Big Time Blessing

You guys are unbelievable!! Your generosity is beyond belief. Your response to the Lyons family was fantastic. You honored them with a $3,019.00 love offering. What a blessing to that family and what an awesome testimony to your faithfulness. I am so proud of our church.

Please pray with me as we consider the Lyons family for full-time support. I believe that they would be a fine addition to our Missions family and they fit precisely with our Missions vision.

This week I will begin a new series called Too Good To Be True. There are some things in the Bible that have become cliché and in some cases they seem to be too good to be true. This Sunday we will talk about faith. Did Jesus really say, “if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could move mountains,”? Is that what he really meant? What did he mean? Is it too good to be true? We’ll find out on Sunday.

Have a wonderful week.

Upcoming Events:
June 5th – Women’s Ministry & Rockstars Christmas in June
June 6th – Epic Camp Fundraiser
June 20th – Father’s Day – Wear your favorite sports team gear!
June 23rd – 26th – Epic Camp
June 27th – Guest Speaker: Dennis Carlson
July 31st – Church Picnic
August 15th – Guest Speaker: Bob Henson
September 12th – 14th Men’s Road Trip

Big Week

It will be our pleasure to have Luke and Kelly Lyons with us on Sunday. They will be telling us about what God has called them to in the Philippines. If you would like to learn more about them in advance you can go to impactingasia.org.
We will be receiving a love offering for them at the end of the service. This is how it will work. We will receive our regular offering at the usual time in the service and then we will have the folks bring the baskets by a second time and we will receive a separate offering for the Lyons. I wanted to give you a heads up so that you are prepared. I know that you will enjoy meeting and hearing from the Lyons.

And…God has added another to our church family. I am pleased to tell you that Alex and Christy Sears are the proud parents (and Colton the big brother of) another beautiful boy. Sebastian was born Tuesday morning and weighed in at 9 lbs. 8 oz. The Lord has truly blessed the Sears family.

I pray that you are enjoying your damp week. I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.

Upcoming Events:
May 23rd – Missionaries Luke & Kelly Lyons
June 5th – Women’s Ministry & Rockstars Christmas in June
June 6th – Epic Camp Fundraiser
June 20th – Father’s Day
June 23rd – 26th – Epic Camp
June 27th – Guest Speaker: Dennis Carlson
July 31st – Church Picnic
August 15th – Guest Speaker: Bob Henson
September 12th – 14th Men’s Road Trip

The Time Is Now

I told you that it was coming and it has arrived. God has presented us with three wonderful mission projects that I would like to tell you about.

Gospel Alive is an organization that sponsors youth camps in Great Britain. The youth of England need desperately to know the truth about Jesus. Dale Peterson and Gospel Alive take the gospel there every summer. 53% of the students who attend the camp give their lives to Christ. We have the privilege of sponsoring 4 students that will attend a camp this summer. We are sending $1,000.00 to assist these students so that they can hear the gospel of Jesus Christ.

We are also getting in on the ground floor of the Boston Project. The Boston Project is designed to start 5 new churches in the greater Boston area over the next 10 years. There are two churches that have started in the last five years that are doing well and will serve as the sending churches for the new church plants. Our Leadership Team believes that this is a worthwhile endeavor. Think about this. There are more Christ followers residing in Bagdad, Iraq than there are in Boston, Massachusetts. I know. That’s crazy right? We want to partner with other churches to start new churches in Boston. Support of this project will begin when the infrastructure is ready to receive funding.

And…Luke and Kelly Lyons will be with us on Sunday May 23rd to tell us more about what God has called them to do in Metro Manila in the Philippines. God is doing amazing things in the Philippines and I know that you will want to hear more about what God is doing through this young couple.

God is using us here to reach the people of Venice and the surrounding areas. God is using us to partner with others to reach around the world. I want to encourage you to continue to give your tithe to Venice Church so that we can reach our neighbors with the gospel, but let me encourage you to give to our missions program as well. I am excited about the new opportunities that God has and will put before us. Not all of us can go, but most of us can give. If you want to give to support projects like these make sure that you designate your mission offering on your envelope.

Have a great week and tell somebody about Jesus.


Upcoming Events:
May 23rd – Missionaries Luke & Kelly Lyons
June 5th – Women’s Ministry & Rockstars Christmas in June
June 6th – Epic Camp Fundraiser
June 20th – Father’s Day
June 23rd – 26th – Epic Camp
June 27th – Guest Speaker: Dennis Carlson
July 31st – Church Picnic
August 15th – Guest Speaker: Bob Henson
September 12th – 14th Men’s Road Trip

Missions

Over the next several weeks and months you will be presented with opportunities to impact the lives of people all over the world. You can read about the Operation Christmas Child project below and coming up on Sunday May 23rd a fine missionary couple, the Lyons, will be here to talk to us about what God is doing in Manila. More opportunities will be presented in the future.
It is our desire to put more missions opportunities before you on a more regular basis. So…this is what I would like for you to do for now. I believe that God would like for Venice Church to do more to support missions in our country and around the world. Would you pray with me that God would work in us and show us who to partner with? Would you pray about what God would have you do in the area of missions? It could be that you give to missions here at Venice and you will be moved to give more. It could be that you have not been giving to missions and God will move you to begin. For now…let’s pray together and see what God will do.

I am excited about the Rockstars Childrens Ministry and Ladies Ministry missions project. The kids and the ladies are partnering to send 100 shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child this year. The project takes place on Saturday June 5th. There will be a flyer with details in your handout this Sunday. Even if you are not a kid or a lady you can participate. Contact Amy (amersh55@yahoo.com) for more information.

Get connected.
Stay connected.

Upcoming Events:
May 9th – Mother’s Day
May 23rd – Missionaries Luke & Kelly Lyons
June 5th – Women’s Ministry & Rockstars Christmas in June
June 6th – Epic Camp Fundraiser
June 20th – Father’s Day
June 23rd – 26th – Epic Camp
July 31st – Church Picnic

Mustache Challenge...Over

I kept it for three plus weeks, but it bugged.
Mustache Challenger...over and out.

Men's & Women's and Kid's Ministry Oh My

This Sunday our Men’s Ministry season wraps up with a BBQ at Bob Tripp’s house. Men, let me encourage you this way. If you have been attending the meetings this year…finish strong. Make the last meeting. Enjoy the fellowship. If you have not been attending the meetings…start with this one. I promise this. You will enjoy the food. You will enjoy the fellowship. You will not be lost during the lesson. You don’t need to have been at the meetings or read the book to follow this lesson. Most importantly, you will get your foot in the door, get acquainted with the guys, and you will hear about next season. Next season is going to kick off with a fantastic and fun trip. You will want to hear about it and when you hear about it you will want to go.

I am excited about the Rockstars Childrens Ministry and Ladies Ministry missions project. The kids and the ladies are partnering to send 100 shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child this year. The project takes place on Saturday June 5th. There will be a flyer with details in your handout this Sunday. Even if you are not a kid or a lady you can participate. Contact Amy (amersh55@yahoo.com) for more information.

