Grande jantar/ show de talentos, para beneficiar os nossos irmaos caboverdianos em S Tome e Principe. Mais detalhes em breve...
2010 Retreat
Um dos cultos da Juventude--Profetas
WE ARE BACK!!!
After more than a year in silence, we are back on popular demand. Pictures, lots of them will come soon...
1 Corinthians 13:1-13
If I speak in the tongues of men and angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a tinkling symbol.
And if I have prophecy and know all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
And if I dole out all my goods, and if I deliver my body that I may boast but have not love, nothing I am profited.
Love is long suffering, love is kind, it is not jealous, love does not boast, it is not inflated.
It is not discourteous, it is not selfish, it is not irritable, it does not enumerate the evil.It does not rejoice over the wrong, but rejoices in the truth
It covers all things, it has faith for all things, it hopes in all things, it endures in all things.
Love never falls in ruins; but whether prophecies, they will be abolished; or tongues, they will cease; or knowledge, it will be superseded.
For we know in part and we prophecy in part.
But when the perfect comes, the imperfect will be superseded.
When I was an infant, I spoke as an infant, I reckoned as an infant;
when I became [an adult], I abolished the things of the infant.
For now we see through a mirror in an enigma, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know as also I was fully known.
But now remains faith, hope, love,
these three;
but the greatest of these is love.
And if I have prophecy and know all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
And if I dole out all my goods, and if I deliver my body that I may boast but have not love, nothing I am profited.
Love is long suffering, love is kind, it is not jealous, love does not boast, it is not inflated.
It is not discourteous, it is not selfish, it is not irritable, it does not enumerate the evil.It does not rejoice over the wrong, but rejoices in the truth
It covers all things, it has faith for all things, it hopes in all things, it endures in all things.
Love never falls in ruins; but whether prophecies, they will be abolished; or tongues, they will cease; or knowledge, it will be superseded.
For we know in part and we prophecy in part.
But when the perfect comes, the imperfect will be superseded.
When I was an infant, I spoke as an infant, I reckoned as an infant;
when I became [an adult], I abolished the things of the infant.
For now we see through a mirror in an enigma, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know as also I was fully known.
But now remains faith, hope, love,
these three;
but the greatest of these is love.
GREATNESS!!!!
"If you want to be important, WONDERFUL; If you want to be recognized, WONDERFUL; If you want to be great, WONDERFUL. But He who wants to be the greatest, shall be a SERVANT; That's the new definition of GREATNESS"
Dr Martin Luther King, Jr
I wonder...series
I wonder: Are parties bad?
In answering this type of question, it’s tough not to sound heavy handed. After all, teenage parties do not exactly have a great reputation. The key word to remember is not yes or no, but why—your motive is the key. If you were honest, you’d have to agree that many of the reasons people party are pretty selfish. Most parties cater to the notion that it’s a person’s right to have good time, especially if it’s not hurting anyone.
It someone is living apart from God, why would he or she think anything different? The Bible agrees that if this life doesn’t matter, then “let’s feast and get drunk, for tomorrow we die!” (1 Corinthians 15:32) The motive behind going to parties is what God is most concerned about. If it’s to get drunk, take drugs, pick up the opposite sex, then God wouldn’t want you at parties. The motive might be to be seen with the “cool” people. Being with certain people sometimes may help you feel accepted and even popular, but God accepts you as you are—and His acceptance is more important than anyone else’s.
Jesus isn’t against parties. He went to parties, and was, in fact, the life of the party! But His motives were entirely different from the selfish ones described above. He went to show that He accepted them, to communicate truth about the character of God, and to celebrate life (see Mark 2:13-17)
Should you do the same? Perhaps, but there are a few questions to consider:
· Have you grown sufficiently in your faith that you will not be tempted if there is pressure to drink (or whatever)?
· Do you know someone who will go with you, so you can encourage each other to stay clean?
· Are you going as a light or as a hammer? That is, do you genuinely want to help those in darkness, or do you want to pound on them to feel good about your “moral” lifestyle?
