FREE
SEPT issue focus -
SALVATION
September 2009 Vol. 6 Iss. 9
From the
Pulpit of the Publisher UNDERSTAND THE BOOK OF REVELATION! Still ahead is the teaching of the ‘Rider on
WHAT IS
SALVATION? “What is the Romans Road to Salvation?”
“What is the True Gospel?”
Good News Publishing USA 5000 Amaryllis St. Oakley, CA. 94561
Postal Customer
PRSRT STD
US Postage Wesco Graphics PAID ECRWSS
The true gospel is the good news that God saves sinners. Man is by nature sinful and separated from God with no hope of remedying that situation. But God, by His power, provided the means of man’s redemption through the death, burial and resurrection of the Savior, Jesus Christ. The word “gospel” literally means “good news.” But to truly comprehend how good this news is, we must fi rst understand the bad news. As a result of the fall of man in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:6), every part of man—his mind, will, emotions and fl esh— have been corrupted by sin. Because of man’s sinful nature, he does not and cannot seek God. He has no desire to come to God and, in fact, his mind is hostile towards God (Romans 8:7). God has declared that man’s sin dooms him to an eternity in hell, separated from God. It is in hell that man pays the penalty of sin against a holy and righteous God. This would be bad news indeed if there were no remedy. But in the gospel, God, in His mercy, has provided that remedy, a substitute for us—Jesus Christ—who came to pay the penalty for our sin by His sacrifi ce on the cross. This is the essence of the gospel which Paul preached to the Corinthians. In 1 Corinthians 15:2-4, he explains the three elements of the gospel—the death, burial and resurrection of Christ on our behalf. Our old nature died with Christ on the cross and was buried with Him. Then we were resurrected with Him to a new life (Romans 6:4-8). Paul tells us to “hold fi rmly” to this true gospel, the only one which saves. Believing in any other gospel is to believe in vain. In Romans 1:16-17, Paul also declares that the true gospel is the “power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes” by which he means that salvation is not achieved by man’s efforts, but by the grace of God through the gift of faith (Ephesians 2:8-9). Because of the Gospel through the power of God, those who believe in Christ (Romans 10:9) are not just saved from hell. We are, in fact, given a completely new nature (2 Corinthians 5:17) with a changed heart and a new desire, will, and attitude that are manifested in good works. This is the fruit the Holy Spirit produces in us by His power. Works are never the means of salvation, but they are the proof of it (Ephesians 2:10). Those who are saved by the power of God will always show the evidence of salvation by a changed life.
The Romans Road to salvation is a way of explaining the good news of salvation using verses from the Book of Romans. It is a simple yet powerful method of explaining why we need salvation, how God provided salvation, how we can receive salvation, and what are the results of salvation. The fi rst verse on the Romans Road to salvation is Romans 3:23, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” We have all sinned. We have all done things that are displeasing to God. There is no one who is innocent. Romans 3:10-18 gives a detailed picture of what sin looks like in our lives. The second Scripture on the Romans Road to salvation, Romans 6:23, teaches us about the consequences of sin - “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” The punishment that we have earned for our sins is death. Not just physical death, but eternal death. The third verse on the Romans Road to salvation picks up where Romans 6:23 left off, “but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 5:8 declares, “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Jesus Christ died for us! Jesus’ death paid for the price of our sins. Jesus’ resurrection proves that God accepted Jesus’ death as the payment for our sins. The fourth stop on the Romans Road to salvation is Romans 10:9, “that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” Because of Jesus’ death on our behalf, all we have to do is believe in Him, trusting His death as the payment for our sins - and we will be saved! Romans 10:13 says it again, “for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Jesus died to pay the penalty for our sins and rescue us from eternal death. Salvation, the forgiveness of sins, is available to anyone who will trust in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. The fi nal aspect of the Romans Road to salvation is the results of salvation. Romans 5:1 has this wonderful message, “Therefore, since we have been justifi ed through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Through Jesus Christ we can have a relationship of peace with God. Romans 8:1 teaches us, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Because of Jesus’ death on our behalf, we will never be condemned for our sins. Finally, we have this precious promise of God from Romans 8:38-39, “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will
Featuring the WORLD’S FASTEST FEMALE BAREFOOT WATERSKIER
100mph
Full story page 11 EXTREME WATER & AIR SHOW TO BENEFIT RFKC AT ORWOOD RESORT ON SATURDAY SEPEMBER 19TH , 12 – 4 P.M. For information: www.BrentwoodSkiShow. com Please set this time apart on your calendar to come and enjoy yourself while giving to a wonderful and necessary cause. God will bless you!
the White Horse’ and the ‘Thousand Year Reign.’
666 - This month
the Pastor will address the ‘Mark of the Beast’ and the ‘Anti-Christ’ The Lord has given me a whole new and exciting way to present this book to you,” said Pastor Jerry. “I guarantee that I will bring clarity and a higher level of comprehension to you within this Book of Revelation that you had never thought possible. With all that is happening in the world today we truly believe that we are in the last days and you won’t want to miss these ‘end time’ messages. The in depth ‘Bible Study’ will take several weeks to complete, but if you have a strong desire to grow in the word of God it will be worth every minute!” Mountain View Christian Center is located at 5000 Amaryllis Street, Oakley, CA 94561. Service times for the ‘Book of Revelation’ Bible study: It will be taught both Sunday morning services and then continue every Wednesday as well. Sunday church service times: 9:00AM, 10:45AM. Wednesday church service: 7:00PM. For more information, call the church offi ce at 925-625-9570.
T
SCHOOL OF HEOLOGY
Fall Semester starts on Sept. 3rd GET YOUR DEGREE NOW! CALL 925-625-9570 be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Would you like to follow the Romans Road to salvation? If so, here is a simple prayer you can pray to God. Saying this prayer is a way to declare to God that you are relying on Jesus Christ for your salvation. The words themselves will not save you. Only faith in Jesus Christ can provide salvation! “God, I know that I have sinned against you and am deserving of punishment. But Jesus Christ took the punishment that I deserve so that through faith in Him I could be forgiven. With your help, I place my trust in You for salvation. Thank You for Your wonderful grace and forgiveness - the gift of eternal life! Amen!”
True Gospel & Romans Road articles courtesy: gotquestions.org
Full Story page 9
Psalm 18:2
The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He At Live Nation’s Featuring Gospel Artists Marvin Sapp, Sleep Train Pavilion is my shield and Martha Munizzi and Kyle Bynoe 2000 Kirker Pass Rd, Concord the horn of my Saturday- September 12th, 2009 Time: 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm salvation, my stronghold. Ticket price range $20 - $50 per person - purchase on-line at LiveNation.com and in advance at participating churches Call 1-888-434-0968 for locations
“Nor Cal Gospel & Praise Concert”
A word from the Publisher............ 3A Contra Cost Ministers Conf ......... 5A World News Briefs ..... ........ 6A School of Theology .................... 7A
Nor Cal Praise Concert .................. 9A Royal Family Kids Camp ...........11A Women of Worth ...........................13A Events Calendar ...........................16A
2-A
America’s Good News
Great Commission ‘not optional’ for believers “Mission outreach has not become part of the DNA of churches,” Allie Martin - OneNewsNow Two agencies dedicated to spreading the gospel worldwide are joining forces to launch an initiative to help Christian leaders develop strategies for missions work in their churches or organizations. World Gospel Mission and The Mission Society are providing the two-day seminars called “Global Outreach Weekends.” Todd Eckhardt with WGM says the seminars are designed to help churches do two things. “One is put together a strategy for the church in developing a mission plan,” he shares. “And then the second is to implement that plan through a mission conference that’s called a Global Impact Celebration.” The seminars fill a big need, says Eckhardt. “Mission outreach has not become part of the DNA of churches,” he explains. “It’s sort of something that’s extra on the side -- and we really see that the Great Commission isn’t optional, whether that’s across the street or around the world. “So these seminars and this Global Impact Celebration [are] designed to help the church put the Great Commission back into its DNA,” he concludes. Global Outreach Weekends have been held at churches and colleges nationwide.
Pacific Justice Institute Launches Office in San Francisco Bay Area Oakland, CA 08/17/2009 Pacific Justice Institute announced today that it has opened an office to serve the greater San Francisco Bay Area. The office is located in downtown Oakland, 10 minutes from San Francisco and Berkeley. With increased litigation and other needs for representation in the region, PJI attorneys have been traveling to the Bay Area on a weekly basis for some time. “The San Francisco region is without a doubt one of the most hostile places in the country toward religious liberties and values,” noted Brad Dacus, president of the Pacific Justice Institute. “But with growing challenges come greater opportunities. We are thrilled to have a new way to serve the courageous faith community in the Bay Area, and also to provide resources for our many affiliate attorneys in San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, and nearby cities.” In addition to the new office, PJI continues to maintain offices staffed by full-time attorneys in Sacramento and Southern California. The Bay Area office, on the edge of Oakland’s Chinatown, will be headed by PJI Chief Counsel Kevin Snider. With this opening, PJI will become the only public interest legal organization in the Bay Area specializing in meeting the needs of churches, parents and people of faith. “The hostility and intimidation towards this protected class has created a general environment of fear and intimidation,” said Snider, referring to the longtime legal designation of religion as a fundamental, legally protected class. “We want people of faith in the Bay Area to know that they are not alone,” he continued. Those who share the mission of Pacific Justice Institute and would like to donate legal services, administrative and clerical skills, or financial support for this new endeavor should contact PJI headquarters at (916) 857-6900. The Pacific Justice Institute is a non-profit 501(c)(3) legal defense organization specializing in the defense of religious freedom, parental rights, and other civil liberties. 212 9th Street, Oakland CA 94607 Phone: (510) 834-7232 Internet: www.pacificjustice.org Psalm 69:29 I am in pain and distress; may your salvation, O God, protect me. Isaiah 12:2 Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD, is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. Isaiah 25:9 In that day they will say, “Surely this is our God; we trusted in him, and he saved us. This is the LORD, we trusted in him; let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation. Isaiah 30:15 This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength,
The Lord is a Warrior By Jordan Koester “The LORD is a warrior; the LORD is his name.”(Exodus 15:3) Don’t just read this scripture, but let it hit you for what it means. God, in all His ways, is fully accustomed to warfare. He is the God of war, the God of our salvation. America, as a nation, seems to have forgotten this amazing identity of God. He was once called “God of the Angel Armies” or the “Lord of Hosts”, but, by our actions we scream out names of a very different meaning. God seems to have become the “Lord of the ATM” who we swipe our card in when we are in need. He has become the God of whatever we want or need. Our actions show that we think we serve a very limited God. We have diminished Him by our complaining and spoiled ways. We get upset when we can’t afford a big screen TV, new car or a ticket to some crazy event. Our lack of 401k’s and retirement plans have made us grumble to the One who has created all. “Universal healthcare” is what we cry out for, but what about the rest of the world? What about the orphan, the widow, or the beggar? How long will we watch the world crumble around us? When will we expose it to the power of God Almighty? The world cries out for a savior and an instance when it was Christians that brought the answer. There was once a point when the Gospel went out in power and demonstration. So what happened? The country that still wears the “In God We Trust” badge has forgotten its own reflection in the mirror. “Act on what you hear! Those who hear and don't act are like those who glance in the mirror, walk away, and two minutes later have no idea who they
are, what they look like.” (James 1:23, The Message) We have so easily forgotten who we are and whose image we were created in. If God really is the warrior, then should not we be those who trust in Him to fight our battles for us when we cry out? Shouldn’t we take action, opposing the reports of darkness? We have let the “bad news” outweigh the “good news.” The Gospel of Christ should be the most powerful weapon that a warrior can wield, but we have allowed the blade to become dull from its misuse. This is not something that true followers of Christ can allow to happen. While watching a movie it is almost impossible not to picture yourself as William Wallace, opposing the evils of the British, or as Batman, hot on the trail of the Joker. With all the super hero movies that have been coming out in these past years, it’s so easy to cast yourself in one of the warrior roles. Women also take their place in the battle as heroines and mighty warriors themselves, as they should. Even animals and old men get their share on the warrior battlefield of the silver screen tales. Disney’s Up depicts a cantankerous old man set off on an adventure to fulfill his promise to his wife. Along the way he is faced with many battles and tough decisions. A tiny mouse, in The Tale of Despereaux, is found to have courage, honor and bravery bread into him at birth. While all other mice are prone to cower, this mouse stirs in the sight of danger. I highly recommend both of these movies. They are the types of stories that make us come alive and want to be who we were made to be. We taste the flavor of
our intended design. We were designed after our Father. The warrior mentality is bread into a young man almost from birth. When I was younger every stick I picked up became a sword. I used dirt clods as hand grenades. I went through countless plastic ninja swords (they always broke so easily). Even as I write this I find myself being attacked by a cricket that just won’t leave me alone, calling out my inner warrior (after multiple attacks I quickly stepped on it). This is what it takes on our part. It’s going to take action to get this nation back to the place where it truly trusts God. America needs to see herself again as the nation that finds her pride in the value of the One she proclaims to love. The Lord is a warrior, the Lord is His name. You are a warrior, but what is your name? It’s God who plants destiny. Seek Him for what He has for you and always remember that you serve the most mighty, awesome, powerful and majestic Warrior God who loves you and died for you. Show others who He is by your actions. Jordan Josiah Koester j.koester@calltocourage.com Call to Courage (Men’s Ministry) STAND: Young Adult’s Ministry (College Age)
CHRISTIAN FOSTER FAMILIES NEEDED Aldea Children and Family Services
Desperate need for Christian Foster Families Training at Golden Hills Community Church 2401 Shady Willow Lane (925) 516-0653 Brentwood, CA 94513 Training Times: Sept 19 Orientation Sept 26 training Oct 3, Oct 10, Oct 17 Lisa Phillips Cell # 925-848-6032
Aldea Children and Family Services http://www.aldeainc.com/
3-A
America’s Good News
666 - This month the Pastor will address the ‘Mark of the Beast’ and the ‘Anti-Christ’
Publisher of America’s Good News
Pastor Jerry Hanoum
Every Sunday and Wednesday Pastor Jerry will be teaching on the
Book of Revelation
WHERE: MVCC 5000 Amaryllis Street, Oakley, CA 94561 DATE: Beginning Sunday June 7th TIME: SUNDAY’S 9:00AM & 10:45AM WED’S 7:00PM 925-625-9570
Romans 16:25-27
Now to him who is able to establish you by my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all nations might believe and obey him— to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen. (NIV)
Mountain View Christian Center is located at 5000 Amaryllis Street, Oakley, CA 94561. Service times for the ‘Book of Revelation’ Bible study: It will be taught both Sunday morning services and then continue on Wednesday’s as well. Sunday church service times: 9:00AM, 10:45AM. Wednesday church service: 7:00PM. For more information, call the church offi ce at 925-625-9570.