There is a lot of good stuff going on at Venice.
Get connected.
Stay connected.


Upcoming Events:
May 1st – Rockstars Portrait Party
May 2nd – Men’s Ministry
May 9th – Mother’s Day
May 23rd – Missionarires Luke & Kelly Lyons
June 5th – Women’s Ministry & Rockstars Christmas in June
June 6th – Epic Camp Fundraiser
June 20th – Father’s Day
June 23rd – 26th – Epic Camp

Kids...

Dreams do come true! We have and have had many dreams for Venice Church. Some of them are big dreams and some of them seem to be fairly simple dreams, but when they come true it is thrilling. I have always dreamed that God would fill our church nursery with babies. It seemed like it might never happen, but alas it has happened. We have new babies and more on the way. God is so good.

We have dreamed of a ministry for children that would be growing and thriving and God has blessed us with more and more children to minister to. This past Sunday we had 29 kids and 10 leaders working with them. We thank God for Richie, Becky and their entire team. I believe that God has bigger and better things in store for our kids and their families. Check out their upcoming events in the calendar below and look for details in the handout on Sunday.

And…we have dreamed of a youth ministry that is marked by love for God and love and acceptance of others. God has delivered there as well. Daniel, Kristen and their staff do a wonderful job. I am excited about what God has in store for the EPIC Student Ministry. Their camp is coming up on June 23rd. Please pray that God will have his hand on the camp. Please join them for their camp fund raiser after church on June 6th. You can be a blessing to a kid by giving to help them go to camp.

There is a lot of good stuff going on at Venice.
Get connected.
Stay connected.


Upcoming Events:
May 1st – Rockstars Portrait Party
May 2nd – Men’s Ministry
May 9th – Mother’s Day
May 23rd – Missionary Luke Lyons
June 5th – Women’s Ministry & Rockstars Christmas in June
June 6th – Epic Camp Fundraiser
June 20th – Father’s Day
June 23rd – 26th – Epic Camp

We Must Be Doing Something Right....

I guess you can file this under…we must be doing something right. My pastor friends tell me that when God begins to move in a church or in a community that adversity is right around the corner. I know that when God shows up many times the Devil shows up too. This past Friday night our sign was “tagged”. On Sunday night, somebody threw a piece of concrete through one side of our sign. It will be repaired today and we will move on.
And…we will not be deterred from what God has called us to do. God placed Venice Church right here on this corner to bring people to Christ and then help them grow to be like Him. We will continue to do what God has called us to do.
Pray that God will continue to provide for us. Pray that God will protect us. Pray for the people in our neighborhood who are far from God. And take advantage of your opportunities to share Christ. At our Men’s Ministry meeting this past Sunday we were challenged with the truth that each one of us has been given a platform for sharing Christ. Your platform is your home, your job, your school, your team, your club…wherever God has put you. Help somebody find Jesus. Tell somebody about Jesus. Tell them what He has done in your life.

Don’t forget that we are baptizing on Sunday the 18th. If you would like to be baptized just respond to this email and I will add you to the list. If you have questions about baptism then respond to the email and I will do my best to answer your questions.
I look forward to seeing you on Sunday. We will wrap up our series talking about The Mystery of God’s Glory. Have a great week.

There is a lot of good stuff going on at Venice.
Get connected.
Stay connected.

Upcoming Events:
May 2nd – Men’s Ministry
May 9th – Mother’s Day
May 23rd – Missionary Luke Lyons
June 20th – Father’s Day

God Showed Up

The email is coming to you a day early this week because…well…I cannot contain this news any longer. God came up big for us this past Easter weekend. We had a total attendance of 439 (79 more than last year) and 9 adults marked their card that they had given their life to Christ! God is so good and we give Him all the glory for what was accomplished this past weekend.
You are to be commended. Many of you had a guest or guests with you. Thank you for caring for your friends and family and inviting them to a service. Special thanks to our Communication Team. They did a wonderful job on our door hanger and campaign. Many visitors came because of the door hangers. Again we praise God for working in us and through us here at Venice Church.

This Sunday our Men’s Ministry will meet right after the service. We are having hot wings for lunch. We always have a great time. Don’t miss out guys!

And don’t forget that we are baptizing on Sunday the 18th. If you would like to be baptized just respond to this email and I will add you to the list. If you have questions about baptism then respond to the email and I will do my best to answer your questions.

There is a lot of good stuff going on at Venice.
Get connected.
Stay connected.

Passion Week

It is Easter week and this week is always an exciting time in the Kingdom of God. It is an exciting time here at Venice Church. I hope that you are planning to be with us for our Good Friday Service. It will begin at 7:00 PM and there will be free coffee, hot chocolate, and cookies served immediately following the service. Plan to hang around for a bit and enjoy your friends and church family.

Of course Sunday is the big day. We have two services at 9:00 and 10:45 AM. Free coffee, hot chocolate, and Krispy Kreme Donuts will be served before each service. I hope you are planning to attend and have invited somebody to come with you.

And…we would like to have a concerted effort to welcome those who arrive on Sunday. If you would like to help by greeting those who arrive or by passing out handouts, please let me know by responding to this email. When you respond, please let me know which service you will be attending. Thank you.

Get connected.
Stay connected.

Upcoming Events:
April 2nd – Good Friday Service @ 7:00 PM.
April 4th – Easter – Two Services @ 9:00 & 10:45 AM.
April 11th – Men’s Ministry
April 18th – Baptism
May 1st – Men’s Ministry
May 23rd – Missionary Luke Lyons

Years and counting...

Amy and I hit another milestone this week. This Sunday will mark our 14th year here at Venice Church. God has been so good to us and to our church. It is a pleasure to serve with all of you here. We look forward to what God has in store for us in the future.

Our Easter door hangers are being delivered this week. Please pray that God would use them to turn hearts to Christ. When a person grasps the true meaning of Easter it can literally be life-changing. Jesus came to seek and save the lost. Our desire, with these door hangers, is to seek out some who need to be saved.

This Sunday we will wrap up our series called Connecting With God. This week…The Prayer of Fulfillment. I look forward to seeing you on Sunday at 10:00 AM.

There is good stuff going on at Venice. Get connected. Stay connected.


Upcoming Events:
April 2nd – Good Friday Service @ 7:00 PM.
April 4th – Easter – Two Services @ 9:00 & 10:45
April 11th – Men’s Ministry
April 18th – Baptism
May 1st – Men’s Ministry
May 23rd – Missionary Luke Lyons

New Members

It was my pleasure to walk 13 new members through our membership class last Saturday. God has blessed us with many wonderful people and He has added another batch to our family. It is exciting to see what God is doing in our church an in our neighborhood. Please pray that God would use the door hangers that go out Easter week.

Please invite somebody to attend one of our Easter services with you. Door hangers and campaigns are all well and good, but there is something about one of you saying to your friend, “I really like my church. You might like it too. Would you like to go with me sometime?”

