CHURCH NEWS
of this marvelous, amazing grace that reaches down to mankind, even the criminal on the cross, the one who took notice of the Savior's compassion and humility, and those who were humiliating Him. Jesus's response was kind and forgiving. The other criminal rebuked his fellow convict, recognizing and admitting that Jesus is the Son of God (see Luke 23:42). This thief heard the last words of Jesus. He heard Jesus praying to His Father and asking Him to forgive those who mocked Him. It was not the disciples of Jesus who brought gleams of hope to the Saviour at this time; it was the thief on the cross who gave Jesus strength with these words: “Remember me when you come in your kingdom.” The Saviour felt as if He was going to be separated from His Father for eternity. “[He] could not see through the portals of the tomb” (White, The Desire of Ages, p. 753). The thief reminded the Saviour that He will be in His kingdom. This theif never attended church or knew Jesus. In closing, Pastor Enock expressed his thanks to God and desire to see that thief who brought comfort to the Saviour with these words: “Lord remember me when you come into your kingdom.” — Submitted by Ina Martin Children’s Sabbath School Department Edmonton Central Seventhday Adventist Church
We Were Blessed Indeed W
e have experienced quite an active transition in our pastoral leadership positions at Edmonton Central Seventhday Adventist Church during 2019 to 2020 It has been almost a year ago since we welcomed Pastor Dennis Braun and his wife Diane to our church family, and indeed it was a warm reception. As we got more acquainted with him, we realized one of his ministry passions was to visit those who were unable to attend church. It was not concerning to him that some of these visits might mean traveling out of the city. He was always ready and willing to go. His humble, spirited demeanor was an asset to our church meetings. This helps to run things smoothly and in an effective and timely manner.
Encouraging Words from Pastor Dennis Braun's Final Message We were encouraged and reminded of the things God has in store for His people: a new name in Revelation 21:7, a new song in 5:7, and a new heaven in 21:1–2. However, before we get to this new heaven and
new earth, God has also promised new people, new bodies, new minds, and beauty that will not give way to age (see 21:3, 5). We were reminded that God will make all things new. In closing, we were encouraged to look forward to that which is new, and one day, we'll rejoice over a happy reunion with our heavenly Father. I want to thank Pastor Braun for this sobering reality that someday, when we
nis and Pastor Den e Braun nn ia D e wif
get to heaven, there will be no more sorrow, separation, or pain because God will wipe away every tear from our eyes. We will miss the Brauns' enthusiastic spirit and willingness to share God's love.
— Submitted by Ina Martin Children's Sabbath School Department, Edmonton Central Seventh-day Adventist Church
DECEMBER 2020
Alberta Adventist News
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