NOVEMBER 2009 AMERICA'S GOOD NEWS

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November 2009 Vol. 6 Iss. 11

NOV issue focus -

Protecting Our Children

CHILD SAFETY What IN THE INFORMATION AGE -

can we do as parents?

Protecting our Children

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By Lindasue Sizuela These are incredible times we’re living in, says anyone who’s watching as the world seems to be closing in.

There are so many concerns that the average person cannot adequately reason with the daily problems overwhelmingly pouring in. The most sensible people become stifl ed at just listening to the news, because of what we hear. There is the money crisis and wavering government issues, the imminent homeless problem, rising unemployment rate, the war in Afghanistan, the high cost of medical care, tax increases; then, as if we could tolerate one more agenizing torment, we hear, “Another child is missing,” “A child has been found dead,” or “Youth shot by rival gang member.”

What is going on? Those of us that are in a Bible based church (every week) where we study the Word of God know what is going on; and if you’re not informed, you may want to read this article. If you are a believer and you know the word of God, then you know exactly what is happening: End times.

The real perpetrator stalking us is invisible to the human eye. You can’t see him but he’s quite real and he’s wreaking havoc in your life, especially to your children and their lives. Our struggle is not against fl esh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms, (Eph. 6:12).

“No.” You say, “I don’t believe in that stuff.” This is a changing world my friend and in case you haven’t noticed its becoming more evil than ever before because time is running out. Our children are under attack because God loves them very much; in fact, He values them highly. Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from Him, (Psalm 127:3).

Most of us agree that taking God and prayer out of the schools was the worst thing that happened. Even so, when was the last time you prayed over your child? When did you last spend a little one-on-one time with your child talking about the real world and the predators that prey on children?

Cont. on page 2

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

Chaplain Johnny Jones Page 13

The Danger of National Abandonment Have we as a nation abandoned God, whom upon our currency we say, “IN GOD WE TRUST.” What are the consequences of leaving God out of our national sovereignty? Are we experiencing God’s abandonment of us because we’ve abandoned Him? See full story on page 13

From the Editor’s Desk

Pr. Will Byrns Page 9

New Sunday Evening Spanish Service at Mountain View Christian Center with -

Cell Phones for our Children The Good, the Bad and the Dangerous

Pastor Edbar Martinez Every Sunday at 5PM

In recent years there has been a great deal of information published on how to keep our children safe when they are on the internet. This information has been very helpful to many parents who were in desperate need of high tech help.

But that was then and this is now!

See full story on page 9

Good News Publishing USA 5000 Amaryllis St. Oakley, CA. 94561

Are you bored with the same old routine? Come and experience a new beginning and feel the presence of God’s hand moving in your life.

I’m excited about this new ministry and what it means to love one another, grow and build relationships with one another and our heavenly Father. Won’t you please come and join our family for a time of worship and fellowship as we learn the word of God. We love to have fun and enjoy ourselves so we make sure to get together each month for a fiesta.

We meet every Sunday- 5pm at Mountain View Christian Center, 5000 Amaryllis Street in Oakley, CA. Call 925.625.9570 for more info.

Pastor Edbar Martinez

Nuevo Servicio en espanol, los domingos en la tarde en Mountain View Christian Center.

Nos encanta divertirnos, disfrutar y conocernos unos a otros.

Y cada mes nos juntamos y tenemos una pequena fiesta.

Estamos seguros que tu no te lo quieres perder!!!.

Te esperamos cada domingo a

Priscilla Stanley Page 7 Children and the Senior Children and the senior - what does it mean these days? As the times change we wonder if we can still fi t into the lives of the young.

Of course we can, and we will always be able to. I’m not talking about our children or grandchildren, but all children.

Cada domingo a las 5:00 p.m. las 5:00 p.m. En Mountain View Christian Center.

'Ven y ve lo que Dios puede hacer en tu vida".

Estas aburrido de la misma rutina?. Ven y experimenta un "Nuevo comienzo" y 5000 Amaryllis Street, en Oakley siente La Presencia de Dios.

Contra Costa Ministers ............ 2A Estoy emocionado acerca de este nuevo ministerio, y lo que significa amarnos 110 Editor Don Huntington ......... 4A unos a otros; crecer y construir relaciones uno a uno y especialmente con nuestro Tom Koester ............... ........ 5A Dios Padre. Acompananos y unete a nuestra familia, para un tiempo de alabanza y School of Theology .................... 8A compartir, a la vez que aprendemos acerca de la Palabra de Dios.

See full story on page 7 From the Editor’s desk ................ 9A Relaciones Humanas ..................10A Thanksgiving Dinner .....................11A Events Calendar ...........................16A

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America’s Good News

Protecting our Children cont.

Yes, those are strong words but I assure you that to inform your children is necessary these days. There was a time for me when my son was 11-years-old and in the 6th grade, I picked up the local paper and read on the front page, “Chicken Hawks Stalk Young Boys.” I went on to read what a chicken hawk was and what they do and I became sick to my stomach. No matter, my boy was the age that these “animals” were abducting in my area—in my neighborhood. I needed to warn my son.

I prayed protection for the children and I prayed for the disturbed creatures that destroy, (without thought, guilt, or compassion) the lives of children forever . . . I asked the Lord to open the eyes of the predators and to convict them of their horrible sinful nature.

I asked for the words to tell my innocent, clean, beautiful, little boy what needed to be said. You see I had to prepare him for the world and the evil I had kept him from. I must now tell my son that men do bad things sometimes because they are creatures of the dark, they do things because they can, because evil exists in this world and we need to be aware.

It was obvious to me, that to continue to protect my child I must burst the very world I created for him; a safe place that I controlled where everything was safe and beautiful for him.

He came home from school excited from his day just as he did every day. He threw down his books on the table and dashed off to the bathroom and back out into the kitchen opening the refrigerator door and leaning on it slightly while asking” What’s for snack mom?”

“Get some cake and milk and come sit with me for a minute, honey, I need to tell you some things.”

“Can’t, mom, I got practice and coach said I can’t be late. We’re really going to get serious about our game.”

“This is not optional, come sit down.”

“Okay, what?” He ate cake and gulped cold milk leaving a thin white mustache on his upper lip and starring anxiously at me for an answer.

I told him as gently and delicately as I could manage without crying, the horror on his little face was absolute shock. “No!” He shouted at me, “That’s not true.” Pushing himself up from the table and away from me he ran toward the hallway. He stopped and looked back at me and said, “you are lying, men don’t do those kinds of things.”

I felt like I was kicked in the stomach by a mule. I felt like I had betrayed my child by stealing his safe world where children can play and eat cake and be safe always.

And I have never forgotten it nor has he, (now 42-years-old).

The very next day he came home a little less excited from school and came up to

Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms, (Eph. 6:12).

me and put his arms around my waist hugging me tight. “Mom, he said, the police came to school today and we had an assembly for all the boys and the policeman told us about the Chicken Hawks. He told us what you told me yesterday. I am sorry mom that I didn’t believe you.”

I pulled his face up to meet mine and looked him in the eyes, “I am sorry too. I never want to have to tell you something so terrible again—ever.” His face looked a little older, perhaps the beginning of becoming a young man not so protected by his mother. Perhaps a little more prepared to go out among the wolves in sheep clothing.

Two days later, two men pulled up next to him and his friend asking for directions.

The boys did not hesitate; they ran to our home without looking back. Moreover, I was grateful to God for providing me the strength to do my job. I said, “Thank you Lord for your power, your wisdom, your strength and my child.”

There are 198 total registered sex offenders in this area: Brentwood, Oakley, Knightsen, Byron, Antioch, and Bethel Island. You can find these on line at www.sex offenders.com.

Child safety tips: www.missingmichaela.com or www.meganslaw.com.

We have an invisible God who has created a very visible world. We have an invisible predator after our children in some very physical ways. God does honor prayer and He is faithful to those who obey Him (obedience is a long-term commitment). God does not always protect us from trouble, but He cares for us in spite of trouble. I would rather have Him on my side than not. Be aware of your surroundings and PRAY OVER YOUR CHILDREN . . . .

PACIFIC JUSTICE INSTITUTE’S BRAD DACUS CLOSES OUT CCMC FOR 2009

by The Fly on the Wall Once again the Contra Costa Minister’s Conference brought a capacity crowd to The Nines.

Pat and Ron introduced the pastors in the audience and then brought up Captain Jackie, a favorite with the CCMC, who invited pastors to join her in filling the food pantry she has in the Salvation Army Church she heads. Several ministers went to her afterwards to come on board.

Next the 11 year old twins, Ridgette & Charlotte Kinsella of The Brentwood Teen Theater (directed by their parents), sang, “I’m proud to be an American.” There is nothing like the sound of children singing...perhaps we should refer to them as young ladies.

David Harmer who is a candidate for the 10th Congressional District was introduced by his father. His cameo appearance was very effective and being a man of family values he gave a compelling reason why he should be voted into office.

The keynote speaker was met with

Brad Dacus - President of PJI

The Fly is saddened that this was the last CCMC luncheon for this year. So it looks like The Fly will have to just hang out at the Buzz Inn until the CCMC resumes next year.

enthusiasm and anticipation.

Brad Dacus who heads the Pacific Justice Institute (PJI) and who has just opened an office in the San Francisco area is the legal voice for Christians who constantly dodge the missiles hurled by liberals who are intent on wiping out all references to God and tearing down all crosses in public view.

So severe is the problem, that PJI receives 4000 requests a year for their help. One case involves a church in San Diego that had been there for 23 years. The bureaucracy tried to tear down the church and let a bar take over the property since, they reasoned, (?) the property had been originally zoned for a bar. And the church was told that they would be fined $1000.00 a day as long as they stayed there.