This Sunday we will continue our series called Connecting With God. This week…The Prayer of Deliverance. I will see you on Sunday at 10:00 Am.

Get connected. Stay connected.


Upcoming Events:
March 20th – Men’s Ministry Workday
March 21st – Women’s Ministry Luncheon
April 2nd – Good Friday Service @ 7:00 PM.
April 4th – Easter – Two Services @ 9:00 & 10:45
April 18th – Baptism
May 23rd – Missionary Luke Lyons

Spring Forward 2010

Don’t forget to spring forward on Saturday night. Daylight Savings Time begins and with it comes the anticipation of spring and summer. Easter is right around the corner and I always like to remind you that it is a wonderful time to invite a friend to a service. We are rolling out an Easter campaign. It is complete with 40,000 door hangers going to our neighbors to invite them to one of our three services. You can get the gist of the campaign at our website at venicechurch.com. Please pray that God will give an increase in attendance and people giving their lives to Christ. On Easter Sunday I am going to begin a series of messages called Making Sense of Life’s Mysteries. I hope that we can answer some of the difficult questions of life.

This Sunday we will continue our series called Connecting With God. This week…The Prayer of Release. I will see you on Sunday at 10:00 Am.

Get connected. Stay connected.

Upcoming Events:
March 13th – CLASS 101: Connecting With God’s Family
March 14th – Daylight Savings Time Begins
March 20th – Men’s Ministry Workday
March 21st – Women’s Ministry Luncheon
April 2nd – Good Friday Service @ 7:00 PM.
April 4th – Easter – Two Services @ 9:00 & 10:45
April 18th – Baptism
May 23rd – Missionary Luke Lyons

Congratulations!

Congratulations to our son Paul and his new bride Monica!
We are blessed with two wonderful sons and now two wonderful daughters-in-law.

C3 West Coast

I am attending the C3 Conference in San Diego. C3 stands for Creative Church Conference. I have learned a lot and have been encouraged to keep doing what we do at Venice Church. There is nothing like the church when it is working right. God has been so good to us at Venice. We really have momentum and I believe that God is going to keep it going.
You guys are the best. Amy and I are blessed to serve in such a great place with such great people. I look forward to seeing you and worshiping with you on Sunday.

New Stage of Life

This Sunday Amy and I will embark on a new stage of life. Paul and Monica will be married on Sunday and we will enter (insert Twilight Zone announcer voice) the Empty Nest Zone. It is interesting how your age and your mortality hits you when your youngest gets married. I mean we are still relatively young, but you just feel a bit older when both of your kids are married and have their own lives. In all seriousness, I am humbled by God’s goodness. By His grace our two sons love God and His church. By His grace God has added two wonderful young ladies to our family. We are excited about Sunday and we are rejoicing during this exciting time in our lives and in our family.

February flew by as you would expect from the short month, but I have a feeling that March will fly by as well. We are just a little over four weeks from Easter and there is much to do between now and then. Just take a look at the calendar below.

Get connected. Stay connected.


Upcoming Events:
March 13th – CLASS 101: Connecting With God’s Family
March 14th – Daylight Savings Time Begins
March 20th – Men’s Ministry Workday
March 21st – Women’s Ministry Luncheon
April 2nd – Good Friday Service @ 7:00 PM.
April 4th – Easter – Two Services @ 9:00 & 10:45
April 18th - Baptism

Chili

There is a lot going on at Venice Church. Check it out below. Get connected. Stay connected.
Here are some highlights:

Men, your February Men’s Ministry Meeting is Sunday right after the service. We always have a great time at these and I am really looking forward to indulging in Wayne’s and Alex’s chili! There will be the usual stuff at the meeting plus important information about our workday and next season.

Ladies, you received a special email earlier today detailing your next event. Be sure to make your reservation at the information counter.

And…there are several of you that receive this email that should seriously consider attending our membership class. It is coming up on Saturday March 13th @ 9:00 AM. I would love to see you there. You can register for the class by checking the appropriate box on the back of your response card on Sunday.


Upcoming Events:
February 28th – Men’s Ministry
February 28th – The Truth Project – 6:00 PM
March 13th – CLASS 101: Connecting With God’s Family
March 20th – Men’s Ministry Workday
March 21st – Women’s Ministry Luncheon
April 2nd – Good Friday Service @ 7:00 PM.
April 4th – Easter – Two Services @ 9:00 & 10:45
April 18th - Baptism

Not Quite a Miracle

What a great win by the USA Hockey Team last night! It was not exactly a miracle. We have closed the gap between Canada and us quite a bit. In fact, as many Americans play hockey now as Canadians.
Our skill level is way up and our tenacity is back where it should be. Hopefully Ryan Miller can stay hot and the boys can bring home the gold.

Give Me a Break NBC...

It has been a beautiful week. There is more rain coming, but this sure was a nice break from it.

You guys watching the Olympics…I mean the commercials? I love seeing one preliminary race and then four commercials and then another preliminary race and then four commercials and then a human interest story and then another four commercials. By the time the medal race comes along I am fast asleep. Oh, by the way…I already know who won the medal. Thank you NBC for all of the commercials and for tape delaying events that are happening live in my time zone.

That is enough ranting for today. Enjoy another beautiful day and I will see you on Sunday when we talk about The Prayer of Surrender.

There is a lot going on at Venice. Check it out below. Get connected. Stay connected.


Upcoming Events:
February 21st – Wedding Shower for Monica Delwarte
February 28th – Men’s Ministry
February 28th – The Truth Project
March 13th – CLASS 101: Connecting With God’s Family
April 2nd – Good Friday Service @ 7:00 PM.
April 4th – Easter – Two Services @ 9:00 & 10:45
April 18th - Baptism

Truth Project, Parking, etc..

The response to The Truth Project has been outstanding and this session is now full. If you are signed up, please look forward to updates from Brad Jensen. The first session will be Sunday evening February 28th @ 6:00 PM. If you were shut out this time and would like to attend, please look for another seminar coming this fall.

This Sunday we dive deeper into our series Connecting With God: The Lord’s Prayer. We will see the prayer of connection this week. I look forward to seeing you then.

God is blessing us with good attendance so let me remind you…if you arrive early for music, prayer meeting, or other ministries…please help us by parking on the street and down the street just a bit. And…please pray with me that God will add many to our church family through CLASS 101 on March 13th.


Upcoming Events:

February 12th – EPIC Winter Camp

February 28th – Men’s Ministry

February 28th – The Truth Project

March 13th – CLASS 101: Connecting With God’s Family

April 2nd – Good Friday Service @ 7:00 PM.

April 4th – Easter – Two Services @ 9:00 & 10:45

April 18th - Baptism

Superbowl Prediction

I am going to stay out on the limb with my prediction...Colts 31 - Saints 7.

Special For Ladies...

