VON STEINMAN: Worshiping is a gift from God - Journal Advocate

VON STEINMAN: Worshiping is a gift from God - Journal Advocate
St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church Damaged By Fire - Sacramento Observer
Community celebrates MLK Day through service | National Life - Blue Mountain Eagle
Church News: Week of Feb. 1, 2020 - The Daily Courier

Posted: 31 Jan 2020 11:29 AM PST

I talked about how you are needed to sing in church. I still think that is so amazing since I don't sing well. But I try. God wants us as we are and He wants us to give him our best! He asks us for our first fruits, not our leftovers.

Acts 2:47 says that the church is "praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved" (NKJV). Isn't that amazing! Our worship is such a witness to others around us that they too want to worship and they become Children of God! God is always using us as examples to those around us. And our worship life is one of those examples.

This is what Greg Laurie of Harvest Christian Fellowship Has to say about worship and how it is an example to others: "Sitting next to you on any given Sunday may be a visitor or a nonbeliever. They are essentially sizing everything up by what they see.

"During times of worship, do you sing out to the Lord, or do you sit, disengaged? Worse yet, do you talk with the person next to you? What message are you sending to those visitors?

"When we glorify God in church with other believers, it gives us perspective. When we come to God in prayer and in worship, we see things correctly. This is why Jesus taught us to pray, 'Our Father who art in heaven.'

"It causes us to remember, whatever we are facing, that the all-powerful, all-knowing God of the universe who loves us is listening. But when we isolate ourselves from other believers, we lose perspective. We can become fearful, confused, angry, and even bitter."

Pretty wise words aren't they. As Christians, even in worship we are an example. How is our worship, anyhow? Is it biblical? Are we there to be entertained or are we there to praise our Lord and Savior, who gives us each breath we take. Are we there waiting to hear the next best new song or are we there to sing God's words. Are we there to hear what is going on in the world around us or are we there to be fed by God's words? That really is a lot to think about, isn't it! Why are we actually there? Are we there for the right reasons? Many pastors struggle with that. They spend hours and hours each week in the word of God asking God to bring them His words and only His words, not what is trendy or socially correct.

Greg Laurie of Harvest Christian Fellowship has a good deal to say about this area too:

"The apostle Paul said that his goal was to both warn believers and teach them 'with all the wisdom God has given us, for we want to present them to God, mature in their relationship to Christ' (Colossians 1:28 NLT). This is why biblical teaching should take such a prominent place in church. As a pastor and teacher, I do not want to waste my congregation's time. My opinion is not any more valuable than any other person's. I am not there to be a cheerleader or a 'life coach' or a motivational speaker. I am not there to be a psychologist or a political pundit. I am there for one reason: to teach the Word of God.

"All that matters is what the Bible says. 'For the word of God is full of living power. It is sharper than the sharpest knife, cutting deep into our innermost thoughts and desires. It exposes us for what we really are' (Hebrews 4:12 NLT). Martin Luther said, 'The Bible is alive, it speaks to me; it has feet, it runs after me; it has hands, it lays hold of me.'

"I was amazed when I first heard the Bible taught. It made sense; it applied to my life! And it's not only strong preaching of the Word that counts, but also strong listening. The early church, the church that changed the world, understood this. In Acts 2:42 we read, 'And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers' (NKJV).

"To "continue steadfastly" speaks of a real passion. This was not a casual attitude, as one might have when joining a social club. There was a spiritual excitement in what they did. They applied themselves to what was being taught from the Word. I believe there is a need for anointed preaching today, but I also believe there is a need for anointed listening — having an openness to receive God's Word.

"We are not all called to go to the same church, but we are all called to be a part of a church. Why? Because you need consistent theology. Doctrine (what we believe) affects everything we do. Paul said, in 1 Timothy 4:16, 'Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers' (NIV). What you believe matters.