· Is there a chance that you could be found “guilty by association”? When others hear you were at the party, how will they know you didn’t drink? Is it worth the hassle it may cause in making sure your reputation stay intact?
· What do you parents think about attending that party? Would you have to not tell them in order to go?
Remember, motive is the key. But even with good motives, be cautious. The results of such activities, even with the best of motives, may be more than you can handle
In answering this type of question, it’s tough not to sound heavy handed. After all, teenage parties do not exactly have a great reputation. The key word to remember is not yes or no, but why—your motive is the key. If you were honest, you’d have to agree that many of the reasons people party are pretty selfish. Most parties cater to the notion that it’s a person’s right to have good time, especially if it’s not hurting anyone.
It someone is living apart from God, why would he or she think anything different? The Bible agrees that if this life doesn’t matter, then “let’s feast and get drunk, for tomorrow we die!” (1 Corinthians 15:32) The motive behind going to parties is what God is most concerned about. If it’s to get drunk, take drugs, pick up the opposite sex, then God wouldn’t want you at parties. The motive might be to be seen with the “cool” people. Being with certain people sometimes may help you feel accepted and even popular, but God accepts you as you are—and His acceptance is more important than anyone else’s.
Jesus isn’t against parties. He went to parties, and was, in fact, the life of the party! But His motives were entirely different from the selfish ones described above. He went to show that He accepted them, to communicate truth about the character of God, and to celebrate life (see Mark 2:13-17)
Should you do the same? Perhaps, but there are a few questions to consider:
· Have you grown sufficiently in your faith that you will not be tempted if there is pressure to drink (or whatever)?
· Do you know someone who will go with you, so you can encourage each other to stay clean?
· Are you going as a light or as a hammer? That is, do you genuinely want to help those in darkness, or do you want to pound on them to feel good about your “moral” lifestyle?
· Is there a chance that you could be found “guilty by association”? When others hear you were at the party, how will they know you didn’t drink? Is it worth the hassle it may cause in making sure your reputation stay intact?
· What do you parents think about attending that party? Would you have to not tell them in order to go?
Remember, motive is the key. But even with good motives, be cautious. The results of such activities, even with the best of motives, may be more than you can handle
in "Student's life application Bible"
Youth Retreat One Love, One Fellowship!!!
What: 2007 Youth Retreat One Love, One Fellowship!!!
When: Friday, November 23rd 5pm to Sunday, November 25th
Where: Singing Hills, New Hampshire
Why: Because Jesus love you and so do we!! Also come learn about true fellowship
How much: $70, which includes the $20 deposit.
"I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ" ~ Philemon 6
When: Friday, November 23rd 5pm to Sunday, November 25th
Where: Singing Hills, New Hampshire
Why: Because Jesus love you and so do we!! Also come learn about true fellowship
How much: $70, which includes the $20 deposit.
"I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ" ~ Philemon 6
PS: Click on the title to visit the Singing Hills webpage
ARE YOU STILL SPLEEPING…?
by Rev. Benedito Monteiro
Text: Matthew 26:36-46
Intro
Jesus and his disciples had just finished eating their last meal together
They had prayed and sung hymns of praise together, but the day wasn’t over yet
Jesus is a few hours from the biggest event in his life on earth – his redemptive suffering and his death on the cross
It’s becoming dark – Jesus doesn’t go home to rest after a long and exhausting day
Instead he goes to a place he used to go frequently – the Garden of Gethsemane – with a very specific purpose
Jesus goes there to pray – to meet his Father – to get strength to continue his course
What do you do when you are physically exhausted and mentally and emotionally drained and stressed out?
Where do you go when you’re dealing with a very serious problem in your life? Whom do you seek for help and advice?
Do you go to your Heavenly Father in prayer – do you seek his will?
When your day is cloudy and you can’t clearly see the will of God - do you go to Him in prayer?
Hebrew 5:7 says this about Jesus: “During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.”