America’s Good News
4-A
Salvation? by Rev. Austin Miles A man I recently spoke with asked me that question when the plan of salvation was presented to him. As he did, I thought of the poet who said, ‘Let me count the ways.’ My reply was straightforward. “Yourself” the answer shot out. “You have created more problems for yourself than all the forces of hell combined...problems of greed that make you want things you are not entitled to...the inward demonic force that causes you to never be satisfied with anything you have or experience... problems of lust which makes every woman fair game which in turn captures your thought life so thoroughly that your entire mind is in bondage to sexual images, causing you to miss seeing and experiencing the true beauty and satisfaction of life....welcome to Slavery 101. Saved from what? From the misinformation that has been hammered into you that you were not created for any good purpose, but rather came into being as the result of happenstance; circumstances of fate and ‘natural selection,’ as gasses exploded in the skies...meaning of course that you have no worth since you just... happened. Then the colossal misinformation that your ancestors were chimpanzees, monkeys and primates. Saved from what? The cruel hoax that you go through life on earth, with all its difficulties, suffering and challenges...
Saved From What? I gotta ask you something....did Jesus actually say to those soldiers nailing him to that cross, “Father.... forgive them...for they know not what they do?
then...you die and... that’s it...proving further that you have no worth or purpose in life or anything to look forward to... only trudging along, day after day. Saved from what? Fear of life! Fear of death! Fear of others! Saved from what? Saved from constant turmoil... rage...depression...feelings of ‘what’s the use,’ and exchanging all that for salvation; being brought into the peace of Jesus that surpasses all understanding. Saved from the lies that He does not exist. People come to salvation in a number of ways....seeing a miracle of healing in His name...a word aptly spoken from the pulpit... witnessing the life of one who follows Jesus and lives according to His word....and also....to suddenly be confronted with the truth of it all. Many years ago while walking up Broadway in New York, I ran into a man who was the editor of a show business trade publication. Jim wasted no time letting me know that I was wrong about God. He then said, “I’ll tell you something.... when I see a world without evil, murder, wars and cruelty....people going hungry.... when I never again see a crippled child....
Why advertise with America’s Good News? For your advertising needs call our Sales team at 925.625.9570 ext. 226
THEN...I’ll maybe believe in God!” Jim was a very decent and honorable man in many ways. So he became part of my prayer target focus. A couple of months later, I again ran into him on Broadway near where his office was located. He seemed different this time with a quizzical look on his face. After greetings he said....” I saw the movie, Jesus Christ Superstar....I gotta ask you something.... did Jesus actually say to those soldiers nailing him to that cross, “Father....forgive them...for they know not what they do? Jim had trouble getting the words out. Pulling the small bible from my inside jacket pocket I said, “Yes he did..... here it is in the Bible.” Jim took the bible in his hand and looked at the passage with amazement. This is totally contradictory to normal human behavior. He received Jesus, and every angel in Heaven rejoiced. Here was a case that a man simply recognized the truth of the Bible....and that truth came to him through a movie that most pastors pounded their pulpits against (I did not) and God used that
movie and our encounter to bring him unto Himself. As for the man mentioned earlier, our talk continued and I asked him a simple question. “Are you satisfied with your life...and yourself? Do you inwardly like who you see in yourself. Are you satisfied with who you are? The man couldn’t go further. He shook his head ‘no’...he was not satisfied with whom he had become. “Isn’t it about time that you put that all behind you and allow Jesus to come into your life and give you a makeover?” As he nodded his head, ‘yes’, we took hands, and he prayed the sinner’s prayer with me. Over the years he has remained not only consistent in his walk, but continues to battle against the flesh victoriously. And he is happy. He is not only relaxed, but joyful. Perhaps it is time for all of us to dare to re-examine our lives and the image we portray and deal with some areas that may seem a little rough. This pastor does it all the time. Rev. Austin Miles, a Senior’s Pastor and Media Minister for Mountain View Christian Center is also a teacher and Dean of Students for the School of Theology in Oakley.
“We advertise in America’s Good News because it produces results. Our client base has increased several times and we have the added advantage of supporting a newspaper that brings a positive message to the community.” ~ Ron and Pat Reagan, Reagan Management Services
“Advertising with America’s Good News is a privilege because it touches so many people with a message that is encouraging and positive. It touches those that know Him and those that have yet to meet Him.” ~ TerryKetchel, America First Mortgage, Brentwood.
Big Circulation Low Rates Being DIRECTLY MAILED to every home, apt. and business in Brentwood, Discovery Bay, Byron and Oakley. Also going to every business in Antioch. Over 100,000 readers. Find out why people are talking about America’s Good News.
My company chooses to advertise in America's Good News because of the audience that it reaches. We have seen our volume of customers grow in the past few months since we have advertised with this newspaper and look forward to more growth in 2009. ~ William Ferrel, Ferrel Custom Design Pools & Spas
America’s Good News
CCMC Meeting Filled With Surprises Reported by The Fly on The Wall
The July meeting of Contra Costa Minister’s Conference (CCMC) at The Nines in Brentwood immediately got off on the right step with The American Legion Post 202 Color Guard presenting the flag of the United States of America. Father Jerry Brown from Immaculate Heart of Mary in Brentwood then addressed the crowd explaining the Catholic approach to worship, including the sign of the cross, then emphasized that there are no real differences between Protestants and Catholics “since we all work for the same purpose,” and then further spoke of why the Catholic and Protestant churches should stop the division between them and all be in unity. After Father Brown gave the opening prayer and led the audience in The Pledge of Allegiance, Sondra Smith of Mountain View Christian Center sang a dynamic rendition of The National Anthem. Ron and Pat Reagan officially welcomed the crowd, recognized all ministers present along with some VIPs. Next, was a cameo appearance by Lt. Bill Klug of America First Foundation, who fought in the first Gulf War and was wounded. Lt. Klug informed everyone about the true focus of America First Foundation. AFF helps the families of service men and women that have died or have been severely injured while defending and protecting the freedoms that we share in this great country. A surprise came when the keynote speaker, Phil Waterford was introduced. He is a car dealer in Manteca who was presented the highest award for customer service in the United States, by President Obama. Still, one wondered what he would have to say to this Christian group. That answer was provided the moment he opened his mouth to speak. He had the crowd in the palm of his hand from the very beginning with a testimony of how he came to God, how his behavior and heart were altered and how God instructed him to give away a new car and two substantial gifts in envelopes to wounded veterans on the 4th of July. All of this makes no sense considering the collapse of the economy with most car dealers struggling to break even during these times. He connected solidly with the audience and was rated as one of the top speakers for CCMC. Ron Reagan then gave a ‘Call to Action.’ He spoke of taking his wife to dinner in San Francisco and found an additional tax of 3.5% of his bill which he had never seen before. When he asked, it was explained that this tax was for the Universal Health Plan for San Francisco. So even though the new health care bill has not yet been put before the house votes, the taxes to fund it have already begun. That makes a lot of ‘cents.’ (Fly takes a bow) The guests booked for the closing song could not make the date, so Sondra Smith hopped in on the spur of the moment and again totally captivated the audience. Pastor Ed Riley of Bread of Life Community Church in Knightsen gave the closing prayer. Fly Paper Extra Note: Join me in demanding rights for Flies. President Obama made a big thing of swatting a fly while giving a speech on television. The horror of it all! Where is PETA when we need them? Later they did rise to action and presented Obama with a fly trap that could catch the fly without harm so that it could be taken outside and my brother fly released. Now that makes better sense.
