On the way home from work Friday I (Jim) saw a lone individual standing in the rain in front of the Ugandan embassy in Washington, DC protesting the law under consideration in that nation's parliment which, even in this day and age, could result in the execution of homosexuals. Please make as many people aware as possible of this potentially horrendous injustice to LGBT people. That lone protestor neeeds company.
Here is a story from PinkNews excerpting part of a strong editorial from The Guardian newspaper in the U.K. condemning this bill:
In a strongly worded leader column, The Guardian condemns Uganda's proposed law that could execute gay people or leave them facing lengthy prison sentences. The newspaper says that Sweden is right to suggest that aid to the country should be cut if the law is passed.
David Bahati, the MP for Ndorwa West in the Ugandan parliament, would not normally come to international attention. His name is becoming notorious, however, as the sponsor of a wretched piece of legislation intended to rile the west and torment an already suffering part of his country's population. Uganda's anti-homosexuality bill 2009, which is now before parliament, is unpleasant even by the standards of anti-gay laws around the world. Its supporters will decry any criticism as neocolonial interference, but the reality is that Uganda is being misled, not least by evangelical churches, some of which have links with the American Christian right.
The proposed law is more a rant against homosexuality and the west than a workable piece of legislation intended for Uganda itself. Much of it consists of a list of unfounded claims, starting with the statement that "same sex attraction is not an innate and immutable characteristic". Infamously, it calls for the execution of gay men found guilty of "aggravated homosexuality" – by which it means those who are HIV positive, or who have sex with someone who is under 18 or disabled. The bill may be amended during its passage through parliament to replace the death penalty with life imprisonment, but that change would be only a gesture to spare the blushes of Uganda's aid donors. If passed – which looks likely, since its sponsor is a member of Uganda's ruling party – the bill will continue to write hate into law.
Click here to read the rest of the story.
December 06, 2009
LGBT Helping Hands 12/6/09-The Albert Kennedy Trust (U.K.)
AKT’s Mission is:
To ensure that all lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans young people are able to live in accepting, supportive and caring homes, by providing a range of services to meet the individual needs of those who would otherwise be homeless or living in a hostile environment.
We aim to do this by:
* Providing appropriate homes through supported lodgings, fostering and other specialist housing schemes.
* Enabling young people to manage independent living successfully.
* Improving attitudes within society towards lesbian, gay and bisexual young people.
To support our work all our staff, trustees, carers, mentors & volunteers are committed to:
* Delivering flexible and responsive services centred on the needs of LGBT young people.
* Engaging, supporting and nurturing LGBT young people.
* Providing accessible, safe and positive environments that are respectful of difference and diversity.
* Pioneering and innovative services to meet real need.
* Good communication and participation throughout the organisation and valuing and encouraging the contributions of all those involved. Excellence and best practice.
* Working in an open and honest manner, where trust is earned and given.
* Working as a team.Challenging perception both internally and externally.
And doing the above with passion, energy and enthusiasm.
Why Support AKT?
The Crisis around LGBT Youth Homeless
Despite 10 years of progressive LGB legislation which has enabled young LGBT people to feel more confident to come out at an early age – the reality is that when they do they are still greeted with the same level of homophobia & transphobia at home or school experienced 20 years ago when AKT was established in response to Albert Kennedy’s death...
Facts from AKT (2008)
* 1,400 requests for support (to our tiny organisation across Manchester & London)
* 55% of the young people who contact us in London are in need of emergency accommodation. We currently cannot meet this demand for carer households and our service is bursting at the seams.
* 85% of our young people have faced some level of rejection by their parents just for being brave enough to come out and be who they are. Previously research has suggested only 14% of LGBT young people have been rejected by their care giver.
* Over 2/3 of AKT young men have been offered sex or been forced to offer sex to get a bed for the night
Many of our young people will not use mainstream provision for fear of homophobia or transphobia from other service users or even the service itself.
AKT has developed some trailblazing partnerships with: Salford, Manchester & London Boroughs & Councils and Housing Trusts such as Knowsely,Trafford & Havering; who support our work to ensure mainstream services meet the needs of LGBT people.
AKT has recently launched it’s ‘Making a Difference’ scheme – a quality mark which is designed to help mainstream housing and homelessness services provide a service which supports LGBT young people. This is a response to our recent research report which showed a disparity in service provision for LGBT young people.
Click here to find out more.
To ensure that all lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans young people are able to live in accepting, supportive and caring homes, by providing a range of services to meet the individual needs of those who would otherwise be homeless or living in a hostile environment.
We aim to do this by:
* Providing appropriate homes through supported lodgings, fostering and other specialist housing schemes.
* Enabling young people to manage independent living successfully.
* Improving attitudes within society towards lesbian, gay and bisexual young people.
To support our work all our staff, trustees, carers, mentors & volunteers are committed to:
* Delivering flexible and responsive services centred on the needs of LGBT young people.
* Engaging, supporting and nurturing LGBT young people.
* Providing accessible, safe and positive environments that are respectful of difference and diversity.
* Pioneering and innovative services to meet real need.
* Good communication and participation throughout the organisation and valuing and encouraging the contributions of all those involved. Excellence and best practice.
* Working in an open and honest manner, where trust is earned and given.
* Working as a team.Challenging perception both internally and externally.
And doing the above with passion, energy and enthusiasm.
Why Support AKT?
The Crisis around LGBT Youth Homeless
Despite 10 years of progressive LGB legislation which has enabled young LGBT people to feel more confident to come out at an early age – the reality is that when they do they are still greeted with the same level of homophobia & transphobia at home or school experienced 20 years ago when AKT was established in response to Albert Kennedy’s death...
Facts from AKT (2008)
* 1,400 requests for support (to our tiny organisation across Manchester & London)
* 55% of the young people who contact us in London are in need of emergency accommodation. We currently cannot meet this demand for carer households and our service is bursting at the seams.
* 85% of our young people have faced some level of rejection by their parents just for being brave enough to come out and be who they are. Previously research has suggested only 14% of LGBT young people have been rejected by their care giver.
* Over 2/3 of AKT young men have been offered sex or been forced to offer sex to get a bed for the night
Many of our young people will not use mainstream provision for fear of homophobia or transphobia from other service users or even the service itself.
AKT has developed some trailblazing partnerships with: Salford, Manchester & London Boroughs & Councils and Housing Trusts such as Knowsely,Trafford & Havering; who support our work to ensure mainstream services meet the needs of LGBT people.
AKT has recently launched it’s ‘Making a Difference’ scheme – a quality mark which is designed to help mainstream housing and homelessness services provide a service which supports LGBT young people. This is a response to our recent research report which showed a disparity in service provision for LGBT young people.
Click here to find out more.
Episcopal Church Elects First Lesbian Bishop
From the Baltimore Sun:
The Rev. Canon Mary D. Glasspool, canon to the bishops of the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland, was elected bishop suffragan of the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles on Saturday.
The Annapolis resident is the first openly lesbian priest to be elected a bishop in the Episcopal Church, and is the first openly gay bishop chosen since the 2003 election of V. Gene Robinson of New Hampshire brought a longstanding divide over homosexuality within the church out into the open.
“I’m very excited about the future of the whole Episcopal Church, and I see the Diocese of Los Angeles leading the way into that future,” Glasspool, 55, told delegates at the diocese’s annual convention. “Thanks be to our loving, surprising God. I look forward, in the coming months, to getting to know you all better, as together we build up the Body of Christ for the world.”
Click here to read the rest of the story.
The Rev. Canon Mary D. Glasspool, canon to the bishops of the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland, was elected bishop suffragan of the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles on Saturday.
The Annapolis resident is the first openly lesbian priest to be elected a bishop in the Episcopal Church, and is the first openly gay bishop chosen since the 2003 election of V. Gene Robinson of New Hampshire brought a longstanding divide over homosexuality within the church out into the open.
“I’m very excited about the future of the whole Episcopal Church, and I see the Diocese of Los Angeles leading the way into that future,” Glasspool, 55, told delegates at the diocese’s annual convention. “Thanks be to our loving, surprising God. I look forward, in the coming months, to getting to know you all better, as together we build up the Body of Christ for the world.”
Click here to read the rest of the story.
Welcome to Sunday Worship 12/6/09
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)VIDEOFL-Potters'>http://www.ustream.tv/channel/phif">FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa, 11:00 AM VA-Believers Covenant Fellowship, Vienna, 11:00 AMAL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham, 12:00 AMNC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem, 12:00 PMFL-Oasis Fellowship Ministries, Casselberry, 12:00 PMOK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa, 1:00 PMCA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach, 1:00 PMWA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore, 1:30 PMCanada-Rainbow Community Church, Vancouver 9:00 PM
AUDIOCanada'>http://www.christalive.ca/?page_id=26">Canada, Vancouver-Christ Alive Community Church, 10:15 PMFL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program) 4:30 PM
Video ArchiveAL-Covenant Community Church, BirminghamCA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long BeachFL-Church of the Holy SpiritSong, Ft. LauderdaleFL-Oasis Fellowship Ministries, CasselberryFL-New'>http://www.blogofhope.com/?cat=6">FL-New Hope Christian Center, PensacolaFL-Potters House International Fellowship, TampaGA-Gentle Spirit Christian Church, AtlantaGA-New Covenant Church of AtlantaNC-Church'>http://www.renaissanceunity.org/live.htm">NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-SalemOK-Expressions Community Fellowship, Oklahoma CityOK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, TulsaTX-The One Church, GarlandWA-Living Water Fellowship, KenmoreCanada-Rainbow Community Church, Vancouver
Audio ArchiveAZ-Community Church of Hope, PhoenixAK-Open Door Community Church, SherwoodCA-Christ Chapel of Long BeachCA-Christ Chapel of the Valley, North HollywoodFL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program)FL-Body of Christ Church of God, LargoFL-New Hope Christian Center, PensecolaGA-New Covenant Church of AtlantaKY-Covenant Community Church, LouisvilleMD-Kittamaqundi Community, ColumbiaNC-Revolution CharlotteOH-Emmanuel Fellowship Church, AkronOH-All Saints Community Church, CortlandTN-Covenant of the Cross, MadisonTX-New'>http://www.nhfcdallas.org/pages/index.php?option=com_wrapper&view=wrapper&Itemid=9">TX-New Hope Fellowship Church, DallasTX-White Rock Community Church, DallasTX-Community Gospel Church, HoustonTX-Through Him Fellowship, HoustonUT-Glory'>http://glory2godonline.com/cms/index.php?option=com_wrapper&view=wrapper&Itemid=68">UT-Glory to God Christian Church, OgdenSouth Africa-Deo Gloria Family Church
Can we pray for you? E-mail
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)VIDEOFL-Potters'>http://www.ustream.tv/channel/phif">FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa, 11:00 AM VA-Believers Covenant Fellowship, Vienna, 11:00 AMAL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham, 12:00 AMNC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem, 12:00 PMFL-Oasis Fellowship Ministries, Casselberry, 12:00 PMOK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa, 1:00 PMCA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach, 1:00 PMWA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore, 1:30 PMCanada-Rainbow Community Church, Vancouver 9:00 PM
AUDIOCanada'>http://www.christalive.ca/?page_id=26">Canada, Vancouver-Christ Alive Community Church, 10:15 PMFL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program) 4:30 PM
Video ArchiveAL-Covenant Community Church, BirminghamCA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long BeachFL-Church of the Holy SpiritSong, Ft. LauderdaleFL-Oasis Fellowship Ministries, CasselberryFL-New'>http://www.blogofhope.com/?cat=6">FL-New Hope Christian Center, PensacolaFL-Potters House International Fellowship, TampaGA-Gentle Spirit Christian Church, AtlantaGA-New Covenant Church of AtlantaNC-Church'>http://www.renaissanceunity.org/live.htm">NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-SalemOK-Expressions Community Fellowship, Oklahoma CityOK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, TulsaTX-The One Church, GarlandWA-Living Water Fellowship, KenmoreCanada-Rainbow Community Church, Vancouver
Audio ArchiveAZ-Community Church of Hope, PhoenixAK-Open Door Community Church, SherwoodCA-Christ Chapel of Long BeachCA-Christ Chapel of the Valley, North HollywoodFL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program)FL-Body of Christ Church of God, LargoFL-New Hope Christian Center, PensecolaGA-New Covenant Church of AtlantaKY-Covenant Community Church, LouisvilleMD-Kittamaqundi Community, ColumbiaNC-Revolution CharlotteOH-Emmanuel Fellowship Church, AkronOH-All Saints Community Church, CortlandTN-Covenant of the Cross, MadisonTX-New'>http://www.nhfcdallas.org/pages/index.php?option=com_wrapper&view=wrapper&Itemid=9">TX-New Hope Fellowship Church, DallasTX-White Rock Community Church, DallasTX-Community Gospel Church, HoustonTX-Through Him Fellowship, HoustonUT-Glory'>http://glory2godonline.com/cms/index.php?option=com_wrapper&view=wrapper&Itemid=68">UT-Glory to God Christian Church, OgdenSouth Africa-Deo Gloria Family Church
Can we pray for you? E-mail
December 05, 2009
Bullying a Cause of Suicide, Not a Rite of Passage
From the Salt Lake City Tribune:
When John Halligan's son Ryan committed suicide six years ago at the age of 13, he and his wife tore the house apart looking for the suicide note that would explain why he did it.
