very skeptical that this is a viable approach but nonetheless applaud Mr. Goetz for thinking outside the box. What do you think?
Turning the Tables on the Bigots
Here is an interesting approach. Ronald Goetz, a "Proud PFLAG Dad" is proposing a lawsuit on behalf of clergy and churches whose rights are being violated because they cannot perform marriages for same-gender couples. This is a turn the tables approach on those Christians who argue that marriage equality somehow violates their freedom of religion. What do you think? Mr. Goetz is looking for advice and input.
"Proposed Class-Action Lawsuit on Behalf of Churches and Ordained Clergy Because of the Violation of their First Amendment Right to Free Exercise of Religion"
There are many denominations that are on record as supporting Marriage Equality and want to marry same-sex couples as a matter of religious faith.
There are thousands of Open and Affirming congregations nationwide that support Marriage Equality and want to marry same-sex couples as a matter of religious faith.
There are additional thousands of ordained clergy who want to marry same-sex couples because of their religious faith.
The first amendment states, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.”
Congress includes state and local jurisdictions, which cannot violate your civil rights either.
Thousands of churches and ordained clergy are being denied the free exercise of their religion in violation of their first amendment right.
I urge that this violation of the constitution be resisted through a class-action lawsuit, or some other appropriate vehicle. We are also guaranteed the right to petition the government for redress of grievances.
I would like responsible parties (clergy, denominational officials, attorneys) and enthusiastic supporters to contact me. I need input, encouragement, and pro bono advice.
Please contact me at kings.lgbt [at] hotmail [dot] com and let me know what you think. Thanks!
And please forward this to anyone you think might be interested.
Ronald Goetz
Proud PFLAG Dad
(Above courtesy of Rev. John Shuck of shuckandjive.org)
We are very skeptical that this is a viable approach but nonetheless applaud Mr. Goetz for thinking outside the box. What do you think?
Daily Devotional 11/14/09 The Passion of Patience
From: My Utmost for His Highest
"Though it tarry, wait for it." Habakkuk 2:3
Patience is not indifference; patience conveys the idea of an immensely strong rock withstanding all onslaughts. The vision of God is the source of patience, because it imparts a moral inspiration. Moses endured, not because he had an ideal of right and duty, but because he had a vision of God. He "endured, as seeing Him Who is invisible." A man with the vision of God is not devoted to a cause or to any particular issue; he is devoted to God Himself. You always know when the vision is of God because of the inspiration that comes with it; things come with largeness and tonic to the life because everything is energized by God. If God gives you a time spiritually, as He gave His Son actually, of temptation in the wilderness, with no word from Himself at all, endure, and the power to endure is there because you see God.
"Though it tarry, wait for it." The proof that we have the vision is that we are reaching out for more than we have grasped. It is a bad thing to be satisfied spiritually. "What shall I render unto the Lord?" said the Psalmist. "I will take the cup of salvation." We are apt to look for satisfaction in ourselves - "Now I have got the thing; now I am entirely sanctified; now I can endure." Instantly we are on the road to ruin. Our reach must exceed our grasp. "Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect." If we have only what we have experienced, we have nothing; if we have the inspiration of the vision of God, we have more than we can experience. Beware of the danger of relaxation spiritually.
"Though it tarry, wait for it." Habakkuk 2:3
Patience is not indifference; patience conveys the idea of an immensely strong rock withstanding all onslaughts. The vision of God is the source of patience, because it imparts a moral inspiration. Moses endured, not because he had an ideal of right and duty, but because he had a vision of God. He "endured, as seeing Him Who is invisible." A man with the vision of God is not devoted to a cause or to any particular issue; he is devoted to God Himself. You always know when the vision is of God because of the inspiration that comes with it; things come with largeness and tonic to the life because everything is energized by God. If God gives you a time spiritually, as He gave His Son actually, of temptation in the wilderness, with no word from Himself at all, endure, and the power to endure is there because you see God.
"Though it tarry, wait for it." The proof that we have the vision is that we are reaching out for more than we have grasped. It is a bad thing to be satisfied spiritually. "What shall I render unto the Lord?" said the Psalmist. "I will take the cup of salvation." We are apt to look for satisfaction in ourselves - "Now I have got the thing; now I am entirely sanctified; now I can endure." Instantly we are on the road to ruin. Our reach must exceed our grasp. "Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect." If we have only what we have experienced, we have nothing; if we have the inspiration of the vision of God, we have more than we can experience. Beware of the danger of relaxation spiritually.
November 13, 2009
Encouraging Words 11/13/09-Clarity on the Term "Abomination"
Pastor Charles Curtiss, Pastor of The ONE Church in Dallas, TX, has put together what he calls a "video tract" where he clarifies exactly what the term "abomination" really means and why it doesn't apply to homosexuals.
"Straight Talk" About Homosexuality - ABOMINATION?
Pastor Charles | MySpace Video
"Straight Talk" About Homosexuality - ABOMINATION?
Pastor Charles | MySpace Video
SNN Recommends 11/13/09 (Just For Fun)-I Can Has Cheezburger?
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
see more dog and puppy pictures
Catholic Church Gives Washington D. C. An Ultimatum on Same-Sex Marriage
From the Washington Post:
The Catholic Archdiocese of Washington said Wednesday that it will be unable to continue the social service programs it runs for the District if the city doesn't change a proposed same-sex marriage law, a threat that could affect tens of thousands of people the church helps with adoption, homelessness and health care.
Under the bill, headed for a D.C. Council vote next month, religious organizations would not be required to perform or make space available for same-sex weddings. But they would have to obey city laws prohibiting discrimination against gay men and lesbians.
Fearful that they could be forced, among other things, to extend employee benefits to same-sex married couples, church officials said they would have no choice but to abandon their contracts with the city.
"If the city requires this, we can't do it," Susan Gibbs, spokeswoman for the archdiocese, said Wednesday. "The city is saying in order to provide social services, you need to be secular. For us, that's really a problem."
Several D.C. Council members said the Catholic Church is trying to erode the city's long-standing laws protecting gay men and lesbians from discrimination.
The clash escalates the dispute over the same-sex marriage proposal between the council and the archdiocese, which has generally stayed out of city politics.
Catholic Charities, the church's social services arm, is one of dozens of nonprofit organizations that partner with the District. It serves 68,000 people in the city, including the one-third of Washington's homeless people who go to city-owned shelters managed by the church. City leaders said the church is not the dominant provider of any particular social service, but the church pointed out that it supplements funding for city programs with $10 million from its own coffers.
"All of those services will be adversely impacted if the exemption language remains so narrow," Jane G. Belford, chancellor of the Washington Archdiocese, wrote to the council this week.
The church's influence seems limited. In separate interviews Wednesday, council member Mary M. Cheh (D-Ward 3) referred to the church as "somewhat childish." Another council member, David A. Catania (I-At Large), said he would rather end the city's relationship with the church than give in to its demands.
"They don't represent, in my mind, an indispensable component of our social services infrastructure," said Catania, the sponsor of the same-sex marriage bill and the chairman of the Health Committee.
The standoff appears to be among the harshest between a government and a faith-based group over the rights of same-sex couples. Advocates for same-sex couples said they could not immediately think of other places where a same-sex marriage law had set off a break with a major faith-based provider of social services.
So remind me again why public funding is given to religious organizations? Here's a painful example of why that is a bad idea.
Click here to read the rest of the article from the Post.
The Catholic Archdiocese of Washington said Wednesday that it will be unable to continue the social service programs it runs for the District if the city doesn't change a proposed same-sex marriage law, a threat that could affect tens of thousands of people the church helps with adoption, homelessness and health care.
Under the bill, headed for a D.C. Council vote next month, religious organizations would not be required to perform or make space available for same-sex weddings. But they would have to obey city laws prohibiting discrimination against gay men and lesbians.
Fearful that they could be forced, among other things, to extend employee benefits to same-sex married couples, church officials said they would have no choice but to abandon their contracts with the city.
"If the city requires this, we can't do it," Susan Gibbs, spokeswoman for the archdiocese, said Wednesday. "The city is saying in order to provide social services, you need to be secular. For us, that's really a problem."
Several D.C. Council members said the Catholic Church is trying to erode the city's long-standing laws protecting gay men and lesbians from discrimination.
The clash escalates the dispute over the same-sex marriage proposal between the council and the archdiocese, which has generally stayed out of city politics.
Catholic Charities, the church's social services arm, is one of dozens of nonprofit organizations that partner with the District. It serves 68,000 people in the city, including the one-third of Washington's homeless people who go to city-owned shelters managed by the church. City leaders said the church is not the dominant provider of any particular social service, but the church pointed out that it supplements funding for city programs with $10 million from its own coffers.
"All of those services will be adversely impacted if the exemption language remains so narrow," Jane G. Belford, chancellor of the Washington Archdiocese, wrote to the council this week.
The church's influence seems limited. In separate interviews Wednesday, council member Mary M. Cheh (D-Ward 3) referred to the church as "somewhat childish." Another council member, David A. Catania (I-At Large), said he would rather end the city's relationship with the church than give in to its demands.
"They don't represent, in my mind, an indispensable component of our social services infrastructure," said Catania, the sponsor of the same-sex marriage bill and the chairman of the Health Committee.
The standoff appears to be among the harshest between a government and a faith-based group over the rights of same-sex couples. Advocates for same-sex couples said they could not immediately think of other places where a same-sex marriage law had set off a break with a major faith-based provider of social services.
So remind me again why public funding is given to religious organizations? Here's a painful example of why that is a bad idea.
Click here to read the rest of the article from the Post.
Daily Devotional 11/13/09 Friendship With God
From: My Utmost for His Highest
"Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do?" Genesis 18:17
Its Delights. This chapter brings out the delight of real friendship with God as compared with occasional feelings of His presence in prayer. To be so much in contact with God that you never need to ask Him to show you His will, is to be nearing the final stage of your discipline in the life of faith. When you are rightly related to God, it is a life of freedom and liberty and delight, you are God's will, and all your common-sense decisions are His will for you unless He checks. You decide things in perfect delightful friendship with God, knowing that if your decisions are wrong He will always check; when He checks, stop at once.
Its Difficulties. Why did Abraham stop praying when he did? He was not intimate enough yet to go boldly on until God granted his desire, there was something yet to be desired in his relationship to God. Whenever we stop short in prayer and say - "Well, I don't know; perhaps it is not God's will," there is still another stage to go. We are not so intimately acquainted with God as Jesus was, and as He wants us to be - "That they may be one even as we are one." Think of the last thing you prayed about - were you devoted to your desire or to God? Determined to get some gift of the Spirit or to get at God? "Your Heavenly Father knoweth what things ye have need of before ye ask Him." The point of asking is that you may get to know God better. "Delight thyself also in the Lord; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart." Keep praying in order to get a perfect understanding of God Himself.
"Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do?" Genesis 18:17
Its Delights. This chapter brings out the delight of real friendship with God as compared with occasional feelings of His presence in prayer. To be so much in contact with God that you never need to ask Him to show you His will, is to be nearing the final stage of your discipline in the life of faith. When you are rightly related to God, it is a life of freedom and liberty and delight, you are God's will, and all your common-sense decisions are His will for you unless He checks. You decide things in perfect delightful friendship with God, knowing that if your decisions are wrong He will always check; when He checks, stop at once.
Its Difficulties. Why did Abraham stop praying when he did? He was not intimate enough yet to go boldly on until God granted his desire, there was something yet to be desired in his relationship to God. Whenever we stop short in prayer and say - "Well, I don't know; perhaps it is not God's will," there is still another stage to go. We are not so intimately acquainted with God as Jesus was, and as He wants us to be - "That they may be one even as we are one." Think of the last thing you prayed about - were you devoted to your desire or to God? Determined to get some gift of the Spirit or to get at God? "Your Heavenly Father knoweth what things ye have need of before ye ask Him." The point of asking is that you may get to know God better. "Delight thyself also in the Lord; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart." Keep praying in order to get a perfect understanding of God Himself.
November 12, 2009
Encouraging Words 11/12/09-Strong at the Broken Places
Lori Heine writes for Whosoever.org:
The hand of the LORD came upon me, and he brought me out by the spirit of the LORD, and set me down in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. He led me all around them; and they were very dry. He said to me, "Mortal, can these bones live?"
(Ezekiel 37:1-3)
We are living in hard times. It seems the very atmosphere in which we live has been poisoned. We breathe air polluted by selfishness and fear, as politicians and pundits pit us against one another in competition for rights we are told are scarce. We feel we must fight for our survival.
These days, we are having a tough time being compassionate. Concern for others is a luxury we are told we can no longer afford. Though if we study our history, we quickly learn that the same people warning us what fools we are to love the marginalized, to work for the liberation of those held captive, have always said the same thing.
During the Great Depression, they chided us for sharing what we had. There wasn't enough, they told us, and we were squandering what little we had on slackers and ingrates. Those who were down-and-out, those who were persecuted and oppressed, were judged to deserve it. It was easier to forget them that way.
The bones God showed the prophet Ezekiel were unclean - those of a people held in such contempt they'd been slaughtered and left to rot in the desert. Broken and trampled by wild beasts, the names of their owners long forgotten. But God breathed "His" Spirit upon those bones, and as Ezekiel prophesied hope to them, they knit back together. New flesh grew over them, and they came back to life. What other human beings may despoil, abandon and forget, God never gives up on.
Those who hope for progress in any society, those who actively work for it, sometimes risking their lives to bring it about, are almost never the comfortable, prosperous or privileged. They are those who have themselves felt the sting of the lash, wiped the spittle from their faces and endured exile in the desert. They have been abandoned. Their belongings have been looted, and they've been given up for dead. This was true not only in Ezekiel's time, but even today. Both of the pastors at my church are openly gay. Everyone who joins our fast-growing congregation is warmed by their welcome. Steve and Jeffrey have known rejection, and are determined that all who have suffered as they have will find a home inside their doors.
Click here to read the rest of the essay.
The hand of the LORD came upon me, and he brought me out by the spirit of the LORD, and set me down in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. He led me all around them; and they were very dry. He said to me, "Mortal, can these bones live?"
(Ezekiel 37:1-3)
We are living in hard times. It seems the very atmosphere in which we live has been poisoned. We breathe air polluted by selfishness and fear, as politicians and pundits pit us against one another in competition for rights we are told are scarce. We feel we must fight for our survival.
These days, we are having a tough time being compassionate. Concern for others is a luxury we are told we can no longer afford. Though if we study our history, we quickly learn that the same people warning us what fools we are to love the marginalized, to work for the liberation of those held captive, have always said the same thing.
During the Great Depression, they chided us for sharing what we had. There wasn't enough, they told us, and we were squandering what little we had on slackers and ingrates. Those who were down-and-out, those who were persecuted and oppressed, were judged to deserve it. It was easier to forget them that way.
The bones God showed the prophet Ezekiel were unclean - those of a people held in such contempt they'd been slaughtered and left to rot in the desert. Broken and trampled by wild beasts, the names of their owners long forgotten. But God breathed "His" Spirit upon those bones, and as Ezekiel prophesied hope to them, they knit back together. New flesh grew over them, and they came back to life. What other human beings may despoil, abandon and forget, God never gives up on.
Those who hope for progress in any society, those who actively work for it, sometimes risking their lives to bring it about, are almost never the comfortable, prosperous or privileged. They are those who have themselves felt the sting of the lash, wiped the spittle from their faces and endured exile in the desert. They have been abandoned. Their belongings have been looted, and they've been given up for dead. This was true not only in Ezekiel's time, but even today. Both of the pastors at my church are openly gay. Everyone who joins our fast-growing congregation is warmed by their welcome. Steve and Jeffrey have known rejection, and are determined that all who have suffered as they have will find a home inside their doors.
Click here to read the rest of the essay.
