March 13, 2010
Affirming Words 3/13/10-"Real Christianity Is Acceptance" Part 5 of 5
This was the ground breaking sermon by Pastor Rob Buckingham of Bayside Church saying that his church welcomes GLBT people and dispelling many of the myths about homosexuality and the GLBT community. We linked to an audio of this message a few months ago, but we thought the video was well worth posting anyway.
Affirming Resource 3/13/10-Renaissance Community Church, Vancouver, BC Canada
We want to be a church where people can grow stronger, where hurts can be healed and victories are shared as we explore the mystery of God's incredible love.
We invite you to join your heart and soul with ours in worship, praise and quiet reflection into the wonder and awe of a living God.
Come, let the music lift your spirit. For into our busy, changing world we can take the special treasure of His peace, His joy and His life. Gay and lesbian people everywhere are looking for a warm and accepting place, full of life and purpose, where they sense belonging; a place to find practical help for everyday living. Our church is that kind of place. I invite you to get to know us. It can be very exciting around here - something happening all the time. Come and join us! At Renaissance you can "belong, believe and become!"
Click here to find out more.
We invite you to join your heart and soul with ours in worship, praise and quiet reflection into the wonder and awe of a living God.
Come, let the music lift your spirit. For into our busy, changing world we can take the special treasure of His peace, His joy and His life. Gay and lesbian people everywhere are looking for a warm and accepting place, full of life and purpose, where they sense belonging; a place to find practical help for everyday living. Our church is that kind of place. I invite you to get to know us. It can be very exciting around here - something happening all the time. Come and join us! At Renaissance you can "belong, believe and become!"
Click here to find out more.
From the SNN Library 3/13/10-How to Hear From God: Learn to Know His Voice and Make the Right Decisions
We ALL need to have more assurance that what we think we are hearing from God is really from him. This book will help.
Amazon.com rankings: 29 out of 33 users gave it at last 4 out of 5 stars
SNN ranking: 4.5 stars
No-nonsense, best-selling author and Bible teacher Meyer explores the various modes God uses to communicate with his listening followers in this book geared for charismatic Christians. While most Christians would agree that the primary vehicle God utilizes to speak to believers is the Bible, Meyer adds several others that may raise eyebrows among conservative evangelicals. She asserts that devout Christians can and do hear from God via dreams, visions, an audible voice and what Meyer calls an "inner witness" that parallels the still, small voice mentioned in Scripture. She aims to encourage Christians to listen well, as she believes that very few followers of Christ ever fulfill God's perfect plan because they haven't perceived God's directives for their lives. Detailing various obstacles to hearing from God, Meyer candidly shares her own battles with busyness before expounding upon the dangers of rote religious activity, stubborn hard-heartedness, worldly viewpoints, unforgiveness and legalism. Finally, she offers the cure for these ills: the grace of God that brings blessed freedom and restoration. Meyer's trademark plainspoken style carries through here; as a spirit-filled spokesperson for God, she writes her words in the same style she would speak them. Some Christians may wonder about her tendency toward "verse claiming"-the many instances where she thinks God is speaking directly to her through a message or lesson given to some biblical character. However, fans of Meyer's previous works will likely be delighted with this newest offering, and its back-to-basics approach will ensure new fans as well.
Click here to read customer reviews or purchase the book from Amazon.com.
Amazon.com rankings: 29 out of 33 users gave it at last 4 out of 5 stars
SNN ranking: 4.5 stars
No-nonsense, best-selling author and Bible teacher Meyer explores the various modes God uses to communicate with his listening followers in this book geared for charismatic Christians. While most Christians would agree that the primary vehicle God utilizes to speak to believers is the Bible, Meyer adds several others that may raise eyebrows among conservative evangelicals. She asserts that devout Christians can and do hear from God via dreams, visions, an audible voice and what Meyer calls an "inner witness" that parallels the still, small voice mentioned in Scripture. She aims to encourage Christians to listen well, as she believes that very few followers of Christ ever fulfill God's perfect plan because they haven't perceived God's directives for their lives. Detailing various obstacles to hearing from God, Meyer candidly shares her own battles with busyness before expounding upon the dangers of rote religious activity, stubborn hard-heartedness, worldly viewpoints, unforgiveness and legalism. Finally, she offers the cure for these ills: the grace of God that brings blessed freedom and restoration. Meyer's trademark plainspoken style carries through here; as a spirit-filled spokesperson for God, she writes her words in the same style she would speak them. Some Christians may wonder about her tendency toward "verse claiming"-the many instances where she thinks God is speaking directly to her through a message or lesson given to some biblical character. However, fans of Meyer's previous works will likely be delighted with this newest offering, and its back-to-basics approach will ensure new fans as well.