Turn with me to Matthew 26:36-46 to read about one those occasions when Jesus prayed
Let’s find out whom he took with him, how and what and why he prayed and what happen to his companions...(click on the title for the full message)
Warning And Response
Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. —1 Thessalonians 5:6
When a dangerous blizzard hit Colorado Springs in late October 2006, residents had plenty of warning. Weather forecasters began predicting the storm 36 hours before it arrived. On a warm, sunny afternoon people swarmed into grocery stores to buy supplies, while tire shops worked overtime to meet the demand for winter treads. Everyone was talking about the coming storm. Even before the snow began, schools and businesses announced they would be closed for the day. When the storm hit with blowing snow and freezing temperatures, most people were safe at home, not trying to get to work or school.
When we believe a warning, it affects our behavior. It’s true in every area of life, including our walk of faith. Paul wrote to the Christians in Thessalonica, reminding them that the day of the Lord would come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night (1 Thess. 5:2). His call to action urged them to avoid spiritual lethargy but remain alert and self-controlled (v.6).
Paul’s challenge echoed Jesus’ own words urging His followers to be watchful and ready, "for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect" (Matt. 24:44).
If we believe our Lord’s word about His coming, how will it affect our thoughts and actions today? —David C. McCasland
What would He find, should He come just now: A faded leaf, or a fruitless bough; A servant sleeping, an idle plow? What would He find, should He come just now? —Anon.
Every Christian should be an expectant uplooker, not a sleepy onlooker!
When a dangerous blizzard hit Colorado Springs in late October 2006, residents had plenty of warning. Weather forecasters began predicting the storm 36 hours before it arrived. On a warm, sunny afternoon people swarmed into grocery stores to buy supplies, while tire shops worked overtime to meet the demand for winter treads. Everyone was talking about the coming storm. Even before the snow began, schools and businesses announced they would be closed for the day. When the storm hit with blowing snow and freezing temperatures, most people were safe at home, not trying to get to work or school.
When we believe a warning, it affects our behavior. It’s true in every area of life, including our walk of faith. Paul wrote to the Christians in Thessalonica, reminding them that the day of the Lord would come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night (1 Thess. 5:2). His call to action urged them to avoid spiritual lethargy but remain alert and self-controlled (v.6).
Paul’s challenge echoed Jesus’ own words urging His followers to be watchful and ready, "for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect" (Matt. 24:44).
If we believe our Lord’s word about His coming, how will it affect our thoughts and actions today? —David C. McCasland
What would He find, should He come just now: A faded leaf, or a fruitless bough; A servant sleeping, an idle plow? What would He find, should He come just now? —Anon.
Every Christian should be an expectant uplooker, not a sleepy onlooker!
PRAYER -- BEING INTIMATE WITH GOD
by Rev. Benedito Monteiro
Text: I Thessalonians 5:17 .Pray Continually..
Introduction
• A university professor surveyed 20,000 Christians in 139 countries . he found
that 6 out of 10 (60%) Christians don.t have a regular devotional prayer life
• Another survey reveals that 70% of church members don.t attend weekly
prayer meetings...
(click on the title for the full text)
Text: I Thessalonians 5:17 .Pray Continually..
Introduction
• A university professor surveyed 20,000 Christians in 139 countries . he found
that 6 out of 10 (60%) Christians don.t have a regular devotional prayer life
• Another survey reveals that 70% of church members don.t attend weekly
prayer meetings...
(click on the title for the full text)
Learning From a Teenager (2)
Who is your role model?His mother brought him to the temple when he was little. He came to stay. As much as she wanted to keep and raise him, Hannah could not afford to fail to fulfill the promise she had made when she asked God to give her a child.
Thus Hannah dedicated her son Samuel to the Lord and left him at the temple under the care of Priest Eli, as she’d promised God. But was the temple the safest and the best place for Samuel to be raised in? Supposedly it was. However, there were temptations – some options if you will – concerning the role models for Samuel at this new setting. Priest Eli had two sons. Both of them were in the ministry. Although they were priests their behavior was reckless and reprehensible. Behold the dilemma unfolding. Which of these individuals – Priest Eli or his sons – will Samuel pick as his role model? Well, before we go any further, let us consider some simple facts. First, Eli was an old man. Second, Eli’s boys were much, much younger than Eli was, obviously. Third, Priest Eli was a kind of a conservative boring guy. Fourth, the boys were fun to be with and more aligned with the popular and modern culture than their father Eli. Honestly, if it were you in Samuel’s shoes, who would you pick? You probably would pick the boys. But the fact of the matter is that too many youth fail to choose the right role model for their lives today. Do you concur? Are you one of them?
