Good morning church family,
40f9d1ae-dce8-b229-0ca9-c2af9ad06ac5@yahoo.com>”>GIVING THANKS:
* Thanks to Tori Saracino for her teaching the Ladies bible study on “PATIENCE”. She did an outstanding job and we are incredibly proud of our Young Adults! Gama is equally as proud!
930f1ed8-4647-0365-c33b-f027d45cda6a@yahoo.com>”>
388d0952-8ae9-3d29-827e-beca7484e76f@yahoo.com>”>PRAYER REQUESTS:
* Linda Cerminara has been moved to Ludlow Rehabilitation center. The address is 118 Jefferson Street, Fairfield, CT which is basically on Sacred Heart University’s campus, and visitors are welcomed.
97072fb2-6593-a45a-1286-8e5c2c78eda2@yahoo.com>”>* Karen Ohrenberger’s Mother Barbara Hodges passed away Sunday, February 9th. Her Father John passed away only 4 months ago. John & Barbara were married 72 years. Our prayers go out to all of the family at this difficult time. Karen and Kevin’s address is: 213 Garden Heights Lane, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Barbara’s obituary is below:
* Derin Wilson’s Father passed away this past week. Prayers for the Wilson family and Michelle.
* Mary Lou’s friend Linda Roy broke her leg.
* Ron asked for prayers for his cousin David who’s fiance Kelsey has cancer.
* Prayers for Nancy Melson who continues to struggle with high pain levels.
COMING UP:
FEBRUARY EVENTS, LORD WILLING
9766e5d7-387a-9cd7-964e-6a7b6ad5c675@yahoo.com>”>TODAY – February 15th – MENS BREAKFAST 9:00 AM at the building
The last Men’s breakfast was very well attended with new visitors who came. Andrew Langalis will lead the devotional this morning. All men are encouraged to attend.
fcc62037-cd70-327a-b2c3-ff5f453ee2db@yahoo.com>”>TUESDAY LADIES BIBLE STUDY via zoom at 9:30 a.m
The next class will be February 18th when they begin a new study of REVELATION. Please see Mary Lou to get the book for this next study. Thanks to Lisa and Mary Lou for these great mid-week studies.
This Thursday, February 20th – Trumbull will be hosting a Preacher’s Meeting for our area’s preachers . If you would like to help provide food ( sandwiches , chips, drinks , salads or baked goods) , there is a sign-up sheet on the door in the foyer. Any donations will be greatly appreciated . Please see Ron or Lisa with questions.
5d7b6c05-f803-f331-5983-e81a5f590e15@yahoo.com>”>MARCH DATES, LORD WILLING:
Sunday, March 2nd – NEW CONVERTS CLASS 10:00 A.M. – There will be a new converts class beginning this Sunday for any newly baptized members.
Saturday March 8th – Sister Beulah Collymore will teach the Saturday morning Ladies bible class on “Kindness” at the church building. 10:00 – 12:00 noon.
Saturday March 15th – Bridal shower for Kristen Hubbell at the building 12:30 pm – 3pm. The main course for lunch will be provided, ladies if you can bring a side or desert, that would be great!
Kristen ‘s registry is below:
Friday March 28th – Ladies’ Night at the Church building 6pm. Fellowship with movie to follow – Ordinary Angels to follow at 7pm. Please bring snacks / finger foods and /or desserts to share. Feel free to bring a friend as well.
Friday/ Saturday March 21-22 INSPIRE NEW ENGLAND workshop in Manchester, CT. See flyer on the auditorium table for details.
Sunday March 30th – Pot Luck
9312dfef-2bfd-dde8-5acd-308248746258@yahoo.com>”>In scripture, fire is referred to as a literal force of God’s power and a rich metaphor for His presence, judgment, and purification. From the consuming fire of God’s wrath to the refining fire that purifies hearts, scripture uses fire to convey deep spiritual truths about God’s character and His work in this world.
In the Old Testament, fire often represents God’s holiness and judgment. God revealed Himself to Moses in the burning bush in Exodus 3:2, demonstrating His presence in a fire that burned without consuming the bush.