They didn't find one. But when Halligan, then an engineer with IBM in Vermont, logged onto his son's instant messaging account, he found the answer he was looking for: Ryan Halligan was a victim of cyberbullying.
Halligan was the keynote speaker at the 10th Annual Suicide Prevention Conference at Brigham Young University on Friday. The conference was conducted by the Utah County HOPE Task Force, a coalition of community groups focused on preventing suicide, and attracted educators, social workers and students.
Greg Hudnall, HOPE's executive director, said the group this year is attempting to get at the root causes of teen suicide, including bullying in its many forms.
"People don't realize the impact of bullying," he said.
Click here to read the rest of the story.
When John Halligan's son Ryan committed suicide six years ago at the age of 13, he and his wife tore the house apart looking for the suicide note that would explain why he did it.
They didn't find one. But when Halligan, then an engineer with IBM in Vermont, logged onto his son's instant messaging account, he found the answer he was looking for: Ryan Halligan was a victim of cyberbullying.
Halligan was the keynote speaker at the 10th Annual Suicide Prevention Conference at Brigham Young University on Friday. The conference was conducted by the Utah County HOPE Task Force, a coalition of community groups focused on preventing suicide, and attracted educators, social workers and students.
Greg Hudnall, HOPE's executive director, said the group this year is attempting to get at the root causes of teen suicide, including bullying in its many forms.
"People don't realize the impact of bullying," he said.
Click here to read the rest of the story.
Encouraging Words 12/5/09-"The Thorn In My Flesh"
From Relevant Magazine:
"When will it be over?" I asked myself this question as I stared at the fresh cut on my arm. I’ve been in and out of therapy for most of my life, so I should be cured by now, right? Then why do I always end up back here?
The first time I knew something was wrong was in elementary school. I would often get upset at the smallest thing, from accidentally spilling something to getting an answer wrong. When I got upset I would smack myself in the head, cry, and scream. One time I got so upset that the principal had to be called into to calm me down. My classmates got a kick out of it, so they would often provoke me by calling me names. I tried to ignore them, but in the end they would always win.
Finally one day in sixth grade I had enough of it. I tried to kill myself by jumping off the monkey bars at recess. Obviously I wasn’t very successful, but when the school called my mom, she knew I needed help. That’s when I went to my first therapist. We saw each other for about six months, and we made some progress, but by the time I was in high school I was back in therapy again.
"When will it be over?" I asked myself this question as I stared at the fresh cut on my arm. I’ve been in and out of therapy for most of my life, so I should be cured by now, right? Then why do I always end up back here?
The first time I knew something was wrong was in elementary school. I would often get upset at the smallest thing, from accidentally spilling something to getting an answer wrong. When I got upset I would smack myself in the head, cry, and scream. One time I got so upset that the principal had to be called into to calm me down. My classmates got a kick out of it, so they would often provoke me by calling me names. I tried to ignore them, but in the end they would always win.
Finally one day in sixth grade I had enough of it. I tried to kill myself by jumping off the monkey bars at recess. Obviously I wasn’t very successful, but when the school called my mom, she knew I needed help. That’s when I went to my first therapist. We saw each other for about six months, and we made some progress, but by the time I was in high school I was back in therapy again.
SNN Recommends 12/5/09-"The Journey"
Amazon.com rating: 34 of 40 reviewers gave it 5 out of 5 stars
SNN rating: 5 stars
We highly recommend this book to someone who is seeking to understand the true nature of having a relationship with Jesus Christ instead of being caught up in the judgementalism and rigidity of right-wing fundamentalism.
Billy Graham is respected and loved around the world. And this work is his magnum opus, the culmination of a lifetime of experience and ministry!
Chapter by chapter, Graham leads us on a journey in faith. We learn about God and his purpose for our lives; who Jesus is and what he has done for us. We are reminded of the things God has given us to live successfully: the Bible, the privilege of prayer, fellowship and the church, and the Holy Spirit. We learn to deal with challenges along the way: temptation, wrong thoughts and motives, emotions that can defeat us, habits that destroy our spirit, and what to do when life turns against us. And we are given practical advice on knowing God's will, making right decision, strengthening our marriages, being wise parents, and using our gifts to share Christ with others.
With insight that only comes from a life spent with God, The Journey is filled with wisdom, encouragement, hope, and inspiration for anyone who wants to live a happier, more fulfilling life.
Click here to purchase this book and read customer reviews.
SNN rating: 5 stars
We highly recommend this book to someone who is seeking to understand the true nature of having a relationship with Jesus Christ instead of being caught up in the judgementalism and rigidity of right-wing fundamentalism.
Billy Graham is respected and loved around the world. And this work is his magnum opus, the culmination of a lifetime of experience and ministry!
Chapter by chapter, Graham leads us on a journey in faith. We learn about God and his purpose for our lives; who Jesus is and what he has done for us. We are reminded of the things God has given us to live successfully: the Bible, the privilege of prayer, fellowship and the church, and the Holy Spirit. We learn to deal with challenges along the way: temptation, wrong thoughts and motives, emotions that can defeat us, habits that destroy our spirit, and what to do when life turns against us. And we are given practical advice on knowing God's will, making right decision, strengthening our marriages, being wise parents, and using our gifts to share Christ with others.
With insight that only comes from a life spent with God, The Journey is filled with wisdom, encouragement, hope, and inspiration for anyone who wants to live a happier, more fulfilling life.
Click here to purchase this book and read customer reviews.
Daily Devotional 12/5/09
From: Reflections
Heb.11:1, NIV: Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Christmas time is a time when we sometimes talk about God’s gift to us; and we may also talk about what we can give to Him in return. So let’s consider this, that one of the greatest gifts we can give to Him is to receive what He has given us like a child with a Christmas present--anticipating what He has for us, ready to dig in, and believing that there is indeed something wonderful in store for us--even though we cannot yet see it.
Heb.11:1, NIV: Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Christmas time is a time when we sometimes talk about God’s gift to us; and we may also talk about what we can give to Him in return. So let’s consider this, that one of the greatest gifts we can give to Him is to receive what He has given us like a child with a Christmas present--anticipating what He has for us, ready to dig in, and believing that there is indeed something wonderful in store for us--even though we cannot yet see it.
December 04, 2009
Another Loss for the Shrinking LGBT Book Store Genre
From the DC Agenda (formerly the Washington Blade):
Lambda Rising, a bookstore serving the LGBT community in the nation’s capital for 35 years, is closing its D.C. store in Dupont Circle and its remaining out-of-town store in Rehoboth Beach, Del., in January.
The closings, announced Friday, mark the end of the city’s only exclusively LGBT bookstore and becomes another in a series of gay bookstores that have closed in recent years in other cities, including New York and Baltimore.
Deacon Mccubbin, 66, the store’s founder and co-owner, told D.C. Agenda in an exclusive interview that he plans to retire soon and that he and co-owner Jim Bennett, his domestic partner of 32 years, decided they would rather close the stores than sell them to a new owner who might change their focus and mission.
“The phrase ‘mission accomplished’ has gotten a bad rap in recent years but in this case, it certainly applies,” Mccubbin said.
“When we set out to establish Lambda Rising in 1974, it was intended as a demonstration of the demand for gay and lesbian literature,” he said, noting that few if any mainstream bookstores and newsstands carried gay related books and periodicals at the time.
“Today, 35 years later, nearly every general bookstore carries GLBT books, often featuring them in special sections,” he said.
Mccubbin said the Internet also enables people today to access LGBT related information from almost any location in the country, accomplishing yet another part of Lambda Rising’s mission: to provide up-to-date information to a community that could not obtain it elsewhere.
Click here to read more about Lambda Rising and it's history and impact on the DC community in The Agenda's story.
The DC LGBT Center also has a retrospective of Lambda Rising at it's website.
Lambda Rising, a bookstore serving the LGBT community in the nation’s capital for 35 years, is closing its D.C. store in Dupont Circle and its remaining out-of-town store in Rehoboth Beach, Del., in January.
The closings, announced Friday, mark the end of the city’s only exclusively LGBT bookstore and becomes another in a series of gay bookstores that have closed in recent years in other cities, including New York and Baltimore.
Deacon Mccubbin, 66, the store’s founder and co-owner, told D.C. Agenda in an exclusive interview that he plans to retire soon and that he and co-owner Jim Bennett, his domestic partner of 32 years, decided they would rather close the stores than sell them to a new owner who might change their focus and mission.
“The phrase ‘mission accomplished’ has gotten a bad rap in recent years but in this case, it certainly applies,” Mccubbin said.
“When we set out to establish Lambda Rising in 1974, it was intended as a demonstration of the demand for gay and lesbian literature,” he said, noting that few if any mainstream bookstores and newsstands carried gay related books and periodicals at the time.