Click here to read customer reviews or purchase the book from Amazon.com.
Encouraging Words 3/13/10 The Whole World in His Hands
From: Love Worth Finding
“And He is before all things, and by Him all things consist.” Colossians 1:17
We sing about the Lord having the whole world in His hands. But do you know what is more remarkable than that? He has the whole universe in His hands.
He’s the One who spoke it into existence. He’s the One who keeps it going. He’s the One who is going to fold it up like a garment and tuck it away in a drawer somewhere. He regulates it; He rules it, and He runs it.
When you pick up the newspaper and read something alarming, you don’t need to panic. That just says “Praise God, I told you so!” God is in control! He, who flung the stars in space, has the whole universe in His hands!
Take the hand of a child today and look at the stars twinkling in the night sky or a flower beginning to bloom, then share about the awesome Creator and Sustainer of all.
“And He is before all things, and by Him all things consist.” Colossians 1:17
We sing about the Lord having the whole world in His hands. But do you know what is more remarkable than that? He has the whole universe in His hands.
He’s the One who spoke it into existence. He’s the One who keeps it going. He’s the One who is going to fold it up like a garment and tuck it away in a drawer somewhere. He regulates it; He rules it, and He runs it.
When you pick up the newspaper and read something alarming, you don’t need to panic. That just says “Praise God, I told you so!” God is in control! He, who flung the stars in space, has the whole universe in His hands!
Take the hand of a child today and look at the stars twinkling in the night sky or a flower beginning to bloom, then share about the awesome Creator and Sustainer of all.
March 12, 2010
Affirming Words 3/12/10-"Real Christianity Is Acceptance" Part 4 of 5
This was the ground breaking sermon by Pastor Rob Buckingham of Bayside Church saying that his church welcomes GLBT people and dispelling many of the myths about homosexuality and the GLBT community. We linked to an audio of this message a few months ago, but we thought the video was well worth posting anyway.
Affirming Resource 3/12/10-University Baptist Church, Austin, TX
Since its founding in 1908, University Baptist Church has been known as Austin's Progressive voice of faith, reaching far beyond its campus near the University of Texas to call Austinites into a dynamic relationship with God. That relationship, based on the Gospel of God's love for all persons, is reflected in UBC's doctrine, in its congregation and in its work in the community.
University Baptist Church recognizes each person's right to think freely, providing an open environment for intellectual as well as spiritual fulfillment. It strongly proclaims faith in God through Jesus Christ and affirms that all people are embraced by God's grace and love. Members of the congregation are diverse in their religious roots--mainly Baptist, but also Methodist, Presbyterian, Catholic--and in their social, political and ethnic backgrounds. The church welcomes all persons of any age, race, gender, education, marital or family status. In UBC's inclusive atmosphere, individuals can find family, families can find community, the injured can find healing, and all can seek truth and peace in a setting of spiritual unity and trust.
Click here to find out more.
University Baptist Church recognizes each person's right to think freely, providing an open environment for intellectual as well as spiritual fulfillment. It strongly proclaims faith in God through Jesus Christ and affirms that all people are embraced by God's grace and love. Members of the congregation are diverse in their religious roots--mainly Baptist, but also Methodist, Presbyterian, Catholic--and in their social, political and ethnic backgrounds. The church welcomes all persons of any age, race, gender, education, marital or family status. In UBC's inclusive atmosphere, individuals can find family, families can find community, the injured can find healing, and all can seek truth and peace in a setting of spiritual unity and trust.
Click here to find out more.
LGBT Helping Hands 3/12/10-Gay and Lesbian Counseling Services, New South Wales, Australia
Gay and Lesbian Counselling Service of NSW (GLCS) is a volunteer based community service providing free, anonymous and confidential telephone counselling, information and referral services and support groups for gay men, lesbians, bisexual and transgender persons (GLBT) throughout New South Wales (NSW) on sexuality and life issues.
Click here to find out more.
Click here to find out more.
Encouraging Words 3/12/10 The Truth Shall Make You Free
From: Love Worth Finding
“And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:32
Have you ever been to a circus and seen an elephant chained to a stake in the ground? Why doesn’t he break free? Because as a young elephant he was tied to a tree. And try as he might, he couldn’t break free. Now, he is ingrained with the thought that he cannot break free.