So, based on these facts, which of these two models is Samuel going to look up to and emulate – the “old conservative boring priest” or the “liberal untamed young boys” whose questionable moral behavior was staining their character, jeopardizing their ministry, and discrediting their father’s authority? You’re right. Perfect guessing! Samuel was wise enough to pick the old Priest Eli as his role model rather than follow the footsteps of the two wild and immoral “religious” boys living around him.
Samuel might’ve struggled with the temptation to fit in Eli’s boys’ life style by giving in and choosing them as his role model because they may have had much more in common than he had with the old Priest Eli. As strong as this temptation seemed to be, Samuel ended up winning the battle by choosing to model his life after Eli, the old man of God, against all the odds. Praise God! Believe me, it paid off. God rewarded Samuel by calling him to be His prophet, His people’s judge, and an excellent role model for both his and the future generations.
Who is your role model? What criteria did you use to choose your role model? Is your role model a man or a woman of God whose life is grounded in the Word of God and guided by the Holy Spirit? Watch out! The role model you choose to follow today will ultimately shape your character and determine who and where you are going to be tomorrow. Therefore, be wise and choose the right role model, as so wisely did Samuel.
by B.Monteiro (Once A Teenager)
9/26/07
Learning From a Teenager (1)
What am I doing before the Lord?
That is a thought-provoking question. It is a question that every teenager, every young adult, and every adult, who claims to be a Christian, should ask themselves everyday. In a sense, that would be a way of keeping their spiritual accountability. Have you ever stopped to ask yourself that question? Then, what do you do when you come to the house of the Lord? Honestly, do you come to church just because your parents, somehow, are making you come? Maybe you come because you also want to meet your friends there and chat with them before, during, and after the service. Am I right?
In chapter 3 of the book of I Samuel we read about a teenager whose name was Samuel. He was just a 13 year old boy. The first verse of that chapter tells us that “the boy Samuel ministered before the Lord…” Amazing – a teenager ministering before the Lord! What does that mean? Does it mean he preached? Does it mean he led the worship service? It could mean all of that, but Samuel was not there yet. It means that despite being a teenager Samuel was doing his best to take his relationship with God seriously.
By the way, the word ministered here means served. Simply put, Samuel served before the Lord. He served before the Lord by doing simple things like opening and closing the doors of the temple, and paying close attention to what was going on in the house of the Lord. Samuel did not disconnect himself from the worship service by talking with pals sat by him, or sending and receiving text messages to and from friends afar, or even playing games on the cell phone as a way of killing the ever present teenage syndrome – the boredom (I am bored!). Samuel did better than that. And I would dare to say that he might have done more than just taking care of the doors and showing reverence in the temple. He might have read the Scriptures (the Bible) to the congregation, or played a musical instrument in the worship band, or passionately sung songs of praise during the worship service, or even prayed, just to name a few. Wow! That’s cool!
Let us go back, then, to the thought-provoking question. What am I doing before the Lord? Am I just being a spectator and a distraction to my peers before the Lord? Am I doing everything else but serving before the Lord in His house? I sincerely regret being a spectator, or a distraction, or a … whatever. I want to go back to the “heart of worship” and minister before the Lord as Samuel did because I do not want to miss the blessings that come from that.
That is a thought-provoking question. It is a question that every teenager, every young adult, and every adult, who claims to be a Christian, should ask themselves everyday. In a sense, that would be a way of keeping their spiritual accountability. Have you ever stopped to ask yourself that question? Then, what do you do when you come to the house of the Lord? Honestly, do you come to church just because your parents, somehow, are making you come? Maybe you come because you also want to meet your friends there and chat with them before, during, and after the service. Am I right?