That is why I have never understood how people will rate facilities, convenience, proximity, etc. as the criteria for choosing where they go to church. The top priority in looking for a church is that God's Word is taught there."

You can find his entire article here: https://tinyurl.com/yx6rw624.

Wonderful wisdom is to be gained from his perspective. It is all something we can take into our everyday lives. Does it make you think of worship just a little differently? We can actually break it down to something very simple. Worship is not something we do for God but it is something God gives to us. Amen and Amen!

Worshiping in this fishbowl of life with you.

Monica von Steinman is the wife of Pastor Richard von Steinman of First English Lutheran Church in Sterling.

St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church Damaged By Fire - Sacramento Observer

Posted: 31 Jan 2020 01:25 PM PST

OAK PARK – Members of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, one of Sacramento's largest Black churches, are thanking God after a suspected arsonist struck there this week.

A 61-year-old man, Weun Luang Lee has been arrested after he allegedly set fire to St. Paul and another Oak Park area church, Central International Fellowship late Tuesday night. The fire at St. Paul was reported at 11:56 p.m. and the second at 12:27 a.m.

Lee, who officials say was seen by witnesses running away from one of the fires, was booked into the Sacramento County Jail at 3:06 a.m. and is charged with two felony counts of arson.

St. Paul's administrative assistant Lamont Harris says the fire did not impact the sanctuary, and damage was kept to the reception area of the administrative offices and the entry to the library area. Damage came as a result of both the flames and water from the church's sprinkler system.

Administrative staff, Harris says, will be relocated to the adjacent Ephraim Williams Family Life Center until accessers come out and repairs are made.

Central International Fellowship wasn't as lucky. The smaller church, located at 4760 16th Avenue, had "severe damage" according to its pastor and may need to level it's sanctuary and rebuild.

The neighboring churches have fellowshipped in the past. Harris said he went over Central Internationaship Fellowship after learning that it had also been struck. He says the St. Paul family and its pastor Rev. Ephraim Williams, are grateful that many, including area clergy, Mayor Darrell Steinberg and Sacramento Police Chief Daniel Hahn, have already done the same for them, calling in and stopping by to check that everyone was alright.

"There's been a tremendous outpouring of support from the community," Harris shared.

The suspect in the fires may also be charged with a hate crime.

St. Paul, Harris says, has never received any threats. People used to have more respect for churches, though, he added.

"That's changed in the last 10 years," he reflected.

Church burnings and bombings are a common crime for racists, as are other forms of vandalism. A Sikh temple in Orangevale was vandalized last week; a swastika and the words "White power" were drawn near the building's entrance. Graffiti was also found at University AME Zion Church, the oldest Black church in Palo Alto, in late December, including the words "F***k God" and "God causes pain." A number of church shootings have also rocked congregations across the country.

Harris says St. Paul considers themselves blessed in that the fire will not take them off course.

"There will be service on Sunday," he said.

By Genoa Barrow | Senior Staff Writer

Photos by Robert Maryland

Community celebrates MLK Day through service | National Life - Blue Mountain Eagle

Posted: 30 Jan 2020 04:36 PM PST

WARRENSBURG — Martin Luther King Jr. Day began with people volunteering their time to help the community and ended with community members gathering for a Praise and Worship Service in memory of the reverend and civil rights leader.

Students and community members volunteered their time and service this Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Jan. 20.

The University of Central Missouri organizes the annual MLK Day of Service.

Assistant Director of Volunteer Services Kristie Brinkley said volunteers cleaned at the First United Methodist Church, cleaned at the Warrensburg Christian School, helped Sodexo at the University of Central Missouri, cleaned and organized donations at Survival House, swept and pulled weeds at the UCM Greenhouse, cleaned and organized at The Johnson County Food Center and went to the Arbors to visit and play games with residents.

Brinkley said the weather did not deter any volunteer activities.

The MLK Community Praise and Worship Service was later Jan. 20 at the Alumni Chapel at the University of Central Missouri.