How true that is of you and me who have ingrained thought patterns in our lives. We say, “I am chained to this habit, and I can’t break free.” Or we say, “I’m not good enough.” All kinds of lies keep us in bondage, but real truth is what God says, not what we think.
Are there any strongholds in your life that keep you chained to the past? Write down these verses and memorize them.
2 Corinthians 10:4
“(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)”
Galatians 5:1
“Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.”
Now break free from the lies of the past as you tell yourself the truth!
“And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:32
Have you ever been to a circus and seen an elephant chained to a stake in the ground? Why doesn’t he break free? Because as a young elephant he was tied to a tree. And try as he might, he couldn’t break free. Now, he is ingrained with the thought that he cannot break free.
How true that is of you and me who have ingrained thought patterns in our lives. We say, “I am chained to this habit, and I can’t break free.” Or we say, “I’m not good enough.” All kinds of lies keep us in bondage, but real truth is what God says, not what we think.
Are there any strongholds in your life that keep you chained to the past? Write down these verses and memorize them.
2 Corinthians 10:4
“(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)”
Galatians 5:1
“Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.”
Now break free from the lies of the past as you tell yourself the truth!
March 11, 2010
Matthew 25 Resource 3/12/10-My Father's House
Our Mission...
is to value the underserved sub-rural population by assisting and empowering individuals and families to overcome life's challenges. Opportunities for growth are provided in a nurturing environment of grace, hope and optimism.
Acceptance: We love, accept and care for people just as they are.
is to value the underserved sub-rural population by assisting and empowering individuals and families to overcome life's challenges. Opportunities for growth are provided in a nurturing environment of grace, hope and optimism.
Acceptance: We love, accept and care for people just as they are.
Affirming Words 3/11/10-"Real Christianity Is Accpetance" Part 3 of 5
This was the ground breaking sermon by Pastor Rob Buckingham of Bayside Church saying that his church welcomes GLBT people and dispelling many of the myths about homosexuality and the GLBT community. We linked to an audio of this message a few months ago, but we thought the video was well worth posting anyway.
Matthew 25 Resource 3/11/10-Mercy Corps
Mercy Corps exists to alleviate suffering, poverty and oppression by helping people build secure, productive and just communities.
Mercy Corps is a team of 3700 professionals helping turn crisis into opportunity for millions around the world. By trade, we are engineers, financial analysts, drivers, community organizers, project managers, public health experts, administrators, social entrepreneurs and logisticians. In spirit, we are activists, optimists, innovators and proud partners of the people we serve
Click here to find out more.
Mercy Corps is a team of 3700 professionals helping turn crisis into opportunity for millions around the world. By trade, we are engineers, financial analysts, drivers, community organizers, project managers, public health experts, administrators, social entrepreneurs and logisticians. In spirit, we are activists, optimists, innovators and proud partners of the people we serve
Click here to find out more.
Affirming Resource 3/11/10-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa FL
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.
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.
LGBT Helping Hands 3/11/10-Gay Lesbian Community Services of Southeast Minnesota (Rochester)
GLCS is a volunteer service organization. We provide educational, informational, and social resources to the gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, and transgender communities, their families, friends, and any interested persons. In addition, we work closely with area GLBTA related groups, human and social service agencies, educational institutions, churches and other organizations so that we may easily connect you with the group or organization that specialize in the area(s) of particular interest to you.
Click here to find out more.
Click here to find out more.
Encouraging Words 3/11/10 Praise the Lord
From: Love Worth Finding
“Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever.” Revelation 7:12
I heard about a man who got a little excited in a church. He kept shouting, “Praise the Lord!” One day, some of the brethren called on him while he was plowing his fields.
When they were finished talking, he hung his head and said, “I know it’s the truth. I have disturbed the services, but, you know, I sit there and think of what the Lord has done for me . . . how He died in agony and blood for me upon the cross . . . how He’s forgiven all of my sins . . . how He’s filled me with the spirit and . . . here, hold this mule while I shout!”
If being a Christian and going to heaven doesn’t excite you, you have calluses on your soul. It’s exciting to know the Lord Jesus Christ!
When was the last time you raised your hands and shouted “Praise the Lord!” Maybe right now is a good time to do just that!
“Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever.” Revelation 7:12
I heard about a man who got a little excited in a church. He kept shouting, “Praise the Lord!” One day, some of the brethren called on him while he was plowing his fields.