5-A
Coming to Contra Costa Ministers Conference & Luncheon in SEPTEMBER Brad Dacus President September 30, 2009 Pacific Justice Institute The Nines Restaurant, Brentwood Golf Course 100 Summerset Dr. Brentwood, CA 94513 11:45 AM to 1:30 PM Cost $20.00
Brad Dacus President, Pacific Justice Institute
Promoting justice…Preserving family…Protecting faith Brad Dacus served as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Phil Gramm, and went on to receive his Juris Doctorate from the University of Texas, School of Law. For the next five years, Mr. Dacus coordinated religious freedom and parental rights cases throughout the Western states. In 1997, Mr. Dacus founded Pacific Justice Institute, where he serves as President and continues to defend religious liberties and parental rights. The Pacific Justice Institute has a network of approximately a thousand volunteer affiliate attorneys and handles more cases on the West Coast than any other organization of its kind. Brad has been a guest speaker on numerous radio and television programs, participates weekly in several radio talk show interviews, and has appeared on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” “The Today Show,” “CNN,” “Hannity and Colmes,” “News Talk TV,” “MSNBC,” “NBC News,” NBC “Dateline” and many times on the “O’Reilly Factor.” His varied public speaking opportunities include public debate, on two occasions, against the president of the ACLU, and on another occasion, against the president of “Americans United for Separation of Church and State.” In April of 2007, Brad testified before the United States House of Representatives in Washington, D.C. in opposition to H.R. 1592 “Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2007.” He has also testified numerous times before the California State Legislature on legislation affecting religious freedom and parents’ rights. Brad has guest lectured at Stanford University School of Law. Mr. Dacus continues to speak regularly at churches, conferences, graduations and conventions throughout the United States, including pastors’ legal seminars and workplace seminars co-sponsored by Pacific Justice Institute with local churches and Christian colleges and universities. If you are in ministry or in any area of community outreach and would like to attend the CCMC Luncheon, contact Pat Reagan at 925-240-1242 or email Pmreagan11@comcast.net Please RSVP by September 25th
PACIFIC JUSTICE INSTITUTE Promoting justice…Preserving family…Protecting faith Our vision is focused... our plan is bold.
PACIFIC JUSTICE
Since its founding ten years ago, Pacific Justice Institute has skyrocketed to national prominence for its unprecedented success in defending faith and family.
INSTITUTE
Our Mission The primary mission of Pacific Justice Institute is to provide rigorous defense for families and religious organizations when their constitutionally guaranteed freedoms are threatened. Our legal representation is always free of charge to clients, supported solely by private donors who recognize the value of our work. With our established nationwide network of over 1000 attorneys working pro bono, we are able to leverage any donation ten-fold – an invaluable asset considering that approximately 90% of the cost of most legal action is absorbed by attorney fees. The majority of the cases we take on involve: • Churches – when cities deny their right to expand or move, or when they need to be protected from frivolous lawsuits brought by those who disagree with their moral convictions. • Families – when parents or their children are denied free speech rights, when parents wish to have their children excused from comprehensive sex education and HIV/AIDS prevention education, when parents or their children wish to take advantage of their right to share their faith. • Workplace – when conscientious union members would like to have their dues go to charity and not support their union’s ideological agenda, when businesses want to honor God in their companies, when employees have difficulty obtaining reasonable accommodations, such as time off to attend church. • Separation of Church and State – challenging overzealous government officials who seek to stifle private expressions of faith. Our Supporters PJI has gathered an impressive list of supporters. The chairman of our advisory board since our launching in 1997, Former U. S. Attorney General Edwin Meese, III, has played a prominent role in our growth, and has provided us with key assistance on specific cases. Among other prominent supporters, David Limbaugh has heralded our work defending religious freedom in his latest book Persecution. Focus on the Family’s educational analyst Marc Fey has enthusiastically endorsed our book Reclaim Your School, which gives practical advice to students, parents, and clergy on evangelizing in today’s school environment. Fox News often turns to our office to provide authoritative analysis and commentary on issues that we are not necessarily litigating. Our Successes Pacific Justice Institute out-performs other West Coast legal organizations in coordinating parental and church property rights cases. We have achieved significant and quantifiable victories by litigating cases which seek to add new layers of protection against overreaching governmental bureaucracies. More than 90% of the cases taken are settled positively for our clients in direct response to a demand letter or administrative complaint from our office. When necessary, our attorneys proceed with litigation in the courtroom, achieving an exceptional record of success. Additionally, our attorneys file amicus briefs to influence some of the most prominent and weighty cases nationally. Our Programs In addition to our direct case work, Pacific Justice Institute serves a vital function as training ground for attorneys of the future and a resource for advising pro-family, pro-faith legislatures. Our educational efforts extend also to sponsoring pastors’ legal seminars and seminars aimed at helping businessmen reclaim the workplace. In our main office and in our Trinity Law School research and satellite office in southern California, we provide law students with hands-on experience conducting exhaustive research, initiating lawsuits, preparing legal briefs and documents. From time to time, PJI provides testimony on bills before both the California Legislature and the U.S. Congress. Our Pledge Pacific Justice Institute is experiencing an explosion of requests for legal assistance. Current social and political trends facing families and religious organizations in America require an escalation of our services on all fronts. We pledge to do just that, as resources allow. We invite you to join us in partnership as we approach a defining era in American history – our opportunity to re-establish the birthright of religious liberty and parental rights for unborn generations.
America’s Good News
6-A
World News Briefs
God's Eye Is Now On San Francisco-Stand By!
Courtesy: Onenewsnow.com
Mobilizer looks for willing servants
Mission Network News MAF flies in over 30 countries around the world. They need pilots/mechanic and more. USA (MNN) ― Reaching the outermost parts of the earth is something Mission Aviation Fellowship takes seriously. Their mission is clear: Sharing the love of Jesus Christ through aviation and technology so that isolated people may be physically and spiritually transformed. But, how can they do that without people? The obvious answer is, they can't. That's why they need people like you to help them. Brian Behal is MAF's East Coast Recruiter and says while the needs are great, "Thankfully we're not at the point of having to close fields because of not having the personnel. There are, on most of our fields, opportunities that are not being met because we don't have enough people or airplanes on the field to meet those needs." MAF works in Congo, Ecuador, Haiti, Indonesia, Lesotho, Mozambique, and Thailand. The need for workers is vast. Behal says, "We could use probably 20 to 25 pilot/mechanics. Every year we also need teachers for Missionary Kid education. We've got a couple of business/finance spots that are open; We also need those with computer and learning technology skills. If someone came to us right now with these skills, we've got a place on the field where we could put them." In the mean time, while the work continues, some requests for services are being denied. That means people aren't hearing the Gospel and some physical needs aren't being addressed. While Behal considers himself more of a missions 'mobilizer' than a recruiter, there's one clear purpose to MAF's calling. He says, "We want to make sure that we keep the message of the Gospel in the forefront. A lot of people think MAF is all about the airplanes, but we like to say the airplane is just a tool. It's actually about the people. That tool allows us to get in to some places and speak to some people that may be otherwise not able to hear." If you're feeling called to join MAF, the first thing you can do is go to their website at http://www.MAFrecruiting.org , or you can call 1-800-FlysMAF and speak to their recruiting department.
By Rev. Austin Miles Oakley, California (8/17/09) AGN-TCL Wire Service. Attention San Francisco! God TV is now the eye in the sky that is watching you. GOD TV was just launched on Comcast Cable in the City by the Bay which has the possibility of reaching one million homes. This past weekend, a mass crusade was scheduled to be aired from the city to the entire Bay Area as well as to almost half a billion homes worldwide. The core of it all is love...the love of Jesus who wants to bless and give peace to everyone there. Broadcasting from San Francisco's Civic Center Plaza all weekend, Argentinean Evangelist Carlos Annacondia was to be featured. He is the evangelist who has led thousands of people to Christ throughout his 30 years of international crusades and is well known throughout Latin America for his messages of spiritual freedom, healing and deliverance. The San Francisco launch of GOD TV is an answer to prayer offered by Christians throughout the country as well as those in the Bay Area. Wendy Alec, Co-founder and director of programming said this launch follows a prophetic word she received last year saying that in San Francisco, the scales of sin were full, but that He would stay the judgment if believers prayed. Viewers from across the nation did just that, and there is no doubt that those prayers were a huge part of the breakthrough for GODTV to be broadcast into this key missionary city. GOD TV can be watched on Channel 365 of DIRECTV as well as Channel 103 of Comcast Cable Communications in San Francisco. Online viewers can watch LIVE at: www.god.tv or via Video on demand at; www.god.tv/god and www.god. tv/stream
Capitol Resource Institute Action Alert:
Alameda Parents in Need of Help! Parents in the Alameda school district have been fighting a battle for all California parents: stopping homosexual indoctrination in their children’s classrooms. Storybooks, group discussions, art activities, and film are part of the lesson plans for kindergarteners through fifth graders in Alameda. In kindergarten, being “welcoming” to all classmates is equated with supporting multisexuality. The first grade lesson plan trains children “to identify what makes a family” and teaches about same-sex couples. Third grade vocabulary includes “two moms” and “two dads.” Fourth graders are trained to be “allies,” who “help or stand up” for people being “bullied.” Fifth graders are required to identify stereotypes about lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. Unfortunately, despite parents’ best efforts, the school board went against the public and voted to implement a highly controversial homosexual curriculum to instruct children as young as 5. But Alameda parents aren’t going to give up. They understand what is at stake and that we must stop this indoctrination before it spreads. This week Alameda parents served their arrogant school board members with recall papers. In doing so, these brave parents are taking a bold stand for all parents who simply desire to protect their children from sexual indoctrination at school. Because Alameda parents are taking this stand for us all, they will face fierce op-
position and ridicule on behalf of us all. They desperately need our help. Here’s how you can help: The cost of filing the recall papers and waging a campaign to oust the school board members will be very expensive. On behalf of your family, please send a donation to Capitol Resource Family Impact so we can help pay for these costs. CRFI will play an instrumental role in assisting Alameda parents with their campaign, including financial aid. Because this is a political battle, donations to CRFI are not tax-deductible. However, to make a tax-deducible donation, send donations to Capitol Resource Institute, who will help parents with education efforts. Remember, Alameda is the frontline in this battle and every dollar you send will help us keep this same fight from coming to your district. And if this battle does come to your area, wouldn’t you want other families to help you? Express your support through a generous donation to CRFI. CRFI is committed to helping Alameda parents hold their school board accountable. That’s why we need your support. Together, we can make a significant difference for our children and California families. Donate to CRFI and help Alameda Parents. Go to CRI’s website at www.capitolresource.org and find out how you can help.
Great Pick Up Lines. In a day and age when all you ever get are sensational headlines and celebrities with their trashy bad behavior, it’s nice to know there is a magazine that covers inspiring stories about real people and real issues in our communities.
“The One site for your News right Now” Your Latest News From A Christian Perspective
Whether it’s a story about prayer in public schools, workplace restrictions on Christians or battles for biblical truth within our denominations, the American Family News Network (AFN) is here to tell you what the newsmakers are saying. AFN is a Christian news service - with more than 1200 broadcast, print and online affiliates in 45 states and 11 foreign countries - that exists to present the day’s stories from a biblical perspective. We not only feature the latest breaking stories from across the United States and around the world, but also news of the challenges facing Christians in today’s society. At OneNewsNow.com, you will get your news from reporters you can trust to give the latest news without the liberal bias that characterizes so much of the “mainstream” media. For a refreshing and informative change in where you get your news, log on to OneNewsNow. com.
Pick up a copy today, and smile.
II0
o
• Brentwood • Antioch
www.110mag.com
• Oakley • Discovery Bay • Pittsburg
America’s Good News
7-A
It’s here... Why wait any longer?
GET YOUR DEGREE NOW! CALL 925-625-9570
Fall Semester starts on Sept. 3rd FALL SEMESTER CLASSES
Revival (mobilization) Knowing God’s Voice Teaching Tactics
New Testament Survey Foundations of Faith Evangelism
T
SCHOOL OF
HEOLOGY The School of Theology is a comprehensive 22 course program that enables students to start and pursue a Biblical education based on a foundation of Biblical studies. Students will have the opportunity to graduate from the School of Theology and then continue their education towards a Bachelor of Biblical Studies Degree. The goal of the School of Theology is to equip men and women of God to develop and use their spiritual gifts for the work of the ministry in the Body of Christ. 2 Timothy 2:15 “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”
Enrolling NOW for Fall Semester!
SALVATION... What is it?
Are you ready for it?