Another church group in San Leandro bought a building to turn into a

church. They put up a hefty nonrefundable bond.

But the city would not approve the building to be used as a church since their presence there would impact the economy as there would be no taxes paid. Yes, the church represented a danger to the community because of the lack of taxes the city would receive..

These are the kind of cases that come to PJI daily. And PJI represents these injustices flung at Christians, at no charge. Mr. Dacus is a very pleasant speaker to see and hear. He received a standing ovation at the end of his talk.

Ron Reagan introduced a surprise guest, his mother, then introduced Linda Miller, the new Principal of Trinity Christian School. He also introduced Terry Thompson of Life Legal Defense Fund, another legal firm defend-

ing Christians at no cost to answer the ACLU. Mr. Thompson was the very first speaker for the CCMC when they first formed.

The twins returned to sing, “Give Thanks To A Grateful Heart.” Pastor Jerry Hanoum closed the meeting with a prayer. When he prays, you know that the Gates of Heaven have been touched. The gates of hell too.

Fly Paper: The Fly is saddened that this was the last CCMC luncheon for this year. So it looks like The Fly will have to just hang out at the Buzz Inn until the CCMC resumes next year.

America’s Good News

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MVP - MEN OF VISION AND PURPOSE ARE YOU READY FOR THE BATTLE? ALL ARE INVITED!

By Will Byrns

On the evening of Monday, October 19th, 2009 you could see the signs and banners that were posted all over town at various restaurants and pubs. Come join us for Monday Night Football as the San Diego Chargers take on the Denver Broncos! We have drink specials and half price dinner specials you can’t beat. Sounds pretty inviting to the manly man, right? To be honest… yes, it does and yes, it is. But let me tell you about a place that is even more inviting to men all over Northern California. Actually, it’s not a place that you are being invited to but it’s an invitation to experience a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. This invitation is always open to all who would come to Him. This invitation never expires and the drink special is eternal, like no other. John 7:38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.”

At the last Men of Vision and Purpose (MVP) gathering in Oakley there were several men that accepted this new life in Christ and now have those streams of living water fl owing from within them. It is only when we get on our knees where we fi nd our strength.

It is only when we surrender to Him can we fi nd our victory. It is only when we accept the love He has for us, can we truly know how to love others unconditionally. That is what Christ can do for those who are broken hearted; those that fi nally realize they just can’t continue to live the way they are living now trying to accomplish things on their own strength. We all need help and we all need other men in our lives that can encourage us with the word of God.

Pastor Sammy Johnson opened the meetPictured above - Pastor Robert ing in worship and then spoke Bagley preaching with passion. to the men about their heart for drawing closer to the Lord. “There are many men who don’t know how to read the word,” he said, “and I was one of them. I took the foundations of faith class with Pastor Bill Phillips for a couple years and the word started to take root in me. Men, we need to know how to read the word for all it’s worth.

Also, don’t ever be afraid to tell someone about Jesus. We need to be bold when it comes to spreading the gospel,” said Pastor effects. A shofar was blown and every man in Sammy. the place screamed to recreate the feeling of

Pastor Robert Bagley was the keynote victory over the enemy when the walls fell. speaker for the evening and brought a timely Tom Graham also accompanied Pastor Robmessage to the men. He told the story of ert on the keyboards to enhance his preaching Joshua and how he conquered the mighty style similar to what you might hear at a full army and fortress of Jericho. “God gives us gospel church. As exciting as the presentation each a personal destiny,” said Pastor Robert. was the biggest excitement of the night was “The devil seeks whom he may devour but when men gave their life to the Lord. Pastor we overcome by the blood of the lamb and Robert Bagley was used by God in a mighty the word of our testimony,” he shouted with way that night as he gave an altar call and an enthusiasm. “We are in a war right now just opportunity for men to accept Christ as their in case you didn’t know. Not long ago I asked savior. This is the bottom line… Men were Pastor Jerry, ‘why is the enemy here?’ He saved that night and now partake in the vicPhotos by Tim Vaughn & Tom Graham told me, ‘the enemy is here to sharpen us,’ tory. Glory to God! which really touched me deeply,” said Pastor Men of Vision and Purpose (MVP) meet the third Monday of every month at Robert.

Mountain View Christian Center located at 5000 Amaryllis Street in Oakley. The As Pastor Robert continued to tell the story of how the city of Jericho had fallen, his food and fellowship start at 6:30pm followed by the teaching at 7pm. For more presentation was full of excitement and visual information call 925.625.9570. Come join us for an invitation to be victorious.

America’s Good News

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DON HUNTINGTON ‘DELIVERS’ AT MVCC INTERN PASTOR CLASS

Photos by Tim Vaughn

EDITOR OF 110 DEGREES MAGAZINE DON HUNTINGTON INSPIRES INTERN PASTORS IN OAKLEY WITH A POWERFUL MESSAGE OF LOVE AND GRACE

By Will Byrns

Don Huntington’s opening icebreaker to the Intern Pastor class at Mountain View Christian Center was enough to crack the covering of the South Pole. Within the first minute his quick wit coupled with his dry sense of humor had everyone in stitches. With this short excerpt telling of his past as a preacher you’ll get the picture. “Everyone would say that I was a good preacher, but I lacked the power of God and the anointing on my life that any real preacher must possess. The fact is I’m not ashamed of that, God gives his gifts as he chooses, the Bible states. But I have to say in my defense that even without giftings that little church I had in Montana grew from 85 members to 87 during the four years that I was there. And that was in spite of the fact that I conducted six funerals during that time. If those people hadn’t died that would have been 93 members by the time I left, said Don.”

As Don started to settle in he dove a little deeper showing a more sensitive and serious side as he continued… “I’ve come to believe that our hope for eternal life is built totally upon relationships and not at all on conformists with rules, regulations and rituals. ‘The Shack’ was right when one of the characters said, ‘freedom involves trust and obedience inside our

relationship of love.’ Never before in my life have I been more certain in my standing with Jesus Christ. I believe God does not limit his grace in any way, He offers it freely to anyone who will receive it without constraining the flow of grace into any orthodoxy.”

Bringing the Body of Christ together as one was a recurring theme of Don’s discussion. He spoke of doctrine and dogma that has divided and devastated the church throughout the years. Don exclaimed with joy… “The Bible says that we are accepted by God, not because of what we are, but because of what He is! Not because of what we do, but on the basis of what Jesus has done! It took a long time before my Spirit began to move toward the actual reformation that would permit me to become a vessel for the Spirit of God to inhabit without my finding His presence to be a source of discomfort.”

When it came time to close Don shared his true character of love and wisdom with the Intern Pastors. “Some of you know that I’m a hugger, human beings need two hugs a day to survive, four hugs for maintenance and six hugs to grow. When I see someone who is a friend or maybe a smiling stranger I put my

arms around them and hold them to myself; during that moment I’m giving them all the love that I have in my heart. Only people with a sense of simplicity can give others a really great hug. One of the great things about Mountain View church is when I hug people they hug me back.

Listen, learn to hug people. If you’re inhibited about this then learn to get over it. A minister once told me he received a phone call that one of his elders had backed over a little boy and had killed him. As he was getting dressed to go over to the man, his wife asked, ‘what are you going to say to him?’ He replied, ‘If I have to say anything to him Rose, then I’m not going.’ When the preacher saw his elder he grabbed a hold of him and hung on to him like he was trying to keep him from sinking into deep waters, and I guess he was. I’m telling you, that sort of behavior is strong because of its simplicity. Do you hear what I am saying? You can’t go into situations like that with any idea on how to say something that will make the other person feel better, or try to do something

Top photo - Pastor Jerry Hanoum with Don Huntington. Above - Don, as he preaches and teaches the interns. that will make you look good, or make you look like you’re the guy who has all of the answers with some sort of miraculous word of advice that will preserve your sense of professional distance… you just hug! And you hold on until that person realizes that he or she is being loved on. The strong arms of compassion are there beneath the grief and the pain.”

The Intern class at MVCC was truly blessed that evening as Don Huntington really taught these young interns that as a man/woman of God, love and compassion reign supreme.

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Dying to Self “Don’t Waste Suffering”

By Thomas Koester

My wife Toni and I, were driving along Highway 49 from Sonora to Angel’s Camp, and we came upon a vast area, which had been “strip-mined” sometime in the mid to late 1800s, revealing and uncovering large boulder and rock formations. That’s how I feel in this “Great Recession,” I feel receded, striped and washed out. Underneath is exposed; that which I prefer to be kept hidden is laid bare; all the ugliness and the things I don’t want others to see. I don’t want people to see me less than what I pretend to be.

I want to keep up the pretending; the success persona, and continue to be the “guy-who’s-got-it-together;” “the-guywho’s-got-the-vision” of the latest and greatest. I want to be, at least somebody’s success story!

Well, that is what I used to want; to be a success, to have someone believe in me and my great plans. Well, I’m not the man I thought I was, just a “wannabe.” All that I want others to perceive, is, in reality, a poor, blind, naked and wretched man. I’m not fishing for sympathy, or a dose of positive thinking or a Word-ofFaith “word.” Don’t try to fix me, just fellowship with me in my suffering.

Better to die now than die later. What I mean is, it’s better I crucify my flesh now, than to die without God later, and without accomplishing his purpose in and through me. Refusing the suffering God releases in my life, will prolong any meaningful transformation He has for me. I fell off the cross once in my life (literally), another story. I don’t intend on living the rest of my life falling off intended crosses, of which (if) I remain

fastened to, will bring me to a place of real life and freedom. I will never experience the fullness of resurrection until I experience complete death of self. I have a bad habit of circumventing God’s best work, by stepping away from His moment of triumph, which is the crucifixion of the “comfortable me!”