When they were finished talking, he hung his head and said, “I know it’s the truth. I have disturbed the services, but, you know, I sit there and think of what the Lord has done for me . . . how He died in agony and blood for me upon the cross . . . how He’s forgiven all of my sins . . . how He’s filled me with the spirit and . . . here, hold this mule while I shout!”
If being a Christian and going to heaven doesn’t excite you, you have calluses on your soul. It’s exciting to know the Lord Jesus Christ!
When was the last time you raised your hands and shouted “Praise the Lord!” Maybe right now is a good time to do just that!
March 10, 2010
Affirming Words 3/10/10-"Real Christianity Is Acceptance" Part 2 of 5
This was the ground breaking sermon by Pastor Rob Buckingham of Bayside Church saying that his church welcomes GLBT people and dispelling many of the myths about homosexuality and the GLBT community. We linked to an audio of this message a few months ago, but we thought the video was well worth posting anyway.
Matthew 25 Resource 3/10/10-Sojourners' Alliance (Moscow, ID)
Sojourners' Alliance is a private, nonprofit organization working toward a
vision of dignity and equality for all people. Our mission is to promote the
personal growth, empowerment, and self-sufficiency of people in transition by
providing decent housing affordable to low-income persons, basic services,
education in life and interpersonal skills, counseling, and opportunities for
integration into the community.
The organization began in 1991 as the YWCA of the Palouse. Its shelter, the Sojourner Truth House, originally housed homeless women and children. In 1996, the name was officially changed to Sojourners' Alliance, and in 1999, work began on the new shelter site, which is where we are still located today. The new location and buildings allowed for the shelter to begin offering services to not only women and their children, but single men and women as well.
Click here to find out more.
The organization began in 1991 as the YWCA of the Palouse. Its shelter, the Sojourner Truth House, originally housed homeless women and children. In 1996, the name was officially changed to Sojourners' Alliance, and in 1999, work began on the new shelter site, which is where we are still located today. The new location and buildings allowed for the shelter to begin offering services to not only women and their children, but single men and women as well.
Click here to find out more.
Affirming Resource 3/10/10-Olin T. Binkley Memorial Baptist Church, Chapel Hill, NC
Do you seek a spiritual home where everyone is welcome, where faith is a matter of the mind as well as the heart, and where seeking God also means working for justice and peace?
If so, you are not alone! We are an inclusive and progressive Christian community of faith, open to diverse understandings of religious truth, with a strong commitment to social and environmental justice in our community and wider world. Come and see if Binkley Baptist Church is the faith community you've been looking for. We'd love to have you visit us!
Click here to find out more.
If so, you are not alone! We are an inclusive and progressive Christian community of faith, open to diverse understandings of religious truth, with a strong commitment to social and environmental justice in our community and wider world. Come and see if Binkley Baptist Church is the faith community you've been looking for. We'd love to have you visit us!
Click here to find out more.
LGBT Helping Hands 3/10/10-Northern Virginia AIDS Ministry (Falls Church)
The Northern Virginia AIDS Ministry (NOVAM) was founded in 1987 by members of concerned faith communities in Northern Virginia who wanted to provide a compassionate response to the AIDS crisis. Since that time, NOVAM has played a significant role in the struggle against the AIDS epidemic by providing responsive programs throughout the region.
The mission of NOVAM is to educate the community about HIV/AIDS, to combat the fear, prejudice, and complacency that surround the disease, and to provide direct services to meet the needs of those who are living with HIV/AIDS. We pledge to serve all those who have been touched by this epidemic, regardless of gender, race, disability, creed, sexual orientation, or national origin.
NOVAM's mission is guided by a clear understanding of the needs of the local community, the particular challenges confronted by people living with HIV and AIDS, and a mandate to respond to the changing face of the epidemic. NOVAM's programs address a two-fold need for prevention of further HIV infection, as well as the critical need to care for people living with HIV and AIDS.
Click here to find out more.
The mission of NOVAM is to educate the community about HIV/AIDS, to combat the fear, prejudice, and complacency that surround the disease, and to provide direct services to meet the needs of those who are living with HIV/AIDS. We pledge to serve all those who have been touched by this epidemic, regardless of gender, race, disability, creed, sexual orientation, or national origin.
NOVAM's mission is guided by a clear understanding of the needs of the local community, the particular challenges confronted by people living with HIV and AIDS, and a mandate to respond to the changing face of the epidemic. NOVAM's programs address a two-fold need for prevention of further HIV infection, as well as the critical need to care for people living with HIV and AIDS.