SNN Recommends 11/12/09-Baltimore OUTloud
Baltimore OUTloud is a thriving independently-owned Maryland newspaper serving the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities. From the sunny beaches of the Eastern Shore to the exciting nightlife of Baltimore’s Fells Point, Baltimore OUTloud brings it all together in one package. Taking advantage of the strengths of a locally owned independent newspaper and incorporating it with the expanded reach of the World Wide Web, Baltimore OUTloud provides our advertisers and readers with an unbeatable integration of the very latest media technology.
Focused on the lives of Maryland’s lesbian and gay community OUTloud provides in-depth coverage of one of the state’s most highly desirable consumer markets. Our staff of talented writers includes some of the most respected journalists working in the lgbt press today. From local, national and international news, to the latest health care developments, OUTloud is there with the story— for Baltimore and the entire region!
From the latest in music and film to current stage productions, OUTloud’'s art and entertainment section keeps our readers in the know. From opera to theater to sports and fashion, OUTloud is there covering the gamut of lesbian and gay culture.
Often sassy and irreverent, sometimes opinionated, but always current, OUTloud has something for everyone. From news junkies to pub crawlers, OUTloud is the medium that more and more Baltimore readers are turning to.
With a print edition distributed free at over 100 locations throughout Baltimore, Maryland, Southern Pennsylvania, Delaware's Eastern Shore and stretching into Washington, D.C., and available nationally online, Baltimore OUTloud reaches one of the tri-state's most valued, and typically under served, consumer market- the lgbt community. It’s the where-to-go, what-to-do and where-to-shop guide that lesbian and gay people rely on throughout the region. Combining special sections in print and on the Web devoted to dining out, the area's lively theater and arts community, and the vibrant local night life scene, OUTloud is an all-encompassing advertising resource to make sure your message reaches our lgbt target market at the most effective cost available in Baltimore.
Click here to check it out.
Focused on the lives of Maryland’s lesbian and gay community OUTloud provides in-depth coverage of one of the state’s most highly desirable consumer markets. Our staff of talented writers includes some of the most respected journalists working in the lgbt press today. From local, national and international news, to the latest health care developments, OUTloud is there with the story— for Baltimore and the entire region!
From the latest in music and film to current stage productions, OUTloud’'s art and entertainment section keeps our readers in the know. From opera to theater to sports and fashion, OUTloud is there covering the gamut of lesbian and gay culture.
Often sassy and irreverent, sometimes opinionated, but always current, OUTloud has something for everyone. From news junkies to pub crawlers, OUTloud is the medium that more and more Baltimore readers are turning to.
With a print edition distributed free at over 100 locations throughout Baltimore, Maryland, Southern Pennsylvania, Delaware's Eastern Shore and stretching into Washington, D.C., and available nationally online, Baltimore OUTloud reaches one of the tri-state's most valued, and typically under served, consumer market- the lgbt community. It’s the where-to-go, what-to-do and where-to-shop guide that lesbian and gay people rely on throughout the region. Combining special sections in print and on the Web devoted to dining out, the area's lively theater and arts community, and the vibrant local night life scene, OUTloud is an all-encompassing advertising resource to make sure your message reaches our lgbt target market at the most effective cost available in Baltimore.
Click here to check it out.
First LGBT Presbyterian Minister Ordained in San Francisco
From the San Francisco Chronicle:
The San Francisco Presbytery agreed late Tuesday to ordain the first openly homosexual minister in the denomination.
The vote of 156 for and 138 against the ordination came after hours of contentious debate at the First Presbyterian Church of Berkeley. It is possible that the decision to ordain Lisa Larges, a deacon at Noe Valley Ministry Presbyterian Church, could be appealed.
It's a significant decision in the Presbyterian church, which like many other religious denominations around the country has struggled for years over how to include gays and lesbians in church affairs.
"Change is happening in the churches," Larges said in a statement after the vote. "People are realizing that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people have long functioned as contributing members of their faith traditions. It is time to tell the truth - we are all created in God's image."
Larges had been blocked from ordination for more than 15 years. If Tuesday's vote is not appealed, the decision is final and Larges can be formally ordained as a minister.
There are a handful of gay and lesbian ministers in the Presbyterian church, but they only came out after being ordained. Last year, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church USA voted to overturn a ban on gay and lesbian ministers, but that vote was rejected by a majority of the country's presbyteries, so the ban still stands.
Regional presbyteries, however, may consider individual cases if candidates for ordination submit a formal statement saying they disagree with the church policy. As part of her ordination process, Larges submitted such a statement to the San Francisco Presbytery, which includes 78 churches and 29,000 congregation members in the Bay Area.
Larges' ordination received preliminary approval in January 2008, but that approval was quickly appealed. A church court rejected that appeal on Nov. 4 and Larges was allowed to move forward with the rest of the ordination process, which concluded with Tuesday night's vote.
Observers said Tuesday's vote could have major repercussions throughout the Presbyterian church nationwide, even if Larges' ordination is appealed and ultimately blocked again.
"Church policies and approaches to issues - whether it's around women's ordination or LGBT issues - often how these things change is by pushing the envelope," said the Rev. Jay Johnson, director of academic research at the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Ministry at the Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley.
"When the envelope gets pushed, these local actions have to be adjudicated in that larger venue," Johnson said. "It's anyone's guess what would happen there."
The San Francisco Presbytery agreed late Tuesday to ordain the first openly homosexual minister in the denomination.
The vote of 156 for and 138 against the ordination came after hours of contentious debate at the First Presbyterian Church of Berkeley. It is possible that the decision to ordain Lisa Larges, a deacon at Noe Valley Ministry Presbyterian Church, could be appealed.
It's a significant decision in the Presbyterian church, which like many other religious denominations around the country has struggled for years over how to include gays and lesbians in church affairs.
"Change is happening in the churches," Larges said in a statement after the vote. "People are realizing that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people have long functioned as contributing members of their faith traditions. It is time to tell the truth - we are all created in God's image."
Larges had been blocked from ordination for more than 15 years. If Tuesday's vote is not appealed, the decision is final and Larges can be formally ordained as a minister.
There are a handful of gay and lesbian ministers in the Presbyterian church, but they only came out after being ordained. Last year, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church USA voted to overturn a ban on gay and lesbian ministers, but that vote was rejected by a majority of the country's presbyteries, so the ban still stands.
Regional presbyteries, however, may consider individual cases if candidates for ordination submit a formal statement saying they disagree with the church policy. As part of her ordination process, Larges submitted such a statement to the San Francisco Presbytery, which includes 78 churches and 29,000 congregation members in the Bay Area.
Larges' ordination received preliminary approval in January 2008, but that approval was quickly appealed. A church court rejected that appeal on Nov. 4 and Larges was allowed to move forward with the rest of the ordination process, which concluded with Tuesday night's vote.
Observers said Tuesday's vote could have major repercussions throughout the Presbyterian church nationwide, even if Larges' ordination is appealed and ultimately blocked again.
"Church policies and approaches to issues - whether it's around women's ordination or LGBT issues - often how these things change is by pushing the envelope," said the Rev. Jay Johnson, director of academic research at the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Ministry at the Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley.
"When the envelope gets pushed, these local actions have to be adjudicated in that larger venue," Johnson said. "It's anyone's guess what would happen there."
Daily Devotional 11/12/09 What My Obedience to God Costs Other People
From: My Utmost for His Highest
"They laid hold upon one Simon . . . and on him they laid the cross." Luke 23:26
If we obey God it is going to cost other people more than it costs us, and that is where the sting comes in. If we are in love with our Lord, obedience does not cost us anything, it is a delight, but it costs those who do not love Him a good deal. If we obey God it will mean that other people's plans are upset, and they will gibe us with it - "You call this Christianity?" We can prevent the suffering; but if we are going to obey God, we must not prevent it, we must let the cost be paid.
Our human pride entrenches itself on this point, and we say - I will never accept anything from anyone. We shall have to, or disobey God. We have no right to expect to be in any other relation than our Lord Himself was in (see Luke 8:2-3).
Stagnation in spiritual life comes when we say we will bear the whole thing ourselves. We cannot. We are so involved in the universal purposes of God that immediately we obey God, others are affected. Are we going to remain loyal in our obedience to God and go through the humiliation of refusing to be independent, or are we going to take the other line and say - I will not cost other people suffering? We can disobey God if we choose, and it will bring immediate relief to the situation, but we shall be a grief to our Lord. Whereas if we obey God, He will look after those who have been pressed into the consequences of our obedience. We have simply to obey and to leave all consequences with Him.
Beware of the inclination to dictate to God as to what you will allow to happen if you obey Him.
"They laid hold upon one Simon . . . and on him they laid the cross." Luke 23:26
If we obey God it is going to cost other people more than it costs us, and that is where the sting comes in. If we are in love with our Lord, obedience does not cost us anything, it is a delight, but it costs those who do not love Him a good deal. If we obey God it will mean that other people's plans are upset, and they will gibe us with it - "You call this Christianity?" We can prevent the suffering; but if we are going to obey God, we must not prevent it, we must let the cost be paid.
Our human pride entrenches itself on this point, and we say - I will never accept anything from anyone. We shall have to, or disobey God. We have no right to expect to be in any other relation than our Lord Himself was in (see Luke 8:2-3).
Stagnation in spiritual life comes when we say we will bear the whole thing ourselves. We cannot. We are so involved in the universal purposes of God that immediately we obey God, others are affected. Are we going to remain loyal in our obedience to God and go through the humiliation of refusing to be independent, or are we going to take the other line and say - I will not cost other people suffering? We can disobey God if we choose, and it will bring immediate relief to the situation, but we shall be a grief to our Lord. Whereas if we obey God, He will look after those who have been pressed into the consequences of our obedience. We have simply to obey and to leave all consequences with Him.
Beware of the inclination to dictate to God as to what you will allow to happen if you obey Him.
November 11, 2009
LGBT Helping Hands 11/11/09-Wingspan (Tuscon, AZ)
Wingspan is Southern Arizona's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community center. Wingspan is a non-profit, charitable organization that serves Tucson and Southern Arizona. Gifts to Wingspan are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowable by the IRS.
Wingspan's mission is to promote the freedom, equality, safety and well-being of LGBT people.
Wingspan envisions a community in which lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people:
* are treated with dignity and respect.
* live in a community free from violence and abuse.
* live full, healthy, and interconnected lives.
* are free to live openly with pride.
* are celebrated in their full diversity.
* feel part of an organized, supportive, and active LGBT community.
* are empowered to participate fully as active citizens.
Click here to check them out.
Wingspan's mission is to promote the freedom, equality, safety and well-being of LGBT people.
Wingspan envisions a community in which lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people:
* are treated with dignity and respect.
* live in a community free from violence and abuse.
* live full, healthy, and interconnected lives.
* are free to live openly with pride.
* are celebrated in their full diversity.
* feel part of an organized, supportive, and active LGBT community.
* are empowered to participate fully as active citizens.
Click here to check them out.
LGBT Leaders Launch "Our Families Count" Website
From the official press release:
Many leaders and advocates among America's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community unite today in the launch of Our Families Count (www.ourfamiliescount.org) -- a new voluntary public education initiative promoting LGBT visibility and participation in next year's U.S. Census.
The new 2010 Census education project is a truly collaborative and unique strategy to unite disparate populations across the entire LGBT spectrum. The outreach effort is designed to educate all about the importance of responding to the once-a-decade Census.
Expert demographer and Williams Institute Research Fellow Dr. Gary Gates described why the 2010 Census matters to the LGBT community especially, "Reliable information on LGBT people is hard to come by and the need for accurate knowledge is real. Census statistics guide many key government decisions. For LGBT citizens especially, statewide organizations and local community centers need information for planning services, while advocacy groups need to know more about the LGBT population as they lobby for resources."
Gates also noted that, "Americans have many misconceptions about the LGBT community that Census data have allowed us to correct. For example, among those in same-sex couples: one in six lives in a rural area, one in four is a person of color, one in five is raising children (two in five among people of color). Although the 2010 Census does not include questions on sexual orientation or gender identity, the Census count of same-sex partners and their families provides vital information for and about the LGBT community."
It also is important to emphasize that Census information is never shared with other U.S. government agencies for the purpose of law enforcement or compliance with immigration laws. The Census is used only and confidentially to find out more about all American households and the U.S. population, and is never used to violate any person's privacy. The Our Families Count campaign also takes no position on specific policy issues or questions.
Click here to check out the new website.
Many leaders and advocates among America's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community unite today in the launch of Our Families Count (www.ourfamiliescount.org) -- a new voluntary public education initiative promoting LGBT visibility and participation in next year's U.S. Census.
The new 2010 Census education project is a truly collaborative and unique strategy to unite disparate populations across the entire LGBT spectrum. The outreach effort is designed to educate all about the importance of responding to the once-a-decade Census.
Expert demographer and Williams Institute Research Fellow Dr. Gary Gates described why the 2010 Census matters to the LGBT community especially, "Reliable information on LGBT people is hard to come by and the need for accurate knowledge is real. Census statistics guide many key government decisions. For LGBT citizens especially, statewide organizations and local community centers need information for planning services, while advocacy groups need to know more about the LGBT population as they lobby for resources."
Gates also noted that, "Americans have many misconceptions about the LGBT community that Census data have allowed us to correct. For example, among those in same-sex couples: one in six lives in a rural area, one in four is a person of color, one in five is raising children (two in five among people of color). Although the 2010 Census does not include questions on sexual orientation or gender identity, the Census count of same-sex partners and their families provides vital information for and about the LGBT community."
It also is important to emphasize that Census information is never shared with other U.S. government agencies for the purpose of law enforcement or compliance with immigration laws. The Census is used only and confidentially to find out more about all American households and the U.S. population, and is never used to violate any person's privacy. The Our Families Count campaign also takes no position on specific policy issues or questions.
Click here to check out the new website.
Daily Devotional 11/11/09 Intimate With Jesus
From: My Utmost for His Highest
"Have I been so long with you, and yet hast thou not known Me?" John 14:9
These words are not spoken as a rebuke, nor even with surprise; Jesus is leading Philip on. The last One with whom we get intimate is Jesus. Before Pentecost the disciples knew Jesus as the One Who gave them power to conquer demons and to bring about a revival (see Luke 10:18-20). It was a wonderful intimacy, but there was a much closer intimacy to come - "I have called you friends." Friendship is rare on earth. It means identity in thought and heart and spirit. The whole discipline of life is to enable us to enter into this closest relationship with Jesus Christ. We receive His blessings and know His word, but do we know Him?
Jesus said, "It is expedient for you that I go away" - in that relationship, so that He might lead them on. It is a joy to Jesus when a disciple takes time to step more intimately with Him. Fruit bearing is always mentioned as the manifestation of an intimate union with Jesus Christ (John 15:1-4).
When once we get intimate with Jesus we are never lonely, we never need sympathy, we can pour out all the time without being pathetic. The saint who is intimate with Jesus will never leave impressions of himself, but only the impression that Jesus is having unhindered way, because the last abyss of his nature has been satisfied by Jesus. The only impression left by such a life is that of the strong calm sanity that Our Lord gives to those who are intimate with Him.
"Have I been so long with you, and yet hast thou not known Me?" John 14:9
These words are not spoken as a rebuke, nor even with surprise; Jesus is leading Philip on. The last One with whom we get intimate is Jesus. Before Pentecost the disciples knew Jesus as the One Who gave them power to conquer demons and to bring about a revival (see Luke 10:18-20). It was a wonderful intimacy, but there was a much closer intimacy to come - "I have called you friends." Friendship is rare on earth. It means identity in thought and heart and spirit. The whole discipline of life is to enable us to enter into this closest relationship with Jesus Christ. We receive His blessings and know His word, but do we know Him?