By Will Byrns Have you ever been in a conversation with a Christian and heard them say… “I was saved when I was thirty two; or, I was lucky enough to be saved when I was only fourteen years old?” We all go through struggles in our life and right now you may have reached an all time low. You may be holding on to your life by a thread and feel as though you’re at the end of your rope. You don’t know what to do or who to turn to. You’re not sure if you believe in this whole God and Jesus thing, but if you’ve ever needed help and someone to save you from totally giving up on life... the time is NOW.! At this very moment you may be asking yourself; what does it mean to be saved and what is the true meaning of salvation? Salvation which is obtained by the grace of God through the exercise of saving faith must be divided into three separate achievements. First, salvation delivers us from sin, its power, and the effect of that is that it saves us from its consequences. Romans 8:1 says, “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” Secondly, salvation restores us into the favor, communion, and image of God. After we are saved from sin and its power, bringing us into Christ, we are restored into fellowship and communion with God. Third, salvation preserves us from the power of temptation and sin and those dangers which we encounter in this life. As we go through life, Satan comes with the power of temptation into our heart; but the
You’re not sure if you believe in this whole God and Jesus thing, but if you’ve ever needed help and someone to save you from totally giving up on life... the time is NOW!
Lord comes with His restraining grace to preserve us from the act of that sin. That is an element of salvation. That is being saved from sin. In the book of Luke, John the Baptist prepares the way for the coming Savior. The word of God came to John the Baptist and he went into all the country around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. John also told them to produce fruit in keeping with repentance. We all know what repentance means, but what does produce fruit mean? Life by the Spirit – Fruit of the Spirit Galatians 5:16-25 So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law. The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I
did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Luke 3:4,5,6 “A voice of one calling in the desert, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him. Every valley shall be filled in, every mountain and hill made low. The crooked roads shall become straight, the rough ways smooth. and all mankind will see God’s salvation.’” Yes, all of mankind will see God’s salvation! God uses everyday people to be as one calling out in the desert. They are proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ and it is life (living water) to those who accept it. Many servants of Christ believe we are in the last days. I’m so grateful to our Lord for the ministry of America’s Good News that reaches out to 38,000 homes and businesses each month with a gospel message. Matthew 24:14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. This is the information age and everyone on
this earth will have a chance to accept Christ before He comes again. Are you ready to accept Christ into your life? Are you hungry for a new life and being cleansed of your sins from the past? Do you have a deep desire to receive true salvation? If you would like to accept Christ into your life right now at this very moment, repeat this prayer and mean it with all your heart, mind, soul and strength. “Father, I know that I have broken your laws and my sins have separated me from you. I am truly sorry, and now I want to turn away from my past sinful life toward you. Please forgive me, and help me avoid sinning again. I believe that your son, Jesus Christ died for my sins, was resurrected from the dead, is alive, and hears my prayer. I invite Jesus to become the Lord of my life, to rule and reign in my heart from this day forward. Please send your Holy Spirit to help me obey You, and to do Your will for the rest of my life. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.” Remember, saying this prayer or any other prayer will not save you. It is only trusting in Christ that can save you from sin. This prayer is simply a way to express to God your faith in Him and thank Him for providing for your salvation. Romans 10:9 That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Now believe it, walk in it, live it and expect God to do amazing things in your life! All scriptures from the (NIV) Bible.
8-A
America’s Good News
Woman To Woman – “Longing For A Prince Charming” By Susan Holmes All little girls love the stories and movies such as Cinderella, Snow White, and Little Mermaid. As the girls get a little older the stories change to High School Musical and such. In my day it was Grease, Romeo and Juliet, Love Story and West Side Story. I for one, even though I am now a mature woman, still love anything that has a romantic story line. The list of tales go on and on, but each have the common thread of a young maiden longing for her special Prince Charming to love her enough to come rescue her from an evil somebody and the cares of the world that they lived in. I have heard that some call these types of movies “Chick Flicks”. There must be something deep in the heart of each of us that touches us to the core of our being when we come in contact with the thought that one could be loved so much that one would be willing to come rescue us. Could it be that these so called Chick Flicks stir up in us the desire to be
saved by a hero? Or maybe they give us hope to be loved unconditionally by one who even would be willing to take on the evil one in our lives to save us so that we could live happily ever after in a land of love, beauty and wonder! In our own personal reality shows of everyday life, most of us are looking for our own personal Prince Charming to love us. So we say “Yes” and get married thinking that our lives will now turn into the happily ever after movies that we have been programmed with all of our lives. Then true reality kicks in and we find out that we still have an empty hole in our heart so we continue our search for the missing piece of our broken puzzle called life. Some, like me, search for it by having a baby, some search by building a career, while others jump from Prince Charming to Prince Charming. We search longing for the one who will fill our empty hearts, give us true meaning to life, save and
rescue us from evil and ourselves and be our hope and salvation. True reality is that we are each looking for Prince Jesus who is the only One who loved us enough to leave the Glories of Heaven, take on the form of man, live a sinless life, lay down His own life willingly to rescue us from the power of the evil one and rose again to lead us into eternal life ever after with Him in Heaven. That is the true love story of the Universe! Every other love story is make-believe and so weak compared to the true love story of Heaven. We don’t need to continue to search for a temporal Prince Charming for only Prince Jesus can fill the empty hole in our hearts that were created for Him alone. He is the only One who can truly complete us and love us unconditionally! He loves us enough to accept us as we are but doesn’t leave us there. He then rescues us from sin, hell and ourselves. He is the true Super Hero of the Universe!
Susan Holmes Woman to Woman
The wonderful truth about our Prince Jesus is that He is love, so His heart is big enough for each and every one of us to have a personal love relationship with Him. He loves every single woman, man, boy or girl created on this planet earth. He extends His hand of love, grace and mercy to each and every one of us. The question is will you extend your hand back out to Him and accept His unconditional love and allow Him to be your Super Hero to save and rescue you? He will be your salvation and deliver you; the story of your life will end with a true happily ever after in the reality of Heaven!
Let’s Look At The History (part 6 of 7) By Saed and Linda Awwad The Arab defeat and the birth of the refugee problem despite (1) initial setbacks, (2) better organization and intelligence successes, as well as (3) timely clandestine arms shipments, enabled the Jews to gain a decisive victory. The Arabs and Palestinians lost their initial advantage when they failed to organize and unite. When the fighting ended in 1949, Israel held territories beyond the boundaries set by the UN plan - a total of 78% of the area west of the Jordan river. The UN made no serious attempt to enforce the internationalization of Jerusalem, which was now divided between Jordan and Israel, and separated by barbed wire fences and no man’s land areas. The rest of the area assigned to the Arab state was occupied by Egypt and Jordan. Egypt held the Gaza Strip and Jordan held the West Bank. About 726,000 Arabs fled or were driven out of Israel and became refugees in neighboring Arab countries. The conflict created about as many Jewish refugees from Arab countries, many of whom were stripped of their property, rights and nationality, but Israel has not pursued claims on behalf of these refugees. The Arab countries refused to sign a permanent peace treaty with Israel. Consequently, the borders of Israel established by the armistice commission never received de jure (legal) international recognition. Arabs call the defeat and exile of the Palestinian Arabs in 1948 the Nakba (disaster). The UN arranged a series of ceasefires between the Arabs and the Jews in 1948 and 1949. UN GA Resolution 194 called for cessation of hostilities and
return of refugees who wished to live in peace. Security Council Resolution 62 called for implementation of armistice agreements that would lead to a permanent peace. The borders of Israel were established along the “green line” of the armistice agreements of 1949. These borders were not recognized by Arab states, which continued to refuse to recognize Israel. Though hostilities ceased, the refugee problem was not solved. Negotiations broke down because Israel refused to re-admit more than a small number of refugees. The USSR, initially in favor of the Zionist state, now aligned itself with the Arab countries. Despite continued US support for the existence of Israel, US aid to Israel was minimal and did not include military aid during the Truman and Eisenhower administrations. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were equipped with surplus arms purchased third hand and with French aircraft and light armor. The Arab countries, especially Syria and Egypt, began receiving large quantities of Soviet military aid. The Arab League instituted an economic boycott against Israel that was partly honored by most industrial nations and continued in force until the 1990s. The Sinai Campaign - Following the overthrow of King Farouk of Egypt by the free officers headed by Naguib and Nasser, Egypt made some moves toward peace with Israel. However, in 1954, an Israeli spy ring was caught trying to blow up the US Information agency and other foreign institutions in Egypt. The goal was
to create tension between the US and Egypt and prevent rapprochement. In Israel, both Defense Minister Pinhas Lavon and Prime Minister David Ben Gurion disclaimed responsibility for the action, and blamed each other. This incident came to be known as “the Lavon affair” and “the shameful business”. Egypt became suspicious of Israeli intentions and began negotiating to purchase large quantities of arms. When they were turned down by the West, the Egyptians turned to the Eastern bloc countries and concluded a deal with Czechoslovakia. Egyptian President Gamal Nasser also closed the straits of Tiran and Suez Canal to Israeli shipping. Israeli strategists believed that Egypt would go to war or force a diplomatic showdown as soon the weapons had been integrated, and began looking for a source of arms as well. Israel concluded an arms deal with France. A series of border incursions by Palestinians and by Egyptians from Gaza evoked
increasingly severe Israeli reprisals, triggering larger raids. The assessment of Israeli “activists” like Moshe Dayan was that Israel should wage preventive war before Egypt had fully integrated the new weapons. In the summer of 1956, Israel, France and Britain colluded in a plan to reverse the nationalization of the Suez canal. Israel would invade the Sinai and land paratroopers near the Mitla pass. Britain and France would issue an ultimatum, and then land troops ostensibly to separate the sides. The plan was carried out beginning October 29, 1956. Israel swiftly conquered Sinai. The US was furious at Israel, Britain and France. UN General Assembly Resolution 997 called for immediate withdrawal. Israeli troops remained in Sinai for many months. Israel subsequently withdrew under pressure from the UN and in particular the United States. Israel obtained guarantees that international waterways would remain open to Israeli shipping from the US, and a UN force was stationed in Sinai.
America’s Good News
9-A
Ticket prices range from $20 - $50 per person and can be purchased on-line at LiveNation. com and in advance at participating churches Call 1-888-434-0968 for locations
“Nor Cal Gospel & Praise Concert”
Saturday- September 12th, 2009
Gospel Artists Marvin Sapp, Martha Munizzi and Kyle Bynoe are Featured Performers For “Nor Cal Gospel and Praise Concert” Faith Hope And Love Productions Presents A Gospel Concert To Benefit Charities On Saturday, September 12, 2009 at the Sleep Train Pavilion In Concord, Ca. (San Francisco, CA) – July 16, 2009 – Faith Hope and Love Productions presents the “Nor Cal Gospel and Praise Concert” featuring GRAMMY Award Nominee and multiple Stellar Award Winner Marvin Sapp, GRAMMY Award Nominee and Stellar Award Winner Martha Munizzi and Multiple Dove Award Nominee Kyle Bynoe. On Saturday, September 12, 2009 from 12:00PM – 6:00PM at Live Nation’s Sleep Train Pavilion in Concord, Ca. Destined to be a rousing time of praise and worship, the event’s goal is to bring the churches in the San Francisco Bay Area together for a time of unity. Not only will the rafters be raised in praise, but a portion of ticket sales will go to participating churches, as well as Shepherd’s Gate and the Youth Intervention Network, organizations that assist at-risk children, families, and women who have been imperiled by circumstances and plights such as substance abuse, domestic violence, poverty, and homelessness. Founder of Faith Hope and Love Productions, Terry Ketchel, is excited about the opportunity to bring believers together for a time of praise. “Back in August 2008, God put on my heart to produce concerts and manage Bay Area Christian talent,” says Ketchel. “It wasn’t until June 2009 that God revealed the vision would be much bigger. Faith Hope and Love Productions will bring Bay Area Churches together for one day at the ‘Nor Cal Gospel and Praise Concert’ at the Sleep Train Pavilion in Concord, CA. Artists from soloists to choirs will take the stage one church at a time to put on their highest praise and share some testimonies,” shares Ketchel. Terry has tapped some of the brightest in gospel music for her first concert kick-off.