Click here to find out more.
Encouraging Words 3/10/10 Be Angry and Sin Not
From: Love Worth Finding
“Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath.” Ephesians 4:26
God’s Word tells us to be “slow to wrath” (Proverbs 14:29, James 1:19). There’s nothing that will do more damage to your relationships than unwanted, unwarranted anger. If you are given to anger, let me tell you a couple of things the Bible says, and it won’t be flattering.
First, the Bible says you are foolish. Ecclesiastes 7:9 says, “For anger resteth in the bosom of fools.” Second, you have a weak character. Proverbs 16:32 says, “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” Uncontrolled anger is like throwing a rock into a wasp’s nest.
Do you have a short fuse? If so, confess it to the Lord. Don’t let Satan get a stronghold in your life. If you get angry today, ask yourself, “What need is not being met?” and give it to the Lord.
“Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath.” Ephesians 4:26
God’s Word tells us to be “slow to wrath” (Proverbs 14:29, James 1:19). There’s nothing that will do more damage to your relationships than unwanted, unwarranted anger. If you are given to anger, let me tell you a couple of things the Bible says, and it won’t be flattering.
First, the Bible says you are foolish. Ecclesiastes 7:9 says, “For anger resteth in the bosom of fools.” Second, you have a weak character. Proverbs 16:32 says, “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” Uncontrolled anger is like throwing a rock into a wasp’s nest.
Do you have a short fuse? If so, confess it to the Lord. Don’t let Satan get a stronghold in your life. If you get angry today, ask yourself, “What need is not being met?” and give it to the Lord.
March 09, 2010
Affirming Event: Church of the Holy SpiritSong Revival Meeting 3/16-3/21
Church of the Holy SpiritSong, located at the site known as Equality Park, 2040B North Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors is pleased to announce its first ever Revival Meeting, March 16 – 21, 2010.
Reverend J.R. Finney II, Senior Pastor of Covenant Community Church in Birmingham, Alabama will be bringing the messages of hope, grace, and commitment. Services will begin at 7:30 pm beginning March 16 through March 19 and at 10:00 am on Sunday, March 21. Dove Award winning artist Ray Boltz will be performing on Saturday evening, March 20, at 7:30 pm. All are welcome!
Reverend Finney is a much sought after speaker, lecturer, and panelist on a wide range of issues – especially those affecting the GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bi-sexual, Transgender) communities. His personal ministry philosophy is to lead the GLBT community in a faith that builds healthy, wholesome relationships with God through Jesus Christ and ones that makes a practical difference in the daily living of lives, proclaiming loudly “the inclusive love of God without the guilt of religion.”
Ray Boltz has dedicated over fifteen years to music and ministry. Through these years he has captured the attention of the CCM industry by garnering three Dove Awards, two gold albums, a gold video, and twelve number one singles. He has also sold more than four million units of product. Through all this time and these accomplishments Ray’s vision for his ministry still remains the same…to produce and perform music that allows listeners and audiences to see Jesus Christ.
Church of the Holy SpiritSong is a Christ centered evangelical body of believers with a mission to “ignite the world for Christ…one life at a time.” Its only agenda is to build community in the light and love of Jesus Christ who gave His all so that we stand before God as His beloved children. Regular worship services are held every Sunday morning at 10:00 am at SpiritSong Worship Center, 2040B North Dixie Highway, Suite 3, Wilton Manors, Florida, and at 8:00 pm on Wednesday at the same location.
Reverend Thomas O. (Tom) Millner, Sr. Pastor
Reverend Leslie Tipton, Associate Pastor
954-418-8372
www.cohss.org
Reverend J.R. Finney II, Senior Pastor of Covenant Community Church in Birmingham, Alabama will be bringing the messages of hope, grace, and commitment. Services will begin at 7:30 pm beginning March 16 through March 19 and at 10:00 am on Sunday, March 21. Dove Award winning artist Ray Boltz will be performing on Saturday evening, March 20, at 7:30 pm. All are welcome!
Reverend Finney is a much sought after speaker, lecturer, and panelist on a wide range of issues – especially those affecting the GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bi-sexual, Transgender) communities. His personal ministry philosophy is to lead the GLBT community in a faith that builds healthy, wholesome relationships with God through Jesus Christ and ones that makes a practical difference in the daily living of lives, proclaiming loudly “the inclusive love of God without the guilt of religion.”