Jesus said, "It is expedient for you that I go away" - in that relationship, so that He might lead them on. It is a joy to Jesus when a disciple takes time to step more intimately with Him. Fruit bearing is always mentioned as the manifestation of an intimate union with Jesus Christ (John 15:1-4).
When once we get intimate with Jesus we are never lonely, we never need sympathy, we can pour out all the time without being pathetic. The saint who is intimate with Jesus will never leave impressions of himself, but only the impression that Jesus is having unhindered way, because the last abyss of his nature has been satisfied by Jesus. The only impression left by such a life is that of the strong calm sanity that Our Lord gives to those who are intimate with Him.
November 10, 2009
Encouraging Words 11/10/09-BCF Praise Report
"Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; Listen carefully to what I say, The men are not drunk, as you suppose. It's only nine in the morning! No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: 'In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on ALL people! Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out My Spirit in those days, and THEY WILL PROPHESY!" Acts 2:14-18
Greetings BCF Family & Friends!
Incredible, WONDROUS, awesome....how many more adjectives can I use to adequately describe how God showed up and showed OUT at our Fall Outpouring! And let me tell you we had an OUTPOURING!!! Every sermon, every workshop, every prophetic utterance given in worship services built one upon another to a powerful release from Heaven on Sunday!! I can't tell you when was the last time that our worship service ran 4 hours! And it was the most exciting four hours you can possibly imagine! There was a Divine release given into the earth- and we are ALL going forth in a brand new anointing to fulfill God's Call on our lives- to tell everyone that Jesus is the Lord and that He loves them! It's Harvest time!
The sound in worship was so incredible! 90+ voices singing from their hearts to the Lord is one of the most beautiful and sweet sounds imaginable! EVERYONE got what they came for and more- answers to questions, a renewed passion for service and an unquenchable desire for MORE of God! Only GOD can quench our desire- because He IS our Desire!!! Amen?!!
We THANK EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU for your prayers, your love, and to all who attended, both in person and online, we praise God for you and our relationships with each of you. We are HONORED to stand in service to the King with you!
We especially want to thank our speakers and ministers. With this said, I'd like to recognize and acknowledge Rev. Evelyn and Dennis Schave, who are celebrating their 20th year of ministry in the GLBTS communities!!! Erica Sargent wrote them a beautiful anacronym for the words "Bridge Builders" because that is a big part of what they've been doing. They have loved us to wholeness and have supported us even though they themselves were rejected for doing so! Also the ministry of Pastor Debbie George in music and the prophetic, Apostle Susan George, Apostle Dylan Crozier and Brother Vinnie Crozier, Pastor David Thomas, Apostle Jack McConnell, and Apostle Randy Morgan.....MY LORD, WHAT ANOINTINGS God has birthed in the GLBTS Christian Movement!!! We were honored and blessed by each and every one of them- and we THANK GOD for them!! And Kate Singh has taken a ton of wonderful pictures of which we will be posting and sharing with you all in the weeks ahead!!!! Janice Lacount wowed us all in the Holy Ghost with her incredible talents, Brother Jason DeShazo stepped to the plate on percussion...Pastor JuaNita released the anointing through the flags and banners ministry, and the dance ministry of Covenant of the Cross was inspiring to us all! God bless you and THANK YOU ALL for your contributions to the weekend!!!
Last of all and most importantly, I want to express gratitude to the flock I under-shepherd, my BCF covenant family: THANK YOU, YOU GUYS!! You really came through and the Lord Jesus was glorified through each and every one of you!! Thank you for your serving- cooking, cleaning, singing, praying, building, and LOVING one another so demonstratively- I feel so honored and greatly priviledged to be your Apostle. I am confident that you NOW have caught the vision of what God has shown us He is going to do through OUR lives together! Let's continue to be faithful, be consistent, and recognize that each of you have a vital part to play in what God is doing in the earth through our church and ministry!!! I love each of you VERY much. Brenda, Anita, Josh, Ryan, Troy, Pastor Deborah, Ferris, Jim C., Melissa & Lauren, Terry, Marilyn, Sharone & Erica, praise team, FREDDY G. WHITE and my GARREY- you worked so hard and so well together! God has knit our hearts and our lives together in His love and even greater things are ahead for us all!
That's all for today. Have a wonderful week- we will! And know that you are loved and NOT alone in your faith walk! God is with you, and we are right here for you, too!
In Christ's faithful love and SHALOM,
Ap Dale
Greetings BCF Family & Friends!
Incredible, WONDROUS, awesome....how many more adjectives can I use to adequately describe how God showed up and showed OUT at our Fall Outpouring! And let me tell you we had an OUTPOURING!!! Every sermon, every workshop, every prophetic utterance given in worship services built one upon another to a powerful release from Heaven on Sunday!! I can't tell you when was the last time that our worship service ran 4 hours! And it was the most exciting four hours you can possibly imagine! There was a Divine release given into the earth- and we are ALL going forth in a brand new anointing to fulfill God's Call on our lives- to tell everyone that Jesus is the Lord and that He loves them! It's Harvest time!
The sound in worship was so incredible! 90+ voices singing from their hearts to the Lord is one of the most beautiful and sweet sounds imaginable! EVERYONE got what they came for and more- answers to questions, a renewed passion for service and an unquenchable desire for MORE of God! Only GOD can quench our desire- because He IS our Desire!!! Amen?!!
We THANK EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU for your prayers, your love, and to all who attended, both in person and online, we praise God for you and our relationships with each of you. We are HONORED to stand in service to the King with you!
We especially want to thank our speakers and ministers. With this said, I'd like to recognize and acknowledge Rev. Evelyn and Dennis Schave, who are celebrating their 20th year of ministry in the GLBTS communities!!! Erica Sargent wrote them a beautiful anacronym for the words "Bridge Builders" because that is a big part of what they've been doing. They have loved us to wholeness and have supported us even though they themselves were rejected for doing so! Also the ministry of Pastor Debbie George in music and the prophetic, Apostle Susan George, Apostle Dylan Crozier and Brother Vinnie Crozier, Pastor David Thomas, Apostle Jack McConnell, and Apostle Randy Morgan.....MY LORD, WHAT ANOINTINGS God has birthed in the GLBTS Christian Movement!!! We were honored and blessed by each and every one of them- and we THANK GOD for them!! And Kate Singh has taken a ton of wonderful pictures of which we will be posting and sharing with you all in the weeks ahead!!!! Janice Lacount wowed us all in the Holy Ghost with her incredible talents, Brother Jason DeShazo stepped to the plate on percussion...Pastor JuaNita released the anointing through the flags and banners ministry, and the dance ministry of Covenant of the Cross was inspiring to us all! God bless you and THANK YOU ALL for your contributions to the weekend!!!
Last of all and most importantly, I want to express gratitude to the flock I under-shepherd, my BCF covenant family: THANK YOU, YOU GUYS!! You really came through and the Lord Jesus was glorified through each and every one of you!! Thank you for your serving- cooking, cleaning, singing, praying, building, and LOVING one another so demonstratively- I feel so honored and greatly priviledged to be your Apostle. I am confident that you NOW have caught the vision of what God has shown us He is going to do through OUR lives together! Let's continue to be faithful, be consistent, and recognize that each of you have a vital part to play in what God is doing in the earth through our church and ministry!!! I love each of you VERY much. Brenda, Anita, Josh, Ryan, Troy, Pastor Deborah, Ferris, Jim C., Melissa & Lauren, Terry, Marilyn, Sharone & Erica, praise team, FREDDY G. WHITE and my GARREY- you worked so hard and so well together! God has knit our hearts and our lives together in His love and even greater things are ahead for us all!
That's all for today. Have a wonderful week- we will! And know that you are loved and NOT alone in your faith walk! God is with you, and we are right here for you, too!
In Christ's faithful love and SHALOM,
Ap Dale
Matthew 25 Resource 11/10/09-Houston Food Bank
The Houston Food Bank is leading the fight against hunger. Here’s how!
The Houston Food Bank…
• A private, nonprofit organization
• Seeks food donations, distributes to local
charitable programs
• Efficient operations: 95 cents of every dollar
donated feeds the hungry
• Certified member of Feeding America (formerly
America’s Second Harvest-The Nation’s Food
Bank Network)
• Founded 1982
It’s in the numbers…
• 46 million pounds distributed last year
• 80,000 different people fed each week
• 498,000 different people fed each year
• 400 hunger relief agencies in 18 southeast Texas counties:
o Church food pantries
o Homeless shelters
o Safe havens for the battered and abused
o Nutrition sites for children and the elderly
• More than 100,000 volunteer hours contributed annually
• 73,000 square feet of warehouse and office space at central location, in addition to
66,000 square feet offsite
Click here to find out more.
The Houston Food Bank…
• A private, nonprofit organization
• Seeks food donations, distributes to local
charitable programs
• Efficient operations: 95 cents of every dollar
donated feeds the hungry
• Certified member of Feeding America (formerly
America’s Second Harvest-The Nation’s Food
Bank Network)
• Founded 1982
It’s in the numbers…
• 46 million pounds distributed last year
• 80,000 different people fed each week
• 498,000 different people fed each year
• 400 hunger relief agencies in 18 southeast Texas counties:
o Church food pantries
o Homeless shelters
o Safe havens for the battered and abused
o Nutrition sites for children and the elderly
• More than 100,000 volunteer hours contributed annually
• 73,000 square feet of warehouse and office space at central location, in addition to
66,000 square feet offsite
Click here to find out more.
Daily Devotional 11/10/09-Whatever Is Done
From Reflections:
1 Corinthians 14:26, NIV: What then shall we say, brothers? When you come together, everyone has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. All of these must be done for the strengthening of the church.
There were religious leaders in Jesus’ day that were in competition with others to be seen as the most religious. They would “make their phylacteries wide,” and ”love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men.” They were compelled to act by a personal agenda—one that began and ended with themselves. God willing, we will never find ourselves to be quite so selfishly motivated. Yet, selfishness can be subtle and therewith capable of hindering what God may do through us. If, for instance, you are excited about a new truth God has shown you in His Word, and you can’t wait to share it with your friend, but you feel the Spirit is leading you to wait, and you share the Word anyway; are you doing so to strengthen yourself, or your friend? It is ever so easy to do good works in order to gain a little something for ourselves. We should strive so that whether we speak, or witness, or share, or give—whatever we do—that all would be for the glory of God, and the strengthening of others.
1 Corinthians 14:26, NIV: What then shall we say, brothers? When you come together, everyone has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. All of these must be done for the strengthening of the church.
There were religious leaders in Jesus’ day that were in competition with others to be seen as the most religious. They would “make their phylacteries wide,” and ”love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men.” They were compelled to act by a personal agenda—one that began and ended with themselves. God willing, we will never find ourselves to be quite so selfishly motivated. Yet, selfishness can be subtle and therewith capable of hindering what God may do through us. If, for instance, you are excited about a new truth God has shown you in His Word, and you can’t wait to share it with your friend, but you feel the Spirit is leading you to wait, and you share the Word anyway; are you doing so to strengthen yourself, or your friend? It is ever so easy to do good works in order to gain a little something for ourselves. We should strive so that whether we speak, or witness, or share, or give—whatever we do—that all would be for the glory of God, and the strengthening of others.
Same-Sex Marriage Could PROTECT The Institution of Traditional Marriage
From the Washington Post:
If anyone could have talked himself out of being gay, Kimberly Brooks said, it was her husband.
He wanted to be straight; she wanted him to be straight. She once followed his gaze across the beach to another man but quickly dismissed the thought. No, he couldn't be. Then he started spending more time with one particular friend, and an unease pushed Brooks to ask the question that ultimately confirmed her fears: Was that friend gay?
"He said, 'I don't know.' And in that moment, I knew," said Brooks, who is a therapist in Falls Church. "That day, the marriage was over."
As the debate over legalizing same-sex marriage in the District grows louder and more polarized, there are people whose support for the proposal is personal but not often talked about. They are federal workers and professionals, men and women who share little except that their former spouses tried to live as heterosexuals but at some point realized they could not.
Many of these former spouses -- from those who still feel raw resentment toward their exes to those who have reached a mutual understanding -- see the legalization of same-sex marriage as a step toward protecting not only homosexuals but also heterosexuals. If homosexuality was more accepted, they say, they might have been spared doomed marriages followed by years of self-doubt.
That's a pretty interesting theory, one that we think makes a lot of sense. What do you think?
Click here to read the rest of the story.
If anyone could have talked himself out of being gay, Kimberly Brooks said, it was her husband.
He wanted to be straight; she wanted him to be straight. She once followed his gaze across the beach to another man but quickly dismissed the thought. No, he couldn't be. Then he started spending more time with one particular friend, and an unease pushed Brooks to ask the question that ultimately confirmed her fears: Was that friend gay?
"He said, 'I don't know.' And in that moment, I knew," said Brooks, who is a therapist in Falls Church. "That day, the marriage was over."
As the debate over legalizing same-sex marriage in the District grows louder and more polarized, there are people whose support for the proposal is personal but not often talked about. They are federal workers and professionals, men and women who share little except that their former spouses tried to live as heterosexuals but at some point realized they could not.
Many of these former spouses -- from those who still feel raw resentment toward their exes to those who have reached a mutual understanding -- see the legalization of same-sex marriage as a step toward protecting not only homosexuals but also heterosexuals. If homosexuality was more accepted, they say, they might have been spared doomed marriages followed by years of self-doubt.
That's a pretty interesting theory, one that we think makes a lot of sense. What do you think?
Click here to read the rest of the story.
November 09, 2009
Site Updates
Sorry about the lack of posts today--we're still recovering from the BCF Renewal and catching up with our everyday lives.
As we expected, the Lord showed us a few new things during that event that He wants us to do here. One of them was to spend more time on original writing. These pieces, some of which will be first published on other sites, will come under the heading "In Our Own Words." To make time for this, we are collapsing our Matthew 25 Resources, SNN Recommends, and LGBT Helping Hands links into one daily slot. We will also be expanding our worship offerings which we'll have more on this weekend.
Our new Monday-Saturday schedule, effective tomorrow, is (all times EST):
6:00 AM LGBT news story
6:00 AM Daily Devotional
9:00 AM SNN Recommends/Matthew 25 Resource/LGBT Helping Hands
12:00 PM Encouraging Music
3:00 PM Encouraging Words
6:00 PM (or later) In Our Own Words--this won't be daily but when we have something to say
We hope you will gain even more blessing from these changes and others coming as we continue to grow this ministry. Speaking of growth, our traffic is staying on an upward trend. We want to put this out in front of as many people as possible so they can share in the love of God that we enjoy so much.
Thanks for visiting and God bless!
As we expected, the Lord showed us a few new things during that event that He wants us to do here. One of them was to spend more time on original writing. These pieces, some of which will be first published on other sites, will come under the heading "In Our Own Words." To make time for this, we are collapsing our Matthew 25 Resources, SNN Recommends, and LGBT Helping Hands links into one daily slot. We will also be expanding our worship offerings which we'll have more on this weekend.
Our new Monday-Saturday schedule, effective tomorrow, is (all times EST):
6:00 AM LGBT news story
6:00 AM Daily Devotional
9:00 AM SNN Recommends/Matthew 25 Resource/LGBT Helping Hands
12:00 PM Encouraging Music
3:00 PM Encouraging Words
6:00 PM (or later) In Our Own Words--this won't be daily but when we have something to say
We hope you will gain even more blessing from these changes and others coming as we continue to grow this ministry. Speaking of growth, our traffic is staying on an upward trend. We want to put this out in front of as many people as possible so they can share in the love of God that we enjoy so much.
Thanks for visiting and God bless!