“Today, 35 years later, nearly every general bookstore carries GLBT books, often featuring them in special sections,” he said.
Mccubbin said the Internet also enables people today to access LGBT related information from almost any location in the country, accomplishing yet another part of Lambda Rising’s mission: to provide up-to-date information to a community that could not obtain it elsewhere.
Click here to read more about Lambda Rising and it's history and impact on the DC community in The Agenda's story.
The DC LGBT Center also has a retrospective of Lambda Rising at it's website.
Encouraging Words 12/4/09-"I Asked God"
From The Epistle web magazine.
I asked God to take away my pain. God said, No.
It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up.
I asked God to make my handicapped child whole. God said, No.
Her spirit was whole, her body was only temporary.
I asked God to grant me patience. God said, No.
Patience is a by-product of tribulations; it isn't granted, it is earned.
I asked God to give me happiness. God said, No.
I give you blessings. Happiness is up to you.
I asked God to spare me pain. God said, No.
Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me.
I asked God to make my spirit grow. God said, No.
You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you fruitful.
I asked for all things that I might enjoy life. God said, No.
I will give you life so that you may enjoy all things.
I ask God to help me LOVE others, as much as He loves me.
God said... Ahhhh, finally you have the idea.
I asked God to take away my pain. God said, No.
It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up.
I asked God to make my handicapped child whole. God said, No.
Her spirit was whole, her body was only temporary.
I asked God to grant me patience. God said, No.
Patience is a by-product of tribulations; it isn't granted, it is earned.
I asked God to give me happiness. God said, No.
I give you blessings. Happiness is up to you.
I asked God to spare me pain. God said, No.
Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me.
I asked God to make my spirit grow. God said, No.
You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you fruitful.
I asked for all things that I might enjoy life. God said, No.
I will give you life so that you may enjoy all things.
I ask God to help me LOVE others, as much as He loves me.
God said... Ahhhh, finally you have the idea.
SNN Recommends (Just for Fun) 12/4/09-I Can Has Cheezburger
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
see more Lolcats and funny pictures`
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
An Interesting Place and an Interesting Job for a Transgender Person
Obviously trying to live a normal productive life in the midst of transitioning from one gender to another if very challenging, to say the least. Add to that living in the very conservative environment of Salt Lake City Utah, and complicate that even more by working as a police office. That's the amazing story that Kerry Bell has to tell as reported by the Salt Lake City Tribune:
As a child, Kerry Bell dreamed of growing up to become a policeman -- both a police officer and a man.
Becoming a cop was relatively simple -- Bell joined the Bountiful Police Department 14 years ago. Becoming a man took more time.
Born female, Bell came out as transgender about a year and a half ago and started a transition to a new life as a man. He always had felt male, but did not think switching genders was a viable option until he saw transgender people gaining wider acceptance, along with advances in medical technology.
Surprisingly, the 42-year-old -- working in what many perceive as a super-macho culture -- says he did not fret about telling the police chief or his co-workers to start referring to him as "he," not "she."
"I wasn't worried about coming out at work," says Bell, who has had hormone treatments and surgeries. "I've worked for Bountiful for 14 years. I know everybody I work with."
Although some employees have trouble remembering to use masculine pronouns, Bountiful Police Chief Tom Ross says, "everyone's done a great job of accepting Kerry and staying focused on why we're here in the first place."
Bell, a corporal and SWAT member, is a "well-rounded police officer," Ross adds. "We're glad that he works here."
Click here to read the rest of this story.
As a child, Kerry Bell dreamed of growing up to become a policeman -- both a police officer and a man.
Becoming a cop was relatively simple -- Bell joined the Bountiful Police Department 14 years ago. Becoming a man took more time.
Born female, Bell came out as transgender about a year and a half ago and started a transition to a new life as a man. He always had felt male, but did not think switching genders was a viable option until he saw transgender people gaining wider acceptance, along with advances in medical technology.
Surprisingly, the 42-year-old -- working in what many perceive as a super-macho culture -- says he did not fret about telling the police chief or his co-workers to start referring to him as "he," not "she."
"I wasn't worried about coming out at work," says Bell, who has had hormone treatments and surgeries. "I've worked for Bountiful for 14 years. I know everybody I work with."
Although some employees have trouble remembering to use masculine pronouns, Bountiful Police Chief Tom Ross says, "everyone's done a great job of accepting Kerry and staying focused on why we're here in the first place."
Bell, a corporal and SWAT member, is a "well-rounded police officer," Ross adds. "We're glad that he works here."
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Daily Devotional 12/4/09
From: Reflections
Exodus 16:2, NIV: In the desert the whole community grumbled against Moses and Aaron.
How many times do we ponder where we might be able to go, or where we have been, all because where we are is not what we want? How many blessings do we miss because we are so focused on the “something better” that we cannot see the “something best”? God wants us to have abundant life regardless of our circumstances, giving thanks in everything. But we find it is difficult to express true gratitude to God for where we are and what we have when we are always looking for something other than what He has given.
Exodus 16:2, NIV: In the desert the whole community grumbled against Moses and Aaron.
How many times do we ponder where we might be able to go, or where we have been, all because where we are is not what we want? How many blessings do we miss because we are so focused on the “something better” that we cannot see the “something best”? God wants us to have abundant life regardless of our circumstances, giving thanks in everything. But we find it is difficult to express true gratitude to God for where we are and what we have when we are always looking for something other than what He has given.
December 03, 2009
Encouraging Words 12/3/09-"For Such a Time as This
From Rev. Deborah Bell, Senior Pastor of Deo Gloria Family Church in Morningside, Durban, South Africa. We believe these words ring as true across the globe as they do in her home country.
In Esther 4:14, we read this: "For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?"
In the book of Esther we read about how one woman saved a nation because of her passion to see justice. She risked her life to see the Jewish nation saved from the annihilation of those that hated the Jewish people. Just one person, yet she helped to save a nation.
Perhaps many of us have been born for such a time as this.
We may come from different backgrounds, in our faith, our culture etc. but we can surely stand together with the commonality of ensuring that our very new equal rights (for GLBTI people) are not compromised by homophobic polemics, who claim too much, about the very little they think they know, about who we are.
I believe it is everyone's responsibility as gay and lesbian people, to take a stand to protect the equality in our nation, regarding GLBTI people, which is very possibly at great risk with the stance of our newly elected President, who has publicly confessed his homophobic stance in the past. Along with him, we have Pastor Ray McCauley who has his own agenda to reverse the same-sex marriage laws, among other laws that he believes "fly in the face of God".
This saddens me, because what flies in the face of God, more than anything, is when the Church places conditional love on whom is welcome and whom is not.
The Bible states clearly, that all are welcome to throne of God. John 3:16 says: "Whosoever calls upon the name of the Lord may come." Acts 2:21 "And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
God's love is unconditional, and it is that love that changes people and nations, not human judgement.
Click here to read the rest of Rev. Bell's inspiring essay.
In Esther 4:14, we read this: "For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?"
In the book of Esther we read about how one woman saved a nation because of her passion to see justice. She risked her life to see the Jewish nation saved from the annihilation of those that hated the Jewish people. Just one person, yet she helped to save a nation.
Perhaps many of us have been born for such a time as this.
We may come from different backgrounds, in our faith, our culture etc. but we can surely stand together with the commonality of ensuring that our very new equal rights (for GLBTI people) are not compromised by homophobic polemics, who claim too much, about the very little they think they know, about who we are.
I believe it is everyone's responsibility as gay and lesbian people, to take a stand to protect the equality in our nation, regarding GLBTI people, which is very possibly at great risk with the stance of our newly elected President, who has publicly confessed his homophobic stance in the past. Along with him, we have Pastor Ray McCauley who has his own agenda to reverse the same-sex marriage laws, among other laws that he believes "fly in the face of God".
This saddens me, because what flies in the face of God, more than anything, is when the Church places conditional love on whom is welcome and whom is not.
The Bible states clearly, that all are welcome to throne of God. John 3:16 says: "Whosoever calls upon the name of the Lord may come." Acts 2:21 "And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
God's love is unconditional, and it is that love that changes people and nations, not human judgement.
Click here to read the rest of Rev. Bell's inspiring essay.
Matthew 25 Resource 12/3/09-Foodbank of Southern California (Long Beach)
The Foodbank’s mission is to provide basic sustenance and proper nutrition to the community’s hungry citizens and to ensure that no individual go hungry, not even for a single day.
As long as there are hunger children, families and seniors in our community, The Foodbank of Southern California intends to be to major force in the fight against hunger.
The Foodbank will continue to:
* expand distribution services to charitable organizations not currently in the agency network;
* sustain and expand the base of wholesome nutritious food donors;
* and receive feedback from our constituent agencies that client’s well-being, health and/or educational educational outcomes are improving.
Click here to find out more.
As long as there are hunger children, families and seniors in our community, The Foodbank of Southern California intends to be to major force in the fight against hunger.
The Foodbank will continue to:
* expand distribution services to charitable organizations not currently in the agency network;
* sustain and expand the base of wholesome nutritious food donors;
* and receive feedback from our constituent agencies that client’s well-being, health and/or educational educational outcomes are improving.
Click here to find out more.
Should LGBT Activism Turn Its Focus to Civil Unions?
That's the point of this Associated Press story:
Leland Traiman, who runs a sperm bank in California, worries about his lesbian clients in more conservative parts of the country when he hears fellow gay rights activists talk about winning the right to wed.
With 34 states lacking any legal recognition of same-sex relationships, Traiman wonders if all the emphasis on matrimony is misplaced.
"When I speak to women from Florida or Wisconsin or Minnesota, they are like, 'I don't care what it's called, I just want to be able to visit my wife in the hospital and cover my children with my health insurance,'" said Traiman, who helped pass the nation's first domestic partnership law a quarter-century ago in Berkeley.
In the weeks since Maine voters handed the gay marriage movement its 27th electoral defeat in five years, other activists have voiced similar qualms about making marriage their main goal. Gay rights leaders have insisted that anything less than full marriage equality is unacceptable, but some are asking whether the uncompromising strategy has forestalled interim steps that could improve the lives of gay men, lesbians and their families.
"They think the best way to achieve their goal of marriage with all the rights and benefits of marriage is a complete frontal assault, and any other strategy is a betrayal of their goal," Traiman said.
Activists like Traiman point to the success of efforts to extend spousal rights and other civil rights protections to same-sex couples, even as the passage of gay marriage bans grab headlines.
On the same day that Maine rejected a gay marriage law approved by its Legislature, for example, voters in Washington state approved a law giving same-sex couples or straight older couples who register as domestic partners all the state rights and responsibilities of marriage. Washington's so-called "everything but marriage" law passed by the same margin as Maine's gay marriage rebuff, 53 percent to 48 percent.
And earlier this year, Nevada lawmakers overrode a veto by Gov. Jim Gibbons to enact a domestic partnership law extending marriage rights to couples, gay or straight, who "have chosen to share one another's lives in an intimate and committed relationship of mutual caring." Colorado's legislature and governor also adopted a "reciprocal beneficiaries" law providing some legal benefits for all unmarried couples.