Venue: Live Nation’s
Sleep Train Pavilion in Concord 2000 Kirker Pass Rd Concord, CA 94521 Time: 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm GRAMMY Award Nominee and multiple Stellar Award Winner Marvin Sapp His song “Never Would Have Made It”, heard on gospel and mainstream radio alike went on to sell more than 1,000,000 ringtones, a first in gospel music. Left- Martha Munizzi is internationally known as a singer and notable songwriter, with such songs as “Shout”, “Glorious”, and “Because of Who You Are,” becoming modern day praise and worship an-
Marvin Sapp, one of the genre’s most preeminent leaders of worship and praise, has been a favorite with gospel audiences for years beginning with his time as lead vocalist with the ground-breaking group Commissioned. But his song “Never Would Have Made It”, heard on gospel and mainstream radio alike, catapulted the Pastor of Lighthouse Full Life Center Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to the stratosphere. The song netted him eight Stellar Awards, multiple Dove Award Nominations, and a BMI Song of the Year honor, spending 47 weeks at the top of the Gospel radio charts. In addition to breaking all sorts of records, The Associated Press named “Never Would Have Made It” as the 2008 Top Song and the track went on to sell more than 1,000,000 ringtones, a first in gospel music. Martha Munizzi is known nationally and internationally as a singer and notable songwriter, with such songs as “Shout”, “Glorious”, and “Because of Who You Are,” becoming modern day praise and worship anthems for the church today. As a result she has been nominated for Grammy, Dove, and Stellar Awards as both a performer and songwriter. Martha travels extensively with a message that crosses cultural, generational, and denominational boundaries and is currently on tour supporting her latest CD Release, Change The World Live. Kyle Bynoe has written for artists such as Tina Turner, Angie Stone and Mary J. Blige. He brought his talents to the gospel music side of the industry and penned hits for Rizen, The Mighty Clouds of Joy, and New Harvest, songs that netted Bynoe Dove Award Nominations, including three in 2008 alone: Traditional Gospel Recorded Song of the Year, Urban Recorded Song of the Year and Traditional Gospel Album of the Year. Bynoe took on the role of artist with his group Kyle Bynoe & Praise with a debut release in 2005 and is known for his special style of urban praise and worship. Ticket prices range from $20 - $50 per person and can be purchased online at LiveNation.com, at the Sleep Train Pavilion (2000 Kirker Pass Road, Concord, CA 94521 – 925.676.8742), and thru participating churches. For more information about “The Nor Cal Gospel and Praise Concert,” call 888-434-0968 or e-mail faithhopeandloveproductions.vpweb.com. Churches are encouraged to attend the concert. Tickets for children under 12 are free. For more information on “The Nor Cal Total Gospel Worship and Praise Concert”, email faithhopeandloveproductions@comcast.net. Publicity: Tehillah Enterprises, LLC - Andrea R. Williams, Publicist Andrea@TehillahEnterprisesPR.com 1.888.844.7701 X707
thems for the church today.
Below- Founder of Faith Hope and Love Productions, Terry Ketchel is stepping out in faith to bring you the “Nor Cal Gospel & Praise Concert” She needs your support, call 888-434-0968 and get involved.
Above- Kyle Bynoe has written for artists such as Tina Turner, Angie Stone and Mary J. Blige. This ad is free because we love our sister in Christ Terry Ketchel, and for her heart in bringing the body together with this Praise Concert. ~ Pastor Jerry Hanoum.
America’s Good News
10-A
MVP Men of Vison and Purpose
Photos Courtesy: Tim Vaughn
Bill Ferrel, Pastor Jerry Dellinger and Marcel Dawson share a laugh at the MVP August meeting.
Top left - Pastor Jerry Hanoum Bottom Left - Pastor Carleton B. Bottom Right - Pastor Keoni C.
A
t the MVP meeting in August there were three men that spoke in unity with the spirit of God. They delivered a timely message from the Lord that blessed their souls. Pastor Jerry- ADVANCEMENT “Once you stop trying to escape the problem and accept the challenge, you begin to advance. Without a battle, there can be no victory.” Pastor Keoni- SELFISHNESS & SACRIFICE “I have always been blessed by God; in work, family, coaching and in everything I do God has always been there for me. Work has been slow lately and God has told me that I’m now entering unchartered waters, but to be strong and be still, for He is with me.” Romans 12:9
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Pastor Carleton- “I WAS CUT FROM THE TEAM, BUT NOW I’M WITH TEAM JESUS” Romans 12:2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Men of Vision and Purpose (MVP) meet the 3rd Monday of each month at MVCC, located at 5000 Amaryllis Street in Oakley, CA. Call 925-625-9570 for more information.
A Lifetime Resource for your Financial Peace of Mind > Life Insurance > Annuities > Disability Income Protection > Mutual Funds > Long Term Care > Medicare Supplements > Group Health Insurance
Richard E. McDaniel, CLU, ChFC, LTCP
Financial Advisors
906 Bond Lane Brentwood, CA 94513
925-998-1764
Financial Advisor
Call now for a No-Obligation Consultation AFN40594
Mutual of Omaha Financial Advisors is a service of Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. a securities broker dealer and registered Investment advisor. Home Office: Mutual of Omaha Plaza, Omaha NE 68175-1020
America’s Good News
Royal Family Kids’ Camp
By Lindasue Sizuela It is the most fun in the entire world if you are a foster child living in Contra Costa County. This August 2009 was the first for the trained leaders at Mountain View Christian Center, assisted by Calvary Temple, Concord to oversee, pray, and encourage this God inspired program for abused and neglected kids. My breath stopped when the two buses filled with children came rolling in on Monday afternoon. Counselors held up posters with their child’s name shouting welcome. Bubbles inundated the air and a red carpet laid before them as each child stepped out of the bus into Royal Family Kids’ Camp. The objective was to secure as many children as possible from the foster care system with a well-trained staff of volunteers,
and by the Grace of God that was done. There were 81 children between the ages of 7 and 11, (44 girls & 37 boys) at RFKC (Royal Family Kids’ Camp). Why would a church do this with the economy running in the deficit everywhere we look? Because abused and neglected kids miss many normal childhood experiences that make life good. RFKC wants to provide these children with positive memories, to express genuine empathy and to love unconditionally without requiring anything in return for the investment. Because Christ said, “What you do for the least of these, you do unto me.” It all started when God planted a dream
in the heart of Rev. Wayne Tesch in Orange County, California to reach out to children whose lives had been devastated by abuse and neglect. His vision showed a sea of children’s faces from all nationalities and races and that vision became a reality during the first RFKC in 1985. “It has spread throughout our state and into 37 other states,” said Jeff Juhala, Training Development Manager for RFKC. “This is a full time ministry for me. We had 6700 kids go to camp last summer and we are shooting for 7200 this year.” Jeff Juhala said, “When you put uncommon kids in an uncommon environment with uncommon people, uncommon things can happen—
11-A
good things. This is a frontline ministry, a real test of faith—all that we’ve heard and been taught about God’s Word is put to the test. Many ‘firsts’ for kids happen here at camp. Some have never prayed before and for another child, perhaps he didn’t cry last night for the first time. Child abuse is about the love of power; RFKC is about the power of love. One of the things we do at camp is have the kids write a Dear God Letter. Two years ago a young girl struggling with her life wrote, ‘Dear God, Please help me try to not commit suicide.’ These children need a little hope, happiness, and harmony in their lives.” Professional Social Worker, Rhonda Hawley, told me that she has seen great attitude improvements after camp along with better behavior. Parental feedback is that kids are happy when they come home. Rhonda’s professional opinion is that every disadvantaged child needs this experience. Counselor Steve Sizuela said, “One little boy 6-1/2 years old ran and tried to hide when the bus came to take him home.” Our head RFKC directors in this region are Rick & Jennifer Fuller, along with Brian & Cindy Donnally. Our codirectors are Todd & Diane Ricker. “Many of us have volunteered for several years. You just fall in love with these kids,” said Dale Cross, codirector from Calvary Temple. Dale and his wife, Jeri-Lynn, started out in Children’s Ministry years ago—two more self-sacrificing, generously giving, Godly people. Our precious Pastor Joe Seeley told the children every day at Chapel about the love of God. The Worship Leader for RFKC this summer was Kyle Popineau. His beautiful voice along with his skillful guitar techniques truly showed these young kids the heart of worship. Kyle’s father helped to start RFKC in Northern California many years ago. The costs for RFKC are high—two hundred and fifty dollars per person per week. Jeff Juhala told me that when he had to raise $36,000 in his first years of fund raising, “I learned to put my trust in the Lord and He provided.” In closing, I would like to say my heart was touched as I observed many outstanding events from the Polar Bear swim at 7 a.m. to the evening hike, with flashlights shining in the night coming down the hill and back into camp amongst the patter of little feet on the pavement mingled with the giggles and laughter of little people having fun with adults who care. Every one of us has a purpose in life no matter how we got here, no matter what has happened to us while we are here. “I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “Plans to prosper you, not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 That is exactly what RFKC offers these children, a hope and a future. Thank you so much for every volunteer giving to the Lord. EXTREME WATER & AIR SHOW TO BENEFIT RFKC AT ORWOOD RESORT ON SATURDAY SEPEMBER 19TH , 12 – 4 P.M. For information: www.BrentwoodSkiShow.com Please set this time apart on your calendar to come and enjoy yourself while giving to a wonderful and necessary cause. God will bless you!
America’s Good News
12-A
Watering the Seed of Eternity by Anrdrew Pate What is it that drives men and women to greatness? Is it a vision, a sense of moral outrage, or possibly an unseen supernatural force? Throughout history men and women have accomplished great things, but what is it that motivated them to rise above their situation? The reason, I propose, is that God, in making us in His image has placed a seed of eternity in each of us. Hebrews 11:13-16, “All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country – a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.” Is it a vision? God has placed in each of us gifts and talents that are to be cultivated and used for His glory. It is our choice whether we use our gifting to glorify God or ourselves. Regardless of that decision, it is only because God has placed this seed of eternity in us; which allows us to see beyond ourselves, that we are able to be visionaries. William Wallace, who was made legendary by the epic film “Brave Heart”, was living by faith when he died. He did not see the freedom of his people that he had
given his life for, but he was driven by an uncompromising force that strengthened him to never quit. Is it a sense of moral outrage? A sense of moral outrage is powerful enough to start a movement, but in itself it is just an emotion, and does not have the power to sustain someone to move from observer to conqueror. In 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. said in a speech titled, “Strength to Love”, “Nonviolence is the answer to the crucial political and moral questions of our time; the need for mankind to overcome oppression and violence without resorting to oppression and violence. Mankind must evolve for all human conflict a method which rejects revenge, aggression, and retaliation. The foundation of such a method is love.” Martin Luther King Jr. rose up from among his brothers and sisters to answer a call from God to battle a “moral outrage” that was tearing our country apart. In doing this Martin Luther King Jr. made a choice to use his gifts to glorify God. The reason he succeeded is that his life was not based on the emotion of moral outrage, but grounded in the truth that only God’s love would see this cause through. Had his intentions been grounded in emotion, he would have “been thinking of the country (easier life) that he had left, and would have the opportunity (desire) to go back to it.” By seeking God, Martin Luther King Jr. was able to water his seed of eternity and produce God’s eternal principle of love in his life. God’s love is an action (not a human emotion)
that gives us the hope needed to sustain our lives and quests. Is it an unseen supernatural force? To put it plainly, yes. There are two forces working in concordance with mankind that drives us to succeed. It is the individual choice of the person to either answer the call of their Creator, or to answer the call of the host of demons led by a created fallen angel, Satan (the devil). The Bible is very clear on this. Matthew 6:24 tells us, “No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other…” There are countless stories of men and women who chose to follow Satan that will not grace the content of this article, but let it be noted that gifts that could have been used mightily in the Kingdom of God have been used to oppress, torture, and kill for the sole purpose of selfish gain and ambition. Instead of watering, they have poisoned their seed of eternity, and will be judged by Jesus Christ (the only one qualified to judge man) by the fruits of their works. Is there eternal life? Hebrews 11:16 answers us, “Instead, they were longing for a better country – a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.” This is only one example of what our Father has in store for us if we choose to seek Him and water our personal seed of eternity with the power of His Word. We don’t have time to go into all the teachings, but I
encourage you examine the Bible and see for yourself the wonders that God has prepared for those who follow Him. Eternal life is real, but as with our gifts, we choose where we spend it. If you are watering your seed in the power of the Word of God you will live for eternity in Heaven, but if you are poisoning your seed of eternity with selfishness and rebellion you face the possibility of an eternity in hell. Hell was never meant for us, it was created as punishment for the angels who rebelled in Heaven. Only through Jesus Christ will we be allowed to enter into Heaven, and by living in His Word, God will not be ashamed to be called our God, and will allow us entrance into the glorious city that He has prepared for us.