Ladies, this reminder is especially for you…
You are invited to the shower for Baby Girl Morales this Sunday right after the service. Betsy and Ruben have been faithful members of Venice for many years. Let’s show them our love by celebrating the future arrival of their daughter. The Morales are registered at Babies R Us and Target. Lunch will be served so please RSVP to Becky Henson at henson.becky@yahoo.com.

You are also invited to the wedding shower for Paul Henson and Monica Delwarte on Sunday February 21st following the morning service. Monica is registered at Bed, Bath & Beyond and Target. Lunch will be served so please RSVP to Denise Jensen at bjensen623@verizon.net.
Your participation is greatly appreciated. Wedding and baby showers are a sign of a growing church. Thanks for celebrating these blessed occasions with us.

Coming up at the end of February we will be offering a special seminar for you. It is called The Truth Project and it will be hosted by Brad Jensen. There is limited space available. If you are interested in knowing more about what you believe and why you believe it this study is for you. You may begin signing up on Sunday. For more information contact Brad at bradjensen7@sbcglobal.net.

Celebrating With You,
Amy


Upcoming Events:
February 12th – EPIC Winter Camp
February 28th – Men’s Ministry
February 28th – The Truth Project
March 13th – CLASS 101: Connecting With God’s Family
April 2nd – Good Friday
April 4th – Easter
April 18th - Baptism

More Reality...

This Sunday morning we will finish up our Eternal Realities Series when we talk about the The Reality of Heaven. It should be an exciting time as we see what God has planned for us.

This Sunday evening will be our Annual Business Meeting. We will review 2009 and look ahead to the remainder of this year. We get started at 6:00 PM. We would love to see you there.

Next week I am going to begin a series called Connecting With God: The Lord’s Prayer. We will take eight weeks and we will walk through the Lord’s Prayer together.

Coming up at the end of February we will be offering a special seminar for you. It is called The Truth Project and it will be hosted by Brad Jensen. There is limited space available. If you are interested in knowing more about what you believe and why you believe it this study is for you. You may begin signing up on Sunday. For more information contact Brad at bradjensen7@sbcglobal.net.

Upcoming Events:
January 31st – Annual Business Meeting
February 12th – EPIC Winter Camp
February 28th – Men’s Ministry
February 28th – The Truth Project
March 13th – CLASS 101: Connecting With God’s Family
April 2nd – Good Friday
April 4th – Easter
April 18th - Baptism

Update on Mrs. Trubey

Mrs. Trubey is being moved to Culver West Rehabilitation Center today. She is doing a bit better, but still has a long recovery ahead of her. Please keep her in your prayers.

As I mentioned last week, God is sending many visitors our way. Many of those visitors are returning for a second and third visit. Please pray with me that God will draw many to salvation and many into membership here at Venice. It is an exciting time in our church. I am excited about what God will do in our neighborhood. We praise Him for His provision and His desire to use us to reach others.

The next two weeks offer a good opportunity to invite a friend to the service. We are going to embark on a two week series called Eternal Realities. This Sunday I am going to talk about The Reality of Hell. Next week it will be The Reality of Heaven. I hope to see you then.

Upcoming Events:
January 16th – Men’s Ministry
January 23rd – Women’s Ministry
January 31st – Annual Business Meeting
February 12th – EPIC Winter Camp
February 21st – Men’s Ministry
March 13th – CLASS 101: Connecting With God’s Family

Here we go...

2010 has begun with a bang and with the exception of a half marathon disruption last Sunday things are going very well here at Venice Church. Last Sunday was just a minor distraction and for those who never made it to church, we look forward to seeing you on Sunday. We hope to give you much more notice the next time one of these rolls around.

At Venice Church, we are focused on reaching people who are far from God this year. We fully expect that God will send some others to us that are Christ followers, but need a church home. We are having visitors every Sunday. We want to be as accommodating to our guests as possible and one way that we may be able to help is to think about parking. We have a limited number of parking spaces. If you could help us with our parking it will be greatly appreciated. Here is what we would like to do. If you arrive early and you are able bodied, think about parking on the street, but not right in front on Lucille. This may not work for you if you are a Senior or if you are a family with small children, but if it will work for you it will help us by leaving the best spaces on Lucille and some spaces in the parking lot. It is just one small way that we can be more user friendly here at Venice Church.

I just received word last night that Mrs. Trubey has fallen and been injured. She is in the hospital in the Marina. I will know more after I check on her today. Please put her and keep her in your prayers.

Finally…men I look forward to seeing you at IHOP on Lincoln on Saturday morning at 9:00 for Men’s Ministry.


Upcoming Events:
January 16th – Men’s Ministry
January 23rd – Women’s Ministry
January 31st – Annual Business Meeting
February 12th – EPIC Winter Camp
February 21st – Men’s Ministry
March 13th – CLASS 101: Connecting With God’s Family

Have a Great Year

God has been so good to us in 2009. I am looking forward expectantly to what 2010 will bring. Beginning on Sunday we will be talking about how to have a great year. I look forward to seeing you then.

FYI…The office will be closed next week (January 4-8). Amy and I will be on a Conference/Cruise.

Upcoming Events:
January 16th – Men’s Ministry
January 23rd – Women’s Ministry
January 31st – Annual Business Meeting

Just a few more days...

I hope that you are having a wonderful Christmas week. I hope that you will be with us on Christmas Eve. The service will begin at 6:00 PM. Childcare will be provided for the little ones.

Once again you are to be commended. We reached our goal for the Christmas Outreach Offering. We are at $5,438.00 as of today. It is not too late to give. Just drop it in and write Christmas on the envelope.



Upcoming Events:
December 24th – Christmas Eve Service
January 16th – Men’s Ministry
January 23rd – Women’s Ministry
January 31st – Annual Business Meeting

Your Faithfulness

You rock! As of today the grand total for our Christmas Outreach Offering is $4,748.00. Your faithfulness is amazing. We praise God for His great provision in our lives and for our church. He is good. He is faithful. We praise Him for this offering. And…you still have an opportunity to give. We will wrap up the offering on Sunday. Who will put us over our goal of $5,000.00? If you haven’t given and would like to…just drop it in the basket on Sunday and mark your envelope “Christmas”.

Please pray. The door hangers are beginning to drop. Pray that some far from God would receive the invitation and will come to a service and come to know Christ. That is what it is all about. Please pray that God would draw some into His Kingdom and into Venice Church.

Make plans to be with us on Christmas Eve. The service will begin at 6:00 PM. Childcare will be provided for the little ones.

I look forward to worshipping with you on Sunday.




Upcoming Events:
December 24th – Christmas Eve Service
January 16th – Men’s Ministry
January 23rd – Women’s Ministry
January 31st – Annual Business Meeting

Christmas Offering

Some of you have been asking for it and you got. It’s wintertime (such as it is) in the city. I know that you all have a lot going on…so I am going to attempt to keep this short and sweet today.

Men…your Men’s Ministry Meeting is this Sunday right after the service. Make your plans to be with us and…most of you did not sign up so look for the Men’s Ministry Email and respond to it so they know how much pizza to buy. We always have a great time. Come and join us.