In chapter 3 of the book of I Samuel we read about a teenager whose name was Samuel. He was just a 13 year old boy. The first verse of that chapter tells us that “the boy Samuel ministered before the Lord…” Amazing – a teenager ministering before the Lord! What does that mean? Does it mean he preached? Does it mean he led the worship service? It could mean all of that, but Samuel was not there yet. It means that despite being a teenager Samuel was doing his best to take his relationship with God seriously.
By the way, the word ministered here means served. Simply put, Samuel served before the Lord. He served before the Lord by doing simple things like opening and closing the doors of the temple, and paying close attention to what was going on in the house of the Lord. Samuel did not disconnect himself from the worship service by talking with pals sat by him, or sending and receiving text messages to and from friends afar, or even playing games on the cell phone as a way of killing the ever present teenage syndrome – the boredom (I am bored!). Samuel did better than that. And I would dare to say that he might have done more than just taking care of the doors and showing reverence in the temple. He might have read the Scriptures (the Bible) to the congregation, or played a musical instrument in the worship band, or passionately sung songs of praise during the worship service, or even prayed, just to name a few. Wow! That’s cool!
Let us go back, then, to the thought-provoking question. What am I doing before the Lord? Am I just being a spectator and a distraction to my peers before the Lord? Am I doing everything else but serving before the Lord in His house? I sincerely regret being a spectator, or a distraction, or a … whatever. I want to go back to the “heart of worship” and minister before the Lord as Samuel did because I do not want to miss the blessings that come from that.
By Once A Teenager (B Monteiro)
9/3/2007
9/3/2007
God has a positive answer
You say: "It's impossible" God says: All things are possible (Luke 18:27)
You say: "I'm too tired" God says: I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28-30)
You say: "Nobody really loves me" God says: I love you (John 3:1 6 & John 3:34 )
You say: "I can't go on" God says: My grace is sufficient (II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)
You say: "I can't figure things out" God says: I will direct your steps (Proverbs 3:5- 6)
You say: "I can't do it" God says : You can do all things (Philippians 4:13)
You say: "I'm not able" God says: I am able (II Corinthians 9:8)
You say: "It's not worth it" God says: It will be worth it (Roman 8:28 )
You say: "I can't forgive myself" God says: I Forgive you (I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: "I can't manage" God says: I will supply all your needs (Philippians 4:19)
You say: "I'm afraid" God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear (II Timothy 1:7)
You say: "I'm always worried and frustrated" God says: Cast all your cares on ME (I Peter 5:7)
You say: "I'm not smart enough" God says: I give you wisdom (I Corinthians 1:30)
You say: "I feel all alone" God says: I will never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5)
"God determines who walks into your life but it's up to you to decide who you let walk away, who you let stay, and who you refuse to let go." This weeks prayer: Father, God bless all my friends in whatever it is that you know they may need this day! And may their life be full of your peace, prosperity and power as they seek to have a closer relationship with you. Amen. Have a Wonderful Day!!
You say: "I'm too tired" God says: I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28-30)
You say: "Nobody really loves me" God says: I love you (John 3:1 6 & John 3:34 )
You say: "I can't go on" God says: My grace is sufficient (II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)
You say: "I can't figure things out" God says: I will direct your steps (Proverbs 3:5- 6)
You say: "I can't do it" God says : You can do all things (Philippians 4:13)
You say: "I'm not able" God says: I am able (II Corinthians 9:8)
You say: "It's not worth it" God says: It will be worth it (Roman 8:28 )
You say: "I can't forgive myself" God says: I Forgive you (I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: "I can't manage" God says: I will supply all your needs (Philippians 4:19)
You say: "I'm afraid" God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear (II Timothy 1:7)
You say: "I'm always worried and frustrated" God says: Cast all your cares on ME (I Peter 5:7)
You say: "I'm not smart enough" God says: I give you wisdom (I Corinthians 1:30)
You say: "I feel all alone" God says: I will never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5)
"God determines who walks into your life but it's up to you to decide who you let walk away, who you let stay, and who you refuse to let go." This weeks prayer: Father, God bless all my friends in whatever it is that you know they may need this day! And may their life be full of your peace, prosperity and power as they seek to have a closer relationship with you. Amen. Have a Wonderful Day!!