America’s Good News
Women of Worth Pictured below -Women of Worth Pastor Kim Moreno and Shelby Seeley
By Gina Dacus When Pastor Kim Moreno first announced that she would be talking about women and their drama, the immediate picture that came to mind was a soap opera. While soap operas on television may seem superficial, unrealistic and inapplicable to the lives of believers, some of us have taken on drama filled characteristics by removing self-control and God’s authority from our lives. As believers, we would like to think that we are excluded from any exposure to drama. Yet as Pastor Kim shared, “Women get into drama because we battle everything.” Whether it is a personal attack or someone that we know, the actions that you make in response to onset of drama will determine if it plays out in your day. As a woman sitting in the audience, this message was tough and to the core. When Pastor Kim spoke, the Holy Spirit presented a personalized mirror inspecting my own inner
SPORTS THE COACH’S CLIPBOARD By Coach Mike We just completed the first East Bay All-Star Invitational Basketball Camp at Los Medanos College in Pittsburg (that’s Pittsburg, CA). We had the Adidas National Camp and Junior Phenom Director, Coach Dave Taylor as guest head coach, who teamed up with legendary NBA shooting coach Glen Graham. The pros from 24Hr Fitness’ Basketball Training group, known as Hoops 24, ran a special session. A fine group of dedicated young players between the ages of 10 and 15 took to the floor for what would turn out to be an intense skills and fundamentals boot-camp. For many players it was the first time they’d experienced this level of fundamental training. We coaches spoke at length about the alarming lack of fundamental skill being seen at all levels of this and other sports in America today. During this past weekend, and nearly every weekend across America, there were tournaments going on that were luring in players, and families, in baseball, basketball, soccer, swimming, tiddly-winks; hey, if someone can make a buck from a tournament, you can bet they’re doing it. And there is nothing wrong with tournaments. But there is something drastically wrong when playing games overrides learning to play the game. One AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) coach I knew personally was so obsessed with racking up wins, he would often book 2 tournaments in a weekend, as much as a hundred miles apart! And the funny thing is, the parents bought into this craziness,
self looking for signs and residue of drama. Think about it. When drama shows up in your day, are you tempted to take a bite or do you pass? Do you stand up to it and cancel out the intended plans or are you a passive participant subtly igniting the situation to the next level with your silence? On the other hand, has this examination process exposed you as the initiator of drama to your family or other women in your life? If you are a person where drama constantly “falls in your lap”, how many times have you taken it as an opportunity to diffuse it? As Pastor Kim shared, women with drama carry their own curtains so that they can pull it out for a performance anytime they want it. Whether you are the initiator, intended target or an innocent bystander, drama can be eliminated when the
13-A
WOW Exposes the Drama in Our Lives
Author Gina Dacus
right action or response is given. As fruits of the spirit. No temptation has seized you except what is common to an example, Pastor Kim shared the man. And God is faithful; he will not story about Abigail in 1 Samuel 25: 32-38. In this let you be tempted beyond what you can passage, Abigail was able to bear. But when you diffuse drama are tempted, he will also provide a way by demonstratout so that you can ing a humble stand up under it. heart with the right words and (1 Cor 10:13 NIV). Remove the baggage actions. In the midst of the drathat drama presents and make room ma that Abigail ~ Pastor Kim Moreno didn’t personfor God’s will and ally create, she purpose to operate in your life. When you cancelled out are tempted to respond to any drama, pending destruction by demonstrating her contagious power of kindness. substitute your words and actions She showed self control as she stood with: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleup with humility instead of operating ness and self-control. in the flesh. She operated in wisdom and spoke words of kindness instead of choosing to war and escalate the situation. As Pastor Kim shared, a Be blessed! humble heart will diffuse rage every time. It’s time to dethrone the “dreaded drama queen” by operating in the
“women with drama carry their own curtains so that they can pull it out for a performance anytime they want it.”
GAMES, GAMES, GAMES vs. FUNDAMENTALS Youth sports should be as pure as it gets, but we have corrupted the process for our kids. The result is, at worst, a 70% sports drop-out rate, and, at best, mediocrity on the international stage.
finishing 2 games in one location, and then racing 90 minutes to another location! By summer’s end, the team had played over 70 games. Insane. Parents are being sold a bill of goods that runs the risk of destroying their kids’ futures in the very sports that they, and their children, are investing so heavily in. It is no secret that 70% of kids drop out of sports in the USA by the time they reach adolescence. If playing more and more games was the answer, we’d have seen it by now. Instead, other nations are catching up and surpassing us. In contrast, the European model is very different; and, it is exactly why the European nations continue to dominate soccer, and are well on their way to taking over basketball. European players now make up over 20% of the NBA rosters, and the ratio is increasing. Why? They are fundamentally more solid. In the European sports training model, fundamental training and mastery is considered far more essential than the number of games played. But, tournament promoters have developed business empires in this country, the tentacles of which have spread into almost every team and individual sport played. Coach Bob Knight commented on this problem, specifically referring to the AAU in his book “Knight, My Story,” in stating the AAU summer tournaments have gotten “out of control.” The fact is that college coaches
roll their eyes at what they see at most AAU tournaments! “It’s bad and getting worse,” comments Coach Taylor, who also serves as both a NCAA and NBA consultant. Are the tournament promoters completely to blame? Nope. Players, parents, and coaches, we’re all guilty for going along far too long. Youth sports should be as pure as it gets, but we have corrupted the process for our kids. The result is, at worst, a 70% sports drop-out rate, and, at best, mediocrity on the international stage. Let’s look at the typical family with a child on a travel team. They might travel far and spend hundreds, maybe thousands, to have “junior” play in a single tournament. Maybe junior will play in three games? Now, junior has poor shooting form, does not know how to set a screen, or block out, doesn’t know what help side or deny means, misses 50% of his lay-ups; but, he is a good athlete and a great kid. His family could have used the bucks they’ll spend that weekend, and many more like it, to invest in 3 or 4 weeks of skill camps, with great coaches, where junior would greatly improve his game through focused fundamental training. But his coach insists that his team play a
schedule that looks more like that of a professional team. He claims “I can teach the players all they need to know, my players don’t need camps!” (Cue the alarm bells!) And the family buys into that lie, because they have also bought into the lie of immediate gratification. And junior, after all, has been bringing home trophies and medals. Still, his fundamentals are weak. He likely won’t make his high school team, let alone a college team! So what’s the answer? It’s time we cleaned house in youth sports. We have to get back to an emphasis on fundamental training instead of games, games, and more games. Game Plan: Parents, steer clear of any coaches who are not strong advocates for continuing fundamental training! Remember, trophies do not mean your child is learning the game! Players, be aware that there is no shortcut for success in any sport. Athletes committed to doing the hard work to perfect their fundamental skills will be the ones who ultimately succeed. Scriptural Guidance for Parents: “...False teachers, like vicious wolves, will appear among you, not sparing the flock.” Acts 20:29 For Players: “The wise man is glad to be taught, but the self-sufficient fool falls flat on his face.” Proverbs 10:8 “Work hard and become a leader; be lazy and never succeed.” Proverbs 12:24 “To learn, you must want to be taught.” Proverbs 12:1
14-A
America’s Good News
HAS A M E R I C A’ S G O O D N E W S BLESSED YOU ? IF SO, W E N EED YOU R HELP!
For over 5 years now we have been bringing America’s Good News right to your mailbox FREE of charge!
GET A ONE YEAR SUBSCRIPTION TO AMERICA’S GOOD NEWS
A GREAT GIFT IDEA! Do you have a friend or loved one outside of our mailing area that you would like to bless with a gift subscription to AGN? For only $25.00 you can have America’s Good News mailed directly to their home for one full year. Or maybe you live outside our direct mail area and would like a one year subscription for yourself. Person(s) purchasing one year subscription Name:__________________________________________________
38,000 copies are printed each month going out to the cities of Brentwood, Antioch, Discovery Bay, Byron and Oakley. We consider this paper to be a local outreach ministry making a positive change in our community. If this newspaper has been a blessing to you or a loved one in any way we need your help to continue spreading the Good News. We would welcome any donation that you can offer. Please give as the Lord directs you. Mail donations to America’s Good News 5000 Amaryllis Street Oakley, CA 94561
Address: ________________________________________________ City/State/Zip: ___________________________________________ Phone: _________________________________________________ If this is a gift subscription - Name(s) & address of receiving party Name:__________________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________ City/State/Zip: ___________________________________________ Phone: _________________________________________________ Send a check in the amount of $25.00 to America’s Good News at 5000 Amaryllis Street, Oakley, CA 94561 and your paper will be on its way.
R E J O I C E! Women’s Lifegroup
In His Presence
Spiritual covering by Shiloh church in Oakland
A Night of Praise & Worship Join us on Sept 11th & 25th 7pm-9pm Let us Pray as one
Holiday Inn Express Conference Room 8820 Brentwood Blvd. Brentwood CA (925)634-6400 Hotel (925)200-5671 Contact Info
“Love God, Love people” Philippians 4:4 (NIV) Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
2 Samuel 22:3 My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior—from violent men you save me. Psalm 53:6 Oh, that salvation for Israel would come out of Zion! When God restores the fortunes of his people, let Jacob rejoice and Israel be glad! CPS Heating and Air, Inc COST SAVING MAINTENANCE SPECIAL: 3 for 2!
“A Higher Standard”
One Free Additional A/C or Furnace Maintenance with Purchase Of One Year Preferred Customer Maintenance Plan
308-4901 www.cpsheatingandair.com
CA Lic# 910756
Serving God and our community for over 22yrs Family owned and locally operated Installation & Repair, Service all Makes/ Models Duct Design and Repair, HEPA Air Filtration Free Estimates on Replacing Equipment **Senior Discounts** **Priority Service Available**
America’s Good News
15-A
John 1:1-5 The Word Became Flesh In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.