Suffering and dying to self in this life is what creates in us the state in which we will live, and be eternally known for in the next life. In other words, don’t waste the suffering you’re encountering, on complaining and turning from it. Your present suffering is your opportunity to die to self and be changed for eternity. You will be in heaven what you’ve become while here on earth, only without corruption and mortality. Suffering is for your sake, so that you may grow in character and faith, which will decide the level of authority you are to be entrusted with in the age to come.

Don’t waste your suffering on just suffering.

“He delivers the afflicted in their affliction and opens their ears [to His voice] in adversity.” Job 36:15 (AMP)

“But those who learn from their suffering, God delivers from their suffering.”

Job 36:15 (MSG)

“God rescues the afflicted by afflicting them; He instructs them by means of their torment.” Job 36:15 (NCV) “The Lord has given you trouble and sorrow as your food and drink. But now you will again see the Lord, your teacher, and he will guide you. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, you will hear a voice saying, “This is the road! Now fol-

low it.”’ Isaiah 30:20-21 (CEV)

Hope is rising though; death to self will soon be over...Sunday mornings are a sure thing, and are better realized from inside the tomb, outward. Resurrection is on the way!

Anonymous poem…

“When you are forgotten, neglected, or purposely set at naught, and you don’t sting or hurt with the oversight, but your heart is happy being counted worthy to suffer for Christ; That is dying to self.

When your good is evil spoken of, when your wishes are crossed, your advice disregarded, your opinion ridiculed, and you refuse to let anger rise in your heart or even defend yourself, but take it all in patient, loving silence; That is dying to self.

When you lovingly and patiently bear any disorder, any irregularity, any annoyance; when you can stand face to face with waste, folly, extravagance, spiritual insensibility, and endure it as Jesus did; That is dying to self.

When you are content with any food, and offering, any raiment, any climate, any society, any solitude, any interruption by the will of God; That is dying to self.

When you never care to refer to yourself in conversation or record your own good works or itch after commendation, when you can truly love to be unknown; That is dying to self.

When you can see your brother prosper and have his needs met, and can honestly rejoice with him in spirit and feel no envy, nor question God, while your own needs are far greater and you are in

desperate circumstances; That is dying to self.

When you can receive correction and reproof from one of less stature than yourself and can humbly submit, inwardly as well as outwardly, finding no rebellion or resentment rising up within your heart; That is dying to self.” - Anonymous

It seems that “dying to self,” is the surest way to true living and freedom.

Stay the course, let death to self complete its work. Let God remove you from the cross you are to bare in the fullness of His timing. Stop your squirming and complaining; stop accusing the Accuser.

Hush, God is doing his best work in you...

Let him finish.

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Be self- controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” 1 Peter 5:6-10 (NIVUK) Tom Koester - Mountain View Christian Center - Call to Courage Ministries

THE PROCLAIMER, A SELF-POWERED AUDIO PLAYER Seven billion people in the world in two years Mission Network News - 10/20/2009

The Proclaimer, a self-powered audio player, can be used in the most remote and rugged locations.

USA (MNN) ― Half the world lives on less than $2 a day. Right now, that’s more than three billion people, but new research suggests the population will hit the seven billion mark within the next two years.

Researchers with the Population Reference Bureau (PRB) also found that the least developed regions, like Africa, Asia and Latin America, are projected to double in population by 2050. PRB, one of the most trusted sources for world population information, recently released these statistics in their 2009 World Population Data Sheet.

International Director for Faith Comes By Hearing Morgan Jackson said that these new figures are troubling because billions of people may never hear the message of hope and truth in God’s Word.

“Already, the world’s poorest of the poor are cut off from the Bible,” said Jackson.

“Half of the world’s people are illiterate and too poor to afford a Bible. Five of six African believers will never own their own Bible. And when people don’t have Scripture in a format they can use and understand, the results can be devastating to villages and whole countries.”

Jackson, referring to a recent article in Christianity Today, explained how children in Africa are abandoned and abused after being labeled as witches.

“In Africa, witchcraft is a huge problem,” said Jackson. “When people [or children] are labeled as witches, they are beaten, thrown out of their villages, hunted down, sometimes killed, and left with nothing. And it stems from many believers not being established in the faith through the Word of God.” He continues, “The situation in Africa is symptomatic of what happens in cultures where the Word of God has not penetrated hearts.

That’s what happens all over the world.

People will hear and memorize one story or passage and build whole doctrines (or even denominations) on it, and leaders can mislead the people,” said Jackson.

“I’m reminded of a story from Ghana where a pastor was unable to read. He had two young men in the church read the Bible for the people, but these men made an agreement to never read any Scripture about adultery or fornication.

They used their position to have relations with women, all the while explaining that this was a service to God,” said Jackson.

“When the Konkomba Audio Bible was heard in the church as a part of the Faith Comes By Hearing listening group, they

Word of God, people come to know and were immediately found out. One fled, follow the God of the Bible. and one repented.”

Currently, New Testament record Stories like these clearly illustrate ings in more than 397 languages are being both the need for God’s Word in the heart used in Bible listening programs in 150 language of the people and in a format countries. Faith Comes By Hearing’s free they can use.

Audio Bibles are also being used by many

“Small bits of Scripture may be the only truth they have. They just don’t know well-known ministries for evangelism, discipleship, church planting and leadany different,” said Jackson. ership development in villages, slums,

“But modern technology is helpshanty towns, hospitals, orphanages, ing overcome centuries-old barriers of poverty, distance, language, illiteracy, and house churches, and mega-churches.

Faith Comes By Hearing is working culture. For the first time in history, we have the tools to reach every person in the to bring the Word of God to every nation, tribe, language, and people by establishing world with the Word of God -- no matter Bible listening groups. To get involved where they are,” said Jackson. with this worldwide mission, you can One of these tools is the Proclaimer, a self-powered audio player that can be used join us in prayer, become an Audio Bible Ambassador, or sponsor a village by supin the most remote and rugged locations. plying a local pastor with God’s Word in The Proclaimer’s embedded microchip is pre-loaded with the Audio Drama New his people’s language.

Testament in the heart languages of the http://www.faithcomesbyhearingworld. Indigenous believers take these com/ life-changing Audio Bibles into their villages and towns and start listening groups.

Villagers in groups 1 John 3:7 up to 300 gather around to listen and Dear children, do not let anyone lead then discuss what you astray. He who does what is right is they’ve heard. By righteous, just as he is righteous. interacting with the

America’s Good News

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World News Briefs

Church without a building?

Courtesy: Onenewsnow.com

Silencing Children in the Name of Child Rights Silencing Children in the Name of Child Rights Michael P. Farris, J.D. October 2009 Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister of India, recently announced that children of that nation should be excluded from all political activities. Hasina, quoted in the Indian newspaper The Daily Star, said that “Children would be aware of politics but should not be used in political activities.”

Her proclamation was made in association with World Children’s Day and Child Rights Week 2009. She indicated that India’s actions were predicated on the nation’s obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

This is a remarkable claim demonstrating that international human rights laws are radically different from the American Bill of Rights.

In the United States, children - defined by the CRC as anyone under the age of 18 - have every right to be active participants in all manner of political activities. Clearly, then, the international human rights view of free speech—supposedly guaranteed by the Convention on the Rights of the Child—has no correlation with our First Amendment. Any effort by the government of the United States to curtail political activity by teenagers or other children would be summarily found to be unconstitutional by American courts.

Incidentally, this proclamation should be a strong warning to American judges who seem increasingly enamored with following international precedent in the advocacy of human rights.

This Indian announcement is also contrary to the position taken by those who are seeking ratification of the UN children’s convention in the United States Senate.

Edward Lee O’Brien, the Executive Director Emeritus of Street Law Inc., sent a recent email to public school teachers in the United States on behalf of the U.S. Campaign for the Ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. This advocacy organization is asking public school teachers (in grades 6-12) to “pilot a new curriculum to teach about the CRC.” The American advocates of the CRC may have this in common with their Indian counterparts—they believe in government control of the political thoughts of children. In India, the government wanted to tell them what they may not do; in the United States, the pro-UN crowd wants to tell children what they must believe.

Public schools should not become agencies of propaganda, whether the issue is environmentalism, tax policy, or international law.

If we really believe in children’s rights—in a form that is recognized by the Bill of Rights—then we need to do everything we possibly can to defeat the UN Convention on the “Rights” of the Child. And we need to pass the Parental Rights Amendment—which now has more than 120 co-sponsors in the U.S. House—to see that the CRC stays defeated for good.

If we believe in the right of teens to engage in the political process, then it is essential that we defeat this dangerous treaty. For more information go to parentalrights.org.

Allie Martin - OneNewsNow - 10/20/2009 A leader of the house church movement in the U.S. says believers must put hands and feet to the gospel in order to impact those outside the church.

Ken Eastburn is elder of The Well church, a network of home-based churches in Colorado and California. Recently, he encouraged organizations, such as the National Association of Evangelicals, to put more emphasis on people, as opposed to programs.

“Our building had become an anvil around our necks, strangling the life out of our church body,” describes The Well’s website. By taking the building out of the equation, the church transformed from one “of stone and steel to a living, breathing church of flesh.”

Eastburn says the model for true Christian involvement is found in the parable of the Good Samaritan.

“The first thing he did, he saw the problem,” the ministry spokesman explains. “He was aware. He didn’t just pass by. And when he saw the problem he had some compassion and then he went the extra mile. He was generous.”

Eastburn says more programs are not needed in the church in America. Instead, he says a focus on Christian justice and local outreach should be of primary importance to believers in the United States.