8ad34a9f-868d-53f1-1910-bbacfe0e1d83@yahoo.com>”>Fire also descended from heaven to consume offerings, showing God’s acceptance of sacrifices in Leviticus 9:24.
f7e23628-6dcb-3642-4ff2-8d93a27e0c74@yahoo.com>”>Fire was also a symbol of God’s wrath and destruction, such as when He rained down fire on Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19:24
ae83600a-e91b-28f9-7ab3-28b2c24c526a@yahoo.com>”>and when fire consumed those who opposed Him in Numbers 16:35.
58ac4063-dee6-40d0-3026-88d33956e525@yahoo.com>”>In the New Testament, fire takes on a more symbolic role in representing purification, the Holy Spirit and judgment.
John the Baptist spoke of Jesus baptizing with the Holy Spirit and fire – Matthew 3:11, signifying a refining work that burns away sin.
a67b5016-8cbf-617a-8e4a-32184e8932ec@yahoo.com>”>On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit appeared as tongues of fire reseting on the disciples, empowering them to spread the Gospel in Acts 2:3-4.
aec72631-80a9-5c0f-2e11-6954dd9d768a@yahoo.com>”>In the book of Hebrews, chapter 12:29 we read that we are receiving a Kingdom that cannot be shaken, and to be thankful. To worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our GOD is an all consuming fire.
4c8794dc-ec8a-e73e-f004-bf289862669e@yahoo.com>”>Fire also symbolizes eternal judgment as in the lake of fire, prepared for the devil and his followers – Revelation 20:10.
387987bc-fba7-c896-c5ce-2cd0616557a5@yahoo.com>”>Throughout Scripture, fire is used to demonstrate God’s power, His Holy presence, and His role as both Judge and Refiner. Whether it’s through visions, acts of destruction, or spiritual purification, the imagery of fire reminds us of God’s greatness and His desire to make us holy.
When we put all of this together, we should be motivated and ON FIRE to live earnestly for GOD’S GLORY!
The prophet Jeremiah had such passion for God’s word that in Chapter 20:9 the scripture shares that He could not contain it! The Holy Spirit ignites a fire within us to speak and live out God’s truth!
ab8fe901-7c00-ee47-a296-31522b17c265@yahoo.com>”>The scriptures warn against complacency…
Zephaniah 1:12
“At that time I will search Jerusalem with lamps
and punish those who are complacent,
who are like wine left on its dregs,
who think, ‘The Lord will do nothing,
either good or bad. “
Proverbs 1:32
“For the turning away of the simple shall slay them
and the complacency of fools will destroy them.“
8b79b261-e450-5864-b43e-8ff43cfefc7e@yahoo.com>”>Complacency is a dangerous place to be in our faith.
This is a perfect segway for us to take this opportunity to thank Zach and Tori Saracino for leading and organizing the Young Adults group that meets regularly. Their purpose and thrust behind all of what they are doing is entirely rooted in the LORD, creating bonds that will last a lifetime and all for GOD’S glory!
We are all so encouraged by watching these Young Adults in Action! To see Young People in today’s times PRAISING THE LORD, is a gift beyond words. Their JOY in not only being together fellowshipping, but for the LORD, is something beyond special, it is INFECTIOUS!
They are enthusiastic and fervent in their service to GOD, and ON FIRE for the LORD.
What simply shines through is….their love for God and their love one another, the TOP 2 COMMANDMENTS!
c6d6b22d-9e14-d7fe-e8fd-619f9afa7c4d@yahoo.com>”>EDIFYING & ENCOURAGING ONE ANOTHER
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
The Young Adults CELEBRATE one another, taking time to honor each other’s birthdays, calls and texts throughout the week and more.
When Kevon Turner was teaching at Tidal River and was away for 4 weeks, several of the Young Adults drove out to see him and let him know he was missed! They care for one another, and it shows.
1fa63c05-9aa5-18f1-ee18-587b9aa93b4b@yahoo.com>”>GROWING IN THE FAITH
2 Peter 3:18 “But grow in the grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity.“
These young adults, are studying God’s word every chance they get! They clearly know the reason for this fellowship is to glorify GOD.
EXCITED ABOUT THEIR FAITH
“Romans 12:11 “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the LORD.“
Not sure if you have noticed, but if you approach any one of our Young Adults, they are beaming! Their faith simply shines and it is contagious, which is why they are growing! Several new young adults have joined them.