Worship Services
If you are interested in having your church listed on the Worship services page, call Ron or Pat Reagan at 925-240-1242 Bread of Life Community Church
Rev. Edward L. Riley 1923 Delta Road, Knightsen 925-625-9081 - www.bolcc.net email: edwardriley@sbcglobal.net
Church on the Rock
Pastor Lin Goodyear 9:30am Traditional 11:00am Contemporary 50 Walton Lane (off Lone Tree) Antioch, CA 94509 925-706-2842
The Light Ministries
Pastor Larry Roper 405 West 6th Street Antioch, CA 94509 925-778-1639
Agape Bible Fellowship & Ministries Inc.
Pastor: Dr. John Ojewole 520 Garcia Ave. Suite D Pittsburg, CA 94565 Tel. 925-848-6240/265-1134 Email: info@agapebfm.org Website: www.agapebfm.org Sunday Bible Study: 10:00AM Sunday Worship: 11:00AM Prayer fellowship: Tuesdays 7PM Youth Ministry: Fridays 6:30PM
Our Father’s House
Apostle Larry Johnson 2980 Railroad Ave, 2nd floor Pittsburg, CA 925-457-3358 Fridays 7 pm, Sundays @ 10 am & 5 pm
New Lifeline Ministries 4246 Empire Ave. Oakley Sunday service 10am Wed. Bible Study 7:30pm 925-625-1982
Destiny Christian Center
Bishop Gregory Bell Sunday 10:30am Service Wed Worship & Study 7:30pm 132 O’Hara Av. Oakley 925-679-1361
Mariner’s Church
Byron Middle School Gym 9 am Children/Teen Sun Sch. & Nursery 9:15am Adult Sunday School ~ 10:30 am High School “Hang Time” ~ 6:30 pm Tue. Bible Study ~ 10 am Wednesdays Pastor Jim Kraft ~ 634-0800 Office: 5545 Drakes Ct., Discovery Bay
Live Oak Community Christian Center
5471 Live Oak Av. Oakley 925-625-2556 Worship Services Sunday 10am Marriage Bible Study Mon 7:30pm Kingdom Men Tuesday 7:30pm Ladies Bible Study Tue 7:30pm Youth Group Wed 7:00pm Home Cell Groups Fri 7:30pm Saturday Morning prayer 8am
His Presence
Christian Worship Center Location: Holiday Inn Concord 1050 Burnett Ave 94520 Sunday’s 10:00am starting Tuesday bible study 7:30 pm Mail to: 1145 2nd St. Ste A #161 Brentwood, CA 94513 ph# 925-405-9620
Grace Bible Fellowship Pastor Kirkland Smith Sunday 8am & 11:15am Tues 7pm Prayer Wed 6am 913 Sunset Dr. Antioch, CA 94509 925-522-2017
The Carpenter’s Shop Int’l Prs. Jerry and Penny Slavens P.O. Box 2083 Antioch, CA 94531 925-778-0800 925-778-0804 fax carpenters.shop@sbcglobal.net www.thecarpentershop.org Saturday Service 11am - 1pm
Immaculate Heart of Mary
Catholic Church 500 Fairview Ave Brentwood Saturday Vigil 5:00, 6:30[sp] Sunday Masses 7:30, 9:00 and 12:30 Spanish 10:45 and 2:00 pm Daily 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM 925-634-4156 email: ihmchurch@sbcglobal.net
Unity on the Delta
Pastor Robert Waldon Sunday Service - 10:00am 50 Sand Creek Road, Ste. 140 Brentwood, CA 94513 Ph - 925-754-5343
Lighthouse Christian Center 1210 Stoneman Ave Pittsburg, Ca 94565 (925) 432-3808 Pastors Jason & Peggy Younger Sundays 9:30 & 11:15am Wednesday: Prayer & Healing Service 7:00pm
Fountain of Life Church
Pastor: Ronald Mixon 111 W. 10th St. Antioch, CA 94509 Next to Antioch City Park on A St. (925) 755-8779 E-mail: ronmixon@sbcglobal.net www.thefountainoflifechurch.org Sunday Worship:10:00AM Wednesday: Intercessory Prayer: 7-7:30PM Bible Study:7:30-8:30PM
ADVERTISING SPONSORED BY CONTRA COSTA MINISTERS CONFERENCE
Faith Worship Center
Anthony E. Blackman, Sr. Pastor 2170 Harbor St. Pittsburg, CA 94565 Service - Sundays 10:00am Wednesdays 7:00pm 925-427-0976
Christ Temple Full Faith Ministry Inc. Pastor Damon Pierson Worship service 1pm 101 West 9th St.Antioch CA 925-978-6273 Crossroads Christian Center Heritage High-Multipurpose Rm. 101 American Ave. Brentwood 925-516-7795 Sunday Service 10:30am Tuesday Bible Study 7pm Pastor Andrew G. Miley
Calvary Chapel Crossroads
Pr. John Snoderly 1771 Vineyard Dr., Antioch Phone 925-778-2011 Services: Sundays at 10 AM Bible Study: Wednesdays at 7 PM www.cccrossroads.org email: church@cccrossroads.org
Calvary Fellowship
Pastor Dave Perata Discovery Bay Elementary School SundayService10:00AM 1700 Willow Lake Road 925.626.3525 Mid week Bible Study Thursday 7PM 1555 River Lake Road in Discovery Bay
The Orchard Church
Heritage High School Theater 101 American Ave Brentwood Service at 10am Sundays Pastor Steve (925) 325-5020 theorchardchurch.com
The East Bay Pentecostals
605 Harvest Park Drive Brentwood, CA 94513 (925) 634-2012 Pastor Joel R. Bryant Sunday Services 10am & 5pm Wednesday Bible Study 7:30pm Friday Youth 7pm
International Christian Ministry
Grace Lutheran Church 195 Alvarado Ave Pittsburg, CA 94565 Rev Tuma Johnson 550-5573
Mountain View Christian Center
5000 Amaryllis Oakley Ca 94561 925-625-9570 Sundays 9am & 10:45am Sundays 5:00pm Spanish - Bilingual Wednesdays 7pm Soldiers in Christ - Jr. High Wed 7pm Souled Out - High sch. Wed 7pm
Kings Chapel
Pr. Phillip Marocco 320 Worrell Rd. Antioch, CA 925-756-7315 Sun. 10:00am and 6:00pm Tue. 7:00pm Youth and Adult Bible study www kingscathedral.com
Rejoyce Christian Center
Pr. Kenny Ogunfunmi Sunday Service 10:30 AM 90 Village Dr. Brentwood 94513 925-240-0380 admin@rcconline.net - email
Gateway Church
Pastor Joe & Danille Hernandez Sundays 10AM Life Groups Youth and Kids Ministry 847 Arnold Dr. Martinez, CA 94553 925.335.9519 www.gatewaychurch.us
Outreach Ministries Birthright of Brentwood
Helping pregnant women facing personal crisis. Call 925-634-1275 with your tax deductible contribution.
Royal Family Kids Camp
4725 Evora Rd.Concord, CA www.rfkcconcord.com Rick Fuller, Director 925.207.7240
Family Life Center of Brentwood 605 Harvest Park Drive Brentwood, CA 94513 (925) 634-2016 Ministering to families in need: Homework Help, Social Services (Food Stamps, Healthy Families) Food Pantry, Clothing & More Thursdays at 7pm School of Theology Echo of Christ Ministries For
5000 Amaryllis St. Oakley more info on the conflict in the Middle Enroll Now and start studying the East - Call 866-317-3626 Word of Godwww.echoofchrist.org Contact Pastor Tyrone @ 925-625-9570
Helping Hands
Minister Travis Mozeke Grace Bible Fellowship Overcomers 925.727.8788
Food & Clothing to those in need Every Wednesday 5:30 - 6:30pm 5000 Amaryllis St. in Oakley 925.625.9570
America’s Good News
16-A
CALENDAR Freedom Recovery
If you are having a community outreach event or ministry event that would bless our community send calendar information to wbyrns@americasgoodnews.com Call us at 925-625-9570
RESOURCES
Women of Worth
Counseling and Edification - Overcoming Strongholds: 1)anger issues 2)compulsive addictions 3)renewing of the mind. Men/Women support groups biblical instruction for living & walking triumphantly in christ Every Friday at 6:30 pm - MVCC 5000 Amaryllis St. Oakley More info contact: Pastor Tyrone Holmes 925 625-9570 ext 108
Christian Foster Families Aldea Children and Family Services Desperate need for Christian Foster Families Training at Golden Hills Community Church 2401 Shady Willow Lane (925) 516-0653 Brentwood, CA 94513 Training Time will be as Follows: Sept 19 Orientation -Sept 26 training Oct 3, Oct 10, Oct 17 Lisa Phillips Cell # 925-848-6032 Aldea Children and Family Services http://www.aldeainc.com/
Free Freedom Food and Recovery Clothing Helping Hands Food & Clothing to those in need Every Wednesday 5:30-6:30pm Rm 14 5000 Amaryllis St. in Oakley (925) 625-9570
Proverbs 31:10 Monday - Sept. 7th 7pm-8:15pm Doors open at 6:30pm Mountain View Christian Center 5000 Amaryllis Street Oakley 925-625-9570
MVP - Men of Vision & Purpose Every 3rd Monday Doors open 6:30-teaching at 7pm Sponsored by Mountain View Christian Center 5000 Amaryllis Street Oakley 20/10 Vision 925-625-9570
Delta Women’s Connection “Picture This” Decorating with Portraiture & Photography Tuesday, September 15 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. - Luncheon & Door Prizes $19.00 Inclusive At “Nines” at the Brentwood Golf Club 100 Summerset Drive, Brentwood, CA Jennifer Fink of “Generations Photography” Janice Mathers Author, World Traveler. Reservations- Dannette (925) 634-7540 or Joyce (925) 513-7644 www.stonecroft.org
Hope Eternal Recovery group for women. Tuesdays @ 7:00 p.m. 1745 E.18th St. Rm 25 Antioch, 94509 Facilitator: Julie McGee 925-584-5282 Cornerstone 925-779-2000
Shepherd’s Gate Christ Centered services for Battered/homeless Women & Children 605 Sycamore Brentwood CA (925) 308-7507
Christian Help Ctr 2166 Sacramento Street, Vallejo, CA 94590 (707) 553-8192 Food, Clothing, Shelter - Transitional Living
Love -a-Child Missions Homeless Recovery Shelter Rehabilitative services for homeless women and children. (925) 458-5663 info@love-a-child.org
Dove Aviation Is looking for volunteers to help with their ministry on local and international levels. Dove is involved in Mission Trips (925)584-7079
Victory Outreach-Pittsburg 2328 Willow Pass Rd (925) 432-0937 Christian Recovery Program Drug & Alcohol
Mission Solano 740 Travis Blvd. Fairfield CA (707) 422-1011 Daily Meals, Transitional Living Daily Shower, Shelter New Life Programs
Iron Shop Men’s Recovery Group Christian Twelve Step 925-525-9957 1745 East 18th Street Antioch
10%
off with this coupon on any order
Printing • Copying • Large Format Prints Sign Manufacturing & Much more...
Isaiah 45:17
But Israel will be saved by the LORD with an everlasting salvation; you will never be put to shame or disgraced, to ages everlasting.
Luke 1:71
Salvation from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us—
Acts 13:47
For this is what the Lord has commanded us: “ ‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.
Romans 1:16
I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.