Ray Boltz has dedicated over fifteen years to music and ministry. Through these years he has captured the attention of the CCM industry by garnering three Dove Awards, two gold albums, a gold video, and twelve number one singles. He has also sold more than four million units of product. Through all this time and these accomplishments Ray’s vision for his ministry still remains the same…to produce and perform music that allows listeners and audiences to see Jesus Christ.
Church of the Holy SpiritSong is a Christ centered evangelical body of believers with a mission to “ignite the world for Christ…one life at a time.” Its only agenda is to build community in the light and love of Jesus Christ who gave His all so that we stand before God as His beloved children. Regular worship services are held every Sunday morning at 10:00 am at SpiritSong Worship Center, 2040B North Dixie Highway, Suite 3, Wilton Manors, Florida, and at 8:00 pm on Wednesday at the same location.
Reverend Thomas O. (Tom) Millner, Sr. Pastor
Reverend Leslie Tipton, Associate Pastor
954-418-8372
www.cohss.org
Affirming Words 3/9/10-"Real Christianity Is Accepting" Part 1 of 5
This was the ground breaking sermon by Pastor Rob Buckingham of Bayside Church saying that his church welcomes GLBT people and dispelling many of the myths about homosexuality and the GLBT community. We linked to an audio of this message a few months ago, but we thought the video was well worth posting anyway.
Matthew 25 Resource 3/9/10-Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter, Waterville, ME
The Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter is a special place where homeless people are treated as and referred to as guests.
The Shelter is run by a full-time Executive Director, four full-time staff, several part-time staff, and many dedicated volunteers who keep the shelter open from 6:00 pm to 8:00 am, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Registration is from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
\The demand for shelter has been increasing for the last few years and we have seen a dramatic increase in the number of homeless families. On average, our guests stay for about 14 days. We network with several area organizations and concerned citizens to help ensure a better future for our guests.
The Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter has more than 100 volunteers. Volunteers help with cleaning, organizing the shelter, cooking meals, assisting staff with guests' needs, help with preparations for the holidays, sort and store donations of food, furniture, and supplies. Volunteers also aid in getting donations of much needed items such as clothing, books, supplies, toiletries and the like.
Click here to find out more.
The Shelter is run by a full-time Executive Director, four full-time staff, several part-time staff, and many dedicated volunteers who keep the shelter open from 6:00 pm to 8:00 am, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Registration is from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
\The demand for shelter has been increasing for the last few years and we have seen a dramatic increase in the number of homeless families. On average, our guests stay for about 14 days. We network with several area organizations and concerned citizens to help ensure a better future for our guests.
The Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter has more than 100 volunteers. Volunteers help with cleaning, organizing the shelter, cooking meals, assisting staff with guests' needs, help with preparations for the holidays, sort and store donations of food, furniture, and supplies. Volunteers also aid in getting donations of much needed items such as clothing, books, supplies, toiletries and the like.
Click here to find out more.
Cornerstone Fellowship is an independent, evangelical Christian church called by God to minister to all people, regardless of race, culture, social standing, sexual orientation or gender identity. This ministry, one of reconciliation (...God...gave us the ministry of reconciliation... II Corinthians 5:18), is twofold. First, with those who have never received the gift of salvation, we seek to share the good news of God's forgiveness of their sins through Jesus Christ:
"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23)
And, to those who have already accepted Christ as their Savior, but have been rejected by other churches , we offer the good news from God found in Romans 8:1:
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Click here to find out more.
"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23)
And, to those who have already accepted Christ as their Savior, but have been rejected by other churches , we offer the good news from God found in Romans 8:1:
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Click here to find out more.
LGBT Helping Hands 3/9/10-The Network/La Red (Boston, MA)
The Network/La Red was formed in 1989 when a group of formerly battered lesbians came together to address domestic violence in lesbian and bisexual women's communities in Boston. Initially the group worked to educate the community and existing programs/resources for battered women about the existence of woman-to-woman battering and the need for programs to address it. In 1991, the group incorporated under the name New England Women's Support, Inc. d/b/a The Network for Battered Lesbians. The Network changed its name to the Network for Battered Lesbians and Bisexual Women in 1996, and in 2000 to The Network/La Red: Ending abuse in lesbian, bisexual women's, and transgender communities.
Click here to find out more.
Click here to find out more.