Colorado and Nevada are among the 29 states with constitutional prohibitions against gay marriages.
The success of partner measures in those states suggests that there's room for gay couples to secure spousal protections even if they can't marry, said William Dobbs, a veteran activist in New York.
"It's a huge tactical mistake to be arguing that nothing less than marriage will do," Dobbs said. "One size does not fit all.
"There is a real need among some folks to put their lives together, to have joint credit cards, a house and children," he said. "We need a set of actions for that, but the marriage fight is toxic to other types of reforms."
What do you think? We've often heard that civil unions are a second-class substitute for marriage, but is it better to wage a battle that has a greater chance of being won even if the rewards aren't as great?
Click here to read the rest of the story.
Leland Traiman, who runs a sperm bank in California, worries about his lesbian clients in more conservative parts of the country when he hears fellow gay rights activists talk about winning the right to wed.
With 34 states lacking any legal recognition of same-sex relationships, Traiman wonders if all the emphasis on matrimony is misplaced.
"When I speak to women from Florida or Wisconsin or Minnesota, they are like, 'I don't care what it's called, I just want to be able to visit my wife in the hospital and cover my children with my health insurance,'" said Traiman, who helped pass the nation's first domestic partnership law a quarter-century ago in Berkeley.
In the weeks since Maine voters handed the gay marriage movement its 27th electoral defeat in five years, other activists have voiced similar qualms about making marriage their main goal. Gay rights leaders have insisted that anything less than full marriage equality is unacceptable, but some are asking whether the uncompromising strategy has forestalled interim steps that could improve the lives of gay men, lesbians and their families.
"They think the best way to achieve their goal of marriage with all the rights and benefits of marriage is a complete frontal assault, and any other strategy is a betrayal of their goal," Traiman said.
Activists like Traiman point to the success of efforts to extend spousal rights and other civil rights protections to same-sex couples, even as the passage of gay marriage bans grab headlines.
On the same day that Maine rejected a gay marriage law approved by its Legislature, for example, voters in Washington state approved a law giving same-sex couples or straight older couples who register as domestic partners all the state rights and responsibilities of marriage. Washington's so-called "everything but marriage" law passed by the same margin as Maine's gay marriage rebuff, 53 percent to 48 percent.
And earlier this year, Nevada lawmakers overrode a veto by Gov. Jim Gibbons to enact a domestic partnership law extending marriage rights to couples, gay or straight, who "have chosen to share one another's lives in an intimate and committed relationship of mutual caring." Colorado's legislature and governor also adopted a "reciprocal beneficiaries" law providing some legal benefits for all unmarried couples.
Colorado and Nevada are among the 29 states with constitutional prohibitions against gay marriages.
The success of partner measures in those states suggests that there's room for gay couples to secure spousal protections even if they can't marry, said William Dobbs, a veteran activist in New York.
"It's a huge tactical mistake to be arguing that nothing less than marriage will do," Dobbs said. "One size does not fit all.
"There is a real need among some folks to put their lives together, to have joint credit cards, a house and children," he said. "We need a set of actions for that, but the marriage fight is toxic to other types of reforms."
What do you think? We've often heard that civil unions are a second-class substitute for marriage, but is it better to wage a battle that has a greater chance of being won even if the rewards aren't as great?
Click here to read the rest of the story.
Daily Devotional 12/3/09
From: Reflections
John 10:10, NIV; The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
We may have forgotten that Jesus came to give us freedom and life abundant. We were not created to be a slave to life but to have life, and life more fulfilling. There is so much of what we claim we have to do for one reason or another that seems to be sapping the life right out of us, making us tired and often less of the “light of the world” than we could be if we weren’t exhausted all of the time. God designed us as such that we flourish when we are balanced in our living. We will be at our best--for everyone’s sake--when we are applying wisdom to our living.
John 10:10, NIV; The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
We may have forgotten that Jesus came to give us freedom and life abundant. We were not created to be a slave to life but to have life, and life more fulfilling. There is so much of what we claim we have to do for one reason or another that seems to be sapping the life right out of us, making us tired and often less of the “light of the world” than we could be if we weren’t exhausted all of the time. God designed us as such that we flourish when we are balanced in our living. We will be at our best--for everyone’s sake--when we are applying wisdom to our living.
December 02, 2009
LGBT Helping Hands 12/2/09-the Center of Central Florida (Orlando)
The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual Community Center of Central Florida, The Center, has been in operation for over 30 years. GLBT individuals, as well as family and friends, in Central Florida have stood up to both institutional and individual injustice and discrimination by volunteering their time, money and talents at The Center.The Center has been an organizing force within the GLBT community serving as a source for information, education, advocacy and support.The Center has worked to foster the personal development and quality of life of the community it serves, as well as to increase understanding and acceptance within the greater Central Florida area. Today we offer a variety of support and social programs.We offer AA, NA, CODA, HIV+ and transgender support groups, CMA, counseling for individuals and couples at a reduced cost, counseling for youth for free, and various social groups.We serve more than 15,000 individuals a year through our front doors and over 8,000 a month online.
Today you can visit us at 946 N. Mills Avenue in Orlando or call us at 407-228-8272. Here is what you will discover:
* Social & Support Groups
* Professional Counseling
* Transgender Support
* Business Referrals
* Free HIV Testing
* 12 Step Programs
* GLBT Library
* Information
* Health Fairs
* Events
Click here to find out more.
Today you can visit us at 946 N. Mills Avenue in Orlando or call us at 407-228-8272. Here is what you will discover:
* Social & Support Groups
* Professional Counseling
* Transgender Support
* Business Referrals
* Free HIV Testing
* 12 Step Programs
* GLBT Library
* Information
* Health Fairs
* Events
Click here to find out more.
Daily Devotional 12/2/09
From: Reflections
John 10:10, NIV; The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
We may have forgotten that Jesus came to give us freedom and life abundant. We were not created to be a slave to life but to have life, and life more fulfilling. There is so much of what we claim we have to do for one reason or another that seems to be sapping the life right out of us, making us tired and often less of the “light of the world” than we could be if we weren’t exhausted all of the time. God designed us as such that we flourish when we are balanced in our living. We will be at our best--for everyone’s sake--when we are applying wisdom to our living.
John 10:10, NIV; The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
We may have forgotten that Jesus came to give us freedom and life abundant. We were not created to be a slave to life but to have life, and life more fulfilling. There is so much of what we claim we have to do for one reason or another that seems to be sapping the life right out of us, making us tired and often less of the “light of the world” than we could be if we weren’t exhausted all of the time. God designed us as such that we flourish when we are balanced in our living. We will be at our best--for everyone’s sake--when we are applying wisdom to our living.
Is Outing Church Clergy a Fair Tactic?
Columnist Lisa Neff at 365gay.com doesn't think so. She writes about an effort underway in Washington, DC to counteract the continued opposition of same-sex marriage in the District by the Roman Catholic church, to the extent that they are even threating to withold social services they perform in the city if a bill passes legalizing same-sex marriages.
Now, it’s payback time in the eye-for-an-eye world of Washington, D.C. Activists have launched ChurchOuting.org for the collection of reports on priests, required by Church law to be celibate, who are gay.
“Church.org is a clearing house for reports of priests who are openly gay men in social settings yet professionally closeted in their parishes,” stated a press release from ChurchOuting founder Phil Attey. “The campaign will also accept reports of heterosexual priests who are involved in romantic or sexual relationships, yet support the archbishop’s efforts to harm lesbian and gay families.”
I’m not sure how the outers will know which priests “support the archbishop’s efforts to harm lesbian and gay families.” I don’t see how they can know, but I don’t believe it makes a difference. This is the wrong course of action.
Outing, to me, has always seemed like using sexual orientation as a weapon, like an act of violence.
To out gay priests for an anti-gay Church policy, well, how is that different than outing gay and lesbian servicemembers because Congress adopted the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy?
Does anyone honestly think that by outing one or 100 gay priests, the Catholic Church is going to reverse course on same-sex marriage or extending benefits to partners of same-sex employees?
No, if the Church takes any action, it will relocate, reassign or move to oust the priests.
The cold-hearted, close-minded Church leaders who would abandon a mission to shelter or feed the homeless because it has qualms with treating its employees equally will not warm to the legislation because of an outing campaign — unless maybe someone once spotted the pope at any town’s Different Strokes bar.
A better course would be to demonstrate to the Church that there are other institutions and caring people to provide the social services the Church has threatened to abandon, to demonstrate to the Church that a religious institution cannot bully a democratic body into allowing discrimination and injustice to continue, to demonstrate to the Church that it cannot hold poor people as hostages.
And the best course of action in the long run would be to find a way to keep government funding for services for the poor and homeless from going to powerful, wealthy institutions of perpetual discrimination.
We are not personally opposed to publicly displaying evidence of the Catholic Church's blatant hypocrsy, but we are concerned that doing so on such a personal level could only cause more pain. in our opinion, the goal here should not be the exchange of tactical weapons but instead reconciliation and healing--this approach would do neither.
Click here to read the rest of Ms. Neff's column at 365gay.com.
Now, it’s payback time in the eye-for-an-eye world of Washington, D.C. Activists have launched ChurchOuting.org for the collection of reports on priests, required by Church law to be celibate, who are gay.
“Church.org is a clearing house for reports of priests who are openly gay men in social settings yet professionally closeted in their parishes,” stated a press release from ChurchOuting founder Phil Attey. “The campaign will also accept reports of heterosexual priests who are involved in romantic or sexual relationships, yet support the archbishop’s efforts to harm lesbian and gay families.”
I’m not sure how the outers will know which priests “support the archbishop’s efforts to harm lesbian and gay families.” I don’t see how they can know, but I don’t believe it makes a difference. This is the wrong course of action.
Outing, to me, has always seemed like using sexual orientation as a weapon, like an act of violence.
To out gay priests for an anti-gay Church policy, well, how is that different than outing gay and lesbian servicemembers because Congress adopted the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy?
Does anyone honestly think that by outing one or 100 gay priests, the Catholic Church is going to reverse course on same-sex marriage or extending benefits to partners of same-sex employees?
No, if the Church takes any action, it will relocate, reassign or move to oust the priests.
The cold-hearted, close-minded Church leaders who would abandon a mission to shelter or feed the homeless because it has qualms with treating its employees equally will not warm to the legislation because of an outing campaign — unless maybe someone once spotted the pope at any town’s Different Strokes bar.
A better course would be to demonstrate to the Church that there are other institutions and caring people to provide the social services the Church has threatened to abandon, to demonstrate to the Church that a religious institution cannot bully a democratic body into allowing discrimination and injustice to continue, to demonstrate to the Church that it cannot hold poor people as hostages.
And the best course of action in the long run would be to find a way to keep government funding for services for the poor and homeless from going to powerful, wealthy institutions of perpetual discrimination.
We are not personally opposed to publicly displaying evidence of the Catholic Church's blatant hypocrsy, but we are concerned that doing so on such a personal level could only cause more pain. in our opinion, the goal here should not be the exchange of tactical weapons but instead reconciliation and healing--this approach would do neither.
Click here to read the rest of Ms. Neff's column at 365gay.com.