Genesis 18:19 For I have chosen him, so that he will direct his children and his household after him to keep the way of the LORD by doing what is right and just, so that the LORD will bring about for Abraham what he has promised him.”

Genesis 33:5 Then Esau looked up and saw the women and children.

“Who are these with you?” he asked. Jacob answered, “They are the children God has graciously given your servant.”

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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.

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SENIOR MOMENTS

America’s Good News

CHILDREN AND THE SENIOR

BY PRISCILLA STANLEY

“

Children and the senior - what does it mean these days? As the times change we wonder if we can still fit into the lives of the young. Of course we can, and we will always be able to. I’m not talking about our children or grandchildren, but all children. God has given us the opportunity to touch every child we meet with wisdom and love. How awesome when a little one comes up to give you a hug. What about a teen asking you about the old days. What a great feeling to know that we still have something to share. Many of our young generation have no idea what life was like for us.

I believe every child needs a senior figure in their life. Many children have grandparents living in other cities or states and seldom see them. They may have grandparents that are deceased.

These children still need the love and the interest of an older person in their lives.

We can be there to fill their need and I truly believe this is the calling for seniors.

Sons are a heritage from the Lord, Children a reward from him, Psalm 127:3.

A few years my church started a Christian school. There were children there that blessed me with their openness to love me as a member of their family.

What an honor to have a little girl come up giving me hugs as if I meant the world to her. Later I found out that she was adopted and had no grandparents. Jersey is seven years old and God put on my heart that she needed the love of a grandmother who was close by. I talked with her mother and found out that both her grandmothers lived quite a distance away. I have been able to spend time with her and give her the hugs she craves from her grandmothers. This was three years ago and I have had the greatest time getting to know this little charmer. Since our school has started I’ve had the chance to get to know many children, both little and teens. I’ve gotten to understand what life is like for them. How different it is today compared to when I was their age.

There are many children who need a safe environment to live in while their mother or father gets their lives together. We have one senior who has brought children into her home with the help of the foster care program. I myself am looking forward to helping a young mother with her child.

Why am I telling the story of my relationship with children? I believe there are many children that wish for the love and time only a grandparent can give. I don’t think you have to be flesh of flesh to enjoy the love of a child. The Lord put on my heart about three years ago; children need older adults in their lives. I have wanted to start a program similar to Big Bothers. I looked on the internet for a program where seniors spend time with children and found one on the east coast. I don’t know why we can’t have the same here in the Delta region.

Not only will the children benefit, but also seniors. We can teach young children so many things that parents don’t have the time for. We have the wisdom of years to share, the ability to spend time with them and to plan a day without interruptions with them. As Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” With love and understanding we can give so much back to these children.

I am very serious about programs bringing seniors and children together in unity where they can learn from each other. We have so many seniors living alone who also need the love and hugs from children. It is a known fact that being around children lowers our blood pressure, helps with depression and our overall wellbeing. I believe a program bringing seniors and children together will benefit both.

God told Abraham to look up at the many stars in the sky saying he would be father to many. It was a parable showing him that we would all be his children. For me this biblical story lets me know that children are for each of us. It doesn’t matter what age or if a boy or girl. Children are God’s creation and are to be nurtured by each one of us.

Let me close with a scripture for every child that has touched my heart. 1 John 3:17-18, “Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.” I love each one of you just as much or more than anyone else! You are dear to me and have brought such joy into my life.

Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” With love and understanding we can give so much back to these children.

MILESTONES

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PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN

“

BY REV. AUSTIN MILES

Predators have a sixth sense that greatly assists them with their goal of kidnapping and abusing children to fulfill their uncontrollable lusts that can never be satisfied. It is a continual hunt that constantly occupies their minds. Child molesters and rapists can immediately spot an insecure child, especially one who does not have active parents and begin to plot their moves. They know every psychological trick in the book to capture a child’s imagination as well as their bodies.

Uncaring or pre-occupied parents who have no time for their kids, are too busy to offer them security or the time to sit down and talk to them are leaving the door wide open for pedophiles.

And it is not just these perverts to be concerned about. Gangs are looking for recruits who feel they have somehow fallen through the cracks of life. And there are plenty of those out there. There are also those who have their eyes on the high schools with the intention of recruiting our kids into witchcraft.

If parents do not give children a sense of security and solid acceptance, then they will find those who will, even though those they turn to will give negative security that could result in prison or being shot by a rival gang.

Having been heavily involved in youth work in New York City, which included weekly instruction for seven years at The Warwick School for Boys, a reform school in upstate New York, I would receive almost identical answers from those that answered this question: What brought you to this point in your life? “Nobody ever listened to me or thought that what I had to say was important,” was the explanation that I heard most often. There is a truth here that I pray everybody grasps.

The solution is this: First, teach them about Jesus. Instill His love in them. Let your kids know they are very important to God and to you. When they come home from school, greet them with excitement. Go meet them at the door with a hug and a “how did your day go?” Don’t remain sitting on the couch. If you go to pick them up after school, do so with contagious joy.

Brag on their accomplishments, never fluff off a good grade or comment from a teacher but let them know that this is wonderful, and how proud you are of them. If they do poorly on anything, never belittle them, but encourage them that they will get it right because they are as smart as anybody else.

And offer to help them achieve a higher grade. Be seen with your child from time to time to establish to all that your child has full backing and that you are always close by. Of course they must be disciplined if they get off the track, but even that can be done with love. It is important to teach your child manners, and respect. Boys must be gentlemen at all times and girls must be little ladies. And that must be demonstrated by the parents, or parent.

Going into a convenience store to pay for my gas, a little girl ran past me to the store, dashed inside, then stopped and held the door open for me so it wouldn’t spring back in my face. I thanked her and this wee little one said politely, “You’re welcome,” and then went in the back where I figured a parent was. I paid for my gas, then went to see where she was. A young woman was trying to reach a can on a high shelf. “Let me help you,” I offered. Then I asked, “Is this your little girl?” When she said, “yes,” I told her what a little lady she was and how her good manners greatly impressed me, indeed, it made my day.

As I talked more with her mother, she told me how she emphasized manners and respect at all times. That remarkable little girl is the product of a parent who took the time to talk to her and guide her with love.

Parents must be vigilant at all times. In this day and age where evil seems to be encouraged, you must keep a close eye on your child, what they are studying in school, and make it a point to get to know their friends.

When kids come from an entirely different culture with a different language and customs, they can feel bewildered. If a parent does not have the time to walk them through the adjustments of a new life and give them a feeling of security, then they will be open for an invitation to join a gang that comes from the same culture and speaks the same language. It is all downhill to destruction from there.

It is our profound obligation, as parents, grandparents, Godparents and teachers, to give our children total acceptance and security along with a huge dose of encouragement.

Even if they don’t do a task well, we can encourage them by saying, “yes, but you are on your way to doing it great.”

Let them know we love them by spending time to really know them and their feelings.

We never tell a child who has failed to do something right, “See...I told you could never get it right!” Or worse, “You’ll never amount to anything!” God forbid that we would ever put that curse on any of our kids, or our students, even if they are acting up somewhat.

We can do with less “Desperate Housewives,” and “Family Guy” for more time with our kids. We have only 18 summers with each of our kids. Let’s give them enough acceptance and security that they will not have to look for it somewhere else. Plus, the predators are not likely to try to move in on a child who has a solid family behind him or her. We owe this to our kids, and...ourselves. We will find that the time spent with them is well worth it, and the only thing really important in life. And this is the most important step to keeping your child safe.

Rev. Austin Miles is a parent and grandparent as well as a teacher of an elective course at Trinity Christian School. He is certified as a chaplain and is working toward two Ph.Ds, one of those being in psychology.

America’s Good News

8-A

FAMILIES ON FIRE 2 Classes, 1 Goal

by Andrew & Heather Pate Families on Fire, which is the covering for Mountain View Christian Center’s family ministries, is proud to offer two new classes to better meet your needs. Both classes are designed to develop intimacy, improve communication, and increase the strength of your marriage through Biblical teachings and practical real world advice from couples who have “been there,” and understand how complicated life can be.

Meeting at 9:00am, on the MVCC campus every Sunday morning is “A Step Ahead.” A Step Ahead was designed for couples who have been married for ten years or more. Their class addresses the problems, or challenges, couples may face after being married several years. You’re honoring your vows, you love your spouse, but something is missing. Maybe you need to bring the romance back, or you might need to rebuild trust. A Step Ahead has seasoned leadership that addresses these needs, and more, in fresh and dynamic wayS that will bless your marriage.

Meeting at 10:45am, on the MVCC campus every Sunday morning is “Today’s Marriage.” Today’s Marriage was designed for couples who are dating seriously to ten years of marriage. Their class addresses the many challenges and issues that newly married couples face in today’s modern society.

From Facebook to Twitter, there are uncountable distractions that take away a couple’s focus from their marriage. What happens when your spouse’s single friends think that they can still have single fun? How do we handle the loss of romance after we start having children? The honeymoon is over, and you just found out that marriage is hard work. Today’s Marriage has experienced leadership who address not only these issues, but the many others that we will most likely face in our first ten years of marriage.

Families on Fire has created two classes, but they have the same goal: To bring you and your spouse into a balanced healthy marriage with God at

the center. Life is too hard without leaning on the power of God to help us through. Our marriages are no different, we need His strength to be the husband and wife that we have been called to be. As always, you can attend either class regardless of how long you have been married, but as one of our leaders recently stated, “We don’t care which one you attend, but give one a try. You and your spouse will be blessed.” From the Families on Fire Team we wish all of you a blessed week, and look forward to meeting you.