Here are just a few locations that you can find a copy of
AMERICA’S GOOD NEWS
SERENDIPITY BIBLE HOUSE 760 Madison St. FAIRFIELD
GRACELAND CHRISTIAN BOOKSTORE 4261 Century Blvd. PITTSBURG
LAUNDERLAND Railroad Ave. PITTSBURG
BAGEL STREET CAFE’ 4815 Lone Tree Suite C ANTIOCH
LEBRERIA FUENTE DE VIDA 3009 Delta Fair Blvd. ANTIOCH
EL RAY TAQUERIA 4621 Golf Course Road ANTIOCH
WINNER’S CIRCLE WESTERN WEAR 505 W. 2nd St. ANTIOCH
LAUNDER LAND 1657 A ST. ANTOCH
QUAIL LODGE RETIREMENT RESIDENCE 4850 Deer Valley Rd. ANTIOCH COMMONS AT DALLAS RANCH 4751 Dallas Ranch Rd. ANTIOCH
HAZEL’S DRIVE-IN ANTIOCH HWY DELTA BREEZE LAUNDERLAND 1092 Sycamore Dr. ANTIOCH
PITTSBURG WASH N DRY 208 Atlantic Ave. PITTSBURG
FIESTA FILIPINA/ORIENTAL FOODS & GIFT MART 155 Atlantic Ave. PITTSBURG
REAGAN MANAGEMENT 8440 Brentwood Blvd. H BRENTWOOD
LOS REYES TAQUERIA 526 Bailey Road PITTSBURG
call
925.634.0862
1183 Second D, Brentwood, CA94513 325 TownStreet, CentreSte. Ter, Ste 1 Brentwood CA
cut here
Seeds from the Sower A politician said to a newspaper editor, “You’ve insulted
me.” “How’s that?” he asked. “I printed your article of resignation as Mayor just as you wrote it.” “Yes,” he said, “but look where you put it – under PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS!” Everyone can do something to make the world better. You can improve yourself. And if you don’t become better, you’ll stop being good. Concerning our Lord, the Bible says, “Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” Are you improving yourself daily by growing mentally, physically, socially, and spiritually? If you’re still breathing, you can improve.
It was a cold, rainy, dark day. A poorly clad newsboy stood
shivering in a doorway shouting, “Morning newspapers!” A warmly-dressed man bought a paper and said, “This is bad weather for you, isn’t it?” “I don’t mind it much,” he replied. “The sun will shine again.” Whatever happens, don’t lose hope and faith. Life without hope is like a bird without song. Life without faith is like a night without day. When the Psalmist said, “Hope thou in God,” he gave the world the only ground for hope. Life with the Lord is an endless hope. Life without Him is a hopeless end.
America’s Good News
SENIOR MOMENTS Yes, Salvation Exists By Priscilla Stanley I have had many ask me what is meant by being reborn and salvation. It is always a surprise when I am asked this question. I thought everyone understood it. I start out by saying salvation comes with the repentance of your sins. Then I hear, “I don’t really sin.” This is followed by me asking have they held anger in their hearts, taken advantage of a person’s kindness, or done wrong to someone else. Many don’t consider these issues as sins. To them sin is stealing, adultery, drugs or anything in this area. They truly believe they were mistakes, they are fine and will go to heaven and that is that. Most people think that all you have to do is “believe” in order to be “saved.” The problem with this is that scripture does not define salvation this way! What happens if you don’t follow the scripture for true salvation? What is the end result, no salvation? Salvation begins with death, that’s right! It is a rebirth in a spiritually perfect form, which cannot die. Those who believe they are already “born again” are ignorant of the fact that you normally cannot see someone born of the spirit. Jesus declares in John 3:3-6, “I tell you the truth; no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again. Nicodemus asked, “How can a man be born when he is old? Surely he cannot enter a second time into his mother’s womb to be born!” Jesus answered, ”No one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit.” John 3:8 Jesus further says, “The wind blows wherever it please. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.” Baptism is symbolic of death burial and resurrection back to life in a spiritually perfect form, which has the ability to manifest itself in a perfect physical body. But in being baptized, we must put to death the sin that wars against our spirit. Sin must be put to death on a daily basis, and we can no longer give in to its urges and temptations. If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection, Romans 6:5. Those who are under grace cannot be ruled by sin any longer! We believe that the salvation of sinners is divinely initiated and wholly of grace through Jesus Christ. The Son of God, by the appointment of the Father, who took on human form and our nature yet without sin. He honored the divine law by His personal obedience qualifying Himself to be our Savior. Then by the shedding of His blood in His death He fully satisfied the demands of a holy and righteous God regarding sin. His sacrifice consisted not in setting an example by His death as a martyr but was a voluntary substitution of Himself in our place. He died as the just dying for the unjust. Christ bore are sins on the tree. Now having risen from the dead, He is enthroned in Heaven and united in His wonderful Person are the tenderest sympathies with divine perfection. He is in every way qualified to be a suitable, compassionate and an all-sufficient Savior, Advocate, and our High Priest. We believe that repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ are the only conditions of salvation. Repentance is a change of mind and purpose toward God prompted by the Holy Spirit and is an integral part of saving faith. It is a turning from sin to Jesus Christ. Not an act or words, but a change of heart and attitude about our sinfulness. I pray daily for us as seniors to understand the reality of our sins or mistakes, repent of them and start living our lives with grace. Let us get to know our Lord with a relationship that brings peace the rest of our lives here on earth. I know this about my God. Any time is a good time to find salvation and eternal life with Him in heaven.
Good News Publishing USA Publisher - Pastors Hanoum / Dellinger Editor-In-Chief - Will Byrns Copy Editors - Julie Jackson & Cathy Huffman Reporters/Columnists Susan Holmes, Rev. Austin Miles Mike Ketchel, Saed & Linda Awwad, Priscilla Stanley, Julie Jackson, Andrew Pate, Geannine Mijares, Juan Prieto, Diana Dobbie, and Don Kwong Distribution Manager - Frank Quiros Solano County Distribution - Jeanne B. Graphics - Will Byrns & Jake Carter
5000 Amaryllis Street Oakley CA 94561 ofc: (925) 625-9570 fax: 625-9003 Email: mvcc2@sbcglobal.net Send releases, letters and reprint requests to the Email or address above. (c) Copyright 2008 Mountain View Christian Center. All rights reserved. - Member OneNewsNow Brentwood Chamber of Commerce Christian Newspaper Assoc.
America’s Good News covers Local, National and World news headlines and stories. The views and opinions expressed in this literature does not necessarily represent the views and opinions of America’s Good News.
17-A
FINANCIAL MATTERS “Reorganization” By Donald Kwong As part of the economic upheavals we have seen or read in the news lately, there have been a number of corporations that have gone through a re-organization. In these cases, the firm has become bankrupt and the courts need to intervene and review how the business intends to get out of its troubles. In business, a company goes Chapter 11 because it is unable to meet its financial obligations. Perhaps you know some people who are spiritually bankrupt because they failed to honor and comply with God’s standards. As we watch our economic systems fail, we have a God whose system never fails. We are at the cusp of a new day where God wishes to pour out his blessings in order to build a testimony in believers and assist others to know who He is. Are we proper vessels to contain what God wishes to give to us? In most cases, we are not and we need to come closer to the Lord. If you do it properly, filing spiritual Chapter 11 will make you stronger. If you are truly a believer and follower of Jesus Christ, the judge is God the Father, Jesus is at the right hand of the Father advocating for you and your associate counsel is the Holy Spirit. When you appear before this court, there is power in honesty and integrity. You cannot hide because God already knows all about you. In order for God to bless us, we need to have a supernatural reconciliation. In his book “Anointed For Business”, Ed Silvoso outlines a five-step spiritual reorganization plan. Although it is tailored for business people, these steps are beneficial for all to move closer into the will of God. 1- Discard the deception that you are not a minister. We are all called to minister the Gospel no matter what profession we operate. We are sadly mistaken if we leave ministry to pastors. This does not mean that you should preach in your offices. I like to think of the words of St. Francis to preach the Gospel to the world and if necessary use words. You can be a minister just by actions and the content of your character. 2- Reject that what you do in your daily life is non-spiritual. I remember on my first missions trip I was watching a Ukrainian grandmother slowly and methodically sweep the steps of the church. I commented on how meticulous she was with the broom, and she replied that her sweeping was an act of devotion. What you do brings glory to God if your heart is in the right place. 3- Set up at least one place and time to commune with God. Many Christians are strengthened by going to their prayer closet. At the beginning of my day, I have a specific place I choose to talk with God, read my Bible and allow his angels to minister to me. 4- Ask the Lord to replace your inefficiencies with His efficiency. Invite God in everything you do. Let God into your life and let him minister to you. He wants to walk with you, talk to you and dwell with you. 5- Reaffirm that God is the head and center of your life. Proclaim His supreme authority and pray that his will be done in your life. Be a person of thanksgiving and praise him for all he has done for you. Pray with me: Heavenly Father, Son and Holy Spirit, let my life be a place of your habitation. I thank you for your love, mercy and grace. I pray that you be present in very part of my life for I know Jeremiah 29:11, and you have an eternal plan and purpose for my life. I ask that you direct and bless my steps as I offer all my efforts to you in hopes of bringing you glory. May I be a reflection of you so others will know of your great love. Amen.
Servicio Bilingue
Espanol y Ingles r With Pasto Presencia de Dios Donde: Mountain View Joe Seeley Christian Center Lugar: 5000 Amaryllis Street Oakley CADA DOMINGO: 5 PM
for more info call 625-9570
Bilingual Service Spanish and English Presence of God Where: Mountain View Christian Center Location: 5000 Amaryllis Street Oakley EVERY SUNDAY 5:00PM
America’s Good News
18-A
America’s Good News goes out by direct mail (100% saturation) to every home, business and Apt. in Brentwood, Oakley, Discovery Bay & Byron, and every business in Antioch
High circulation - Low rates
Fulfill your advertising needs & support us in spreading the word of God. It’s good to know that your help is making a difference in this community for you and your children!!
Call 925-625-9570 Ephesians 6:17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 1 Peter 1:9 For you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
We Will Beat Any Auto Glass Price! STOP
(925) 427-9999 (925) 427-5111 Open 7 Days 8am-8pm 1187 RAILROAD AVE., PITTSBURG www.autoglassexpress.us or www.windshields1.com You’re Paying Too Much!
Seeds from the Sower One night a guest bumped into a maid who was serving dinner, and threw coffee against the white wall. Immediately an ugly stain began to spread all over the wall. The guest was embarrassed. He apologized. But Sir Edwin Landseer, a famous painter, jumped to his feet and said, “Don’t worry.” Taking a pen from his pocket, he began to sketch around that awful stain. Soon there emerged a picture of a magnificent royal stag. Has your life been stained by an ugly sin? Confess it to the Lord. He can make something beautiful out of your life, if you’ll let Him!
Steve’s Construction Stevesconstruction@yahoo.com
“Quality Home & Office Repair” * Fence Repair/Replace * Flooring * Built-in Bookcases * Plumbing Repairs * ADA Modifications
Office 925-625-7771 Cell 925-628-3536 2063 Main St. PMB#419 Oakley, CA 94561
License #B884001 Insured and Bonded
America’s Good News
19-A
This beautiful country retreat is available for: * Weddings * Corporate gatherings * Counseling Pastors * Banquets * Receptions and more
Special Events Ensure your guests remember their next Corporate Meeting. Whether a small offsite conference or a full blown national event, Hanoum Estate will provide a once in a lifetime experience. Come celebrate your Anniversary, Birthday, Family Reunion, or an elegant Ball. Let your imagination run wild!
For Reservations Call (925) 625-3563 Photo courtesy: www.gr8expressions.com. ~Marlena Roslan
2009 and 2010 dates ďŹ lling quickly!
Hanoum Estate Located only 45 minutes from Sacramento and San Francisco. The Tennessee style mansion is surrounded by 5 acres of gardens, waterfalls, and exotic landscaping. Your guests will be enthralled as they take in the sights and sounds of this elegant Estate. Let us make your wedding day the fairy tale you have dreamed about.
America’s Good News
20-A
S
! e r e h s ’ ummer Come and check out our full inventory of pool supplies and equipment.