December 01, 2009
Encouraging Words 12/1/09-"Our Church Welcomes Everyone'
Northwest Community Church is a UCC church in Las Vegas, NV. They are an open and affirming congregation and, in this video, want you to know why that is important to them. It's good stuff from not only leadership but some rank-and-file membership of the church. Enjoy!
Matthew 25 Resource 12/1/09-Central Arizona Shelter Services (Phoenix)
Central Arizona Shelter Services' (CASS) mission is to empower men, women, and children with diverse needs to end their homelessness by providing shelter and supportive services.
CASS was founded in 1984 in response to a need for an agency to operate an emergency shelter for the homeless in downtown Phoenix. It is the largest shelter and service center for homeless people in Arizona, serving 6,000 men, women, and children annually.
CASS has two facilities. The main facility in downtown Phoenix serves 400 homeless men and women. Vista Colina Emergency Family Shelter, is a 30 unit apartment complex in Sunnyslope that houses homeless families with children. Both operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Click here to find out more.
CASS was founded in 1984 in response to a need for an agency to operate an emergency shelter for the homeless in downtown Phoenix. It is the largest shelter and service center for homeless people in Arizona, serving 6,000 men, women, and children annually.
CASS has two facilities. The main facility in downtown Phoenix serves 400 homeless men and women. Vista Colina Emergency Family Shelter, is a 30 unit apartment complex in Sunnyslope that houses homeless families with children. Both operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Click here to find out more.
Daily Devotional 12/1/09
Psalm 23:5, NIV: You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Nothing. And then, all at once, I am flooded. I pray for days into the air and sometimes feel as though my prayers are stopping at the ceiling—and then—whoosh! God speaks. And oh does He speak. I dare not wait to the end of the day to journal what He says. For “my cup overfloweth.” And if I intend to record what He has shown me, it’s going to take some time. All in all, I am thankful that God is faithful in the bad times, and good—in times of plenty—and in the times of emptiness. Praise be to God!
Nothing. And then, all at once, I am flooded. I pray for days into the air and sometimes feel as though my prayers are stopping at the ceiling—and then—whoosh! God speaks. And oh does He speak. I dare not wait to the end of the day to journal what He says. For “my cup overfloweth.” And if I intend to record what He has shown me, it’s going to take some time. All in all, I am thankful that God is faithful in the bad times, and good—in times of plenty—and in the times of emptiness. Praise be to God!
Commemorating World AIDS Day
We are posting some resources that were provided by White Rock Church in Dallas, TX in partnership with The Evangelical Network, of which we are affiliate members.
Here is a link to the World AIDS Campaign.
Here is a link to the World AIDS Campaign.
November 30, 2009
Encouraging Words 11/30/09-BCF Praise Report
Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, everyone one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you WILL RECEIVE the Gift of the Holy Spirit. The Promise
is for YOU and YOUR CHILDREN and for ALL who are far off- for ALL whom the Lord our God will call." Acts 2:38,39
Greetings BCF Family & Friends!
What an awesome and POWERFUL Lord and God we have! He is pouring out His love and the richness of His presence in ever increasing ways- and is showing forth His mighty power in healing peoples hearts and their bodies, and filling us to overflow with His ANOINTING AND GLORY! Praise His WONDERFUL NAME! Jesus!
We had a glorious Thanksgiving weekend and yesterday's worship service was on par with just that- GLORIOUS! It was such a blessing to have Minister Zoila Aguilar with us for the weekend and the workshop she led on moving in the prophetic on Saturday was amazing! Last October, Pastor Doug Sewell came and ministered spiritual gifts to us and activated us, and Saturday, Zoila imparted and instructed us further in the prophetic. It was so exciting to witness the Saints 'getting it' and stepping out in their faith to let the Holy Spirit use them in greater ways than ever before! I'm telling you Church- the Saints Movement is HERE and even greater things are ahead for us all! Thank you Minister Zoila- we love you and we VALUE YOU and the ANOINTING on your life!!!
Yesterday's worship service was just incredible and after Zoila preached on "The Anointing & The Glory"- altar ministry time was just incredible! Everyone recieved!! We were blessed to welcome two first time guests, Nolan and Mawchelle; We also welcomed back Sister Pam S. from Roanoke, and of course- Brother Freddy! We pray that each of them were blessed and refreshed and hope they will come be a regular part of BCF. God is MOVING in this Church!
As we enter into the Advent/Christmas Season- our focus is on Jesus and growing in the GIFT of the Holy Spirit which we have received! The Holy Spirit is a PERSON! He has a character, He has a nature, He has feelings, and He is EVERYTHING we need to grow in grace and walk in Divine POWER to reach the lost and heal the sick! Too many of us have received Jesus Christ as our Savior, but have not been taught or mentored in how to walk in the Spirit! Many still have not been Baptized in the Holy Spirit and received the GIFTS of the Spirit! WE NEED THAT- and God WANTS US to have that! The Apostle Paul said, "If we will walk in the Spirit, we'll not fulfill the lusts of our flesh"- causing us to stumble in sin and hinder our relationship with the Holy Spirit! But praise God, if we will admit our sin and confess our sorrow for doing it- the Word says in 1st John 1:8-9 that He is faithful and just to forgive us and CLEANSE US CONTINUALLY of all unrighteousness!! (Go read that in the Amplified Bible!) The Holy Spirit is the One our Heavenly Father sent to strengthen and empower us to live a Godly life and to be His witnesses!
So today, make a decision. Decide that you are going to set your heart and your mind on Jesus- and tell somebody about Him and what He has done for you! It's Christmas time, the season of giving- let's give JESUS and make a way for Him to give the GIFT of the Holy Spirit to everyone we tell about Him! There is no better Gift that we could ever give to someone!! If you haven't yet received the Gift of the Holy Spirit in ALLLLL of His fullness- then what are you waiting for!??! God has an awesome GIFT with your name on it! Open your heart, open your mind, and open your mouth and ASK for your Present!! If you need help in doing that, we're here for you!
We request prayer for next Saturday, December 5th, 8 AM- 12 PM est, as BCF's Helping Hands Ministry prepares our sandwich ministry/outreach in Washington, DC. We are praying for Divine Appointments and we sincerely want to bless and love on those in need. So, please hold us up in prayer and come help us out next Saturday if you are in the area and have the time.
Have a wonderful week and remember that you are NOT alone and that you are deeply loved and cared about. We are here for you and we're praying for you! SHALOM!!!!!
In Christ's love and faithful friendship,
Brother Ap Dale
is for YOU and YOUR CHILDREN and for ALL who are far off- for ALL whom the Lord our God will call." Acts 2:38,39
Greetings BCF Family & Friends!
What an awesome and POWERFUL Lord and God we have! He is pouring out His love and the richness of His presence in ever increasing ways- and is showing forth His mighty power in healing peoples hearts and their bodies, and filling us to overflow with His ANOINTING AND GLORY! Praise His WONDERFUL NAME! Jesus!
We had a glorious Thanksgiving weekend and yesterday's worship service was on par with just that- GLORIOUS! It was such a blessing to have Minister Zoila Aguilar with us for the weekend and the workshop she led on moving in the prophetic on Saturday was amazing! Last October, Pastor Doug Sewell came and ministered spiritual gifts to us and activated us, and Saturday, Zoila imparted and instructed us further in the prophetic. It was so exciting to witness the Saints 'getting it' and stepping out in their faith to let the Holy Spirit use them in greater ways than ever before! I'm telling you Church- the Saints Movement is HERE and even greater things are ahead for us all! Thank you Minister Zoila- we love you and we VALUE YOU and the ANOINTING on your life!!!
Yesterday's worship service was just incredible and after Zoila preached on "The Anointing & The Glory"- altar ministry time was just incredible! Everyone recieved!! We were blessed to welcome two first time guests, Nolan and Mawchelle; We also welcomed back Sister Pam S. from Roanoke, and of course- Brother Freddy! We pray that each of them were blessed and refreshed and hope they will come be a regular part of BCF. God is MOVING in this Church!
As we enter into the Advent/Christmas Season- our focus is on Jesus and growing in the GIFT of the Holy Spirit which we have received! The Holy Spirit is a PERSON! He has a character, He has a nature, He has feelings, and He is EVERYTHING we need to grow in grace and walk in Divine POWER to reach the lost and heal the sick! Too many of us have received Jesus Christ as our Savior, but have not been taught or mentored in how to walk in the Spirit! Many still have not been Baptized in the Holy Spirit and received the GIFTS of the Spirit! WE NEED THAT- and God WANTS US to have that! The Apostle Paul said, "If we will walk in the Spirit, we'll not fulfill the lusts of our flesh"- causing us to stumble in sin and hinder our relationship with the Holy Spirit! But praise God, if we will admit our sin and confess our sorrow for doing it- the Word says in 1st John 1:8-9 that He is faithful and just to forgive us and CLEANSE US CONTINUALLY of all unrighteousness!! (Go read that in the Amplified Bible!) The Holy Spirit is the One our Heavenly Father sent to strengthen and empower us to live a Godly life and to be His witnesses!
So today, make a decision. Decide that you are going to set your heart and your mind on Jesus- and tell somebody about Him and what He has done for you! It's Christmas time, the season of giving- let's give JESUS and make a way for Him to give the GIFT of the Holy Spirit to everyone we tell about Him! There is no better Gift that we could ever give to someone!! If you haven't yet received the Gift of the Holy Spirit in ALLLLL of His fullness- then what are you waiting for!??! God has an awesome GIFT with your name on it! Open your heart, open your mind, and open your mouth and ASK for your Present!! If you need help in doing that, we're here for you!
We request prayer for next Saturday, December 5th, 8 AM- 12 PM est, as BCF's Helping Hands Ministry prepares our sandwich ministry/outreach in Washington, DC. We are praying for Divine Appointments and we sincerely want to bless and love on those in need. So, please hold us up in prayer and come help us out next Saturday if you are in the area and have the time.
Have a wonderful week and remember that you are NOT alone and that you are deeply loved and cared about. We are here for you and we're praying for you! SHALOM!!!!!
In Christ's love and faithful friendship,
Brother Ap Dale
LGBT Hehlping Hands 11/30/09-Colorado Springs Pride Center
Our mission is to empower lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people to achieve civil and social equality.
We envision a thriving Colorado Springs in which all people, including GLBT people, can reach their full potential as human beings, free from oppression and discrimination. We envision a region where individual rights are honored, and constitutional rights, including life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are upheld for all people.
Pikes Peak Gay & Lesbian Community Center is a 501(c)3, nonprofit organization founded in 1978 and formally incorporated in 1981. As Colorado’s 2nd oldest GLBT community center, the organization’s purpose is to create a level playing field for LGBT individuals and families in the Pikes Peak region and Southern Colorado.
Transsexual Sportswriter Dead, Suicide Suspected
We've covered the story here of sportswriter Mike Penner, a successful columnist for one of the largest newspapers in the United States, the Los Angeles Times. He announced in a column in 2007 that he was transitioning to become a woman named Christian Daniels. He later went back to being known as Mike Penner in 2008.