We are continuing to receive our Christmas Outreach Offering. I am very pleased to inform you that we are half way to our goal of $5,000.00. We want to be a blessing to those in our neighborhood who are far from God. The invitations will drop on their doors next week. I know that you want to have a part in this special opportunity to give. I know that God will bless your generosity. Just put your offering in an envelope and write “Christmas” on it.

I look forward to worshipping with you on Sunday.


Upcoming Events:
December 6th – 20th Christmas Outreach Offering
December 13th – Men’s Ministry
December 24th – Christmas Eve Service
January 23rd – Women’s Ministry
January 31st – Annual Business Meeting

Tiger...Come On Man!

I am really disappointed in Tiger Woods. Despite the truth that I know from Scripture, that we all sin and that we are depraved, I always hope for better. I don’t hope for perfection. I know that is not realistic. I hope for better. I want to believe in people. I want to believe that some guy, any guy, is going to excel in his field, make ungodly amounts of money, become a universal icon and not cheat on his wife and his kids. I want to believe that one or some of these guys are not going to become so enamored with it all and so arrogant that they think they are above, not just the law, but basic morality. I hope for one of these guys to realize that you never get away with it.

Numbers32:23
But if you fail to keep your word, then you will have sinned against the LORD, and you may be sure that your sin will find you out.

Tiger Woods is a guy who makes his living playing a “gentlemen’s game” where the players police the game themselves without need of referees. Tiger would never, ever, think of cheating at golf, but apparently he will cheat on his wife and kids.

One more thing. Don’t these guys ever learn? Will one of them ever learn from Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and the rest? I get it. I know there are plenty of professional athletes that don’t cheat on their wives, but never get accolades for being “normal”. Just once, could the greatest in the world, the greatest of all time, be a man that we could be proud of?


Upcoming Events:
December 6th – 20th Christmas Outreach Offering
December 13th – Men’s Ministry
December 24th – Christmas Eve Service
January 23rd – Women’s Ministry
January 31st – Annual Business Meeting

Thanksgiving

Please pray about the part that you will have in our Christmas Outreach Offering. We are going to reach approximately 40,000 residences in our neighborhood with Christmas invitations. I know that you want to share in the blessing of touching lives with the gospel this Christmas. The offering will be received the first three Sundays of December. Just put your offering in an envelope and mark it “Christmas Offering”.

This is one of my favorite weeks of the year. It doesn’t get much better than Thanksgiving. In honor of Thanksgiving I offer up…

My Top Ten Thanksgiving Things…
10. Cranberry Sauce.
9. Family.
8. Turkey.
7. Rook (It’s a card game…just so you know.).
6. Sweet Potatoes or Candied Yams (I don’t know the difference).
5. Dressing
4. Cool Whip
3. Golf Outing the day before Thanksgiving.
2. Pumpkin Pie.
1. Football…when the Cowboys win.
(Easy…just a little holiday humor there.)

I hope that each and every one of you has a very Happy Thanksgiving. I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.



Upcoming Events:
December 6th – 20th Christmas Outreach Offering
December 13th – Men’s Ministry
December 24th – Christmas Eve Service
January 31st – Annual Business Meeting

Blessed

Thank you so much for all of the cards, emails, and phone calls that we received since my mom went home to be with the Lord. Your love and encouragement have truly uplifted and sustained me during this difficult time. Thank you for being a wonderful church family.

If you have some time on Sunday afternoon we are going to be decorating for Christmas at 2:00 PM in the Worship Center. Your help is greatly appreciated. Make sure that when you come…you bring your Christmas spirit with you! It is always a lot of fun. I hope to see you then. If you have any questions, please email me at amersh55@yahoo.com.

Men, don’t forget your Men’s Ministry Meeting/Breakfast on Saturday morning at 9:00 AM in the kitchen. I know that it is always a great time of fellowship.

Much Love,
Amy

Upcoming Events:
November 21st – Men’s Ministry
November 22nd – Christmas Decorating
December 13th – Men’s Ministry
December 24th – Christmas Eve Service
January 31st – Annual Business Meeting

Thank You

The service for Amy’s mom, Eddie Crice, is Saturday at 11:00 AM. Please pray that God would be glorified as we remember and celebrate a life that was devoted to God and her family. Thank you so much for your outpouring of prayers and support for our family. Our loss is heaven’s gain. Amy’s mom is no longer suffering and we look forward to being reunited with her in heaven some day. We are thankful that God is our comfort and refuge during this time. His grace is sufficient for all of our needs.

2 Corinthians 1:3-5
All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. 4) He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. 5) For the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ.

We give thanks today to the men and women of our Armed Forces both veterans and currently serving. We thank them for their sacrifice as they fight for our flag and to protect our freedoms.

And…if you are signed up for CLASS 201 on Saturday…this is your reminder. You will meet in the Berean Room at 9:00 AM. If you have any questions please contact Brad or Denise at bjensen623@verizon.net or bradjensen7@sbcglobal.net .


Upcoming Events:
November 14th – CLASS 201: Growing to be Like Christ
November 21st – Men’s Ministry
December 24th – Christmas Eve Service
January 31st – Annual Business Meeting

Get In a Group...

The heartbeat of Venice Church is our small groups. The Services are good, but real community, real fellowship happens in small groups. We have had our introductory lesson and now this Sunday we embark on 40 Days of Love. We are going to learn about love. We are going to learn to love. We are going to practice love. The best place to learn, grow and practice is in a small group.

This is a great time to give a group a try. It is just a six-week commitment. Try one for the next 40 days. They meet just about every evening of the week. You can find one that will serve you well. If you try one and it is not a good fit…then try another one. For a list of small groups check out the website at http://venicechurch.com/ministries.html. I would be glad to help you find one that will work for you.

The Women’s Ministry Parking Lot Sale is this Saturday from 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM. There is going to be some good stuff for sale and the proceeds will go to our Missionary Families for Christmas. Encourage your friends and neighbors to check out the sale.


Upcoming Events:
November 7th – Women’s Ministry Parking Lot Sale
November 14th – CLASS 201: Growing to be Like Christ
November 21st – Men’s Ministry
December 24th – Christmas Eve Service

A Note From Amy...

Trunk or Treat is coming up on Saturday October 31st from 4-7 PM. If you signed up to bring a car or if you would still like to bring a car, please be in the parking lot at 3:00 PM on Saturday. There are still invitations available in the church office. You may come by and pick some up. Please call before you come. This is an outreach to our community, but it is for you and your kids too! Stop by and trick or treat before you hit your neighborhood. I hope to see there.

Daylight Savings Time ends on Sunday. Set your clock back one hour when you go to bed on Saturday night.

If you are interested in serving in the Coffee Bar or if you have been serving in the Coffee Bar we will have a meeting right after the service on Sunday…do you know what I mean by right after…immediately after the service on Sunday. If you are interested in serving once a month or even every Sunday we could use your help. I will do my best to answer any and all of your questions at the meeting.