The First Baptist Church Praise Team played during the gathering.

Pastor Terrence Moody, Shiloh Baptist Church, welcomed those in attendance and Erica Collins, Mount Calvary Apostolic, prayed.

Robert Fernquist, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, read a passage from the book of Mosiah from the Book of Mormon.

The Harvest Fellowship Church Praise Team played a selection of songs and encouraged attendees to sing along.

Misty Benson, Harvest Fellowship, presented words of inspiration.

Pastor Joel Kurz, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, spoke about the Beloved Community Scholarship.

Moody delivered the benediction, bringing the service to a close.

Church News: Week of Feb. 1, 2020 - The Daily Courier

Posted: 31 Jan 2020 07:11 PM PST

Editor's Note — Please submit Church News items of 50 words or less for the page through a form on dCourier.com — www.dcourier.com/faith-values/ — to allow more churches to participate. Listings will be published as space allows; there is no need to resubmit each week if your entry has not changed. Thank you.

Welcome to the Worlds of HU, an ancient universal name for God. This sacred word can spiritually uplift people of any religion, culture, or walk of life. All are welcome. From 10 to 11 am, Saturday, Feb. 1, at the Prescott Public Library, 215 E. Goodwin St., Elsea Room. http:/www.eck-arizona.org.

Emmanuel Lutheran Church – On Saturday, Feb. 1, at 5 p.m. we will have a worship service. All are welcome to attend. Wednesday, Feb. 5, at 6:30 p.m. will be youth night for all middle- and high-school age youth. A meal will be served.

Temple B'rith Shalom, Prescott – Please join us for full Shabbat Bo Saturday morning services begin at 10. Please call 928-708-0018 for further details.

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Prescott will have its annual Valentine Candy Sale on Sunday, Feb. 9, at noon at the church, 1202 Green Lane. All candies will be homemade and boxed for gift giving. Homemade dog biscuits are also available for that special "friend."

There's something for everyone at American Lutheran Church. Traditional worship is celebrated at 8 and 10:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary; contemporary worship is at 9 and 10:30 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Holy Communion will be served at all four services this Sunday, Feb. 2. All are welcome!

Emmanuel Lutheran Church Grief Group will meet Thursday, Feb. 13 at 10 a.m. Wellness Group is at 11:30 Feb. 13. All are welcome to attend. Emmanuel's Free Interfaith Meal is Feb. 14 at 11:30. Bring your Valentine. Each Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. is Youth Nite. Bring a friend.

Join Alliance Bible Church, 2601 W. Iron Springs Road, Prescott, this Sunday for a special Baptism service. The Worship Service begins at 10:30 a.m. Pastor John will be speaking on "His Song in My Heart" from Colossians 3:16. For information or directions call 928-776-1549.

Super Bowl Sunday – Pressing On Toward the Goal – is the theme this Sunday at Saving Grace LCMS, 440 W. Palomino Road, Chino Valley. 10 a.m. Worship; 11 a.m. Fellowship; 11:30 a.m. Bible Study. There's a prize even better than the Super Bowl title? Let's "tackle" this subject together! 928-636-9533. savinggracelutherancvaz.org.

Join us at Unity of Prescott. Rev. Richard Rogers' Sunday message is "Leveraging Up." We envision a world joyfully transformed through spiritual awakening. Services are at 9 and 11 a.m. at 145 S. Arizona Ave. 928-445-1850. Youth ministry is at 11 in the Education Building, 141 S. Arizona Ave. www.unityprescott.org.

Shabbat Bo – Please note all regular activities for Beit Torah Jewish Congregation, www.onetorah.org, are temporarily canceled due to Rabbi's recovery from a wreck. Phone discussions and consultations possible. Topic this week in Exodus is "from Darkness to Light." For details please call 928-237-0390, 227-0582 or email ansheitorah@cableone.net.