Sadly, he is now dead, and officials believe it was a suicide.
We certainly don't know enough about the late Mr. Penner to make any assumptions about what drove him to take his own life, but given our experience with and knowledge of transgender people, it is hard not to think his sexuality was at least a part of the issues he felt unable to resolve. We share this story with you to close a loop in news coverage of Mr. Penner, but also to encourage anyone who is suffering with any type of uncertainty about their sexuality to seek help, and for those who know someone in that situation to offer help.
From the LA Times:
Mike Penner, a longtime Los Angeles Times sportswriter who made headlines in 2007 when he announced that he was transsexual, has died. He was 52.
Penner was pronounced dead Friday evening at Brotman Medical Center in Culver City, a Los Angeles County coroner's official said.
The cause of death has not been determined but was believed to be suicide.
"Mike was a first-rate journalist, a valued member of our staff for 25 years, and we will miss him," Times Editor Russ Stanton said. "He respected our readers a great deal, enough to share with them his very personal journey. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family."
A versatile member of The Times' sports staff, Penner covered the Olympics, the Angels, World Cup soccer, tennis, sports media and a variety of other assignments.
He also spent several years writing a sports column for the paper's Orange County Edition. Since 2008, he was the principal writer for the sports section's "Totally Random" feature.
"Mike was one of the most talented writers I've ever worked with, capable of reporting on any number of topics with great wit and style," sports editor Mike James said. "This is a tragic ending and a difficult time for all of us who knew him."
In April 2007, Penner surprised colleagues and readers with an essay in The Times' Sports section announcing that he was "a transsexual sportswriter."
"It has taken more than 40 years, a million tears and hundreds of hours of soul-searching therapy for me to work up the courage to type those words," he wrote.
Times Associate Editor Randy Harvey, who was the paper's sports editor at the time, said the essay allowed Penner to explain in his own way a decision that "we realized would be a human-interest story and a news story. We didn't want it to be filtered through someone else's lens."
In the essay, Penner said of his transgender decision:
"I gave it as good a fight as I possibly could. I went more than 40 hard rounds with it. Eventually, though, you realize you are only fighting yourself and your happiness and your mental health -- a no-win situation any way you look at it."
Writing as Christine Daniels, Penner started a column for the paper's website in May 2007 called Day in L.A. and a blog about the transition, then in July began writing for the paper again.
He returned to using the Mike Penner byline in October 2008.
Penner is survived by his brother, John, a copy editor at The Times, and his former wife, Times staff writer Lisa Dillman.
Click here to read the rest of the Times' story.
Sadly, he is now dead, and officials believe it was a suicide.
We certainly don't know enough about the late Mr. Penner to make any assumptions about what drove him to take his own life, but given our experience with and knowledge of transgender people, it is hard not to think his sexuality was at least a part of the issues he felt unable to resolve. We share this story with you to close a loop in news coverage of Mr. Penner, but also to encourage anyone who is suffering with any type of uncertainty about their sexuality to seek help, and for those who know someone in that situation to offer help.
From the LA Times:
Mike Penner, a longtime Los Angeles Times sportswriter who made headlines in 2007 when he announced that he was transsexual, has died. He was 52.
Penner was pronounced dead Friday evening at Brotman Medical Center in Culver City, a Los Angeles County coroner's official said.
The cause of death has not been determined but was believed to be suicide.
"Mike was a first-rate journalist, a valued member of our staff for 25 years, and we will miss him," Times Editor Russ Stanton said. "He respected our readers a great deal, enough to share with them his very personal journey. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family."
A versatile member of The Times' sports staff, Penner covered the Olympics, the Angels, World Cup soccer, tennis, sports media and a variety of other assignments.
He also spent several years writing a sports column for the paper's Orange County Edition. Since 2008, he was the principal writer for the sports section's "Totally Random" feature.
"Mike was one of the most talented writers I've ever worked with, capable of reporting on any number of topics with great wit and style," sports editor Mike James said. "This is a tragic ending and a difficult time for all of us who knew him."
In April 2007, Penner surprised colleagues and readers with an essay in The Times' Sports section announcing that he was "a transsexual sportswriter."
"It has taken more than 40 years, a million tears and hundreds of hours of soul-searching therapy for me to work up the courage to type those words," he wrote.
Times Associate Editor Randy Harvey, who was the paper's sports editor at the time, said the essay allowed Penner to explain in his own way a decision that "we realized would be a human-interest story and a news story. We didn't want it to be filtered through someone else's lens."
In the essay, Penner said of his transgender decision:
"I gave it as good a fight as I possibly could. I went more than 40 hard rounds with it. Eventually, though, you realize you are only fighting yourself and your happiness and your mental health -- a no-win situation any way you look at it."
Writing as Christine Daniels, Penner started a column for the paper's website in May 2007 called Day in L.A. and a blog about the transition, then in July began writing for the paper again.
He returned to using the Mike Penner byline in October 2008.
Penner is survived by his brother, John, a copy editor at The Times, and his former wife, Times staff writer Lisa Dillman.
Click here to read the rest of the Times' story.
Daily Devotional 11/30/09 When Life Hurts
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for You are with me. - Psalm 23:4
I counseled with a man a few months back. He had just lost his wife of many years in a tragic accident. Although he was a committed Christian, he was still devastated, bewildered, angry, and, deep down, did not want to go on. It was hard seeing him so hurt, yet there was nothing anyone could do for him to take away the pain.
While not all of us experience the same tragedies in life, we can all relate to being hurt. We can all relate to rejection, abuse, ridicule, disappointment, betrayal, loss, fear, sadness, bad choices… and the list goes on.
NO ONE IS IMMUNE
King David was the only man in the Bible called “a man after God’s own heart” (Acts 13:22), yet he suffered hurt on many levels – misunderstood and hunted by King Saul, mocked and despised by his own wife, betrayed and hated by his own son, devastated by his own sin, and rejected by the people who chose to follow Absalom instead of David. Without question, David spent lots of time in the dark valley of the shadow of death.
But notice… he walked through that valley; he did not build a home there. He did not curse God and die there. He trusted God in the valley… and the Lord saw him through to the other side.
WHY?
Why the dark valleys? Why all the hurts? Why all the storms in life? To show us that God is more than able to take the worst life can throw at us and turn it around for good.
Adrian Rogers used to say, “A faith that cannot be tested, cannot be trusted.” Our faith is not tested on the mountain top… it is tested in the valley. People watch you in the valley to see if your Jesus really does make a difference.
You and I will NEVER have a better opportunity to show the manifest presence of Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world than when we are hurting. If they can see a peace that passes understanding… a confidence that defies the circumstances… a joy that does not make sense… then they will begin to see Jesus in you and me and want what we have.
WHAT TO DO?
No matter how you may be hurting today, do not give up!! Do not give into the temptation to “curse God and die!” Even though you may not feel it or understand it, the Lord really does love you, and He still has a wonderful plan. Nothing can come into your life unless it first filters through His fingers of love.
Thank Him for the hurt. That’s right, thank Him for the hurt. Give it all to Him so He can use it for good. Remember, He promises to never leave you or forsake you (Heb. 13:5). He promises to give you “beauty for ashes” (Is. 61:3). Seek Him each day for strength to go on. Remind Him that He promised to be present in your valley. Ask Him to see you through!! He will do it, if you do not quit!
A HAPPY ENDING
My friend who came to me those many months ago with a load of hurt, he came back to see me just the other day, asking me to marry him and his fiancée. God has brought a beautiful, godly lady into his life. She also lost her spouse suddenly and unexpectedly a few years ago. Both of them refused to live in the valley. They sought God through the hurts and the tears and the lonely, dark nights… and God has brought them through.
He will do the same for you, my friend. He is a God who brings us through! It will not be immediate, for it takes time to heal… but it will be sure as you simply depend upon Him and say with Job, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him” (Job 13:15).
There is a light and a new life at the end of your dark valley! How do I know? Because He promised!!
I counseled with a man a few months back. He had just lost his wife of many years in a tragic accident. Although he was a committed Christian, he was still devastated, bewildered, angry, and, deep down, did not want to go on. It was hard seeing him so hurt, yet there was nothing anyone could do for him to take away the pain.
While not all of us experience the same tragedies in life, we can all relate to being hurt. We can all relate to rejection, abuse, ridicule, disappointment, betrayal, loss, fear, sadness, bad choices… and the list goes on.
NO ONE IS IMMUNE
King David was the only man in the Bible called “a man after God’s own heart” (Acts 13:22), yet he suffered hurt on many levels – misunderstood and hunted by King Saul, mocked and despised by his own wife, betrayed and hated by his own son, devastated by his own sin, and rejected by the people who chose to follow Absalom instead of David. Without question, David spent lots of time in the dark valley of the shadow of death.
But notice… he walked through that valley; he did not build a home there. He did not curse God and die there. He trusted God in the valley… and the Lord saw him through to the other side.
WHY?
Why the dark valleys? Why all the hurts? Why all the storms in life? To show us that God is more than able to take the worst life can throw at us and turn it around for good.
Adrian Rogers used to say, “A faith that cannot be tested, cannot be trusted.” Our faith is not tested on the mountain top… it is tested in the valley. People watch you in the valley to see if your Jesus really does make a difference.
You and I will NEVER have a better opportunity to show the manifest presence of Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world than when we are hurting. If they can see a peace that passes understanding… a confidence that defies the circumstances… a joy that does not make sense… then they will begin to see Jesus in you and me and want what we have.
WHAT TO DO?
No matter how you may be hurting today, do not give up!! Do not give into the temptation to “curse God and die!” Even though you may not feel it or understand it, the Lord really does love you, and He still has a wonderful plan. Nothing can come into your life unless it first filters through His fingers of love.
Thank Him for the hurt. That’s right, thank Him for the hurt. Give it all to Him so He can use it for good. Remember, He promises to never leave you or forsake you (Heb. 13:5). He promises to give you “beauty for ashes” (Is. 61:3). Seek Him each day for strength to go on. Remind Him that He promised to be present in your valley. Ask Him to see you through!! He will do it, if you do not quit!
A HAPPY ENDING
My friend who came to me those many months ago with a load of hurt, he came back to see me just the other day, asking me to marry him and his fiancée. God has brought a beautiful, godly lady into his life. She also lost her spouse suddenly and unexpectedly a few years ago. Both of them refused to live in the valley. They sought God through the hurts and the tears and the lonely, dark nights… and God has brought them through.
He will do the same for you, my friend. He is a God who brings us through! It will not be immediate, for it takes time to heal… but it will be sure as you simply depend upon Him and say with Job, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him” (Job 13:15).
There is a light and a new life at the end of your dark valley! How do I know? Because He promised!!
November 29, 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.
Welcome to Sunday Worship 11/29/09
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
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.
November 28, 2009
Encouraging Words 11/28/09-"I'm Rubber, You're Glue"
From Whosoever online magazine.
As the old hymn says, "They will know we are Christians by our love." Jesus made clear that the way the world will know we follow Him is by the consideration we show each other. This is why constructive dialogue between Christians is so important. We've had precious little of it lately, but perhaps, as the Religious Right continues to decline in power, we may see more. The powerful never seem to be able to empathize with the powerless.