Rev. Dr. Jasper Lowery jasper-lowery@sbcglobal.net office - 510-653-1599

WORSHIP SERVICES: SUN - 2PM & WED -7PM at The Ridge Hotel 634 15th St. - Downtown Oakland

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Urojas Community Services 510-653-1599

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FALL SEMESTER CLASSES

Revival (mobilization) Knowing God’s Voice Teaching Tactics

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New Testament Survey Foundations of Faith Evangelism

School of Theology President Pastor Tyrone Holmes

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.”

America’s Good News

9-A

Women of CELL PHONES FOR OUR CHILDREN Worth THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE DANGEROUS

Author Gina Dacus

WHEN YOU ARE WEAK, YOU CAN STILL OVERCOME

By Gina Dacus In the world’s terms, a weakness is most often viewed as a flaw, limitation, or disadvantage. Someone with a weakness often appears to lack strength, power or even determination. Yet, this month’s encouraging WOW message from Pastor Kim, demonstrated that your weakest moment is the perfect time for you to overcome.

Pastor Kim began the sermon by sharing in your weakness, you can still win battles. Those words were so encouraging. Right now, so many of us are facing challenges that we thought we’d never face. God is seeking to prepare his people for such as time as this. This spiritual grooming process requires our complete obedience.

Pastor Kim shared how inconsistence obedience impacts the lives of God’s people. She used scriptures from Judges 3:12-30 to illustrate her point. As Pastor Kim shared, the nation of Israel followed a predictable pattern when serving judges. They would yield to a particular order until a judge died; then the people would become rebellious. She likened the pattern of the Israelites to the everyday behavior of believers. Some of us obey and serve God in a sporadic behavior. Even this week, some of our actions resemble a zigzag pattern as we struggled to walk a straight line.

Since you live with your flesh daily, it may appear to be a battle easily fought. However, as Pastor Kim warned, the battle that we wake up to daily is very serious. We can’t take it lightly. Romans 7:21 (AMP) says, “So I find it to be a law (rule of action of my being) that when I want to do what is right and good, evil is ever present with me and I am subject to its insistent demands.” This scripture validates that even on our best day; we are subject to the flesh. Yet, God is looking to see if we can remain obedient and faithful in the process.

Some may be saying, you don’t know what I face?

You don’t know my issues or my struggles. My response would be that you are correct. Yet, I am persuaded that God has given us everything that we need to overcome, even during our weakest moments. As Pastor Kim shared, “If you are led by the Holy Spirit, you are not subject to the law. Therefore, you have to willingly go into every battle with the mindset that God is going to get the glory.”

So how do you prepare to overcome during your weakness? As Pastor Kim shared, you have to put on the full armor of God. It begins by reading, believing and speaking God’s word in every situation. Speak God’s word into your weak place and look forward to God’s response. When you overcome, you will know that you are in the right place because you will no longer have self control. For you know that God’s grace is sufficient and his power is perfected in weakness (2 Cor 12:9).

Pictured aboveWomen of Worth Pastor Kim Moreno and Shelby Seeley

“

BY WILL BYRNS

In recent years there has been a great deal of information published on how to keep our children safe when they are on the internet. This information has been very helpful to many parents who were in desperate need of high tech help.

But that was then and this is now! There is a new kid on the block and he has taken over the computer as your child’s number one playmate. I’m talking about cell phones.

Today’s cell phones are more than just phones; they are high tech appliances that also serve as mini-computers.

Cell phones allow users to surf the web, conduct text chats with others, take photos, record video, download and listen to music, play games, update blogs, send instant text messages to others, keep a calendar and to-do list, and more, much more. For children and teenagers, they allow for anytime, anywhere communication especially with friends.

THE GOOD Communication - With cell phones, children are always only a few buttons away, highly connected and instantaneously available. Parents who allow their children to have cell phones feel secure that they too can contact their sons and daughters at a moment’s notice. Many parents also feel relieved to know that their children can have access to them and to emergency personnel in case they need them. For instance, a cell phone is especially convenient for kids who participate in after school activities such as sports or clubs. If the activity ends early or late, or has been canceled, kids can call their parents to let them know about the changes. Kids can also call their parents to ask for permission should last-minute changes in their plans occur.

THE BAD Time - Cell phones are taking away from the personal face to face relationships that we build in our lives. Hours upon hours slip by while teens stare into that micro-screen texting back and forth. Texting is also taking away from valuable time needed to concentrate on school studies. After school, when evening closes in and homework is the number one priority, many times it gets shoved to the back burner as texting rears its head and takes over the night.

Driving -Texting on cell phones while driving has been a major factor in a large number of serious accidents amongst teen drivers.

Finance - Since consumers must be 18 in order to purchase a cell phone contract in the United States, most parents are buying the phones their children carry. This is good news because parents can choose a plan that fits how the cell phone will be used and can review monthly cell phone bills which typically includes a log itemizing phone activity. However, problems still exist. For one, children can quickly go over their allotted minutes for the month which can leave their parents with bills that can easily approach hundreds of dollars for the month. The best thing for parents to do is to buy a plan with unlimited minutes to alleviate this problem.

Video Games - Games and videos with sex and violence are now a technological possibility -even if the screens are still small, and the characters pixilated. Complicating matters further is the fact that game ratings can’t be used on cell phones -- the technology does not currently allow it. Console and computer games have ratings on the outside of the package, so parents at least know what they are getting into when they make a purchase.

THE DANGEROUS Sexting - Recent teenage sexual trends have now gone mobile. News stories from across the country are reporting on a new trend known as “sexting.” The most common age group of teens that are sexting is from 12 to 17.

By using the text messaging service on their cell phones, teens engage in sexting by sending flirtatious messages back and forth. Innocent adolescent flirting via cell phones may be harmless enough, however, over time the text messages may become more sexually explicit in nature, even referring to or requesting specific sexual acts and behaviors.

Though sexting is still an early phenomenon and little to no research has been conducted yet, it can be assumed that at least some of these cell phone communications lead to actual physical sexual encounters. The most popular entry on the online Urban Dictionary defines sexting as “the act of text messaging someone in the hopes of having a sexual encounter with them later; initially casual, transitioning into highly suggestive and even sexually explicit.”

In many cases, even teen celebrities have fallen victim to this trend and have been overexposed by the forwarding of these messages to the masses by unknown sources. This is desensitizing our teens in a way that leads them to think that it’s commonplace and a practice that is acceptable in our society. This is just the tip of the iceberg and is a phenomena that is escalating at a rapid pace. Teens are sharing nude photos and even short videos with one another without realizing the consequences. It may be meant to be viewed only by their boyfriend but then becomes forwarded to all of his friends and then guess what; the whole school is seeing this picture posted everywhere all over the campus damaging this young woman’s life for years to come. Also, what many teens don’t even realize is that it falls under the child pornography statutes.

Parents need to discuss with their children the severe ramifications of participating in this risky behavior. They need to ask their teen if they have been involved in sexting and how harmful it can be to them and everyone they know.

Teens can be very impulsive and a quick rash decision to send a nude photo can have negative long-lasting effects.

Hopefully, knowing the possible consequences ahead of time will deter teens from sexting.

If you decide that, for whatever reason, your child should have a cell phone handy, you might consider getting one that is programmable and includes parental controls. This means that you can program the phone to only accept certain calls from you and your family members, for instance. These phones typically have presets for ambulance, fire, and police. Finally, many of these phones designed for children include GPS locator services. Here are a few examples: ChitterChatter Kids Phone www.hop-on.com/kidsphone.html The TicTalk™ Mobile Phone www.mytictalk.com/Leapfrog/ Firefly Mobile www.fireflymobile.com Disney Mobile disneymobile.go.com/disneymobile Research: http: www.schoolcounselor.com/safety/cell-phone-safety.htm & The center for parent/youth understanding.

Editor’s note: Parents can be as diligent as possible and try our very best to oversee every aspect of his/her life in keeping them safe from physical abuse, mental abuse, being lead astray, or being harmed in any way, shape or form.

But if we don’t give them a firm spiritual foundation based upon the word of God they may be misguided and fall into many temptations and desires that could have everlasting consequences. Yes, we all know that there have been children raised by strong men and women of God who chose to go their own way and walk away from God, and there is no foolproof method for raising our kids. With that said, we must do all we can to guide them in the Lord so even if they do find themselves in trouble and in desperate need, they will have a foundation to fall back on, just like the prodigal son.

Genesis 18:19 For I have chosen him, so that he will direct his children and his household after him to keep the way of the LORD by doing what is right and just, so that the LORD will bring about for Abraham what he has promised him.”

”

10-A

America’s Good News

PARENTS PROVIDE WINGS; CHILDREN ALSO NEED ROOTS

BY SAED & LINDA AWWAD

CAMINANDO A LA NUEVA JERUSALEN Relaciones Humanas

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here is an old Arabic saying that I remember from my childhood; “If you instruct a child at an early age, it’s like making a deep chiseled impression in rock.” As the parents of young children, we are greatly aware of the importance of their spirituality and this as our primary ministry. In fact, The Word of God in the Bible emphasizes a spiritual perspective beyond our earthly challenges, “so we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:18).

I like the quote from C.H. Spurgeon’s Spiritual Parenting, “Children must be fed.

They must be well-fed, or instructed, because they are in danger of having their cravings perversely satisfied with error. The only way to keep chaff out of the child’s cup is to fill it brimful with good wheat. The more the young are taught, the better; it will keep them from being misled.”

Parental instruction is an imitation of God himself, therefore we are mandated to discipline and instruct in the area of spirituality.

“The Lord corrects those He loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights” (Proverbs 3:12).

“The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him. For he understands how weak we are; he knows we are only dust” (Psalm 103:13-14).