Women’s Ministry Parking Lot Sale is Saturday November 7th from 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Please let me know if you are coming to help at the sale. We have plenty of room for more items. Clean out those closets and bring some stuff to sell. It is for a good cause. We are raising money to send to our Missionaries for Christmas.

On Sunday afternoon, November 22nd at 2:00 PM we will decorate the Worship Center and lobby for Christmas. Your help is greatly appreciated. Please let me know if you would like to help.

There is a brand new Spanish Speaking Small Group. It is led by Ruben Morales and it meets on Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 8:00 pm in the EPIC room. The group is presently studying the book of Galatians. If you are interested or if you know somebody who may be please contact Ruben at rsmtwtfsm@gmail.com.

There is a lot going on at Venice Church. As you can see there are plenty of opportunities to serve. I hope you will get involved and stay involved.

Upcoming Events:
October 31st – Trunk or Treat
November 1st – 40 Days of Love Begins & Daylight Savings Time Ends
November 7th – Women’s Ministry Parking Lot Sale
November 14th – CLASS 201: Growing to be Like Christ
November 21st – Men’s Ministry
December 24th – Christmas Eve Service

A Big Week

We are going to be baptizing this Sunday morning right before the service. If you have not been baptized and you would like to be baptized, please let me know by responding to this email and I will fill you in on all the details.

Trunk or Treat is coming up on Saturday October 31st from 4-7 PM and we need your help. We need you to bring your car and decorate it and we need you to donate candy. You can sign up to decorate a car at the information center. You can drop off candy donations in the coffee bar. If you have questions please contact Jennifer at vjennifer@hotmail.com. This is a great opportunity to reach out to and minister to our community. Please participate if you can.

Men, don’t forget that your first meeting of Men’s Ministry Season 4 is this Sunday right after the service. For more information hit Brad at bradjensen7@sbcglobal.net.


Upcoming Events:
October 25th - Baptism
October 25th – Men’s Ministry
October 31st – Trunk or Treat
November 1st – 40 Days of Love & Daylight Savings Time Ends
November 7th – Ladies Parking Lot Sale
November 14th – CLASS 201: Growing to be Like Christ
November 21st – Men’s Ministry
December 24th – Christmas Eve Service

We Need Your Help...

The CLASS 101: Connecting With God’s Family that was scheduled for this Saturday has been postponed. Turns out it was not a good day for those interested. It will be rescheduled asap. CLASS 201, scheduled for November 14th, will proceed as planned.

Trunk or Treat is just two weeks away and we need your help. We need you to bring your car and decorate it and we need you to donate candy. You can sign up to decorate a car at the information center. You can drop off candy donations in the coffee bar. If you have questions please contact Jennifer at vjennifer@hotmail.com. This is a great opportunity to reach out to and minister to our community. Please participate if you can.

I will continue Who’s the Boss? on Sunday when we talk about discipline. It should be interesting.
Have a wonderful week.

Upcoming Events:
October 18th – Small Group Leader Meeting
October 25th - Baptism
October 31st – Trunk or Treat
November 1st – 40 Days of Love & Daylight Savings Time Ends
November 7th – Ladies Parking Lot Sale
November 14th – CLASS 201: Growing to be Like Christ

New Format

Dear Venice Family,


There is so much going on here at Venice that I cannot possibly talk about all of it in these emails each week. So, beginning with this edition I will include small snippets and announcements that will be attached and included at the bottom. So…be sure to click on the attachments or simply scroll down to see some important information.
This week there are special announcements for women and for those interested in joining a small group.

As for me, I am back in the office today after a quick run to San Diego for a pastor’s conference. We had the opportunity to meet with a couple of great pastors at their great churches. We heard from Mike Meeks at Eastlake Church and from Miles McPherson at the Rock Church. I was encouraged and I know this. God has great things in store for us here at Venice Church. We are right where God wants us doing what He wants us to do. You and I are here to do God’s work. It is a pleasure to serve with you. Let’s keep doing what God has called us to for His honor and glory.

I will see you on Sunday for Message Three in the series Who’s the Boss? This Sunday we are going to talk about…sex! That will give you something to look forward to.

Blessings,
Craig

Upcoming Events:
October 17th – CLASS 101: Connecting With God’s Family
October 18th – Small Group Leader Meeting
October 25th - Baptism
October 31st – Trunk or Treat
November 1st – 40 Days of Love & Daylight Savings Time Ends
November 7th – Ladies Parking Lot Sale
November 14th – CLASS 201: Growing to be Like Christ


Genesis to Revelation Small Group News:
We have completed Song of Solomon, and there was only a small bit of blushing. Coming up on October 8, we will be introducing the prophets and Isaiah. So we are going into some heavy sledding. We'd like to invite all those who are not in a small group to join us for what is likely to be close to a year's journey through Isaiah. We'd like to remind folks that this is a discussion group that thrives on input from all who attend. We are even hopeful of finding those who might want to take on discussion leader functions from time-to-time.

We are currently meeting at 6:45 on Thursday evenings in the Berean Room between the Sunday School Classrooms and the Chapel. Please enter through the Walgrove Ave. side.


Good Morning!
Amy here…hello!!!
I am in need of your help and response. On Saturday November 7th the Women of Venice are having a Parking Lot Sale to raise money to send to our missionaries for Christmas.
To have a successful parking lot sale we need stuff to sell. I need you to let me know if you have some stuff that you would like to sell. And…to have a successful sale we must be organized. I need to know if you can help set up, sell, and/or take down.
So please respond to this email with a “yes I have stuff” and with the specific kind of stuff and if you can help. You can let me know if you have “bigger” stuff and if you need help getting that stuff to the church. Please let me know at amersh55@yahoo.com.
Venice Women’s Parking Lot Sale
Friday, November 6th: Pricing and Set Up
Saturday, November 7th: The Sale from 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM (clean up to follow immediately)

Thank you for your help.

Amy

Red Rock Rocked!

The Red Rock Trip was fantastic! Special thanks to Brad Jensen for planning and organizing our trip. A great time was had by all.

I am so pleased that we had an opportunity to recognize Morris and Millie Ballard before they moved away. I regret to inform you that Morris went home to be with the Lord last week. The family is planning a memorial reception here at Venice Church. It will be on Saturday October 10th. The time is tentatively set for 3:00 PM in the Berean Room. More details will follow.

And…God has answered our prayers and Anita Kamberg is home. She is continuing her recovery and would like to express her thanks to all of you in the Venice family who have been faithful to pray for her. Please continue to pray for her full recovery. We will look forward to having her with us in services very soon.

I look forward to seeing you and worshiping with you on Sunday. Don’t forget that this Sunday is the L.A. Triathlon. If you live south of Venice Blvd., getting to church could be a problem. Please go here for street closures and alternate routes. http://trafficinfo.lacity.org/html/2009Triathlon.html

Upcoming Events:
October 3rd – Venice United Soccer
October 4th – L.A. Triathlon – (Go to http://www.latriathlon.com/ for street closures.)
October 17th – CLASS 101: Connecting With God’s Family
October 18th – Small Group Leader Meeting
October 25th - Baptism
October 31st – Trunk or Treat
November 1st – 40 Days of Love
November 7th – Ladies Parking Lot Sale
November 14th – CLASS 201: Growing to be Like Christ

God's Plan For the Family

Amy and I arrived home safely this morning at 5:30.
Thank you for your prayers.
We had a wonderful vacation in Hawaii.
God is so good!