Daily Devotional 11/09/09 A Life Without Limits
From: Encouragement for Today
“.... God formed Man out of dirt from the ground and blew into his nostrils the breath of life. The Man came alive – a living soul!” Genesis 2:5 (MSG)
Devotion:
I was enjoying my morning run as the sun was shining, birds were singing, and the fragrant smell of honeysuckles filled the air. Suddenly I was startled by the loud sound of barking and noticed a dog, sitting near a garage, barking her little doggie lungs out. Although her bark seemed fierce, she did not run toward me. She was old; her hair was shaggy and faded; she was tired; her legs didn’t work as well as they used to; and she no longer had the physical strength or energy to dart across the yard. However, she chose not to allow her limitations to stop her voice from being heard. I admired her for her tenacity, and for her passion to fulfill her purpose of protection for her owners. Even though she now had challenges that prevented her from doing all she once did, she still gave it all she had.
I had to ask myself if I exert that same energy for Christ, even when limitations have befallen me. So many times we allow the circumstances of our lives and the limitations of our physical bodies to keep us from living out loud with our faith. The Webster definition of “living” is “the condition of being alive,” but the biblical definition of “living” is that the Holy Spirit resides within our bodies and also within our souls. We’re told in Genesis 2 that “God formed Man out of dirt from the ground and blew into his nostrils the breath of life. The Man came alive?a living soul!” Adam's body was formed from the dust, but his spirit was made in the image of God. Every person on earth can live – but only those who have accepted Christ as the true son of God are truly alive in body, heart and soul.
The decision to become a Christian is the beginning of a new life where many opportunities and challenges await us. Once we accept that new life, we are faced with another decision – will we live out our faith on a daily basis, despite our circumstances, challenges, and even physical limitations? Scripture teaches us that limitations in our life or physical bodies do not limit our abilities in Christ and we can find our strength in Him. Isaiah 40:29 says:
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak; even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
God is the giver of all life – not just the physical life of bodies, but the gift of living souls. If you have allowed your physical limitations to keep you from living out loud, ask God to show you how you can continue to serve Him, and for the strength to do His will despite your circumstances. If you have never asked Christ into your life, consider making that amazing choice today. Visit the “Do You Know Him” link below. Give God the opportunity to breathe life into your soul, to fill your heart with a love that is overflowing, and a passion to share the hope you have found with others as you live for Him.
Dear Lord, Help me know You are my strength and look past my own insecurities and limitations to dedicate my life to loving, praising and glorifying You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
“.... God formed Man out of dirt from the ground and blew into his nostrils the breath of life. The Man came alive – a living soul!” Genesis 2:5 (MSG)
Devotion:
I was enjoying my morning run as the sun was shining, birds were singing, and the fragrant smell of honeysuckles filled the air. Suddenly I was startled by the loud sound of barking and noticed a dog, sitting near a garage, barking her little doggie lungs out. Although her bark seemed fierce, she did not run toward me. She was old; her hair was shaggy and faded; she was tired; her legs didn’t work as well as they used to; and she no longer had the physical strength or energy to dart across the yard. However, she chose not to allow her limitations to stop her voice from being heard. I admired her for her tenacity, and for her passion to fulfill her purpose of protection for her owners. Even though she now had challenges that prevented her from doing all she once did, she still gave it all she had.
I had to ask myself if I exert that same energy for Christ, even when limitations have befallen me. So many times we allow the circumstances of our lives and the limitations of our physical bodies to keep us from living out loud with our faith. The Webster definition of “living” is “the condition of being alive,” but the biblical definition of “living” is that the Holy Spirit resides within our bodies and also within our souls. We’re told in Genesis 2 that “God formed Man out of dirt from the ground and blew into his nostrils the breath of life. The Man came alive?a living soul!” Adam's body was formed from the dust, but his spirit was made in the image of God. Every person on earth can live – but only those who have accepted Christ as the true son of God are truly alive in body, heart and soul.
The decision to become a Christian is the beginning of a new life where many opportunities and challenges await us. Once we accept that new life, we are faced with another decision – will we live out our faith on a daily basis, despite our circumstances, challenges, and even physical limitations? Scripture teaches us that limitations in our life or physical bodies do not limit our abilities in Christ and we can find our strength in Him. Isaiah 40:29 says:
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak; even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
God is the giver of all life – not just the physical life of bodies, but the gift of living souls. If you have allowed your physical limitations to keep you from living out loud, ask God to show you how you can continue to serve Him, and for the strength to do His will despite your circumstances. If you have never asked Christ into your life, consider making that amazing choice today. Visit the “Do You Know Him” link below. Give God the opportunity to breathe life into your soul, to fill your heart with a love that is overflowing, and a passion to share the hope you have found with others as you live for Him.
Dear Lord, Help me know You are my strength and look past my own insecurities and limitations to dedicate my life to loving, praising and glorifying You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
November 08, 2009
Wrapping Up Renewal Weekend
What an amazing, powerful weekend at BCF. We arrived home this evening with very tired bodies but ignited spirits. Some of the highlights for us were:
o Honoring Evelyn and Dennis Shave for 20 years of affirming ministry to the LGBT community. The Shaves are a model for us in our ministry work and we consider it a privilge to have hosted them in our home for the second year in a row and being able to see them minister at church.
o The exceptional inspiring, insightful and often entertaining preaching from Evelyn, Pastor David Thomas from Abundant Grace Church in Granite Falls, NC, and Apostle Randy Morgan from New Covenant Church in Atlanta, GA.
o Powerful workshops delivered by Pastor Jack McConnell from St. Jude Community Church in Winston-Salem, NC and Apostle Dylan Crozier and Vinnie Chiodo from Rainbow Community Church in Vancouver, BC Canada.
0 The energy in our church, where we had our largest crowds ever, was amazing during worship and ministry time. The Lord promised us an outpouring of the Holy Spirit and He delivered!
o Gifts of the spirit was activated left and right. Prophecies were delivered, visions were clarified, and war was declared on Satan by this powerful batch of GLBTS (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and straight) Christians.
We encourage to visit the BCF website and click on the video link to watch archived video of the bulk of the services from Thursday night through Sunday afternoon. If you didn't have time to be blessed by it live, you can still share in the blessing.
o Honoring Evelyn and Dennis Shave for 20 years of affirming ministry to the LGBT community. The Shaves are a model for us in our ministry work and we consider it a privilge to have hosted them in our home for the second year in a row and being able to see them minister at church.
o The exceptional inspiring, insightful and often entertaining preaching from Evelyn, Pastor David Thomas from Abundant Grace Church in Granite Falls, NC, and Apostle Randy Morgan from New Covenant Church in Atlanta, GA.
o Powerful workshops delivered by Pastor Jack McConnell from St. Jude Community Church in Winston-Salem, NC and Apostle Dylan Crozier and Vinnie Chiodo from Rainbow Community Church in Vancouver, BC Canada.
0 The energy in our church, where we had our largest crowds ever, was amazing during worship and ministry time. The Lord promised us an outpouring of the Holy Spirit and He delivered!
o Gifts of the spirit was activated left and right. Prophecies were delivered, visions were clarified, and war was declared on Satan by this powerful batch of GLBTS (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and straight) Christians.
We encourage to visit the BCF website and click on the video link to watch archived video of the bulk of the services from Thursday night through Sunday afternoon. If you didn't have time to be blessed by it live, you can still share in the blessing.
Sunday Worship at the BCF Renewal
The Believers Covenant Fellowship Renewal services, "The Fire and the Glory," have been amazing! The Lord promised us an outpouring and, as he ALWAYS does, delivers even greater than he promised!
The services conclude today with more amazing worship, another prophetic dance performance, and a message by anointed minister Randy Morgan. We've linked to his messages here before and our gathering is braced for a powerful word from him today.
Click here to watch it live beginning at 11:00 AM today.
The services conclude today with more amazing worship, another prophetic dance performance, and a message by anointed minister Randy Morgan. We've linked to his messages here before and our gathering is braced for a powerful word from him today.
Click here to watch it live beginning at 11:00 AM today.
November 07, 2009
Could Maine Loss Impact New Hampshire Equality?
From Foster's Daily Journal (NH)
Now that gay marriage has been defeated in Maine, attention again shifts to New Hampshire, where lawmakers say momentum from Tuesday's vote may fuel legislation to repeal the state's law and give voters a say.
Two proposals are being drafted in the N.H. House: One would repeal the law Gov. John Lynch signed in June and re-establish civil unions; the other is a constitutional amendment that would charge voters with deciding if "the state shall only recognize the union of one man and one woman as marriage."
Supporters of same-sex marriage are strategizing and gearing up for a fight, said Rep. Jim Splaine, D-Portsmouth, who sponsored the gay marriage law. He said momentum doesn't rest with gay-marriage foes.
"The momentum is on our side and those of us who support equality and love over hate," he said Wednesday.
Even so, "we have a fight cut out for us in January" when the Legislature reconvenes, he said. "But I think virtually everyone in the House and Senate who voted for marriage equality will stick with us and I'm hoping we'll pick up some others."
Others see the Maine results propelling similar action across state lines.
Kevin Smith, executive director of the Cornerstone Policy Research in Manchester, said the Maine election can't be chalked up to conservatives coming out of the woodwork because a proposal that would have lowered taxes was defeated and expanding the use of medical marijuana passed in the same election.
Counting on the political process to establish equality unfortunately means the fight is NEVER over, as the folks in Maine learned and those in New Hampshire may soon also live through.
Click here to read the rest of the story.
Now that gay marriage has been defeated in Maine, attention again shifts to New Hampshire, where lawmakers say momentum from Tuesday's vote may fuel legislation to repeal the state's law and give voters a say.
Two proposals are being drafted in the N.H. House: One would repeal the law Gov. John Lynch signed in June and re-establish civil unions; the other is a constitutional amendment that would charge voters with deciding if "the state shall only recognize the union of one man and one woman as marriage."
Supporters of same-sex marriage are strategizing and gearing up for a fight, said Rep. Jim Splaine, D-Portsmouth, who sponsored the gay marriage law. He said momentum doesn't rest with gay-marriage foes.
"The momentum is on our side and those of us who support equality and love over hate," he said Wednesday.
Even so, "we have a fight cut out for us in January" when the Legislature reconvenes, he said. "But I think virtually everyone in the House and Senate who voted for marriage equality will stick with us and I'm hoping we'll pick up some others."
Others see the Maine results propelling similar action across state lines.
Kevin Smith, executive director of the Cornerstone Policy Research in Manchester, said the Maine election can't be chalked up to conservatives coming out of the woodwork because a proposal that would have lowered taxes was defeated and expanding the use of medical marijuana passed in the same election.
Counting on the political process to establish equality unfortunately means the fight is NEVER over, as the folks in Maine learned and those in New Hampshire may soon also live through.
Click here to read the rest of the story.
Daily Devotional 11/07/09 Bucket of Blessings
From: Encouragement for Today
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33 (NIV)
Devotion:
It was Friday afternoon and Tom arrived home early from work carrying a beautiful arrangement of cut flowers. I took the flowers from him, placed them on the counter then threw my arms around his neck squealing with delight and kissed his face.
Tom lowered my arms and he lowered his head as he began to tell me that his job had just been eliminated, and in a few short weeks, he would be unemployed. I couldn’t breathe or even speak.
We spent much of the night crying and discussing the details of what we would need to do while we waited for the Lord to open the next job opportunity. Over that next week I enjoyed carrying my beautiful flower arrangement from room to room not wanting to miss one moment of their beauty. Sadly, the blooms on my beautiful arrangement began to fade and I removed the wilted and brown flowers from their container and placed them in the garbage. I thought about holding on to a few of them as a memory of my husband’s tenderness toward me, but the Lord whispered, “Throw the blooms away but save the little blue container. I am going to fill it to overflowing.” Reluctantly I threw out the flowers, placed the little blue container in my kitchen and named it our “bucket of blessing”.
Throughout the long ten months of waiting for Tom to begin working again we received many cards, e-mails and phone calls encouraging us to persevere. Month after month we placed these encouragements in our bucket of blessing and before long it was filled to overflowing. It contained words of encouragement from friends and family, and stories of my husband’s integrity in his former job. Additionally, we placed in there reminders of kind gestures, unexpected gifts of kindness and nuggets of gold from God’s holy word. When either of us was tempted to feel discouraged we would remove one of those blessings from the bucket and read it. Each one was not only a reminder of God’s faithful provision to us but also God’s very presence with us.
Although Tom and I did not know what our future held, our confidence that God’s hand sustains and provides through times of uncertainty was greatly magnified. Although the flowers in that container were beautiful, their beauty only lasted a few days; however the blessings now held in our bucket will last a lifetime. Our circumstances may have changed, however God’s faithfulness does not ever change. The Bible is filled to overflowing with rich words of encouragement to trust the One who created us and who is faithful to sustain us.
Jehovah Jirah - He is faithful to provide!
Dear Lord, You are faithful beyond measure and I thank you for sustaining my family through difficult and trying times. Thank you for the Bible that reminds me of your faithfulness; and thank you for holding my future securely in your hand of provision. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33 (NIV)
Devotion:
It was Friday afternoon and Tom arrived home early from work carrying a beautiful arrangement of cut flowers. I took the flowers from him, placed them on the counter then threw my arms around his neck squealing with delight and kissed his face.
Tom lowered my arms and he lowered his head as he began to tell me that his job had just been eliminated, and in a few short weeks, he would be unemployed. I couldn’t breathe or even speak.
We spent much of the night crying and discussing the details of what we would need to do while we waited for the Lord to open the next job opportunity. Over that next week I enjoyed carrying my beautiful flower arrangement from room to room not wanting to miss one moment of their beauty. Sadly, the blooms on my beautiful arrangement began to fade and I removed the wilted and brown flowers from their container and placed them in the garbage. I thought about holding on to a few of them as a memory of my husband’s tenderness toward me, but the Lord whispered, “Throw the blooms away but save the little blue container. I am going to fill it to overflowing.” Reluctantly I threw out the flowers, placed the little blue container in my kitchen and named it our “bucket of blessing”.
Throughout the long ten months of waiting for Tom to begin working again we received many cards, e-mails and phone calls encouraging us to persevere. Month after month we placed these encouragements in our bucket of blessing and before long it was filled to overflowing. It contained words of encouragement from friends and family, and stories of my husband’s integrity in his former job. Additionally, we placed in there reminders of kind gestures, unexpected gifts of kindness and nuggets of gold from God’s holy word. When either of us was tempted to feel discouraged we would remove one of those blessings from the bucket and read it. Each one was not only a reminder of God’s faithful provision to us but also God’s very presence with us.
Although Tom and I did not know what our future held, our confidence that God’s hand sustains and provides through times of uncertainty was greatly magnified. Although the flowers in that container were beautiful, their beauty only lasted a few days; however the blessings now held in our bucket will last a lifetime. Our circumstances may have changed, however God’s faithfulness does not ever change. The Bible is filled to overflowing with rich words of encouragement to trust the One who created us and who is faithful to sustain us.
Jehovah Jirah - He is faithful to provide!
Dear Lord, You are faithful beyond measure and I thank you for sustaining my family through difficult and trying times. Thank you for the Bible that reminds me of your faithfulness; and thank you for holding my future securely in your hand of provision. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
November 06, 2009
Powerful Testimony About ENDA on Capitol Hill
On Thursday, while the LGBT people was still stinging after the loss in Maine, the U.S. Senate held hearings about the Employment Non-Discrimination Act that would offer protection to LGBT people in the workplace.
Although we understand there were no transgender people that testified, the subject of coverage for them under this bill was raised and addressed positively-a major step forward from the last time it was considered.
Here is a report from the Washington Blade.
Here is the liveblog from The Bilerico Project.
Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), the sponsor of the legislation in the Senate, said during the hearing that ENDA is necessary to ensure equal opportunity for all Americans in the workforce.
Although we understand there were no transgender people that testified, the subject of coverage for them under this bill was raised and addressed positively-a major step forward from the last time it was considered.