BEING THANKFUL
1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
If you haven’t talked with Zach or Tori, or any of the Young Adults, the words “Thank you” are always on their lips. They are thankful for all who have hosted their get togethers, they are thankful for every opportunity they are together, they simply exude gratitude!
STAYING FOCUSED
MATTHEW 22:37
“Love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.”
God is their focus. He is the rock by which they are building their foundations.
d566faf5-ff60-acf3-ab42-364f4fcc8e6d@yahoo.com>”>REJOICING
Philippians 4:4 “Rejoice in the LORD always, and again I say REJOICE!
Have we ever seen a photo of any of them where they are not SMILING!
SERVING
Matthew 25:35-40 ” For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me. Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
The Young Adults have served at the Merton House, our local food pantry.
Kevon stepped up and is leading songs for the congregation.
Zach leading at the Lord’s table, announcements, actively involved.
Tori has taught several lessons for the adult Ladies’ Bible class now & is also helping be a substitute teacher when needed.
Andrew Langalis is leading the devotional at the Men’s Breakfast.
In Revelation 3:15-16 Jesus condemns the lukewarm church of Laodicea for their lack of zeal.
May we be as equally as excited about our faith as the YOUNG ADULTS are!
May we be challenged to live with a burning passion for GOD, rather than be complacent or indifferent about our faith!
25a63d72-a5d4-cf3b-d7a8-0ed3b3f3dbc5@yahoo.com>”>KEEP SHINING & KEEP SINGING:
LIGHT THE FIRE
I stand to praise You,
but I fall to my knees.
My spirit is willing, but my flesh is so weak,
Light the Fire,
in my soul,
fan the flame,
make me whole,
Lord You know,
where I’ve been so light the fire, in my heart again!
I feel Your arms around me,
as the power of Your healing begins.
Your spirit moves right thru me,
like a mighty rushing wind.
Light the Fire,
in my soul,
fan the flame,
make me whole,
Lord You know,
where I’ve been so light the fire, in my heart again!
SHINE, JESUS, SHINE
Lord, the light of
Your love is shining
In the midst of
the darkness, shining;
Jesus, Light of the World
shine upon us,
Set us free by the truth
You now bring us,
Shine in me. Shine on me.
Your love is shining
In the midst of
the darkness, shining;
Jesus, Light of the World
shine upon us,
Set us free by the truth
You now bring us,
Shine in me. Shine on me.
Shine, Jesus, shine,
Fill this land with the Father’s glory;
Blaze Spirit, blaze,
Set our hearts on fire.
Flow, river, flow,
Flood the nations
with grace and mercy;
Send forth Your word,
Lord, and let there be light.
Lord, I come to
Your awesome presence,
From the shadows
into Your radiance;
By the blood I may
enter Your brightness,
Search me, try me,
consume all the darkness.
Shine in me. Shine on me.
Shine, Jesus, shine,
Fill this land with the Father’s glory;
Blaze Spirit, blaze,
Set our hearts on fire.
Flow, river, flow,
Flood the nations
with grace and mercy;
Send forth Your word,
Lord, and let there be light.
As we gaze on
Your kingly brightness
So our faces display Your likeness,
Ever changing from glory to glory,
Mirrored here may
our lives tell Your story.
Shine in me. Shine on me.
Shine, Jesus, shine,
Fill this land with the Father’s glory;
Blaze Spirit, blaze,
Set our hearts on fire.
Flow, river, flow,
Flood the nations
with grace and mercy;
Send forth Your word,
Lord, and let there be light.
e66c632c-3d81-b88e-0b8e-2a597ff0efdc@yahoo.com>”>In Psalm 39:3 David shares being so filled with God’s presence, that it ignited a fire within him…
“My heart grew hot within me, and as I meditated, the fire burned; then I spoke with my tongue.”
Complacency keeps us from giving GOD our BEST.
Jesus didn’t die for us to be lukewarm! May our hearts burn with the fire of a rock solid FAITH!
How incredibly blessed we are to be able to share the good news of JESUS CHRIST to all of the world!
5d24793a-c53b-bad4-fbcd-a8a926ee7045@yahoo.com>”>TO GOD BE THE GLORY – GREAT THINGS HE HATH DONE!
In Him,
Bruce & Paula