MESSAGE. All have sinned, but “whoever believes in Him shall not perish.” We may feel like we’ve failed, but the death of our Lord, Jesus Christ offers us forgiveness and redemption. His love is unfailing and His redemption is complete. (Psalm 130)
MINISTRY. Our monthly Season of Change Luncheon is always a big deal. Here is a brief report from Lupina: “The theme was ‘Happy Trails’. The Veggie BBQ was delicious (special thanks to Judy Thurmond). We had 61 attending that included 9 helpers and guests. Two members of SALT Came to help and learn about our ministry. Thank you Tui and Hula. We also had a wonderful skit presented by the third grade OAKS class of Margo Haughee.”
Our vibrant Men’s Ministry group met last Sunday morning. Here are some highlights shared by Edymar Penagos:
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Women comprise more than 60% of the adults in the typical worship service in America.
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No other religion suffers the enormous gender gaps that plague Christianity.
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It’s not just attendance where men trail women. Men are less likely to lead, volunteer, and give in the church. They pray less, share their faith less, and read the Bible less.
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The men who do go to church seem passive and bored. It’s often impossible to get churchgoing men to do anything other than attend services.
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The church’s gender gap is often invisible because the top tier of church leadership is still heavily male. Over 90% of protestant pastors and 100% of Catholic priests are male. But Leon Podles put it best: “The modern church is an army of women led by a few male generals.”
Guys, the purpose of the topic was to get you think and my prayer will be that it leads you to God for answers and direction. Men need the church but, more importantly, the church needs men.”
Here is what we can do in practical terms:
Last Friday night was windy and chilly, but a camp fire on our church property brought together a group of young people for the monthly Vespers. The youth sang songs, made S’Mores, and David had the devotional. Jenny Spicer sent me this picture of the camp fire to prove that they truly had a warm spirit of worship that night 🙂
REACHING OUT.
COMMUNITY EVENTS.
CHURCH YARD SALE – Our church yard sale will be held in the Fellowship Center on April 28 from 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Monies raised will be used to help the Pathfinders replace stolen items as well as help for Oshkosh. Please donate gently used items and your time. Help is needed on Saturday night and Sunday. Please contact Jackie Rose at 423-244-5839, if you have any questions or need help with your donated items.
Ooltewah Seventh-day Adventist Church 