Here is a report from the Washington Blade.
Here is the liveblog from The Bilerico Project.
Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), the sponsor of the legislation in the Senate, said during the hearing that ENDA is necessary to ensure equal opportunity for all Americans in the workforce.
"We are on the path to one of those struggles for human progress, for a struggle to have full equality under the law — full equal opportunity," he said. "There can never be equal opportunity as long we do not have equal opportunity for employment. Discrimination is simply wrong."
You can boil some issues down to very simple principles, can't you?
Daily Devotional 11/06/09 Practice Makes Perfect
From: Encouragement for Today
Matthew 5:48, “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (NIV)
Devotion:
I don’t know about you, but this verse has always made me nervous. I mean only Jesus is perfect, right? Perfection is impossible this side of heaven, right? So, why did God include this verse? I recently stumbled upon a new perspective for this verse that helped me to see it in a different, more hopeful light.
Perfection simply means “to seek union with God.” As we chase after Him with all our hearts, forming a relationship that is dependent upon Him, we are pursuing perfection. The closer we grow to Him, the more perfect we become. The more time we spend communing with Him, the closer we are to His image?the image of perfection. The trouble is that we interject our own insecurities into that verse. We know we can’t be perfect. We have tried it but it hasn’t worked. And so, we just dismiss that verse with a huff. “That is simply asking too much,” we tell God and give up before we have even begun.
Yet God is not asking anything more than to begin walking with Him, to pursue a relationship with Him, and to love Him more each day. The more we delight in Him, the more our desires line up with His. (Psalm 37:3-4) And the more our desires line up with His, the more perfect our hearts and minds become. We complicate what is actually simple.
Hosea 11:3 says, “’It was I who taught [my children] to walk.’” Just as parents teach their children to walk, God is allowing us as His children the time to practice our steps as we progress a bit more each day. He expects us to stumble along the way. Psalm 37:24, says, “Though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.” I take great comfort in knowing that He knows I will surely stumble.
Whether I stumble or fall is not the point. The point is that I am walking, one baby step at a time, with Him. I have a firm grasp on His hand, and I have let go of the things of this world that keep me from moving forward. The more I do this, the more perfect I become; the more I am molded into His perfect image. When you put it like that, perfection seems doable. It even seems likely. The Bible says I can do everything through Him, who gives me strength (Philippians 4:13). I am counting on that Truth as I practice walking with Him day by day, getting closer to perfect with each step I take.
Dear Lord, I desperately want to be perfect and to please You. I am learning that You make me perfect as I draw close to You. Help me to be intentional about doing this day by day. I love You, Lord. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Matthew 5:48, “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (NIV)
Devotion:
I don’t know about you, but this verse has always made me nervous. I mean only Jesus is perfect, right? Perfection is impossible this side of heaven, right? So, why did God include this verse? I recently stumbled upon a new perspective for this verse that helped me to see it in a different, more hopeful light.
Perfection simply means “to seek union with God.” As we chase after Him with all our hearts, forming a relationship that is dependent upon Him, we are pursuing perfection. The closer we grow to Him, the more perfect we become. The more time we spend communing with Him, the closer we are to His image?the image of perfection. The trouble is that we interject our own insecurities into that verse. We know we can’t be perfect. We have tried it but it hasn’t worked. And so, we just dismiss that verse with a huff. “That is simply asking too much,” we tell God and give up before we have even begun.
Yet God is not asking anything more than to begin walking with Him, to pursue a relationship with Him, and to love Him more each day. The more we delight in Him, the more our desires line up with His. (Psalm 37:3-4) And the more our desires line up with His, the more perfect our hearts and minds become. We complicate what is actually simple.
Hosea 11:3 says, “’It was I who taught [my children] to walk.’” Just as parents teach their children to walk, God is allowing us as His children the time to practice our steps as we progress a bit more each day. He expects us to stumble along the way. Psalm 37:24, says, “Though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.” I take great comfort in knowing that He knows I will surely stumble.
Whether I stumble or fall is not the point. The point is that I am walking, one baby step at a time, with Him. I have a firm grasp on His hand, and I have let go of the things of this world that keep me from moving forward. The more I do this, the more perfect I become; the more I am molded into His perfect image. When you put it like that, perfection seems doable. It even seems likely. The Bible says I can do everything through Him, who gives me strength (Philippians 4:13). I am counting on that Truth as I practice walking with Him day by day, getting closer to perfect with each step I take.
Dear Lord, I desperately want to be perfect and to please You. I am learning that You make me perfect as I draw close to You. Help me to be intentional about doing this day by day. I love You, Lord. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
November 05, 2009
Updates Coming from BCF's Fall Renewal
Our church, Believers Covenant Fellowship, is holding a series of worship services and workshops under the banner "The Fire and the Glory." We have leaders from the northwest, southwest, midwest, southeast, and Canada joining our BCF ministry team, and you can join us from anywhere in the world via a live video stream on the Internet. Here is the link for the USTREAM video feed.
Jim will also be Tweeting throughout the event. You can follow him here.
We start off at 7:30 (EST) tonight, with Pastor Debbie George leading prophetic worship and Pastor Susan George sharing the message.
Click here to find out more about them and the rest of "The Fire and the Glory" which will run through Sunday afternoon.
Jim will also be Tweeting throughout the event. You can follow him here.
We start off at 7:30 (EST) tonight, with Pastor Debbie George leading prophetic worship and Pastor Susan George sharing the message.
Click here to find out more about them and the rest of "The Fire and the Glory" which will run through Sunday afternoon.
Time Magazine Looks Ahead at the Aftermath of the Maine Vote
From Time.com:
Mainers' 53-47 vote to reject gay marriage does more than simply slap down a law that just six months ago had made Maine the U.S.'s second state to permit same-sex couples to wed. With voters thronging to the polls, the closely watched — and ultimately not very close — vote extended the winning streak of gay-marriage opponents nationwide, who have now prevailed in more than 30 straight state elections over whether to allow gays to marry. Just like Californians one year ago, Maine voters insisted on having their say on an issue that simply will not go away.
But Maine's vote, much like all of the states before it, including California's vote on Prop 8 a year ago, will do little to slow the fight over gay marriage. Not in Maine, where Tuesday's vote was only the equivalent of a veto and can be easily reversed by lawmakers when they next meet, and not in the rest of country, where the issue continues to roil courthouses and statehouses alike. "Ultimately, this is going to have to have a national resolution," says same-sex-marriage activist Mary Bonauto, one of the nation's top lawyers involved in the campaign to legalize gay marriage. "It's about aligning promises found in the Constitution with America's laws." A leader in Maine's campaign to uphold gay marriage, Bonauto is best known for arguing the same-sex case that led the Massachusetts Supreme Court to strike down prohibitions against gay marriage in a hugely influential 2003 decision that paved the way for that state to become the first to permit gay marriage in 2004.
Supporters were left early Wednesday morning looking for silver linings. Eight thousand volunteers manned the campaign to keep same-sex marriage, says Bonauto, and most of those people were not gay. "One way or another, after this vote, the people of Maine are not going to allow gay and lesbian people to remain strangers to the law," she says. "Gays and lesbians have met their non-gay neighbors, and they have introduced their families and their children." In Washington State, voters appeared to have ratified a law that was passed earlier this year giving its 6,000 registered domestic partners the same state rights as married couples. Cities as different as Chapel Hill, N.C., and Houston supported openly gay candidates for mayor, though the top vote getter in Houston will have to win a runoff before she takes office.
Click here to read the rest of the article.
Mainers' 53-47 vote to reject gay marriage does more than simply slap down a law that just six months ago had made Maine the U.S.'s second state to permit same-sex couples to wed. With voters thronging to the polls, the closely watched — and ultimately not very close — vote extended the winning streak of gay-marriage opponents nationwide, who have now prevailed in more than 30 straight state elections over whether to allow gays to marry. Just like Californians one year ago, Maine voters insisted on having their say on an issue that simply will not go away.
But Maine's vote, much like all of the states before it, including California's vote on Prop 8 a year ago, will do little to slow the fight over gay marriage. Not in Maine, where Tuesday's vote was only the equivalent of a veto and can be easily reversed by lawmakers when they next meet, and not in the rest of country, where the issue continues to roil courthouses and statehouses alike. "Ultimately, this is going to have to have a national resolution," says same-sex-marriage activist Mary Bonauto, one of the nation's top lawyers involved in the campaign to legalize gay marriage. "It's about aligning promises found in the Constitution with America's laws." A leader in Maine's campaign to uphold gay marriage, Bonauto is best known for arguing the same-sex case that led the Massachusetts Supreme Court to strike down prohibitions against gay marriage in a hugely influential 2003 decision that paved the way for that state to become the first to permit gay marriage in 2004.
Supporters were left early Wednesday morning looking for silver linings. Eight thousand volunteers manned the campaign to keep same-sex marriage, says Bonauto, and most of those people were not gay. "One way or another, after this vote, the people of Maine are not going to allow gay and lesbian people to remain strangers to the law," she says. "Gays and lesbians have met their non-gay neighbors, and they have introduced their families and their children." In Washington State, voters appeared to have ratified a law that was passed earlier this year giving its 6,000 registered domestic partners the same state rights as married couples. Cities as different as Chapel Hill, N.C., and Houston supported openly gay candidates for mayor, though the top vote getter in Houston will have to win a runoff before she takes office.
Click here to read the rest of the article.
Daily Devotional 11/05/09 Pursuing Jesus Above All
From: Encouragement for Today
Psalms 63:1, “O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirst for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.” (NIV)
Devotion:
There is a tale of an elderly woman in the church who served the Lord for years. Instead of seeking the help of others, she did most of the work herself. She was head of women’s ministry, taught Sunday school, sung in the choir, was on the prayer team, and counseled the pastor on a regular basis. She was tired, worn out, and longed for heaven. Yet, because there was still so much work for her to do, she feared that she would never die. Eventually she did die. I guess God wanted His job back.
Nevertheless, from the perspective of most, today’s successful leaders, whether in the Christian world or secular, are much like this woman.
Somewhere between her calling and service to God she took over, rushed ahead, and set her own agenda. It happens to the best of us. In our service to God we can easily slip into pursuing ministry instead of pursuing Jesus, and miss the purpose of our existence. The same is true in every facet of our lives. The pursuit of happiness, opportunity, or even being a good parent, can get in the way of simply pursuing Jesus.
What are you pursuing? What is it that you really want? Is it a successful career that you covet? Is it to be a musician, a doctor, or to author a book? Maybe it’s a spouse you’re dreaming of, or the desire to be a mom that you’re longing for. Whatever your dream is, it’s a God-given dream. In addition to giving you the dream, God has also given you what it takes to make your dream come true. We don’t arrive at our dreams by our own efforts, nor can we make them come true all by ourselves. We get there by pursuing God.
I have found in my own life and ministry that when God reigns in my heart, blessings and opportunities pour down faster than I can make them happen myself. The best way to get where you’re going is to surrender your dreams to God.
We are always in a hurry. God never is. While He has given us the vision of what we are to become, it may not be a reality in us yet. We have to let God work in our lives until we are ready. The dream is not what needs shaping. It’s us. God often prepares us for our dreams through adversity in our lives.
Don’t be discouraged if your dream seems unreachable. No matter what your circumstances are, God is at work shaping and preparing you for it. You and I may achieve some sort of success by our own pursuit, but it will never satisfy us like pursuing Jesus and waiting on Him to bring our dreams to pass.
When God alone is our true treasure, reward, and prize; when He is all we long for, seek after, love and adore, then He gives us the desires of our hearts. Only then are we ready to fulfill our purpose. No other person or thing can satisfy us like Jesus or prepare us for our God-given dreams. What are you pursuing?
Dear Lord, You know the dream I have tucked away in my heart. You know how I’ve longed for it to become a reality. I trust You today. I give You permission to work in my life preparing me for that dream. While You work, I will simply pursue You and be satisfied until my dream is a reality. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Psalms 63:1, “O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirst for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.” (NIV)
Devotion:
There is a tale of an elderly woman in the church who served the Lord for years. Instead of seeking the help of others, she did most of the work herself. She was head of women’s ministry, taught Sunday school, sung in the choir, was on the prayer team, and counseled the pastor on a regular basis. She was tired, worn out, and longed for heaven. Yet, because there was still so much work for her to do, she feared that she would never die. Eventually she did die. I guess God wanted His job back.
Nevertheless, from the perspective of most, today’s successful leaders, whether in the Christian world or secular, are much like this woman.
Somewhere between her calling and service to God she took over, rushed ahead, and set her own agenda. It happens to the best of us. In our service to God we can easily slip into pursuing ministry instead of pursuing Jesus, and miss the purpose of our existence. The same is true in every facet of our lives. The pursuit of happiness, opportunity, or even being a good parent, can get in the way of simply pursuing Jesus.
What are you pursuing? What is it that you really want? Is it a successful career that you covet? Is it to be a musician, a doctor, or to author a book? Maybe it’s a spouse you’re dreaming of, or the desire to be a mom that you’re longing for. Whatever your dream is, it’s a God-given dream. In addition to giving you the dream, God has also given you what it takes to make your dream come true. We don’t arrive at our dreams by our own efforts, nor can we make them come true all by ourselves. We get there by pursuing God.
I have found in my own life and ministry that when God reigns in my heart, blessings and opportunities pour down faster than I can make them happen myself. The best way to get where you’re going is to surrender your dreams to God.
We are always in a hurry. God never is. While He has given us the vision of what we are to become, it may not be a reality in us yet. We have to let God work in our lives until we are ready. The dream is not what needs shaping. It’s us. God often prepares us for our dreams through adversity in our lives.
Don’t be discouraged if your dream seems unreachable. No matter what your circumstances are, God is at work shaping and preparing you for it. You and I may achieve some sort of success by our own pursuit, but it will never satisfy us like pursuing Jesus and waiting on Him to bring our dreams to pass.
When God alone is our true treasure, reward, and prize; when He is all we long for, seek after, love and adore, then He gives us the desires of our hearts. Only then are we ready to fulfill our purpose. No other person or thing can satisfy us like Jesus or prepare us for our God-given dreams. What are you pursuing?
Dear Lord, You know the dream I have tucked away in my heart. You know how I’ve longed for it to become a reality. I trust You today. I give You permission to work in my life preparing me for that dream. While You work, I will simply pursue You and be satisfied until my dream is a reality. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
November 04, 2009
Encouraging Words 11/4/09-Putting Politics Behind and Focusing on Jesus!
A lot of people reading this were upset at the results of elections held in various parts of the country. That's one of the biggest problems with relying on political solutions--they aren't decided by right and wrong or clear moral values--it's who has the best funded, most effective message and organization structure to get out the voters that support them. Sometimes that makes us happy, other times it makes us angry, and the results are seldom permanent.
That's why I'm so glad I know Jesus, because he NEVER, NEVER changes. He always wants to love us and he is driven by right and wrong with clear moral values. Those values, unlike what some right-wing churches teach, do NOT include hating or condemning LGBT people. Jesus' love extends to all people.
Beginning Thursday night, we will be involved in a worship event that promises to be like few others ever held. We're not hyping it to reach into your pockets and get some of your money--we simply want you to share in an outpouring of the Holy Spirit and be blessed by some of the most gifted, spirit-filled LGBT men and women of God on this continent!
Our church, Believers Covenant Fellowship, is holding a series of worship services and workshops under the banner "The Fire and the Glory." We have leaders from the northwest, southwest, midwest, southeast, and Canada joining our BCF ministry team, and you can join us from anywhere in the world via a live video stream on the Internet. Here is the link for the USTREAM video feed.