The role of parents in the spiritual nurturing of their children is a responsibility equivalent to their physical, emotional and psychological well-being. While it can be challenging to provide a child with food, shelter, clothing & medical care, the more difficult task for many parents is to foster their children’s spiritual and emotional life. Talk to any parent of a teenager, or any other stage for that matter, and they’ll emphatically agree! Parents, if we are malnourished spirituality, we can’t possibly expect to provide a valuable and convincing model for our children. I’m absolutely certain The Holy Spirit is revealing areas where we need to be strengthened in order to properly model it to our children.

This is a critical point and one which requires a genuine revelation from God. The old adage that “actions speak louder than words” certainly pertains to parents with respects to spiritual nurturing. Basically, you can’t give what you don’t have.

So let’s just get it, right here, right now!

Spiritual nurturing is intentionally modeling our faith with our children from the time they are born. Out of the many passages that refer to the spiritual nurturing of our children, the following two scriptures particularly come to mind: 1. Deuteronomy 4:9 “Be very careful never to forget what you have seen the Lord do for you. Do not let these things escape from your mind as long as you live! And be sure to pass them on to your children and to their children after them”.

2. Deuteronomy 11:16-19 “Be careful, or you will be enticed to turn away and worship other gods and bow down to them…Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds:…Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”

Spiritual training, if you will, is a primary role for parents. It cannot be neglected or relegated to another person or agency. Granted that family, church, and various ministries supplement their spiritual nurturing; the primary responsibility and opportunity lies with parents. It’s been said parents provide children with wings, but parents also need to give them roots! Parents are recognized as the primary and principle educators, therefore the family is indeed the first school of social virtues. In fact, because God created family before church; the family is inherently the domestic church.

Psalm 78:4-8 provides parents with the critical role of passing on the heritage of faith and spiritual instruction to their children: “We will not hide these truths from our children but will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the Lord. We will tell of his powers and the mighty miracles He did. For He issued his decrees to Jacob; he gave His law to Israel. He commanded our ancestors to teach them to their children, so the next generation might know them-even the children not yet born-that they in turn might teach their children.

So each generation can set its hopes anew on God, remembering his glorious miracles and obeying his commands. Then they will not be like their ancestors-stubborn, rebellious, and unfaithful, refusing to give their hearts to God.” Rejoicing in the Triumph of Jesus Christ and Partnering with you in Parenthood, Saed & Linda Awwad

”

BY JUAN PRIETO En los ultimos meses hemos estado viviendo tragedia tras tragedia con la perdida de seres queridos, y lo mas triste es que estaban en la flor de su vida, con promesas y expectativas por delante, ahora hay suenos sin realizar, vidas truncadas, la violencia que estan sufriendo nuestros jovenes y sus efectos en las familias acarreamdo un sentido de inseguridad y ansiedad como lo podremos solucionar?

Uno de los retos mas dificiles para la humanidad es el de las relaciones humanas, vemos como la poblacion del mundo crece, la de nuestras comunidades, pero con la ironia de un sentido de proximidad que no existe en la comunidad, las amistades de toda una vida ahora son cada dia mas dificiles de sostener y escasas, hacemos esfuerzos extenuantes aun para mantener a nuestras familias unidas./Cuando se interrumpio la conexion entre Adan, Eva y Dios, la relacion muta del primer matrimonio se vio para siempre afectada.

Genesis 2:18; 3:12, no solo se llego a la primera pelea matrimonial, sino que posteriormente se realizo el primer asesinato en la historia de la humanidad al matar Cain a Abel.

Si leemos las historias de los personajes de la Biblia, encontraremos que nuestros problemas radican en nuestra separacion de DIOS. Y esa separacion nos conlleva a pecar, pero no solo afecta a cada uno de nosotros como individuos sino, que se va extendiendo y va afectando comunidades, razas, naciones, hasta llegar a ser un efecto global.

Tenemos por desgracia ejemplos en los cuales grupos etnicos tienen odios y resentimientos por generaciones, en 1994 en la republica de Ruanda se llevo a cabo el genocidio de mas de un millon de personas cuando los hutus atacaron a sus rivales los tutsis.

Nuestras comunidades deberian ser la esencia misma de la fomentacion de amistadey, de relaciones para compartir con otros lo que tenemos, asi como estar de acuerdo con otros en nuestros pensamientos, y tambien en nuestros sentimientos. La vida de la comunidad debe de estar basada en el Amor, el mejor ejemplo lo tenemos en la vida de Cristo Jesus.

Pero no podremos llegar a este punto sino hasta que nuestra identidad espritual, opaque nuestras identidades pasadas de raza, color y conceptos falsos, necesitamos un ministerio de reconciliacion a nivel individual, familiar y comunitario.

2 Corintios 5:11, 21. Conociendo pues el temor del Senor, persuadimos a los hombres; pero a DIOS le es manifiesto lo que somos; y espero que tambien lo sea a vuestras conciencias. Esto es debemos reconciliarnos con DIOS, pero tambien debemos reconciliarnos con nuestra comunidad.

Cuando oramos el Padre Nuestro, quiza ya se dio cuenta que no hay ninguna oracion y peticion en singular, pues todos los pronombres personales estan en plural. Todos, todos estamos incluidos desde el inicio de la oracion hasta el final. Nunca dice Mi, o Yo. Este es el punto mas intrigante y desconocido para la humanidad el de las relaciones humanas, hemos visto imperios basados en el poder y la guerra, pero falta aun por ver la fraternidad y companerismo entre individuos, comunidades y naciones que puedan borrar limites y estar unidas por el amor de Cristo.

Juan 13:35 En esto conoceran todos que sois mis discipulos, si tuviereis amor los unos con los otros.

MARANATA.

America’s Good News

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COME SHARE THANKSGIVING WITH US!!

HELPING HANDS MINISTRY “For I was hungry and you gave Me food, I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in, I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me, I was in prison and you came to Me….I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.” Matthew 25:35-36, 40,

AboveBoxes filled with complete turkey dinners were wrapped in holiday paper and love.

Right- A Thanksgiving dinner was also served at the Church. Fun & fellowship were enjoyed by all.

HELPING HANDS COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING DINNER WHERE: MOUNTAIN VIEW CHRISTIAN CENTER -5000 Amaryllis St. Oakley WHEN: WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25TH 2009 TIME: 6:30 PM TO 8:30 PM

ALL ARE INVITED, SO BRING THE FAMILY AND THOSE WHO WISH TO FELLOWSHIP WITH US DURING THIS ANNUAL HELPING HANDS COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING DINNER Helping Hands was started in June 2007 as an outreach that provides food and clothing to all in need within our community. Nothing is for sale, all food and clothing is given to the public for free.

Helping Hands was birthed from Mountain View Christian Center and is a ministry touching the lives of many here in East County. Food items are donated to Helping Hands from market outlets and individuals who have a heart to give to those in need.

This November Helping Hands will be sponsoring a Thanksgiving Dinner for the needy in the community. We are in need of the following donated items: Turkeys, Stuffing, Instant Potatoes, Canned Gravy, Cranberry sauce, Yams, Pumpkins and Bottled water.

Any and all donations of food will help us minister to the needs of other people.

We truly appreciate any assistance you can provide us with. If you have any questions, please contact Helping Hands, Director Pastor Tyrone Holmes, at (925) 625-9570 5000 Amaryllis St Oakley Ca 94561 are the love of Christ by SPECIAL WAYS THAT YOU CAN HELP

BY DONATING:Adopt a Family ($40.00 Minimum)

Sh is reaching out to others th Holiday Season.

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For booking: notbysight3@yahoo.com Deuteronomy 6:2 So that you, your children and their children after them may fear the LORD your God as long as you live by keeping all his decrees and commands that I give you, and so that you may enjoy long life.

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America’s Good News

“See you at the Pole” Students Pray At The Pole

by Rev. Austin Miles Oakley, California (9/23/09) There is no sweeter sound in the world than that of a child...a young person praying. These were the exquisite sounds that filled the air throughout the neighborhood as Trinity Christian School in Oakley took part in the nationwide, "See You At The Pole," event where students asked God's help and blessings upon their school, the community and America.

Principal Linda Miller greeted the crowd. The students who prayed each represented their grade level, and offered their prayer with loving confidence. Opening the event was a prayer given by a local Chaplain and staff pastor, Rev. Austin Miles. Ben Evans, a 10th grader summed up every students thoughts with his prayer that asked God’s blessings upon our school, country, upon servicemen and women, for our government and for President Barack Obama’s guidance.

There was no better way to start a day.

Rev. Austin Miles, a staff pastor at MCVV is also a teacher at the Trinity Christian School.

Top photo - Johnny Jones prays for America and school children everywhere. Above - TCS students gather before the prayer takes place.

Genesis 50:21 So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.”

And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.

Deuteronomy 4:9 Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.

Deuteronomy 4:10 Remember the day you stood before the LORD your God at Horeb, when he said to me, “Assemble the people before me to hear my words so that they may learn to revere me as long as they live in the land and may teach them to their children.”

Top photo - Trinity Christian School Principal, Linda Miller, bows her head while Reverend Austin Miles opens “See you at the pole” in prayer.

Deuteronomy 4:40 Keep his decrees and commands, which I am giving you today, so that it may go well with you and your children after you and that you may live long in the land the LORD your God gives you for all time.

Deuteronomy 5:29 Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it might go well with them and their children forever!

America’s Good News

THE DANGER OF NATIONAL ABANDONMENT

WHO’S TRAINING YOUR CHILDREN?

“

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BY JOHNNY JONES

BY ANDREW PATE Did you know?