Encouraging Words 3/9/10 To Tell the Truth
From: Love Worth Finding
“Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor: for we are members one of another.” Ephesians 4:25
When I was in college, I pastored a little church 130 miles away. One night, as I was driving back home, I realized that one of my headlights was out. I was hoping I wouldn’t get stopped when a highway patrolman pulled me over.
He said, “Son, did you know one of your headlights is out?” I replied, “One of my headlights is out?” He said, “Son, you’d better get that fixed.” I said, “Yes, sir.”
When I got back in the car, the Holy Spirit said, “Adrian, you lied.” I said, “No, I didn’t lie. I told the truth.” He said, “You lied.”
If there is any area in your heart that is not based on truth, you’ve made the devil a home.
I want you to play a game of catch today, but this will only involve one person – you! When the temptation urges you to lie, catch yourself and tell the truth.
“Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor: for we are members one of another.” Ephesians 4:25
When I was in college, I pastored a little church 130 miles away. One night, as I was driving back home, I realized that one of my headlights was out. I was hoping I wouldn’t get stopped when a highway patrolman pulled me over.
He said, “Son, did you know one of your headlights is out?” I replied, “One of my headlights is out?” He said, “Son, you’d better get that fixed.” I said, “Yes, sir.”
When I got back in the car, the Holy Spirit said, “Adrian, you lied.” I said, “No, I didn’t lie. I told the truth.” He said, “You lied.”
If there is any area in your heart that is not based on truth, you’ve made the devil a home.
I want you to play a game of catch today, but this will only involve one person – you! When the temptation urges you to lie, catch yourself and tell the truth.
March 08, 2010
Affirming Event: Gentle Spirit Christian Church 12th Anniversary Picinc
Celebrating its 12th Anniversary with a redesigned website and new members, Gentle Spirit Christian Church invites friends, supporters and the public to a picnic celebration at Noon on Sunday, March 21st, in the first picnic pavilion at Candler Park.
Founded on March 15th, 1998, Gentle Spirit Christian Church has met as “The Church Without Walls” in Candler Park since late 2006. Its ministries include homelessness/hunger, addiction, HIV/AIDS, and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people and their allies.
“The Gentle Spirit congregation of today looks a little different from the one of 12 years ago,” said Rev. Paul M. Turner, founding and senior pastor. “We started the church with a specific ministry to gay Christians, and as we’ve explored what it means to extend God’s welcome to everyone, we’ve become a church where truly anyone can feel they have a place at the table.”
The picnic celebration on Sunday, March 21st is open to the public. Rev. Turner will give highlights from the church’s history, and church members will be invited to share some of their own favorite stories. Attendees are invited to bring a potluck dish to share, but anyone is welcome to attend whether or not they bring a dish, and everyone is welcome to share in the meal and fellowship.
Gentle Spirit Christian Church is an independent, affirming and progressive congregation serving the metro Atlanta community. "The Church Without Walls" meets on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. in the first picnic pavilion in Atlanta's Candler Park (1500 McLendon Avenue NE, Atlanta) and also offers a joint service, "Communion in Community", on Sundays at 6:47 p.m. at First Christian Church of Decatur, 601 West Ponce de Leon Avenue, Decatur. The church's website is at http://www.gentlespirit.org.
Founded on March 15th, 1998, Gentle Spirit Christian Church has met as “The Church Without Walls” in Candler Park since late 2006. Its ministries include homelessness/hunger, addiction, HIV/AIDS, and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people and their allies.
“The Gentle Spirit congregation of today looks a little different from the one of 12 years ago,” said Rev. Paul M. Turner, founding and senior pastor. “We started the church with a specific ministry to gay Christians, and as we’ve explored what it means to extend God’s welcome to everyone, we’ve become a church where truly anyone can feel they have a place at the table.”
The picnic celebration on Sunday, March 21st is open to the public. Rev. Turner will give highlights from the church’s history, and church members will be invited to share some of their own favorite stories. Attendees are invited to bring a potluck dish to share, but anyone is welcome to attend whether or not they bring a dish, and everyone is welcome to share in the meal and fellowship.
Gentle Spirit Christian Church is an independent, affirming and progressive congregation serving the metro Atlanta community. "The Church Without Walls" meets on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. in the first picnic pavilion in Atlanta's Candler Park (1500 McLendon Avenue NE, Atlanta) and also offers a joint service, "Communion in Community", on Sundays at 6:47 p.m. at First Christian Church of Decatur, 601 West Ponce de Leon Avenue, Decatur. The church's website is at http://www.gentlespirit.org.