Here is the schedule of events:
Thursday Evening, 7:30 PM
Pastor Debbie George leading prophetic worship
Pastor Susan George, preaching God's Word
Friday Morning, 10-12 AM
Brief Worship, announcements
"Healing Our Identity"
Pastor Jack McConnell
Friday Evening, 7:30 PM
Welcome, worship,
"Embracing The Refiner's Fire"
Pastor David Thomas
Saturday Morning, 10-12 AM
Brief Worship, announcements
"The Restored Five-Fold Ministry & It's Purpose"
Apostle Dale Jarrett
"On Being A New Testament Church"
Apostle Dylan & Vinnie Crozier
Saturday Evening, 7:30 PM
Welcome, worship
"Out of the Fire and Into the GLORY!"
Rev. Evelyn Schave
Sunday Morning
Welcome, worship
"Living IN The Glory"
Apostle Randy Morgan
NOTE: The times are all in the East Coast time zone. Intercessory Prayer starts 30 minutes prior to services and will also be broadcast.
We are both very excited to have the opportunity to be actively involved in the ministry efforts of this gathering. BCF has received several prophetic words that point to an incredible outpouring from God happening during this time, and we can ALL be blessed by that!
Click here to see the official brochure for the event, including bios of the speakers.
Instead of wrestling with disappointment and anger at how the political process has once again failed you, we invite you to join us as we share some really good news--God loves you!
That's why I'm so glad I know Jesus, because he NEVER, NEVER changes. He always wants to love us and he is driven by right and wrong with clear moral values. Those values, unlike what some right-wing churches teach, do NOT include hating or condemning LGBT people. Jesus' love extends to all people.
Beginning Thursday night, we will be involved in a worship event that promises to be like few others ever held. We're not hyping it to reach into your pockets and get some of your money--we simply want you to share in an outpouring of the Holy Spirit and be blessed by some of the most gifted, spirit-filled LGBT men and women of God on this continent!
Our church, Believers Covenant Fellowship, is holding a series of worship services and workshops under the banner "The Fire and the Glory." We have leaders from the northwest, southwest, midwest, southeast, and Canada joining our BCF ministry team, and you can join us from anywhere in the world via a live video stream on the Internet. Here is the link for the USTREAM video feed.
Here is the schedule of events:
Thursday Evening, 7:30 PM
Pastor Debbie George leading prophetic worship
Pastor Susan George, preaching God's Word
Friday Morning, 10-12 AM
Brief Worship, announcements
"Healing Our Identity"
Pastor Jack McConnell
Friday Evening, 7:30 PM
Welcome, worship,
"Embracing The Refiner's Fire"
Pastor David Thomas
Saturday Morning, 10-12 AM
Brief Worship, announcements
"The Restored Five-Fold Ministry & It's Purpose"
Apostle Dale Jarrett
"On Being A New Testament Church"
Apostle Dylan & Vinnie Crozier
Saturday Evening, 7:30 PM
Welcome, worship
"Out of the Fire and Into the GLORY!"
Rev. Evelyn Schave
Sunday Morning
Welcome, worship
"Living IN The Glory"
Apostle Randy Morgan
NOTE: The times are all in the East Coast time zone. Intercessory Prayer starts 30 minutes prior to services and will also be broadcast.
We are both very excited to have the opportunity to be actively involved in the ministry efforts of this gathering. BCF has received several prophetic words that point to an incredible outpouring from God happening during this time, and we can ALL be blessed by that!
Click here to see the official brochure for the event, including bios of the speakers.
Instead of wrestling with disappointment and anger at how the political process has once again failed you, we invite you to join us as we share some really good news--God loves you!
Equality Dealt a Blow in Maine
A tragic streak continued last night in Maine. According to the Associated Press, for the 31st consecutive time same-sex marriage was put up to a popular vote in a state, opponents carried the day.
Last night's loss in Maine, where an existing law passed by the legislature was repealed, is certainly one of the most disappointing and painful of this uphill battle for equality, coming in the region of the United States most favorably disposed to open minded thinking and acceptance.
It remains very difficult for a minority to obtain rights that the majority has when the majority can turn them back by forcing a public vote, where they have vast superiority in numbers. Those of us who are accepting and supporting of LGBT people and understand that they should have equal rights need to work harder and perhaps find a different approach to prevail.
We offer our condolences and prayers for those same-sex couples who had legal rights taken away from them. We hope that the anger and hurt you rightfully feel can be channeled in a positive and constructive direction,
Here is the report from MSNBC.
Here is the local perspective from the Bangor, Maine Daily News.
Last night's loss in Maine, where an existing law passed by the legislature was repealed, is certainly one of the most disappointing and painful of this uphill battle for equality, coming in the region of the United States most favorably disposed to open minded thinking and acceptance.
It remains very difficult for a minority to obtain rights that the majority has when the majority can turn them back by forcing a public vote, where they have vast superiority in numbers. Those of us who are accepting and supporting of LGBT people and understand that they should have equal rights need to work harder and perhaps find a different approach to prevail.
We offer our condolences and prayers for those same-sex couples who had legal rights taken away from them. We hope that the anger and hurt you rightfully feel can be channeled in a positive and constructive direction,
Here is the report from MSNBC.
Here is the local perspective from the Bangor, Maine Daily News.
Daily Devotional 11/04/09 Be Devoted
From: Encouragement for Today
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
Romans 12:10 (NIV)
Devotion:
She walked into church on a dreary Sunday morning, her heart as dark as the gathering storm. She’d gotten into a fight with her husband just before leaving home, and in an angry, regrettable moment, stormed off without him. She found herself sitting alone, thinking she didn’t belong there.
He’d gotten laid off at work on Friday. No notice. No final paycheck. Just a “get your things and get going” announcement. He hadn’t told anyone yet; it was just too embarrassing. What was he going to do? How would he pay his rent? Were his employers right? Maybe he just couldn’t cut it. He’d come to church that day because there was nowhere else to go.
Look around you at any church service and you’ll see normal looking people. Their lives must be great, you think. They walk in with a smile and out with a smile. All the while, many of them are dying by increments on the inside. Despair, fear, anger, questions. Is this all there is? Does anybody care? Will someone love ME?
Our churches are filled with hurting people, carelessly tossed aside by someone during the week. Their hearts and minds reverberate with echoes of angry words spoken to them and unkind actions done to them. They walk into our churches and small groups with a filament of hope and a last-ditch prayer. What will they find?
Jesus saw beneath the surface of the plastic smiles, and stopped what He was doing to show people honor and respect. It wasn’t Jesus’ well-manicured conversations that did it; He didn’t seem to be a master of small talk. Reading about Jesus’ interactions with people, we find He got to the heart of the matter very quickly. Jesus’ compassion must have radiated from Him because it didn’t take long for people to open their pain-filled hearts. When they did, Jesus introduced God’s healing love.
What does this mean for us? Can we really love others like Jesus did? Can our churches and small groups reflect the life-altering community of God’s intent? Can we really make a difference to the “walking wounded” sitting next to us in church every week?
I think one of the ways we can get past surface relationships with others is found in Paul’s letter to the Romans, “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.” This passage calls us past the neighbor level, past the acquaintance level, past the “just friends” level, and up to familial devotion. It calls us to look at those around us and consider how we can honor them with our time and attention, as we would our brother or sister.
This isn’t easy in our busy lives. Yet this Scripture holds the promise of the creation of a loving family of believers here on earth - a family that values and honors each other. That sounds like a place I want to spend the rest of my life creating. I guess I’ll need to spend a little more time with the woman sitting next to me this Sunday.
Heavenly Father, I praise You and thank You for loving me just as I am. But I need help to love my Christian brothers and sisters just like they are. Help me to love like You love. Examine me and show me areas that need Your attention. I long to have the heart of Christ for others. In Jesus name, Amen.
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
Romans 12:10 (NIV)
Devotion:
She walked into church on a dreary Sunday morning, her heart as dark as the gathering storm. She’d gotten into a fight with her husband just before leaving home, and in an angry, regrettable moment, stormed off without him. She found herself sitting alone, thinking she didn’t belong there.
He’d gotten laid off at work on Friday. No notice. No final paycheck. Just a “get your things and get going” announcement. He hadn’t told anyone yet; it was just too embarrassing. What was he going to do? How would he pay his rent? Were his employers right? Maybe he just couldn’t cut it. He’d come to church that day because there was nowhere else to go.
Look around you at any church service and you’ll see normal looking people. Their lives must be great, you think. They walk in with a smile and out with a smile. All the while, many of them are dying by increments on the inside. Despair, fear, anger, questions. Is this all there is? Does anybody care? Will someone love ME?
Our churches are filled with hurting people, carelessly tossed aside by someone during the week. Their hearts and minds reverberate with echoes of angry words spoken to them and unkind actions done to them. They walk into our churches and small groups with a filament of hope and a last-ditch prayer. What will they find?
Jesus saw beneath the surface of the plastic smiles, and stopped what He was doing to show people honor and respect. It wasn’t Jesus’ well-manicured conversations that did it; He didn’t seem to be a master of small talk. Reading about Jesus’ interactions with people, we find He got to the heart of the matter very quickly. Jesus’ compassion must have radiated from Him because it didn’t take long for people to open their pain-filled hearts. When they did, Jesus introduced God’s healing love.
What does this mean for us? Can we really love others like Jesus did? Can our churches and small groups reflect the life-altering community of God’s intent? Can we really make a difference to the “walking wounded” sitting next to us in church every week?
I think one of the ways we can get past surface relationships with others is found in Paul’s letter to the Romans, “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.” This passage calls us past the neighbor level, past the acquaintance level, past the “just friends” level, and up to familial devotion. It calls us to look at those around us and consider how we can honor them with our time and attention, as we would our brother or sister.
This isn’t easy in our busy lives. Yet this Scripture holds the promise of the creation of a loving family of believers here on earth - a family that values and honors each other. That sounds like a place I want to spend the rest of my life creating. I guess I’ll need to spend a little more time with the woman sitting next to me this Sunday.
Heavenly Father, I praise You and thank You for loving me just as I am. But I need help to love my Christian brothers and sisters just like they are. Help me to love like You love. Examine me and show me areas that need Your attention. I long to have the heart of Christ for others. In Jesus name, Amen.
November 03, 2009
Encouraging Words 11/3/09-Renewal Is On The Way!
Beginning Thursday night, an outpouring of spiritual renewal will begin in Northern Virginia! Our church, Believers Covenant Fellowship, is holding a series of worship services and workshops under the banner "The Fire and the Glory." We mention that here because all of it will be broadcast via UStream over the Internet. Here is the link for the USTREAM feed.
Here is the schedule of events:
Thursday Evening, 7:30 PM
Pastor Debbie George leading prophetic worship
Pastor Susan George, preaching God's Word
Friday Morning, 10-12 AM
Brief Worship, announcements
"Healing Our Identity"
Pastor Jack McConnell
Friday Evening, 7:30 PM
Welcome, worship,
"Embracing The Refiner's Fire"
Pastor David Thomas
Saturday Morning, 10-12 AM
Brief Worship, announcements
"The Restored Five-Fold Ministry & It's Purpose"
Apostle Dale Jarrett
"On Being A New Testament Church"
Apostle Dylan & Vinnie Crozier
Saturday Evening, 7:30 PM
Welcome, worship
"Out of the Fire and Into the GLORY!"
Rev. Evelyn Schave
Sunday Morning
Welcome, worship
"Living IN The Glory"
Apostle Randy Morgan
NOTE: The times are all in the East Coast Time Zone Intercessory Prayer starts 30 minutes prior to services and will also be broadcast.
We are both very excited to have the opportunity to be actively involved in the minstry efforts of this gathering. BCF has received several prophetic words that point to an incredible outpouring from God happening during this time, and we can ALL be blessed by that!
Click here to see the official brochure for the event, including bios of the speakers.
As our household is consumed with preparation, hosting guests, and participating in the Renewal, you won't see as many posts here this week, but we'll be sharing the spiritual overflow with you in the days and weeks following.
Here is the schedule of events:
Thursday Evening, 7:30 PM
Pastor Debbie George leading prophetic worship
Pastor Susan George, preaching God's Word
Friday Morning, 10-12 AM
Brief Worship, announcements
"Healing Our Identity"
Pastor Jack McConnell
Friday Evening, 7:30 PM
Welcome, worship,
"Embracing The Refiner's Fire"
Pastor David Thomas
Saturday Morning, 10-12 AM
Brief Worship, announcements
"The Restored Five-Fold Ministry & It's Purpose"
Apostle Dale Jarrett
"On Being A New Testament Church"
Apostle Dylan & Vinnie Crozier
Saturday Evening, 7:30 PM
Welcome, worship
"Out of the Fire and Into the GLORY!"
Rev. Evelyn Schave
Sunday Morning
Welcome, worship
"Living IN The Glory"
Apostle Randy Morgan
NOTE: The times are all in the East Coast Time Zone Intercessory Prayer starts 30 minutes prior to services and will also be broadcast.
We are both very excited to have the opportunity to be actively involved in the minstry efforts of this gathering. BCF has received several prophetic words that point to an incredible outpouring from God happening during this time, and we can ALL be blessed by that!
Click here to see the official brochure for the event, including bios of the speakers.
As our household is consumed with preparation, hosting guests, and participating in the Renewal, you won't see as many posts here this week, but we'll be sharing the spiritual overflow with you in the days and weeks following.
A New LGBT Advocate Is Emerging in the US Senate
From New York's Gay City News:
"For himself, I think, he’s going to take all the time he believes he needs in order to be successful, because it’s all about being successful.”
Those words were part of New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand’s answer to a question about the frustration some LGBT activists and leaders have expressed about the pace of Obama administration action on gay issues. Gillibrand was speaking specifically of the effort to repeal the military’s Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy (DADT).
But that perspective applies as well to the senator’s own advocacy on LGBT issues — she is committed, apparently with some good measure of urgency, but she is also pragmatic. That became clear in an interview with Gay City News on October 25, and at a community forum she hosted the same day at Manhattan’s LGBT Community Center.
Earlier this year, Gillibrand proposed incorporating an 18-month moratorium on DADT discharges into the Defense Department’s funding authorization, only to pull back when it became clear that the 60 votes needed to beat back a Republican-led filibuster were not there.
“When I didn’t have 60 votes on my amendment, a lot of the advocates said do not drop” — in this instance, meaning put up for a vote — “your amendment; we don’t want to have a failure on the first vote as a strategy,” the senator explained. “Because we want to build momentum and not lose momentum with a failed vote, and I said fair enough.”
Instead, she said, she successfully prevailed on Michigan Senator Carl Levin, the Democratic chair of the Armed Services Committee — a committee on which she does not sit — to hold a hearing on DADT in November, the first such review of the policy in the Senate since it was implemented in 1993.
The other defining characteristic of Gillibrand’s advocacy on LGBT issues is that she clearly wants to be in the game. Beyond her recent activity on the military policy, she also expressed a willingness to be the lead sponsor of the DADT repeal as well as of the Senate version of New York Congressman Jerrold Nadler’s Respect for Marriage Act, a measure to repeal the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), introduced in the House in September.
In both cases, however, the senator, first elected to the House in 2006 and only in her current post since January, when she filled the vacancy left by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, made clear she would defer to the judgment of both advocates and more senior colleagues.
Click here to read the rest of the story.
"For himself, I think, he’s going to take all the time he believes he needs in order to be successful, because it’s all about being successful.”
Those words were part of New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand’s answer to a question about the frustration some LGBT activists and leaders have expressed about the pace of Obama administration action on gay issues. Gillibrand was speaking specifically of the effort to repeal the military’s Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy (DADT).
But that perspective applies as well to the senator’s own advocacy on LGBT issues — she is committed, apparently with some good measure of urgency, but she is also pragmatic. That became clear in an interview with Gay City News on October 25, and at a community forum she hosted the same day at Manhattan’s LGBT Community Center.