*12%percent of all websites are pornographic websites. There are 4.2 million pornographic websites, and 68 million daily pornographic search engine requests (enough.org). *79% of youth unwanted exposure to pornography occurs in the home (enough.org) *Gnutella has 116,000 daily “child pornography” requests (enough.org) *Adult content on mobile telephones, as of 2005, is a billion dollar a year industry (enough.org) *48% of K-1st grade levels interact with people on web sites, while 50% indicate that their parents watch them when they use a computer, leaving the other half more prone to being exposed to predators (Rochester Institute of Technology, 2006). *63% of teens said they know how to hide what they do online form their parents (Harris Interactive – McAfee) *86% of teenage girls polled by the Girl Scout Research Institute said they had been sexually harassed online. Only 7% told their parents about the harassment because they were worried that their parents would ban them from going online (Girl Scout Research Institute).

Internet pornography may not be the biggest threat to your child, but it is a growing force that is consuming families at an alarming rate. Pornography exposed to small children robs them of their innocence. It introduces them to a world that their minds are not yet developed for. Predators are lurking in chat rooms, and statistics show that many teenagers knowingly invite these strangers into physical meetings. There is a false sense of security that children and teenagers feel when playing on the internet.

They assume that the person they are talking to is who they say they are. The above statistics were pulled out of an eleven page report. If you think that your children are safe, and do not need to be monitored, I would invite you to read the whole report at “Enough is Enough” (http://enough.org/inside.php?id=2uxkjwry8).

While there are many forms of technology available to parents to help monitor what their kids are watching, there is no method more effective than prayer, presence, and persistence. Approximately 2700 years ago, King Solomon said, “Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it (Proverbs 22:6).”

This proverb was true before the time of Solomon, and will be true after our generations have passed. We cannot expect our children to walk in the light of our Lord if we are not willing to train them in His ways. While this may seem like a daunting task, in reality it comes down to three things: Your prayer cover, your presence in their lives, and your persistence in seeing them through life’s challenges by giving them the tools to succeed before they have to face them.

The excuse that you’re not good at prayer does not hold water here. We pray for our finances, we pray for our dinners, and if the weather is bad we’ll even pray that the sun comes out for our golf games. Where we might be lacking is in our daily prayer coverage of our children. We need to make it a point to include our children in our daily prayers, and don’t limit your prayers to a single need. Pray for their protection, a sound mind, and a healthy body. Bind spirits of rebellion, idolatry, and speaking lies.

Fill them with a covering of love, wisdom, and peace before they get out of bed in the morning (Disclaimer: this type of prayer will not turn your teen into a pleasant morning person, God gave them free will too!). Start out small and ask God to reveal to you areas that your children need prayer in. Most importantly, don’t stop. Your children need your prayers from conception through adulthood! If you are having trouble praying, there are several resources that are available at almost any bookstore. I would personally recommend, “The Power of a Praying Parent” by Stormie Omartian. It is a practical blend of prayers infused with the power of God’s Word.

While prayer is powerful it is not enough. Remember, God is our partner in the raising of our children, not the nanny. We are to do our part by being present in our children’s lives. We can’t train them if we’re not around. Also, don’t believe the lie that you can’t enforce something that you failed at as a kid. If anything, that makes you an expert on a subject that they will have to deal with eventually. Having a presence in your children’s lives also lets them know they have someone that they must answer to.

Children without responsibilities and consequences will act out. Rules and discipline shows that we love them, and without that feeling of love, they will look for it somewhere else.

The last ingredient here is persistence. We are now praying for our children daily, and we’re present in their daily lives. Now we need to ensure that we are persistent in developing their understanding of what they’re up against, and that they have the tools to succeed. This can be done in a number of ways, but it is important for us as parents to understand that there is always a threat to our children’s growth and development. It is up to us to stay on top of the latest technology, media material, and who our children are hanging out with. It is a battle that will involve spiritual warfare, uncomfortable conversations, sleepless nights, and constant supervision, but the payoff is well worth it.

There are some excellent resources available for you to monitor what your children are viewing on the internet such as “Web Watcher,” as well as resources that control what is shown on DVD movies such as “Clear Play.” I would suggest that you research your options to see what would best meet your family’s needs and budget. While these are excellent resources, let me close with this: Keep praying, let your kids know that you’re there for them, and never stop finding ways to train them in today’s quickly changing world. God Bless…

”

“

Have we as a nation abandoned God, whom upon our currency we say, “IN GOD WE TRUST.” What are the consequences of leaving God out of our national sovereignty? Are we experiencing God’s abandonment of us because we’ve abandoned Him? What are the evidences of national abandonment from history and scripture? What lessons from past history can we learn from?

Paul in his letter to the Corinthian church warned them of their forefathers failure to reverence God’s name; obey his word; and submit to his sovereign will (1 Corinthians 10). Many times in Israel’s history they abandoned God’s will in their national sovereignty and experienced His abandoning wrath. What is God’s abandoning wrath? It is when a nation rejects God as Creator and Christ as Savior and publicly denounces His name. It is rejecting His sovereignty and Lordship rule over them. It is when a nation consistently abandons God. The consequence of this is that God will abandon them by removing his restraint of mercy and grace, allowing their sins to run its course right into his divine judgment. The visible evidence of His abandoning wrath is when good becomes bad and bad becomes good; when right becomes wrong and wrong becomes right; when light becomes dark and dark becomes light; when bitter becomes sweet and sweet becomes bitter (Isaiah 5:830).

The Bible speaks of five types of God’s wrath: Eternal Wrath - which is hell itself (Rev 20:11-15), Eschatological Wrath - The Day of the LORD’s final seven bowls of judgment (Rev 15:1), Cataclysmic Wrath - The flood of Noah’s day and Sodom and Gomorrah (2Pet2:4-6), Consequential Wrath - The principle of sowing and reaping (Gal. 6:7), and Abandonment Wrath - God removing restraint and letting people go to their sins (Psalms 81:11-12).

Today, situational ethics and moral relativism dominate our universities and colleges. What do they teach? They teach that there is no right or wrong, good or bad, everything is relative and there are no absolutes. The book of Isaiah gives some striking parallels to current American philosophy, national behavior, political corruption and injustice to its citizens. Standing in judgment over his people, the Lord pronounced seven exclamatory woes. God condemned selfish greed (5:8–10), dissipation (5:11–17), skepticism (5:18–19), perverted standards (5:20), proud selfsufficiency (5:21), alcoholic excess (5:22), and the perversion of justice (5:23). The “signal” (5:26) is a military banner that served as a gathering point for the nations (that is, Assyria and Babylonia).

First judgment (5:8–10): The rich have bought up all the desirable property, leaving the rest of the people with nowhere to live. Second judgment (5:11–17): They have become a nation of God-rejecting drunks, living only for carnal pleasure. Third judgment (5:18–19): They are filled with deceit and have mocked God, daring him to punish them. Fourth judgment (5:20): They twist the truth, saying that right is wrong and wrong is right. Fifth judgment (5:21): They are wise and shrewd in their own eyes. Sixth judgment (5:22–24): They release the guilty for a bribe but deny justice to the innocent. Seventh and final judgment: Their dead bodies will rot in the streets (5:25); The Lord will bring foreign nations into Jerusalem, resulting in the captivity of the people (5:26–30). America’s parallel of woes: The oppression of the poor and middle class through the current housing crisis, by the rich Banks and Corporations, leaving tens of thousands homeless and jobless (GREED). The obsessions and addictions to alcohol, drugs, food, banqueting has resulted in national crisis of, drunkenness that leads to millions of fatalities on our freeways. Seven out of ten Americans are overweight because of additives in foods that have little or no nutrition. 95% of all violent crimes are committed while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. California’s prison population has risen 300 % in the past 20 years (SELF INDULGENCE). God’s name is used more commonly in society and television as a curse/swear word rather than the reverence and respect it deserves (CARELESS MOCKING OF GOD). Deception at every level politically, corporately, educationally, socially, medically, and religiously, (DOUBLE SPEAK, HYPOCRISY).

Self-actualization is also a common expression in our society as well. Such phrases like “self made men,” self made millionaires,” and “self defense through military might and superiority.” There is no trusting in or calling upon a sovereign God who has given us our sovereignty as a nation (PRIDE). Bribery has become a national past time. Political lobbyists, corrupt politicians, and judges make back door deals. 1Timothy 6 says, “the love of money is the root of all evil.” Bribery leads to injustice; injustice always punishes the innocent and liberates the guilty.

Some examples are World Com, Enron, and Corporate bailouts.

Romans 1 gives three stages of God’s abandonment. 1) gives them up to what they desire, crave, lust for more than Him, 2) He gives them over to their own perverted thinking; right is wrong and wrong is right, 3) He gives them over to a debased mind, where their conscience no longer functions and the ability to reason right and wrong is completely gone. Has God abandoned America? Are we on our own? Has he turned us over to self? If the scriptures and history are correct, the answer is yes.

”

America’s Good News

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y h p a r g o t o h P s ’ n h g Vau

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925.642.3108

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Sunday Nov. 8 2pm - 5pm Saturday Nov. 14 10am - 4pm Portraits Sunday Nov. 15 2pm - 5pm y il am F ay id ol H e os th Get Saturday Dec. 5 10am - 4pm ted! that you have always wan

5000 Amaryllis Street Oakley, CA 94561

We enourage fun and creativity!

Picture Packages 1- 8 x 10 $30 (same as 2- 5x7 or 4- 4x5) 1 - 8 x 10 + 2 - 5 x 7 $50 1 - 8 x 10 + 2 - 5 x 7 + 4 - 4 x 5 $70 1 - 11 x 14 Enlargement $50 (mounting $8) 25 - 3 x 8 Christmas cards $30 CD of 3 images $60

Family Portrait Sessions at Mountain View Christian Center

* Bring props like instruments and sports gear. * Invite others to pose with you at no extra cost. * Pets are welcome too!