Matthew 25 Resource 3/8/10-Harvest Texarcana
Harvest Texarkana, a United Way agency, is dedicated to alleviating hunger through the free distribution of donated excess food to programs feeding those in need and to educating the community about the causes of hunger. Harvest Texarkana serves 10 counties surrounding the Texarkana community. We are a United Way agency. Approximately 140 agencies use Harvest Texarkana’s Food Bank and/or Food Rescue Program. Approximately 800,000 pounds of food were distributed by Harvest in 2007 Harvest Texarkana’s BackPack Program for needy children supplies underprivileged children with backpacks full of food for each weekend and school holiday. We are currently serving children from 3 school districts and six campuses. Nearly 400 children benefited from this unique program during the 2006-2007 school year. Harvest Texarkana’s services allow area soup kitchens, shelters, food pantries, after school programs and other food assistance programs to be good stewards of their limited resources. Member agencies pay a small shared maintenance fee for the food they receive from Harvest Texarkana. This helps to defray some of the overhead, transportation expenses and frozen food storage fees associated with distributing over three quarters of a million pounds of food. The shared maintenance fee means that agencies can get 10 times as much food for their money at the food bank rather than paying retail or wholesale prices. Truckloads of food are donated from all over the country. Many times the product is donated as a result from over-runs or excess inventory. Agencies can choose from more than 250 different items and are allowed to order as often as they choose.
Click here to find out more.
Click here to find out more.
Affirming Resource 3/8/10-South Congregational First Baptist Church, New Brittan, CT
Welcome to South Church! We are a diverse community of faithful and seekers. We are Baptist (ABC) and Congregational (UCC); we are black, brown and white, gay and straight, Republican and Democrat, born again and agnostic; we work in schools, offices, factories and Dunkin’ Donuts; we are students, retired and unemployed. We come from backgrounds Protestant and Catholic, while others are discovering church for the first time.
And when we come together with our joys and sorrows, our faith and our doubts – when we worship together, share communion together, sing together, study the Bible together, and fellowship together – we love and support one another to become one body of Christ.
No matter who you are, no matter where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.
Welcome home to South Church.
Peace,
George Harris
Lead Pastor
Click here to find out more.
And when we come together with our joys and sorrows, our faith and our doubts – when we worship together, share communion together, sing together, study the Bible together, and fellowship together – we love and support one another to become one body of Christ.
No matter who you are, no matter where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.
Welcome home to South Church.
Peace,
George Harris
Lead Pastor
Click here to find out more.
LGBT Helping Hands 3/8/10-LGBT Community Center Coalition, Harrisburg PA
The mission of the LGBT Community Center Coalition is to create common ground for the LGBT community and allies in Central Pennsylvania by providing services through spiritual, educational and cultural activities that foster wholeness. We seek to:
· Create a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment
· Provide and support comprehensive programs throughout the community
· Embrace diversity, health and wellness
Click here to find out more.
· Create a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment
· Provide and support comprehensive programs throughout the community
· Embrace diversity, health and wellness
Click here to find out more.
Encouraging Words 3/8/10 Who You Are in Christ
From: Love Worth Finding
“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1
The key to living a victorious Christian life is to discover who you are in Christ. Many Christians have never discovered this. They remind me of the man who had an identity problem and an energy crisis at the same time. He didn’t know who he was and he was too tired to find out.
God doesn’t work from the outside in. He works from the inside out. God doesn’t modify our behavior in order to change us. He changes us in order to modify our behavior.
You’re never going to purify the water by painting the pump. That’s legalism and that’s a dead end to discovering who you are in Christ.
Take God’s Word and find the phrase, “in Christ.” As you find phrases that apply to your life, write those down. Begin with phrases such as “no condemnation” now that you are “in Christ.”
“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1
The key to living a victorious Christian life is to discover who you are in Christ. Many Christians have never discovered this. They remind me of the man who had an identity problem and an energy crisis at the same time. He didn’t know who he was and he was too tired to find out.
God doesn’t work from the outside in. He works from the inside out. God doesn’t modify our behavior in order to change us. He changes us in order to modify our behavior.
You’re never going to purify the water by painting the pump. That’s legalism and that’s a dead end to discovering who you are in Christ.
Take God’s Word and find the phrase, “in Christ.” As you find phrases that apply to your life, write those down. Begin with phrases such as “no condemnation” now that you are “in Christ.”
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