Earlier this year, Gillibrand proposed incorporating an 18-month moratorium on DADT discharges into the Defense Department’s funding authorization, only to pull back when it became clear that the 60 votes needed to beat back a Republican-led filibuster were not there.
“When I didn’t have 60 votes on my amendment, a lot of the advocates said do not drop” — in this instance, meaning put up for a vote — “your amendment; we don’t want to have a failure on the first vote as a strategy,” the senator explained. “Because we want to build momentum and not lose momentum with a failed vote, and I said fair enough.”
Instead, she said, she successfully prevailed on Michigan Senator Carl Levin, the Democratic chair of the Armed Services Committee — a committee on which she does not sit — to hold a hearing on DADT in November, the first such review of the policy in the Senate since it was implemented in 1993.
The other defining characteristic of Gillibrand’s advocacy on LGBT issues is that she clearly wants to be in the game. Beyond her recent activity on the military policy, she also expressed a willingness to be the lead sponsor of the DADT repeal as well as of the Senate version of New York Congressman Jerrold Nadler’s Respect for Marriage Act, a measure to repeal the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), introduced in the House in September.
In both cases, however, the senator, first elected to the House in 2006 and only in her current post since January, when she filled the vacancy left by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, made clear she would defer to the judgment of both advocates and more senior colleagues.
Click here to read the rest of the story.
Daily Devotional 11/03/09 Calling the Great Physician
From: Encouragement for Today
"On hearing this, Jesus said to them, ‘It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.'"
Mark 2:17 (NIV)
Devotion:
Recently I came down with an infection. After ten days of misery, I finally went to see a doctor and was diagnosed with bronchitis. Feeling much better after a few days of antibiotics, I wished I had sought out a physician's help sooner, preventing all those days of unnecessary suffering!
As I considered my stubbornness in deciding to call on a doctor, I thought about how our walk with Christ is often just like that.
For example, we have problems in our lives, but we think we are qualified to handle them ourselves. We have burdens, but we assume we can carry the weight on our own. We have questions, but don't really trust God to supply the answers. We need help, but stubbornly refuse to ask.Some people call God the "The Great Physician." Although we think of this in terms of physical healing, Jesus walked the earth to provide something more: spiritual healing.
In Mark 2:13-17, the Pharisees asked Jesus why He was eating with sinners and tax collectors. Jesus explained that He came so we would know Him, and be healed from the inside out. You see, if the world were a righteous place, there would have been no need for a Savior. But God knew just how much we needed a Great Physician. Out of compassion for us, He sent His Son to fill that role. In order to tap into His healing power, we simply have to seek Him. And the sooner, the better.
In another recent situation, I quickly and desperately sought God's intervention. A few days later, I happened to notice I felt a peace I could not explain. In fact, I was confused as to why I was so calm. I thought to myself, "Why am I not obsessing about that problem every second? Why am I not more distraught and worried?"Then God quickened my heart and reminded me that I had turned that problem over to Him. He had taken the weight off of my shoulders. He had given me spiritual healing in the form of peace.
I had sought a cure from the Great Physician, and He had provided it. Not a cure for the problem, but a cure for my heart as I dealt with the problem under His care.If you need a physician who knows your suffering, understands how you are feeling, and has the cure, make an appointment to spend time with God today.
Dear Lord, forgive me for sometimes coming to You for help only after I have exhausted all efforts to handle the problem on my own. Please fill me with a peace that surpasses all understanding in the situations I am facing. Grant me spiritual healing, and help me see You working in and through me. Thank You for always being available and on call. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
"On hearing this, Jesus said to them, ‘It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.'"
Mark 2:17 (NIV)
Devotion:
Recently I came down with an infection. After ten days of misery, I finally went to see a doctor and was diagnosed with bronchitis. Feeling much better after a few days of antibiotics, I wished I had sought out a physician's help sooner, preventing all those days of unnecessary suffering!
As I considered my stubbornness in deciding to call on a doctor, I thought about how our walk with Christ is often just like that.
For example, we have problems in our lives, but we think we are qualified to handle them ourselves. We have burdens, but we assume we can carry the weight on our own. We have questions, but don't really trust God to supply the answers. We need help, but stubbornly refuse to ask.Some people call God the "The Great Physician." Although we think of this in terms of physical healing, Jesus walked the earth to provide something more: spiritual healing.
In Mark 2:13-17, the Pharisees asked Jesus why He was eating with sinners and tax collectors. Jesus explained that He came so we would know Him, and be healed from the inside out. You see, if the world were a righteous place, there would have been no need for a Savior. But God knew just how much we needed a Great Physician. Out of compassion for us, He sent His Son to fill that role. In order to tap into His healing power, we simply have to seek Him. And the sooner, the better.
In another recent situation, I quickly and desperately sought God's intervention. A few days later, I happened to notice I felt a peace I could not explain. In fact, I was confused as to why I was so calm. I thought to myself, "Why am I not obsessing about that problem every second? Why am I not more distraught and worried?"Then God quickened my heart and reminded me that I had turned that problem over to Him. He had taken the weight off of my shoulders. He had given me spiritual healing in the form of peace.
I had sought a cure from the Great Physician, and He had provided it. Not a cure for the problem, but a cure for my heart as I dealt with the problem under His care.If you need a physician who knows your suffering, understands how you are feeling, and has the cure, make an appointment to spend time with God today.
Dear Lord, forgive me for sometimes coming to You for help only after I have exhausted all efforts to handle the problem on my own. Please fill me with a peace that surpasses all understanding in the situations I am facing. Grant me spiritual healing, and help me see You working in and through me. Thank You for always being available and on call. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
November 02, 2009
Encouraging Words 11/2/09-BCF Praise Report
"Therefore, since we are receiving a Kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming Fire."
Hebrews 12:28-29
Greetings BCF Family & Friends!
What an EXCITING HOUR we are living in! As we witness many Biblical prophecies concerning the last days unfolding in everyday news and world events, as we witness the hardships and injustices, poverty, diseases on the increase, world hunger, and environmental destruction all right before our eyes- WE ARE ALSO SEEING a most beautiful move of the Spirit of God- where love and forgiveness are causing lives to be healed and restored, we are seeing signs and wonders of miracle provision and answers to prayer on a daily basis, and we are seeing the Body of Christ become impassioned and on fire to live for and serve the Most High God, the Lord Jesus Christ! As the darkness gets darker, the Light of the Lord is shining brighter and brighter for all the world to see! What a mighty and loving Heavenly Father! What a powerful and compassionate Savior is our Lord Jesus! And HOW AWESOME the presence and movement of the Holy Spirit is in all of our lives! Praise the Lord!!! If you are feeling dry in the Lord- it's not because God is holding out on you! Maybe YOU need to seek Him more and get some things right in your heart/life so He can breakthrough into your world anew!
We had a wonderful service at BCF yesterday. It was so cool that we had 40 people who joined us live online for our worship service! Praise God- that's why the Lord told us to do the ustreaming- for those who can't get there! We are all pumped up in the Spirit and prepared for our Fall Renewal/Outpouring which begins this week. We had some good altar time yesterday praying and interceding for the Lord to move upon everyone who is coming- and beyond. Please continue to pray for us and ask the Holy Spirit to have His way throughout the weekend. WE WILL BE USTREAMING LIVE all of our services and workshops. I'll include a brief schedule here for you to see, and we'll be sending out reminder emails later this week.
The Holy Spirit spoke to us yesterday about THE KINGDOM OF GOD!
Jesus taught us to pray, "Thy Kingdom come, Thy Will be done on earth just as it is in Heaven." The Church has been praying that for 2,000 years- and the message yesterday was "The Kingdom IS come!" It's not afar off, it's not somewhere in the sweet by and by- the Kingdom is NOW! There are over 50 references to the Kingdom in the Gospel of Matthew alone- Jesus had a lot to say to us about this subject- and why? BECAUSE WE THE PEOPLE OF THE KINGDOM! He's been teaching us how the Kingdom works/operates, by faith and love; He's been doing deep heart works in all of us to get us to let go of offense, strife, bitterness, resentments and unforgiveness; He's been teaching us to TRUST Him and to let go of our will and agenda in favor of His.....and the hour is now upon us when a sovereign move of God is about to be released into our lives! We were born for such a time as this!
I believe that the Holy Spirit is about to sovereignly impart to all of us- the greater and needed anointing of the Holy Spirit that will empower us all anew with zeal and passion, and the grace to reach and bring in The Harvest!
God knows that we can't do it without more of His anointing- and we've been asking Him, waiting, sometimes getting discouraged at the wait, BUT NOW the time is upon us. It is past time to prepare yourself, it is now time to stand READY to DO what He shows us to do.
The scriptures speak of how the early Christians did not 'love their lives, even unto death.' They were so passionate about living for the Lord and serving in His Kingdom, that they were no longer caught up in the cares of this world- even to the point of death! They weren't even afraid to die because they KNEW where they were going. Do YOU? Are YOU that passionate about your relationship with God? Do you understand and know what is the hope of YOUR calling?? Are you living to build God's Kingdom or YOUR kingdom?? Choose THIS DAY whom you will serve.
The hour of decision is upon us all.
Romans 14:17 says, "The Kingdom of God is NOT about meat or drink, but about RIGHTEOUSNESS, PEACE (shalom), and JOY in the Holy Spirit!"
I'm praying for you in the Holy Spirit as I write this now, and am asking the Holy Spirit to touch you with the FIRE of God and ignite you with a new passion to know the Lord more and to serve Him until He comes. I've been praying for the Lord to release His holy MANTLES upon His Sons & Daughters so that we may walk in a new grace and a new power than we have ever known before.
If each of us Christians will take His Great Commission serious and determine to do at least one act of love and kindness for someone else every day- we can start winning hearts to Christ by simply how we treat them! Let Jesus shine! Let your love light, your faith in Christ, your Hope for tomorrow be reflected in your attitude, your actions and your words! The Kingdom is COME- NOW! Start living like you are in Heaven already- you'll be amazed at just how much you already really are!!! Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things NOT seen!!!!
God Bless YOU and fill you anew today and every day! We love you and we are praying for each and every one of you and your churches/ministries.
We are one Body, one Church- united in the Spirit of the Lord Jesus Christ!
Much love and Shalom, with nothing missing and nothing broken in your life!
Ap Dale
Hebrews 12:28-29
Greetings BCF Family & Friends!
What an EXCITING HOUR we are living in! As we witness many Biblical prophecies concerning the last days unfolding in everyday news and world events, as we witness the hardships and injustices, poverty, diseases on the increase, world hunger, and environmental destruction all right before our eyes- WE ARE ALSO SEEING a most beautiful move of the Spirit of God- where love and forgiveness are causing lives to be healed and restored, we are seeing signs and wonders of miracle provision and answers to prayer on a daily basis, and we are seeing the Body of Christ become impassioned and on fire to live for and serve the Most High God, the Lord Jesus Christ! As the darkness gets darker, the Light of the Lord is shining brighter and brighter for all the world to see! What a mighty and loving Heavenly Father! What a powerful and compassionate Savior is our Lord Jesus! And HOW AWESOME the presence and movement of the Holy Spirit is in all of our lives! Praise the Lord!!! If you are feeling dry in the Lord- it's not because God is holding out on you! Maybe YOU need to seek Him more and get some things right in your heart/life so He can breakthrough into your world anew!
We had a wonderful service at BCF yesterday. It was so cool that we had 40 people who joined us live online for our worship service! Praise God- that's why the Lord told us to do the ustreaming- for those who can't get there! We are all pumped up in the Spirit and prepared for our Fall Renewal/Outpouring which begins this week. We had some good altar time yesterday praying and interceding for the Lord to move upon everyone who is coming- and beyond. Please continue to pray for us and ask the Holy Spirit to have His way throughout the weekend. WE WILL BE USTREAMING LIVE all of our services and workshops. I'll include a brief schedule here for you to see, and we'll be sending out reminder emails later this week.
The Holy Spirit spoke to us yesterday about THE KINGDOM OF GOD!
Jesus taught us to pray, "Thy Kingdom come, Thy Will be done on earth just as it is in Heaven." The Church has been praying that for 2,000 years- and the message yesterday was "The Kingdom IS come!" It's not afar off, it's not somewhere in the sweet by and by- the Kingdom is NOW! There are over 50 references to the Kingdom in the Gospel of Matthew alone- Jesus had a lot to say to us about this subject- and why? BECAUSE WE THE PEOPLE OF THE KINGDOM! He's been teaching us how the Kingdom works/operates, by faith and love; He's been doing deep heart works in all of us to get us to let go of offense, strife, bitterness, resentments and unforgiveness; He's been teaching us to TRUST Him and to let go of our will and agenda in favor of His.....and the hour is now upon us when a sovereign move of God is about to be released into our lives! We were born for such a time as this!
I believe that the Holy Spirit is about to sovereignly impart to all of us- the greater and needed anointing of the Holy Spirit that will empower us all anew with zeal and passion, and the grace to reach and bring in The Harvest!
God knows that we can't do it without more of His anointing- and we've been asking Him, waiting, sometimes getting discouraged at the wait, BUT NOW the time is upon us. It is past time to prepare yourself, it is now time to stand READY to DO what He shows us to do.
The scriptures speak of how the early Christians did not 'love their lives, even unto death.' They were so passionate about living for the Lord and serving in His Kingdom, that they were no longer caught up in the cares of this world- even to the point of death! They weren't even afraid to die because they KNEW where they were going. Do YOU? Are YOU that passionate about your relationship with God? Do you understand and know what is the hope of YOUR calling?? Are you living to build God's Kingdom or YOUR kingdom?? Choose THIS DAY whom you will serve.
The hour of decision is upon us all.
Romans 14:17 says, "The Kingdom of God is NOT about meat or drink, but about RIGHTEOUSNESS, PEACE (shalom), and JOY in the Holy Spirit!"
I'm praying for you in the Holy Spirit as I write this now, and am asking the Holy Spirit to touch you with the FIRE of God and ignite you with a new passion to know the Lord more and to serve Him until He comes. I've been praying for the Lord to release His holy MANTLES upon His Sons & Daughters so that we may walk in a new grace and a new power than we have ever known before.
If each of us Christians will take His Great Commission serious and determine to do at least one act of love and kindness for someone else every day- we can start winning hearts to Christ by simply how we treat them! Let Jesus shine! Let your love light, your faith in Christ, your Hope for tomorrow be reflected in your attitude, your actions and your words! The Kingdom is COME- NOW! Start living like you are in Heaven already- you'll be amazed at just how much you already really are!!! Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things NOT seen!!!!
God Bless YOU and fill you anew today and every day! We love you and we are praying for each and every one of you and your churches/ministries.
We are one Body, one Church- united in the Spirit of the Lord Jesus Christ!
Much love and Shalom, with nothing missing and nothing broken in your life!
Ap Dale
Daily Devotional 11/02/09 In His Presence
From: Reflections
Psalms 16:11 KJV: Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
Pausing to consider God, I have felt the world slip away. The concerns of this life and the worries of the day quickly fade into the background in comparison to Him. He towers above the circumstances and does not give way to the pressures of my day. He is the same today, tomorrow and forever. I come to Him and I am reborn. I am filled with the newness of my first words heard from Him. My spirit is rejuvenated and my passions rekindled, and all within a few quiet and passing moments.
Psalms 16:11 KJV: Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
Pausing to consider God, I have felt the world slip away. The concerns of this life and the worries of the day quickly fade into the background in comparison to Him. He towers above the circumstances and does not give way to the pressures of my day. He is the same today, tomorrow and forever. I come to Him and I am reborn. I am filled with the newness of my first words heard from Him. My spirit is rejuvenated and my passions rekindled, and all within a few quiet and passing moments.
November 01, 2009
If CNN's Anderson Cooper Is Gay, Why Doesn't He Just Say So?