Sometimes people have to hear their own rhetoric echoed back to them before they can truly understand the effect it has, or what they're really saying. This should never be done in any childish, "I'm rubber and you're glue" sense. But the Gospels present a very reciprocal point of view on how people ought to deal with each other: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." While Christians are encouraged to move past "an eye for an eye" thinking, there is indeed a biblical basis for considering how what we do affects others by imagining how we'd feel if it were done to us.
Most anti-gay Christians treat LGBT people in a way they would never want to be treated themselves. Common sense shows this quite clearly. The majority say they don't hate us, and even claim that they love us ("hate the sin, but love the sinner"). But their actions and words toward us seldom show anything any reasonable person could interpret as love.
Christian doctrine is like the tip of a mountainous iceberg. Most of the truth is submerged, and we can scarcely fathom its mass and depth. All we have, to tell us it's there, is that very tiny tip sticking out of the water. I have come to conclude that the mistake conservative Christians make is that they think that little tip is all there is, wrongly believing that they see it all - or even that it is all knowable.
Click here to read the rest of this essay at Whosoever.org
As the old hymn says, "They will know we are Christians by our love." Jesus made clear that the way the world will know we follow Him is by the consideration we show each other. This is why constructive dialogue between Christians is so important. We've had precious little of it lately, but perhaps, as the Religious Right continues to decline in power, we may see more. The powerful never seem to be able to empathize with the powerless.
Sometimes people have to hear their own rhetoric echoed back to them before they can truly understand the effect it has, or what they're really saying. This should never be done in any childish, "I'm rubber and you're glue" sense. But the Gospels present a very reciprocal point of view on how people ought to deal with each other: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." While Christians are encouraged to move past "an eye for an eye" thinking, there is indeed a biblical basis for considering how what we do affects others by imagining how we'd feel if it were done to us.
Most anti-gay Christians treat LGBT people in a way they would never want to be treated themselves. Common sense shows this quite clearly. The majority say they don't hate us, and even claim that they love us ("hate the sin, but love the sinner"). But their actions and words toward us seldom show anything any reasonable person could interpret as love.
Christian doctrine is like the tip of a mountainous iceberg. Most of the truth is submerged, and we can scarcely fathom its mass and depth. All we have, to tell us it's there, is that very tiny tip sticking out of the water. I have come to conclude that the mistake conservative Christians make is that they think that little tip is all there is, wrongly believing that they see it all - or even that it is all knowable.
Click here to read the rest of this essay at Whosoever.org
LGBT Helping Hands 11/28/09-National LGBT Health Alliance (Australia)
The National LGBT Health Alliance has been established by a number of organisations from across Australia that provide health-related programs, services and research targeting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and other sexuality, sex and gender diverse people (LGBT).
The Alliance acknowledges the traditional owners of country throughout Australia, their diversity, histories and knowledge and their continuing connections to land and community. We pay our respect to all Australian Indigenous peoples and their cultures, and to elders of past, present and future generations.
Alliance members have come together to work collaboratively to improve the health and wellbeing of sexuality, sex and gender diverse people by:
* advocating with one voice on the health needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and other sexuality, sex and gender diverse people and communities at a national level
* building the capacity of our members to work with and for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and other sexuality, sex and gender diverse people and communities.
We work across a broad range of health areas, striving to improve LGBT health in many different ways.
Click here to find out more.
The Alliance acknowledges the traditional owners of country throughout Australia, their diversity, histories and knowledge and their continuing connections to land and community. We pay our respect to all Australian Indigenous peoples and their cultures, and to elders of past, present and future generations.
Alliance members have come together to work collaboratively to improve the health and wellbeing of sexuality, sex and gender diverse people by:
* advocating with one voice on the health needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and other sexuality, sex and gender diverse people and communities at a national level
* building the capacity of our members to work with and for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and other sexuality, sex and gender diverse people and communities.
We work across a broad range of health areas, striving to improve LGBT health in many different ways.
Click here to find out more.
One Family and a Hockey Team Strike Back at Homophobia
There is a wonderful story on ESPN.com about how a young man named Brenda Burke told his family and friends he was gay. What makes this story out of the ordinary and noteworthy of coverage by ESPN is that the young man's father is the general manager of a team in the National Hockey League, and the son works with the hockey team at the University of Miami-Ohio, currently the top ranked team in U. S. college hockey. Here's a quote from the father, Brian Burke:
"I had a million good reasons to love and admire Brendan. This news didn't alter any of them.
I would prefer Brendan hadn't decided to discuss this issue in this very public manner. There will be a great deal of reaction, and I fear a large portion will be negative. But this takes guts, and I admire Brendan greatly, and happily march arm in arm with him on this.
There are gay men in professional hockey. We would be fools to think otherwise. And it's sad that they feel the need to conceal this. I understand why they do so, however.
Can a gay man advance in professional hockey? He can if he works for the Toronto Maple Leafs! Or for Miami University Hockey. God bless Rico Blasi! And I am certain these two organizations are not alone here.
I wish this burden would fall on someone else's shoulders, not Brendan's. Pioneers are often misunderstood and mistrusted. But since he wishes to blaze this trail, I stand beside him with an axe! I simply could not be more proud of Brendan than I am, and I love him as much as I admire him." -- Brian Burke
Here's a quote from the coach at Miami-Ohio:
"Brendan is a great guy, personable and caring. As student manager, he is involved in a lot of things for us -- video, stats and community service, to name a few of his duties.
To my knowledge, there has been nothing negative [since he came out to us]. I think it goes along the lines that Brendan is part of our family. Everyone respects Brendan, and that's all that really matters.
The players are awesome. They are very sensitive to language and how we talk in the locker room. Again, it goes back to our culture and working on relationships and behaviors.
[As far as whether a player could come out and be able to function like a normal college player], that's a tough one and I don't want to speak for any other program. As far as Miami is concerned, we are about the person. I believe we would be accepting and honestly not even think twice about it.
I think having Brendan as part of our program has been a blessing. We are much more aware of what you say and how we say it. I am guilty as anyone. We need to be reminded that respect is not a label, but something you earn by the way you live your life." -- Miami University hockey coach Enrico Blasi
While I do think that these two men are not the norm in hockey or major sports in general, their public stances will certainly help raise the bar at least a little bit.
Enjoy the story at ESPN.com.
"I had a million good reasons to love and admire Brendan. This news didn't alter any of them.
I would prefer Brendan hadn't decided to discuss this issue in this very public manner. There will be a great deal of reaction, and I fear a large portion will be negative. But this takes guts, and I admire Brendan greatly, and happily march arm in arm with him on this.
There are gay men in professional hockey. We would be fools to think otherwise. And it's sad that they feel the need to conceal this. I understand why they do so, however.
Can a gay man advance in professional hockey? He can if he works for the Toronto Maple Leafs! Or for Miami University Hockey. God bless Rico Blasi! And I am certain these two organizations are not alone here.
I wish this burden would fall on someone else's shoulders, not Brendan's. Pioneers are often misunderstood and mistrusted. But since he wishes to blaze this trail, I stand beside him with an axe! I simply could not be more proud of Brendan than I am, and I love him as much as I admire him." -- Brian Burke
Here's a quote from the coach at Miami-Ohio:
"Brendan is a great guy, personable and caring. As student manager, he is involved in a lot of things for us -- video, stats and community service, to name a few of his duties.
To my knowledge, there has been nothing negative [since he came out to us]. I think it goes along the lines that Brendan is part of our family. Everyone respects Brendan, and that's all that really matters.
The players are awesome. They are very sensitive to language and how we talk in the locker room. Again, it goes back to our culture and working on relationships and behaviors.
[As far as whether a player could come out and be able to function like a normal college player], that's a tough one and I don't want to speak for any other program. As far as Miami is concerned, we are about the person. I believe we would be accepting and honestly not even think twice about it.
I think having Brendan as part of our program has been a blessing. We are much more aware of what you say and how we say it. I am guilty as anyone. We need to be reminded that respect is not a label, but something you earn by the way you live your life." -- Miami University hockey coach Enrico Blasi
While I do think that these two men are not the norm in hockey or major sports in general, their public stances will certainly help raise the bar at least a little bit.
Enjoy the story at ESPN.com.
Daily Devotional 11/28/09 Dealing With Stress
Cease striving and know that I am God. - Psalm 46:10
Have you noticed how easy it is to get all stressed out? I mean, you get behind with assignments at work or at school… the chores at home begin to pile up… the internal pressure starts to mount… and to top it all off, you get sick and just want to crawl in bed.
That scenario describes the start of my year. Up until this morning, I felt SO behind and SO anxious as I projected into the near future. As I prayed, I reminded the Lord that I needed sermon topics and sermon titles and some additional staff and direction for the year and this and that and the other… and that I needed all this stuff today!
After I rambled through my stressed out prayer, the Lord reminded me of one verse, Psalm 46:10 – “Cease striving and know that I am God.” Cease striving literally means to let go and relax. Isn’t that great! I came to God with all my stress, and He told me to relax and let it all go.
RELAX… HE IS GOD
All the things you and I need, He has. All the things we strive for… and worry for… and agonize over, He has in abundance. That is why He says in Matthew 6:33, “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things (the things we worry about and stress over) will be added to you.”
The best medicine for stress is just to remember that God is God… and you and I are not. You see, I do not have to come up with sermon titles and topics and direction and whatever else, all I have to do is sit at His feet and relax in Him and lay my burdens down at the altar. He knows what I need, and He will supply that need as I trust in Him. “Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass” (1 Thes. 5:24).
LIFE’S TOO SHORT
Life is too short to live it all stressed out. Furthermore, anytime we are all stressed out, it reveals a heart that is not actively trusting God. God did not make you to carry the burdens of life. He wants to carry them for you and work through you to get everything accomplished that He has for you to do.
Take time right now to lay all your burdens and deadlines and pressures at His feet. You will be amazed at the change in your perspective as you relax… and let go… and trust Him to do it through you.
Have you noticed how easy it is to get all stressed out? I mean, you get behind with assignments at work or at school… the chores at home begin to pile up… the internal pressure starts to mount… and to top it all off, you get sick and just want to crawl in bed.
That scenario describes the start of my year. Up until this morning, I felt SO behind and SO anxious as I projected into the near future. As I prayed, I reminded the Lord that I needed sermon topics and sermon titles and some additional staff and direction for the year and this and that and the other… and that I needed all this stuff today!
After I rambled through my stressed out prayer, the Lord reminded me of one verse, Psalm 46:10 – “Cease striving and know that I am God.” Cease striving literally means to let go and relax. Isn’t that great! I came to God with all my stress, and He told me to relax and let it all go.
RELAX… HE IS GOD
All the things you and I need, He has. All the things we strive for… and worry for… and agonize over, He has in abundance. That is why He says in Matthew 6:33, “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things (the things we worry about and stress over) will be added to you.”