It is a big week and a short week (for me).
This Sunday I will begin our new series called "Who's the Boss?".
We will discuss God's plan for the family.
I look forward to seeing you then.


Upcoming Events:

September 25th – Red Rock Prayer Meeting & Orientation

September 26th – Seek N Surf

September 27th-29th – Red Rock Trip

October 3rd – Venice United Soccer

October 4th – L.A. Triathlon – (Go to http://www.latriathlon.com/ for street closures.)

October 17th – CLASS 101: Connecting With God’s Family

October 18th – Small Group Leader Meeting

October 25th - Baptism

October 31st – Trunk or Treat

November 1st – 40 Days of Love

November 7th – Ladies Parking Lot Sale

November 14th – CLASS 201: Growing to be Like Christ

Amy and I leave tomorrow. We will return on the 24th.
I know that you will enjoy your time together over the next couple of Sundays. We will miss you and will look forward to seeing you on the 27th.
I will begin the family series “Who’s the Boss?” that day. I am looking forward to it.


Upcoming Events:
September 13th – Guest Speaker: Bob Henson
September 20th – Guest Speaker: Jim Gane
September 27th-29th – Red Rock Trip
October 3rd – Venice United Soccer
October 4th – L.A. Triathlon – (Go to http://www.latriathlon.com/ for street closures.)
October 17th – CLASS 101: Connecting With God’s Family
October 18th – Small Group Leader Meeting
October 25th - Baptism
October 31st – Trunk or Treat
November 1st – 40 Days of Love
November 7th – Ladies Parking Lot Sale
November 14th – CLASS 201: Growing to be Like Christ

Longest Week Ever

This has to be the longest week of each and every year. No…it is not long because it is the final week of August/first week of September. It is the longest week of the year because it is the week before Amy and I go on vacation!! Longest week ever!!
So we are grinding away. Doing our thing. Getting ready for another great Sunday with you. We will wrap up our series “Crossroads”.

When we get back I will begin a new series called “Who’s the Boss?” It is a parenting series. I am praying that God will use it in our lives. It doesn’t matter if you are single, married, a single parent, a mom, a dad, an aunt, an uncle or a grandparent I believe this series will minister to you as we come to understand God’s plan for the family.

Do your best to stay cool! See you on Sunday.


This Saturday:
Seek N Surf: Santa Monica Beach – 7:00 AM Lifeguard Tower #24 (contact:seeknsurf@gmail.com for more information.)

Venice United Soccer: Marine Park – 1:00 PM. (contact mrhensonrocks@yahoo.com for more information.)

Upcoming Events:
September 13th – Guest Speaker: Bob Henson
September 20th – Guest Speaker: Jim Gane
September 27th-29th – Red Rock Trip
October 4th – L.A. Triathlon – (Go to http://www.latriathlon.com/ for street closures.)
October 17th – CLASS 101: Connecting With God’s Family
October 18th – Small Group Leader Meeting
October 25th - Baptism
October 31st – Trunk or Treat
November 1st – 40 Days of Love
November 7th – CLASS 201: Growing to Be Like Christ

Hoe Down!

I am looking forward to the Country Hoe Down Dance this Saturday evening at 6:00 PM. Thea, our resident dance instructor, will be there to teach us the two-step. There will be prizes for the best cowboy and cowgirl outfit. We will have a great time together. Tickets will be available at the door.

There is a ton of stuff going on here at Venice. I hope that you will stay involved as the summer winds down. For all of you going to Red Rock, please continue to get your money in and you will begin hearing from Brad frequently by email. I can’t wait for Red Rock. It will be a blast.

Please continue to pray for Anita Kamberg. She has been moved to a rehab facility. You can continue to get updates here: http://howisanitadoing.wordpress.com/.


Upcoming Events:
August 29th – Seek In Surf
August 29th – Country Hoe Down Dance
September 13th – Guest Speaker: Bob Henson
September 20th – Guest Speaker: Jim Gane
September 27th-29th – Red Rock Trip
October 17th – CLASS 101: Connecting With God’s Family
October 18th – Small Group Leader Meeting
October 25th - Baptism
October 31st – Trunk or Treat
November 1st – 40 Days of Love
November 7th – CLASS 201: Growing to Be Like Christ

Soccer, Super Sunday and Other Stuff

It is amazing to watch God put ministry on the hearts of our people. Over the last couple of years we have seen a prayer ministry and a surfing ministry spring up. We have a group of young adults in our church that play Ultimate Frisbee for the sole purpose of connecting with people far from God. And now…we have some soccer enthusiasts that would like to do something similar. They are calling themselves Venice United and they are going to be at Penmar Park on Saturday at 11:30 AM. So bring your lunch and your best step over and join them for some soccer. For more information contact Richie Henson at mrhensonrocks@yahoo.com.

To celebrate their hard work, our Rockstars are rewarded with a Super Sunday every four weeks. This Sunday is Super Sunday and they will be playing water games outside. Please be sure to send your child in clothes that you do not mind getting dirty and wet. We want to have a Super time without being Super soaked in our nice clothes! For more information please contact Jennifer Villaryo (310.384.5694) or Becky Henson (310.435.4377).

Make your plans to join us for the Country Hoe Down Dance on August 29th. Thea, our resident dance instructor, will be there to teach us the two-step. There will be prizes for the best cowboy and cowgirl outfit. We will have a great time together. Tickets are $5.00 and are on sale now.

Please continue to pray for Anita Kamberg. She is still in the hospital. You can get updates here: http://howisanitadoing.wordpress.com/.


Upcoming Events:
August 22nd – VeniceUnited Soccer
August 23rd – Rockstars Super Sunday
August 29th – Seek In Surf
August 29th – Country Hoe Down Dance
September 13th – Guest Speaker: Bob Henson
September 20th – Guest Speaker: Jim Gane
September 27-29 – Red Rock Trip
October 31st – Trunk or Treat
November 1st – 40 Days of Love

Donations

The Monday night young adult small group is collecting clean, gently worn clothes and shoes for Bible Tabernacle in Venice. Clothes and shoes for men, women, and children are needed. Please bring clothes and shoes without holes, stains, and tears. Please no missing buttons or laces. Costco and Smart & Final gift cards are welcome donations as well. Collection boxes will be located right outside the worship center. Thank you for your help with this service project.

Make your plans to join us for the Country Hoe Down Dance on August 29th. Thea, our resident dance instructor, will be there to teach us the two-step. There will be prizes for the best cowboy and cowgirl outfit. We will have a great time together. Tickets are $5.00 and are on sale now.