The Center for Spiritual Living, an inclusive spiritual community, honors all faiths with inspirational programs nurturing personal transformation. Sunday Meditation at 10 followed by Service featuring inspiring local musicians at 10:30. Youth Program also at 10:30 Sunday, coffee, refreshments and fellowship after service. 3755 Willow Creek Road, www.CSLPrescott.org, 928-778-1602.

Chino Valley United Methodist Church, 735 E. Road 1 South. All are welcome! This week's message: "Holy Relationship Rules." Sunday Worship, 9 and 11 a.m.; Sunday School – Youth, 9:15; Adults, 10. Mondays at 10 a.m. Adult Bible Study, discussing United Methodist Church Book of Discipline Part 5, "Social Principles."

Trinity 4Kids is a program for children up to fifth grade. We meet year-round on Sundays at 8:30 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. in the Children's Center. Come join us for fun, lessons and activities! For more information, contact Jennifer Garber 928-445-4536 ext. 114. Trinity is located at 630 Park Ave.

Harriet Tubman and her call to Freedom. 10 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 2, at Granite Peak U.U. Congregation, 882 Sunset Ave., Prescott. Rev. Patty Willis tells how Tubman could not rest after her escape, but worked to bring all her people to freedom. What does she teach us of our precious right to be free?

Champions for Religious Liberty Event – Trinity Lutheran Church, 3950 N. Valorie Drive, Prescott Valley, Feb. 15, at 12:30 p.m. Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz will provide information and instruction in how to better understand our temporal liberties. Call 928-772-8845 or 928-778-9122 for more information.

Quaker meeting, held on Sundays at 8:30 a.m. at 119 Grove Ave. For information, contact Will Fisher at 928-710-0467.

Firm Foundation Bible Church is an independent, non-denominational church that meets Sundays at 10 a.m. Join us for a warm family fellowship experience. Be challenged with great expository preaching by Pastor Lloyd Murphy. Children are welcome and loved. We're located at 8933 Florentine Road in Prescott Valley.

Come experience ReVive Church! Revive provides a casual, come-as-you-are service every Saturday at 11 a.m. at 2980 Willow Creek Road, Prescott. It has been said that Revive is like being in God's living room – comfortable relaxed worship with friends. Come see for yourself. Come experience Revive.

Trinity Presbyterian Church, 630 Park Ave. – Ignite Youth: Let's grow together and learn how to ignite our faith and be believers on fire for Christ. Open to all youth ages sixth grade through age 18. Sundays at 10:15 a.m. and Wednesdays from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Contact Kelsey Claire at 928-445-4536, ext. 110.

Trinity Presbyterian - "Mothers of Preschoolers" is a ministry to support moms with kids ages birth to kindergarten. Our MOPS gatherings take place the second and fourth Mondays of each month from 8 to 11:30 a.m. in the Children's Center and Grace Mitchell Fellowship Hall. aztrinitychildren@gmail.com, 928-445-4536, ext. 114.

Christian Science Society, 410 E. Gurley St., Prescott. 10 a.m. Sunday services and Sunday School. Wednesday 1 p.m. meetings provide an opportunity to hear, and for those wishing to share. The Reading Room, where literature is available to read, borrow, or purchase, is open Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon.

St. Paul's Anglican Church, "A Traditional Anglican Church," 600 W. Hillside Ave., Prescott, services: Sundays, 10 a.m. Come join us for a traditional worship service. All are welcome. 1806 N. Savage Lane (off Rosser near Highway 89).

Enjoy a FREE, low-impact, high-energy cardio class with easy routines and Christian music. It's every Monday and Thursday at 9 a.m. at Prescott Christian Church, 501 S. Senator Highway. Women of all faiths and churches are welcome. No registration needed. 928-445-0680.

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VON STEINMAN: Worshiping is a gift from God - Journal Advocate

VON STEINMAN: Worshiping is a gift from God - Journal Advocate

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