That's the question asked by this piece on Gawker (hat tip to PageOneQ:
It's not like Cooper's in a club all of his own, either. He is part of an increasingly large crowd of notables who won't come out but have given up trying to hide that they are gay. Queen Latifah denied that she was going to marry her girlfriend, a girlfriend who she tries to pass off as her "trainer." Kevin Spacey got busted lying about being mugged in a London cruising park. Ricky Martin has stopped even trying to fight the gay rumors. Jodie Foster has never said she's a lesbian out loud, but she basically came out when she thanked her partner in an acceptance speech.
These gay-not-gay celebrities are different from the Hugh Jackmans, John Travoltas, Tom Cruises, and Kenny Chesneys, who are all constantly plagued with gay rumors that they strenuously try to deny or deflect. If they're gay, they're doing it in secret. Cooper and his set of cohorts live openly gay lives — and that's a good thing — but they refuse to acknowledge what the public already knows.
In Anderson Cooper's specific case, we sort of understand why he won't open his mouth and let the rainbows fly. All the guy has ever wanted to do was be an old-fashioned newsman and unfortunately him coming out would make him a part of the story. Every time he tried to cover something having to do with gay civil rights (or Madonna or Fire Island) plenty of people would claim that his reporting was biased because of his sexual orientation. It's not fair: Katie Couric doesn't have to worry when she covers pay inequality for women, and neither does Harry Smith when discussing new medicine that will eradicate baldness.
Coming out would open Cooper up to irrational accusations from those waiting to pounce on the "liberal media" just as quickly as A.C. pounces on his muscle man in an Indian hotel room. That sucks, but it's the way it currently is. How does it get changed? Well, by having some major national news figures come out and show that they can still get blown over in a hurricane or report live from a war zone without breaking into a anti-Prop 8 rant.
That's right, Anderson, it's going to take you to change it. Rachel Maddow has paved the way, but all the baby gays out there need you to man up and be our Jackie Robinson. The first step is the easiest, you just have to say what everyone already knows.
Click here to read the rest of the story.
It's not like Cooper's in a club all of his own, either. He is part of an increasingly large crowd of notables who won't come out but have given up trying to hide that they are gay. Queen Latifah denied that she was going to marry her girlfriend, a girlfriend who she tries to pass off as her "trainer." Kevin Spacey got busted lying about being mugged in a London cruising park. Ricky Martin has stopped even trying to fight the gay rumors. Jodie Foster has never said she's a lesbian out loud, but she basically came out when she thanked her partner in an acceptance speech.
These gay-not-gay celebrities are different from the Hugh Jackmans, John Travoltas, Tom Cruises, and Kenny Chesneys, who are all constantly plagued with gay rumors that they strenuously try to deny or deflect. If they're gay, they're doing it in secret. Cooper and his set of cohorts live openly gay lives — and that's a good thing — but they refuse to acknowledge what the public already knows.
In Anderson Cooper's specific case, we sort of understand why he won't open his mouth and let the rainbows fly. All the guy has ever wanted to do was be an old-fashioned newsman and unfortunately him coming out would make him a part of the story. Every time he tried to cover something having to do with gay civil rights (or Madonna or Fire Island) plenty of people would claim that his reporting was biased because of his sexual orientation. It's not fair: Katie Couric doesn't have to worry when she covers pay inequality for women, and neither does Harry Smith when discussing new medicine that will eradicate baldness.
Coming out would open Cooper up to irrational accusations from those waiting to pounce on the "liberal media" just as quickly as A.C. pounces on his muscle man in an Indian hotel room. That sucks, but it's the way it currently is. How does it get changed? Well, by having some major national news figures come out and show that they can still get blown over in a hurricane or report live from a war zone without breaking into a anti-Prop 8 rant.
That's right, Anderson, it's going to take you to change it. Rachel Maddow has paved the way, but all the baby gays out there need you to man up and be our Jackie Robinson. The first step is the easiest, you just have to say what everyone already knows.
Click here to read the rest of the story.
LGBT Helping Hands 11/1/09-Metro TeenAIDS (Washington, DC)
Metro TeenAIDS provides resources to help young people fight AIDS and support each other. MTA is the only organization in the Washington DC-metro area focusing all of its efforts on the unique prevention, education, and treatment needs of young people.
Advancing the overall health of at-risk and HIV-infected adolescents is within our community’s power. Metro TeenAIDS advances community prevention efforts by:
* mobilizing young people in support of their peers,
* battling stigma and indifference by raising community awareness about the threat HIV/AIDS poses to young people,
* providing HIV information and innovative prevention strategies to young people and the adults in contact with them,
* uniting with other organizations to ensure that teenagers receive adolescent-appropriate and easily accessible prevention, health care, and counseling services as well as safe recreational opportunities; and,
* developing comprehensive programs which address the many co-factors of adolescent HIV infection — including low self-esteem, drug and alcohol abuse, dangerously unproductive free time, and exposure to peer groups which encourage unhealthy and risky behavior.
Our community risks losing a new generation to HIV.
Washington, D.C. has one of the highest AIDS rates in the country. But very few of those infected are getting the treatment they need. Between 1,000 and 1,500 infected young people live in the Washington, D.C. area. Yet only 100 of them are receiving medical care.
Across the nation, half of all new HIV infections occur among people under the age of 25. But as many as one third of all HIV-infected young people do not know they carry the virus.
With so much ignorance, and such limited healthcare, young people face the highest risk of infection. They also live in a culture that heightens those risks. Adolescents tend to distrust adults who could help them, yet face intense pressure to become sexually active at an early age.
How do we help young people to protect themselves?
MetroTeenAIDS speaks to youth in their own language and in their own space. With our team of specially trained young people, working alongside professionals, we reach out to them in schools, nightclubs, youth centers, shelters and the streets.
Click here to find out more.
Advancing the overall health of at-risk and HIV-infected adolescents is within our community’s power. Metro TeenAIDS advances community prevention efforts by:
* mobilizing young people in support of their peers,
* battling stigma and indifference by raising community awareness about the threat HIV/AIDS poses to young people,
* providing HIV information and innovative prevention strategies to young people and the adults in contact with them,
* uniting with other organizations to ensure that teenagers receive adolescent-appropriate and easily accessible prevention, health care, and counseling services as well as safe recreational opportunities; and,
* developing comprehensive programs which address the many co-factors of adolescent HIV infection — including low self-esteem, drug and alcohol abuse, dangerously unproductive free time, and exposure to peer groups which encourage unhealthy and risky behavior.
Our community risks losing a new generation to HIV.
Washington, D.C. has one of the highest AIDS rates in the country. But very few of those infected are getting the treatment they need. Between 1,000 and 1,500 infected young people live in the Washington, D.C. area. Yet only 100 of them are receiving medical care.
Across the nation, half of all new HIV infections occur among people under the age of 25. But as many as one third of all HIV-infected young people do not know they carry the virus.
With so much ignorance, and such limited healthcare, young people face the highest risk of infection. They also live in a culture that heightens those risks. Adolescents tend to distrust adults who could help them, yet face intense pressure to become sexually active at an early age.
How do we help young people to protect themselves?
MetroTeenAIDS speaks to youth in their own language and in their own space. With our team of specially trained young people, working alongside professionals, we reach out to them in schools, nightclubs, youth centers, shelters and the streets.
Click here to find out more.
SNN Recommends 11/1/09-"I'm Fine With God...It's Christians I Can't Stand"
Amazon.com ratings: 34 of 52 reviewers gave it at least 4 out of 5 stars
SNN rating: 4 stars
Many non–Christians find the behavior of some Christians off–putting rather than inviting. Many Christians do too! Now Bruce Bickel and Stan Jantz, authors of Knowing the Bible 101, take an unflinchingly honest and often humorous look at some believers’ outlandish behavior. This candid assessment of the church will bridge the communication gap, empowering Christians to share their faith more freely and helping those who don’t yet believe discover the truth about God without being distracted by...
* judgmental attitudes, hypocrisy, and condemnation
* confusing mixtures of politics and the gospel
* defensive positions in the “God vs. science” debate
* extreme teachings about prosperity
* unbalanced fixations on the end times
* uninformed opinions about others’ beliefs
* unprofessional Christian media and entertainment
This refreshing call to authentic Christianity will help Christians and non–Christians get past the peripheral issues and communicate openly and honestly about God.
Click here to purchase this book and read customer reviews.
SNN rating: 4 stars
Many non–Christians find the behavior of some Christians off–putting rather than inviting. Many Christians do too! Now Bruce Bickel and Stan Jantz, authors of Knowing the Bible 101, take an unflinchingly honest and often humorous look at some believers’ outlandish behavior. This candid assessment of the church will bridge the communication gap, empowering Christians to share their faith more freely and helping those who don’t yet believe discover the truth about God without being distracted by...
* judgmental attitudes, hypocrisy, and condemnation
* confusing mixtures of politics and the gospel
* defensive positions in the “God vs. science” debate
* extreme teachings about prosperity
* unbalanced fixations on the end times
* uninformed opinions about others’ beliefs
* unprofessional Christian media and entertainment
This refreshing call to authentic Christianity will help Christians and non–Christians get past the peripheral issues and communicate openly and honestly about God.
Click here to purchase this book and read customer reviews.
Matthew 25 Resource 11/1/09-A Child's Place (Charlotte, NC)
With no permanent residence, homeless children often stop going to school -- the one place that should provide structure in a life of transition. Without the influence and stability of a classroom environment, these children lose more than a chance to learn. They also lose the crucial sense of belonging gained from interacting with friends and other students. But there is hope for these children -- and help -- through A Child's Place. Founded in 1989, A Child's Place is a collaborative effort between the Charlotte, NC community and Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools (CMS).
The goals of A Child's Place are to:
# provide stable, appropriate education to homeless students
# provide support services to enhance their opportunities for academic success
# provide services to families to ensure long term stability and self-sufficiency
Education and Support
Homeless children are provided with stable, appropriate education in a mainstream setting through A Child's Place. Comprehensive and timely assessments ensure that students receive the instruction and services they need. For the homeless students who are in need of extra support in order to achieve academic success, food, clothing, personal hygiene products and school supplies are distributed. Volunteer professionals provide medical, dental and counseling services. Volunteer tutors and "lunch buddy" mentors also offer academic and emotional support to children coping with stress, fear and other emotions resulting from homelessness. Scholarships to after school programs accomodate working parents' schedules and enrich learning experiences.
Family Advocacy
Housing a child means housing a family. Through its Family Advocacy program, A Child's Place provides parents connections to the employment, housing and education opportunities that can lead to a life of stability. Vital services also available to families include links to crisis counseling, budgeting and financial assistance plus emotional support and encouragement.
Click here to find out more.
The goals of A Child's Place are to:
# provide stable, appropriate education to homeless students
# provide support services to enhance their opportunities for academic success
# provide services to families to ensure long term stability and self-sufficiency
Education and Support
Homeless children are provided with stable, appropriate education in a mainstream setting through A Child's Place. Comprehensive and timely assessments ensure that students receive the instruction and services they need. For the homeless students who are in need of extra support in order to achieve academic success, food, clothing, personal hygiene products and school supplies are distributed. Volunteer professionals provide medical, dental and counseling services. Volunteer tutors and "lunch buddy" mentors also offer academic and emotional support to children coping with stress, fear and other emotions resulting from homelessness. Scholarships to after school programs accomodate working parents' schedules and enrich learning experiences.
Family Advocacy
Housing a child means housing a family. Through its Family Advocacy program, A Child's Place provides parents connections to the employment, housing and education opportunities that can lead to a life of stability. Vital services also available to families include links to crisis counseling, budgeting and financial assistance plus emotional support and encouragement.
Click here to find out more.
Welcome to Sunday Worship 11/1/09
If you don't have a welcoming church near you, or you just can't make yourself step into one, we're bringing worship to you. Here are links to some worship music and services from open and affirming ministries (all times eastern). I hope you are blessed and take time out of your busy schedule to enter into the Lord's day.
Don't forget to click on the tab on the upper right of this blog and leave your prayer requests in the comment section so we can petition the Lord for your needs.
If you know of a service we should add to our list, please send an e-mail and share it with us.
Live Sunday Services (all times Eastern)
VIDEO
MI-Renaissance Unity Church, Warren, 10:00 AM
FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa, 11:00 AM
VA-Believers Covenant Fellowship, Vienna, 11:00 AM
AL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham, 11:45 AM
NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem, 12:00 PM
OK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa, 1:00 PM
CA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach, 1:00 PM
WA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore, 1:30 PM
AUDIO
Canada, Vancouver-Christ Alive Community Church, 10:15 PM
FL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program) 4:30 PM
Video Archive
AL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham
CA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach
FL-Church of the Holy SpiritSong, Ft. Lauderdale
FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa
GA-Gentle Spirit Christian Church, Atlanta
GA-New Covenant Church of Atlanta
MI-Christ Community Church, Spring Lake
MI-Renaissance Unity Church, Warren
NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem
OK-Expressions Community Fellowship, Oklahoma City
OK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa
TX-The One Church, Garland
WA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore
Audio Archive
AZ-Community Church of Hope, Phoenix
AK-Open Door Community Church, Sherwood
CA-Christ Chapel of Long Beach
CA-Christ Chapel of the Valley, North Hollywood
FL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program)
FL-New Hope Christian Center, Pensecola
GA-New Covenant Church of Atlanta
MD-Kittamaqundi Community, Columbia
NC-Revolution Charlotte
OH-Emmanuel Fellowship Church, Akron
OH-All Saints Community Church, Cortland
TN-Covenant of the Cross-Madison
TX-New Hope Fellowship Church-Dallas
TX-White Rock Community Church-Dallas
TX-Community Gospel Church-Houston
TX-Through Him Fellowship-Houston
South Africa-Deo Gloria Family Church
Can we pray for you? E-mail straight_notnarrow@yahoo.com
Don't forget to click on the tab on the upper right of this blog and leave your prayer requests in the comment section so we can petition the Lord for your needs.
If you know of a service we should add to our list, please send an e-mail and share it with us.
Live Sunday Services (all times Eastern)
VIDEO
MI-Renaissance Unity Church, Warren, 10:00 AM
FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa, 11:00 AM
VA-Believers Covenant Fellowship, Vienna, 11:00 AM
AL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham, 11:45 AM
NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem, 12:00 PM
OK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa, 1:00 PM
CA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach, 1:00 PM
WA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore, 1:30 PM
AUDIO
Canada, Vancouver-Christ Alive Community Church, 10:15 PM
FL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program) 4:30 PM
Video Archive
AL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham
CA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach
FL-Church of the Holy SpiritSong, Ft. Lauderdale
FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa
GA-Gentle Spirit Christian Church, Atlanta
GA-New Covenant Church of Atlanta
MI-Christ Community Church, Spring Lake
MI-Renaissance Unity Church, Warren
NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem
OK-Expressions Community Fellowship, Oklahoma City
OK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa
TX-The One Church, Garland
WA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore
Audio Archive
AZ-Community Church of Hope, Phoenix
AK-Open Door Community Church, Sherwood
CA-Christ Chapel of Long Beach
CA-Christ Chapel of the Valley, North Hollywood
FL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program)
FL-New Hope Christian Center, Pensecola
GA-New Covenant Church of Atlanta
MD-Kittamaqundi Community, Columbia
NC-Revolution Charlotte
OH-Emmanuel Fellowship Church, Akron
OH-All Saints Community Church, Cortland
TN-Covenant of the Cross-Madison
TX-New Hope Fellowship Church-Dallas
TX-White Rock Community Church-Dallas
TX-Community Gospel Church-Houston
TX-Through Him Fellowship-Houston
South Africa-Deo Gloria Family Church
Can we pray for you? E-mail straight_notnarrow@yahoo.com