Let me offer this for your consideration. Please make note of the dates below and please read your handout on Sunday mornings. Most of the information that you need can be found there. We are doing our best to limit the audio announcements in the Sunday service.

Please continue to pray for Anita Kamberg. She is still in the hospital. You can get updates here: http://howisanitadoing.wordpress.com/.


Upcoming Events:
August 22nd – VeniceUnited Soccer
August 23rd – Rockstars Super Sunday
August 29th – Seek In Surf
August 29th – Country Hoe Down Dance
September 13th – Guest Speaker: Bob Henson
September 20th – Guest Speaker: Jim Gane
September 27-29 – Red Rock Trip
October 31st – Trunk or Treat

Lots Going On

I know that many of you are looking forward to the Red Rock Trip. It is time to get your money in! The cost is $200.00 per person. There is specific information coming your way very soon. And…there is still room for a few more. Sign up and get your deposit in. Don’t miss this wonderful time of fun, community, and growth.

Make your plans to join us for the Country Hoe Down Dance on August 29th. Thea, our resident dance instructor, will be there to teach us the two-step. There will be prizes for the best cowboy and cowgirl outfit. We will have a great time together. Tickets are $5.00 and are on sale now.

We continue our study in Colossians on Sunday. We will be in chapter 3 once more for part 2 of our message: Your New Life. We will finish up the series on August 16th when we talk about New Life Relationships.

Let me offer this for your consideration. Please make note of the dates below and please read your handout on Sunday mornings. Most of the information that you need can be found there. We are doing our best to limit the audio announcements in the Sunday service.

Please continue to pray for Anita Kamberg. She is still in the hospital. You can get updates here: http://howisanitadoing.wordpress.com/.


Upcoming Events:
August 22nd – VeniceUnited Soccer
August 23rd – Rockstars Super Sunday
August 29th – Seek In Surf
August 29th – Country Hoe Down Dance
September 13th – Guest Speaker: Bob Henson
September 20th – Guest Speaker: Jim Gane
September 27-29 – Red Rock Trip
October 31st – Trunk or Treat
November 1st – 40 Days of Love

Keep Praying

Thank you for your continued prayer for Anita Kamberg. She is still in the hospital, but is making progress in her recovery. Your prayers are making a difference.

Every year the dog days of summer hit this time of year. It seems like every year that our offerings go through the “dog days” as well. I want to encourage you to be faithful to give as God is faithful to bless you. I know that these are difficult economic times. The offerings in July left a bit to be desired. Please pray with me that August will be better. We need to finish the summer well so that we may have a strong fall where people give their lives to Christ and members are added to the church.

The church picnic was a big success. We had a great time together. Let me encourage you to make plans to be at the Country Hoe Down Dance on August 29th. Thea, our resident dance instructor, will be there to teach us the two-step. There will be prizes for the best cowboy and cowgirl outfit. We will have a great time together. Tickets are $5.00 and will be on sale beginning Sunday.

I look forward to worshiping with you on Sunday.

Upcoming Events:
July 31st – Just Pray @ 7:00 PM @ Venice Boardwalk
August 29th – Country Hoe Down Dance
September 13th – Guest Speaker: Bob Henson
September 20th – Guest Speaker: Jim Gane
September 27-29 – Red Rock Trip

Venice Church Picnic

The Venice Church Picnic is this Saturday at Syd Kronenthal Park in Culver City. (To get there…go east on Venice Blvd. and make a right on Helms and then a left on Washington and then a right on McManus and go all the way to the dead end.) We have a spot reserved from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM. We have two covered picnic areas, two barbecues, a playground, a basketball court, a softball diamond, and room for soccer, football, and other junk. Sorry…you may not bring your dog or your barbecue. You may want to bring your beach chair. I am looking forward to seeing you there.

Hey, it is not too late to sign up for Red Rock. There are about 9 spaces left. It is going to be a blast. Some of you have no excuse for not going! You know who you are. Stop dragging your feet. Sign up! Get your deposit in. For more information contact Brad at bjensen623@verizon.net.



Upcoming Events:
July 25th – Church Picnic @ Kronenthal Park
July 26th – Seek N Surf @ Venice Pier 7:00 PM
July 31st – Just Pray @ 7:00 PM @ Venice Boardwalk
August 29th – Country Hoe Down Dance
September 27-29 – Red Rock Trip

Picnic!!

This Sunday is a Super Sunday in Rockstars. It is a great day for your kids to invite a friend. There will be lots of games and a really fun time with other kids. Encourage them to bring a friend to Rockstars this Sunday at 10:00 AM.

I hope that you are all planning to join us for the Church Picnic on Saturday July 25th. It will be a great time of just hanging out and enjoying some time together. This is also a great opportunity to invite a friend or neighbor. Bring somebody with you. We have space reserved at Kronenthal Park from 10:00 AM t0 3:00 PM. Bring your lunch and stay as long as you like.

Hey, it is not too late to sign up for Red Rock. There are about 9 spaces left. It is going to be a blast. Some of you have no excuse for not going! You know who you are. Stop dragging your feet. Sign up! Get your deposit in. For more information contact Brad at bjensen623@verizon.net.

Just a reminder that you can always read the Touching Base at my blog at http://venicetouchingbase.blogspot.com/.


Upcoming Events:
July 25th – Church Picnic @ Kronenthal Park
August 29th – Country Hoe Down Dance
September 27-29 – Red Rock Trip

Perspective

I am big on perspective. I think that it pretty much means everything. As Christ followers, our ability to see things from God’s perspective is literally everything. I have noticed that if I will pay attention, God will put things in perspective and keep things in perspective for me. Sometimes that amounts to a gentle nudge or a big proverbial smack upside the head. It may be manifest in another Christ follower or comrade in ministry calling me out. It may hit home in the form of a gentle reminder that it is not about me.

Perspective even rocks my world in the gym. This week I resumed my workouts after a week off and I was not very motivated. I did alright during my lifting. I mean, I was doing an arm workout and its beach season. That is motivation. I wasn’t, however, very motivated to do my cardio work on the elliptical and I was rationalizing and making excuses about how to get out of doing my cardio work, but I drug myself up there and began to do the work, all the while grumbling on the inside when I was given a swift kick in the basketball shorts. An amputee complete with prosthetic from what appeared to be from the knee down jumps up on the elliptical next to me and goes to work. That will give you some perspective and in my case, the motivation that you need to get over yourself and stop feeling sorry for yourself. It did motivate me. I never cease to be amazed at what a sissy I can be. I didn’t meet the man. I didn’t talk to the man. I thank him for the perspective.

Hey, it is not too late to sign up for Red Rock. There are about 9 spaces left. It is going to be a blast. Some of you have no excuse for not going! You know who you are. Stop dragging your feet. Sign up! Get your deposit in. For more information contact Brad at bjensen623@verizon.net.



Upcoming Events:
July 25th – Church Picnic @ Kronenthal Park
August 29th – Country Hoe Down Dance
September 27-29 – Red Rock Trip