The best medicine for stress is just to remember that God is God… and you and I are not. You see, I do not have to come up with sermon titles and topics and direction and whatever else, all I have to do is sit at His feet and relax in Him and lay my burdens down at the altar. He knows what I need, and He will supply that need as I trust in Him. “Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass” (1 Thes. 5:24).
LIFE’S TOO SHORT
Life is too short to live it all stressed out. Furthermore, anytime we are all stressed out, it reveals a heart that is not actively trusting God. God did not make you to carry the burdens of life. He wants to carry them for you and work through you to get everything accomplished that He has for you to do.
Take time right now to lay all your burdens and deadlines and pressures at His feet. You will be amazed at the change in your perspective as you relax… and let go… and trust Him to do it through you.
November 27, 2009
In Our Own Words 11/27/09-Welcoming or Tolerating?
"We welcome homosexuals."
"We can't condone homosexual behavior."
How many churches do you know that make both of those statements?
I was reminded of that reading a story in the Christian Post where a Lutheran pastor in Minnesota tried to get his church to leave the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) after the denomination voted to allow ordination of non-celebate homosexual pastors. When the congregation voted on and rejected that idea, he resigned and started a new church with people leaving his old one. The pastor used both of the opening phrases to describe his old church.
Seriously, if we were "welcomed" into a church but told that our "behavior" of having sex with each other was considered sinful, I don't think we would feel very welcome. Tolerated, maybe, but certainly not welcome. Who wouldn't feel the same way? Sadly, that concept continues to be a mystery to many mainline churches who have to tried to convince people (and perhaps their own congregations) that allowing people in the door without swift and direct condemnation is a sufficient display of Jesus' love.
Isn't this just one tiny step better than the worn out "Hate the sin, love the sinner" approach some of the more fundamentalist churches take, especially when the hate part is so often directed at the aforementioned sinners.
Remember, the only people Jesus cast out and was sharply critical of were the religious types, the ones who administered the Law that had grown so it was impossible for anyone to be in total compliance. He loved sinner of all types, but the religious leaders really got on his nerves, mainly because their rules put obstacles between people and His Father. Jesus came down to earth and suffered on the cross to give us a path to the Father, not to keep "certain types" away and out of fellowship with Him.
Jesus doesn't tolerate sinners, He loves them. Perhaps our churches should put more effort into doing the same.
"We can't condone homosexual behavior."
How many churches do you know that make both of those statements?
I was reminded of that reading a story in the Christian Post where a Lutheran pastor in Minnesota tried to get his church to leave the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) after the denomination voted to allow ordination of non-celebate homosexual pastors. When the congregation voted on and rejected that idea, he resigned and started a new church with people leaving his old one. The pastor used both of the opening phrases to describe his old church.
Seriously, if we were "welcomed" into a church but told that our "behavior" of having sex with each other was considered sinful, I don't think we would feel very welcome. Tolerated, maybe, but certainly not welcome. Who wouldn't feel the same way? Sadly, that concept continues to be a mystery to many mainline churches who have to tried to convince people (and perhaps their own congregations) that allowing people in the door without swift and direct condemnation is a sufficient display of Jesus' love.
Isn't this just one tiny step better than the worn out "Hate the sin, love the sinner" approach some of the more fundamentalist churches take, especially when the hate part is so often directed at the aforementioned sinners.
Remember, the only people Jesus cast out and was sharply critical of were the religious types, the ones who administered the Law that had grown so it was impossible for anyone to be in total compliance. He loved sinner of all types, but the religious leaders really got on his nerves, mainly because their rules put obstacles between people and His Father. Jesus came down to earth and suffered on the cross to give us a path to the Father, not to keep "certain types" away and out of fellowship with Him.
Jesus doesn't tolerate sinners, He loves them. Perhaps our churches should put more effort into doing the same.
Encouraging Words 11/27/09-A Love Issue
How different would our world be if all Christians took this approach? How much pain would be avoided by LGBT people?
A lot! Thanks to Tips-Q for the link.
A lot! Thanks to Tips-Q for the link.
SNN Recommends (Just for Fun) 11/27/09-I Can Has Cheezburger)
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
see more dog and puppy pictures
Open Letter to a State Senator on Same-Sex Marriage
It appears the momentum that was building in New York to give legal recognition to same-sex marriages has largely dissapated, which led one resident to compose an open letter to his state senator. We thought it was worth sharing with you-here's an excerpt:
Your office has made it painfully clear to me when I called that you are against same sex marriage. I don’t understand your fears.
If it is a religious issue, religion really has no place in politics. Nobody is asking that you marry someone of the same sex. I am not afraid of opposite-sex marriage. You were elected to support the community that you serve. You need to listen to all the voices in that community rather than just acting on your personal beliefs.
Marriage can’t just be about procreation. If that were the case, we should not allow folks to marry unless they’re going to have children. If they can’t physically have children, they should have to adopt children or annul their marriage.
I have been in a monogamous relationship for a few months shy of 20 years. We were married in Toronto Nov. 7, 2003. I’d like to believe that America, and New York in particular, would be more forward-thinking than any other country, but sadly that is not the case.
I am involved in the community. I take great care of my property. I’m a great neighbor, friend, relative, and employee.
I work hard. I pay taxes. I vote to pass school budgets although I don’t have children. I recently received your mailing inviting me to your ‘family day,’ although you have no desire to recognize my family.
Everyone should be allowed to be involved with any consensual partner they choose, regardless of race, color, religion or sexual orientation.
Click here to read the rest of the letter on 365gay.com.
Your office has made it painfully clear to me when I called that you are against same sex marriage. I don’t understand your fears.
If it is a religious issue, religion really has no place in politics. Nobody is asking that you marry someone of the same sex. I am not afraid of opposite-sex marriage. You were elected to support the community that you serve. You need to listen to all the voices in that community rather than just acting on your personal beliefs.
Marriage can’t just be about procreation. If that were the case, we should not allow folks to marry unless they’re going to have children. If they can’t physically have children, they should have to adopt children or annul their marriage.
I have been in a monogamous relationship for a few months shy of 20 years. We were married in Toronto Nov. 7, 2003. I’d like to believe that America, and New York in particular, would be more forward-thinking than any other country, but sadly that is not the case.
I am involved in the community. I take great care of my property. I’m a great neighbor, friend, relative, and employee.
I work hard. I pay taxes. I vote to pass school budgets although I don’t have children. I recently received your mailing inviting me to your ‘family day,’ although you have no desire to recognize my family.
Everyone should be allowed to be involved with any consensual partner they choose, regardless of race, color, religion or sexual orientation.
Click here to read the rest of the letter on 365gay.com.
Daily Devotional 11/27/09 I Never Knew That
The LORD your God is in your midst, a victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy. - Zephaniah 3:17
How does God feel most of the time? Is He happy… sad… concerned… detached… upset… angry… disappointed… frustrated? Your honest answer to that question speaks volumes about how you interact with God.
Lots of people see God as a sad God: He is sad over their sins and disobedience. He is grieved over the state of the world. Others see God as a mad God: He has a hair-trigger temper and often goes ballistic. He will zap you if you get out of line… and enjoy seeing you punished.
THE BIBLICAL VIEW
What is the biblical view of God? The Bible teaches that although God gets sad (Gen. 6:6) and gets mad (Ex. 4:14), God is not mad or sad by nature. God is a glad God. To be in His presence is to be in the fullness of joy (Ps. 16:11)… because His heart overflows with joy and gladness.
And when God thinks of you… He begins to shout and sing with joy. You are His special treasure (Ex. 19:5). You are His trophy of grace (1 Tim. 1:16). He is SO excited about you!!
THIS CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE!
I am convinced that many Christians miss out on the good, glad heart of God. They have such a negative view of God in their minds that it is impossible for them to really enjoy a relationship with Jesus.
I wonder how many of us are going to stand before Jesus at the end of our lives and be totally blown away that He is so different from what we believed Him to be. I wonder if your dialogue that first encounter with Jesus might be something like this:
“Lord, I never knew that you loved me so much. I never knew that you were so excited about me. Jesus, I would have lived a different life, one filled with love and laughter and no worries, had I only known how you felt about me.”
And He will respond, “My child… did you not read about Me in the Bible? Did you not know that I am the Father of the prodigal son? Did you not read that I rejoice over you with shouts of joy? Did you not hear that I love you with an everlasting love?”
“Yes, Lord.” I heard those words while I was on earth… but I guess I never really believed them.”
God wants you to believe Him in this life!! He wants you to rest in His love and grace. He wants you to rejoice that you are His and He is yours, and His banner over you is love.
God is a glad God who has a heart for you!! He wants to help you in your struggles. He wants to change you so that you can be like Him and your life can overflow with the good fruit of the Spirit.
Make it a point today to work on removing any erroneous, dysfunctional views that you have of God’s character. Replace those lies with the truth (see Luke 7:36-50, Ex. 34:6-7, John 8:1-11). Remember… when you know the truth, the truth shall set you free (John 8:32).
How does God feel most of the time? Is He happy… sad… concerned… detached… upset… angry… disappointed… frustrated? Your honest answer to that question speaks volumes about how you interact with God.
Lots of people see God as a sad God: He is sad over their sins and disobedience. He is grieved over the state of the world. Others see God as a mad God: He has a hair-trigger temper and often goes ballistic. He will zap you if you get out of line… and enjoy seeing you punished.
THE BIBLICAL VIEW
What is the biblical view of God? The Bible teaches that although God gets sad (Gen. 6:6) and gets mad (Ex. 4:14), God is not mad or sad by nature. God is a glad God. To be in His presence is to be in the fullness of joy (Ps. 16:11)… because His heart overflows with joy and gladness.
And when God thinks of you… He begins to shout and sing with joy. You are His special treasure (Ex. 19:5). You are His trophy of grace (1 Tim. 1:16). He is SO excited about you!!
THIS CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE!
I am convinced that many Christians miss out on the good, glad heart of God. They have such a negative view of God in their minds that it is impossible for them to really enjoy a relationship with Jesus.
I wonder how many of us are going to stand before Jesus at the end of our lives and be totally blown away that He is so different from what we believed Him to be. I wonder if your dialogue that first encounter with Jesus might be something like this:
“Lord, I never knew that you loved me so much. I never knew that you were so excited about me. Jesus, I would have lived a different life, one filled with love and laughter and no worries, had I only known how you felt about me.”
And He will respond, “My child… did you not read about Me in the Bible? Did you not know that I am the Father of the prodigal son? Did you not read that I rejoice over you with shouts of joy? Did you not hear that I love you with an everlasting love?”
“Yes, Lord.” I heard those words while I was on earth… but I guess I never really believed them.”
God wants you to believe Him in this life!! He wants you to rest in His love and grace. He wants you to rejoice that you are His and He is yours, and His banner over you is love.
God is a glad God who has a heart for you!! He wants to help you in your struggles. He wants to change you so that you can be like Him and your life can overflow with the good fruit of the Spirit.
Make it a point today to work on removing any erroneous, dysfunctional views that you have of God’s character. Replace those lies with the truth (see Luke 7:36-50, Ex. 34:6-7, John 8:1-11). Remember… when you know the truth, the truth shall set you free (John 8:32).
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