Family portraits for the Holidays... or any occasion.

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Office 925-625-9901 Cell 925-525-5225

America’s Good News

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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 Craig Dale 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

Pr. Anthony E. Blackman 2170 Harbor St. Pittsburg, CA 94565 Service - Sundays 8:00am &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

Pr. Jerry Hanoum 5000 Amaryllis Oakley Ca 94561 925-625-9570 Sundays 9am & 10:45am Sundays 5:00pm Spanish 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

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CALENDAR Freedom Recovery 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 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

Women of Worth Proverbs 31:10 Monday -Nov. 2nd 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

MVCC Presents“Under the Big Top” Harvest Party Carnival

Carnival Acts – Carnival Games – Clowns Fun Costumes – Prizes – Candy – Hot Dogs – Pumpkin Patch – Face Painting SAFE FREE FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Friday, October 30th 6:00pm – 9:00pm “Big Top Carnival Performance” 7:30pm to 8:00pm Location: Trinity Christian Schools 5000 Amaryllis Street Oakley, Ca 94561 For more info. contact Pastor Susan Holmes 925-625-9570 Ext. 109 No Scary Costumes Please!

Holiday Home Tour

Friday Nite Live

Discovery Bay Community Presbyterian Church 2009 Holiday Home Tour When: Sunday, December 6th 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Advance tickets $20- contact: Alice Cramer at 925/634-8470, Bev Lyman at 925/513-1939 or call the church at 925/634-0184. Tickets also available at the door.

Where: 1900 Willow Lake Road Discovery Bay CA Time: 12:30 p.m.

Home tour, musical entertainment, refreshments & door prizes.

Proceeds from this event will be used by the church for community projects.

Faith Worship Center Ministries It’s all the way live!

Schedule of Events November 2009 Friday, November 20th Pastor Shirley Flowers, Director of Worship - Golden Altar Ministries, San Jose, CA All Events start at 7pm 2170 Harbor St. ~ Pittsburg, CA 94565 925-427-0976 for info Pastors Anthony & Leah Blackman

Ephesians 6:4 Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.

Here are just a few locations that you can find a copy of

AMERICA’S GOOD NEWS

SERENDIPITY BIBLE HOUSE 760 Madison St. FAIRFIELD LAUNDERLAND Railroad Ave. PITTSBURG LEBRERIA FUENTE DE VIDA 3009 Delta Fair Blvd. ANTIOCH WINNER’S CIRCLE WESTERN WEAR 505 W. 2nd St. ANTIOCH QUAIL LODGE RETIREMENT RESIDENCE 4850 Deer Valley Rd. ANTIOCH COMMONS AT DALLAS RANCH 4751 Dallas Ranch Rd. ANTIOCH PITTSBURG WASH N DRY 208 Atlantic Ave. PITTSBURG REAGAN MANAGEMENT 60 Eagle Rock Way Ste. C BRENTWOOD

GRACELAND CHRISTIAN BOOKSTORE 4261 Century Blvd. PITTSBURG BAGEL STREET CAFE’ 4815 Lone Tree Suite C ANTIOCH EL RAY TAQUERIA 4621 Golf Course Road ANTIOCH LAUNDER LAND 1657 A ST. ANTOCH HAZEL’S DRIVE-IN ANTIOCH HWY DELTA BREEZE LAUNDERLAND 1092 Sycamore Dr. ANTIOCH FIESTA FILIPINA/ORIENTAL FOODS & GIFT MART 155 Atlantic Ave. PITTSBURG LOS REYES TAQUERIA 526 Bailey Road PITTSBURG UNITY HALL 711 Empire Street FAIRFIELD

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 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

RECOVERY COMMUNITY CENTER IN FAIRFIELD

UNITY HALL: A RECOVERY COMMUNITY CENTER 711 EMPIRE ST. FAIRFIELD, CA 707.421.2792 OUR MISSION To further public knowledge and provide facilities and support services for chemical and other dependency programs, activities, and events for individuals seeking recovery from addiction.

Unity Hall is here to provide an answer to some of the most difficult issues facing our community today such as; the amount of crime and broken homes related to Drugs, Alcohol or other harmful behaviors; and how to help people find and maintain long-term freedom from these addictions.

There is a serious need to span the gap between treatment and possible relapse. Unity Hall is a place where an array of innovative educational and peer-to-peer recovery support programs and services are designed and delivered. Unity Hall is providing a hope-filled supportive, educational, social and recreational environment where active recovery thrives.

Our goal is to improve local communities and beyond through education and assisting those abusing to stop and not start again.

Good News Publishing USA Publisher - Pastors Hanoum / Dellinger Editor-In-Chief - Will Byrns Copy Editor - Cathy Huffman Marketing Director - Carleton Booker Reporters/Columnists Susan Holmes, Rev. Austin Miles Mike Ketchel, Saed & Linda Awwad, Priscilla Stanley, Julie Jackson, Andrew Pate, Juan Prieto, Diana Dobbie, and Don Kwong Distribution Manager - Jerry Gebrosky Solano County Distribution - Jeanne B. Graphics - Will Byrns & Jake Carter

5000 Amaryllis Street Oakley CA 94561 ofc: (925) 625-9570 fax: 625-9003

Email: wbyrns@americasgoodnews.com

Send releases, letters and reprint requests to the Email or address above. (c) Copyright 2004 Mountain View Christian Center. All rights reserved.

- Member OneNewsNow 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.

America’s Good News

FINANCIAL MATTERS “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do”

By Donald Kwong Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper as his partner.” - Genesis 2:18 After several years in business, one of my friends had to dissolve his business partnership. As he has come closer to knowing the heart of God, his partner has continued to be bound by alcoholism. It soon became apparent to both of them that this partnership could not continue. Knowing that the business relationship has to end does not make distributing assets between them any easier.

Partnering is not easy because it requires that we risk and trust, but it has been God’s intention that we partner. Partnering is one key in managing a home or a business because of the greater impact that can be accomplished.

Partners can support you as a triple braided cord is not easily broken. A true partner shares in your pain and success.

This does not mean that partnering is going to be easy. This is especially true if the partnership is not built on a solid foundation. Different people have different degrees of readiness or desire to partner with others. So many of us make poor partners when we get caught up in pride, ego and independence; we fail to remember that our partners should be looking out for our mutual interests. Our society is so keen on winning that we would rather be right than do what is right. Another area we falter in this regards is who we enter into partnerships. In some ways you become the company you keep, so a partner should reflect who you are. If you do not share similar values with your partner, you will either have to abandon the partnership or you will have to abandon yourself.

Sometimes we enter into partnerships with other men because we do not trust God. In the Old Testament, we see that the Israelite kings would prefer to make unholy alliances in order to avoid asking God what he wanted. God partners with us in all that we do, and he has made us junior partners in his operations. Through the Holy Spirit, Christ can take the little that we have and multiply it.

The Word provides us instruction on how to be a good partner. Proverbs 29:2 relates that the partner is a helper. Scriptures about husbands and wives show us that partners can be co-heirs where honor should be shown. (1 Peter 3:17) The Bible also gives us so many great examples on partnerships; Joseph and Pharoah, God’s covenant with Israel, David and his mighty men, and most significantly for us Christ’s commissioning of us.

In Matthew 13, the parable of the Sower and the Seed could be applied to partnering. Do you know the condition of the partner’s soil you are planting in? When developing partnerships, agree up front where and how you will partner. For existing partnerships, periodically check with each other about the expectations of the partnership. Ensure that your partners are people of integrity because you are much better off if they will honor their word. Expect the best in your partners, but you also have to be aware of their agendas.

In conflicts with partners, you can cut other people slack, but you also can confront others in love. Like Hosea, try to get to the heart of the matter.

The key to partnering is that there is more glory to God when we are able to partner with Him. Operating out of a spirit of unity allows God to move through and bless you, increases your ability to learn and discover what you did not know, and lift you up in times of trouble. It can only happen if you truly trust God with all your life and all the possessions he has provided for you. This cannot be a short term relationship, but one which grows over time and you abide in Him.

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Deuteronomy 6:7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.

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Deuteronomy 12:28 Be careful to obey all these regulations I am giving you, so that it may always go well with you and your children after you, because you will be doing what is good and right in the eyes of the LORD your God.

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Deuteronomy 30:19 This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live

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America’s Good News

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THE ART OF SELF DEFENSE ‘Twin Tigers Academy of Self Defense’ helps children protect themselves against would be attackers.

B Deuteronomy 23:8 The third generation of children born to them may enter the assembly of the LORD. Ephesians 6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.

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 Nov 6 & Nov 20 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!

Luke 18:16 But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.

1 John 5:2 This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands.

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ear Carrillo of Twin Tigers Academy of Self Defense and his son, Daniel, recently spoke to the children at Trinity Christian School communications class and demonstrated self defense tactics for and with students. They clarified the point of using martial arts only for self defense and never as a tool for aggressive behavior.

The vision at Twin Tigers Academy of Self defense is to build a community by helping people get in shape, be safe and at the same time instill the life skills and character of a true martial artist. Upholding important values like courtesy, patience, respect, self control and integrity.

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

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America’s Good News

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Are you a Pastor in need of restoration?

Let the Hanoum Estate and their staff of counselors restore the calling that God has on your life.

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For Reservations 925.625.3563

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.

Hanoum Estate is a non-profit ministry of MVCC

This beautiful country retreat is available for: * Counseling Pastors * Weddings * Corporate gatherings * Banquets * Receptions and more

Photos courtesy: www.gr8expressions.com. ~Marlena Roslan

2010 dates ďŹ lling quickly!