Juventude
II Timothy 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
New clothes are in the closet, and the books and backpacks are out and ready to go. Summer vacation is over and it’s back to school! Weeks of summer pleasure gave young minds a chance to rest, but now it’s back to work. It’s time to study again.
There is one book that we should never get tired of studying and learning from. That, of course, is The Holy Bible. Sixty-six books in one, this text gives us history, poetry, prophecy, and doctrine. From Genesis to Revelation the continuous story of man’s relationship to God and His plan for redemption unfolds. This incredible book provides great mystery and at the same time delivers unalterable truth penned under the inspiration of God by forty-four writers spanning over twenty centuries of time. Though written thousands of years ago, the Bible clearly presents God’s commands for successful living and wisdom for every step of life’s journey. And these truths are as relevant today as they were the day they were recorded.
When was the last time you really took the time to dig in and study God’s Word? Did the busyness of summer cause you to slack off of your study of God’s Word? Vacations? Travel? Kids at home? Extra outside work? No matter what the season, there are plenty of things to distract you and keep you from studying, but it’s time to put away the excuses and get into the Word. As fall arrives, I encourage you look around and find a good Bible study group and dig in. Mark it on your calendar and make that study a part of your regular routine. If you do, you’ll experience fresh blessings from your Heavenly Father, and the fun and fellowship of meeting with other believers. What are you waiting for? It’s time to study!
Precious Lord, Your Word is my source of strength and wisdom. Let me never be so unwise as to think that I know enough of it. Let me never neglect studying it. Let me never stop loving it.
By Ann Shorb©Copyright Ann Shorb, 2006
Just four Words...
"Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours."{Mark 11:24}
Believing. That's the key to everything in the Christian life.
It's the way we tap into the very power of God Himself.You might already know that, but do you know how to put itinto action?
It's as simple as doing what Mark 11:24 says to do. Simplybelieve you receive. Say that: "I believe I receive."
Something happens inside you when you say those words. Idon't understand how, but it does. I don't understand how mydigestive system knows what to do when I swallow some-thing, but it does. All I have to do is take a bit of food and it goes to work. It just happens. That's the way the body is made.
In much the same way, when you feed on the promises in God's Word and 'Swallow' them into your spirit by saying, "I believe I receive," faith is released. It just happens.
When you constantly say, "I believe I receive my healing" or "I believe I received my needs met," and then quote the scriptures that back those words, faith is released. And faith brings power to meet those needs.
Say those words when you pray. Say them when you read the Bible. And be sure to say them in the face of darkness, when it looks like nothing is happening. When everything looks the worst, say it the loudest. I believe I receive!
Activate your faith today-by making those four key words the most important words in your vocabulary.
Talk the Truth "I believe I receive what I ask for in prayer." {Mark 11:24}
Study the Truth Mark 11:12-24
Read the Truth Exodus 16,17; Mark 8
http://www.kids-teens.org/Devotionals/youth.htm
We cannot live an idle life and expect God to answer our prayers. We must align our lives with God's will and He will bless us in ways that we never imagined.
Believing. That's the key to everything in the Christian life.
It's the way we tap into the very power of God Himself.You might already know that, but do you know how to put itinto action?
It's as simple as doing what Mark 11:24 says to do. Simplybelieve you receive. Say that: "I believe I receive."
Something happens inside you when you say those words. Idon't understand how, but it does. I don't understand how mydigestive system knows what to do when I swallow some-thing, but it does. All I have to do is take a bit of food and it goes to work. It just happens. That's the way the body is made.
In much the same way, when you feed on the promises in God's Word and 'Swallow' them into your spirit by saying, "I believe I receive," faith is released. It just happens.
When you constantly say, "I believe I receive my healing" or "I believe I received my needs met," and then quote the scriptures that back those words, faith is released. And faith brings power to meet those needs.
Say those words when you pray. Say them when you read the Bible. And be sure to say them in the face of darkness, when it looks like nothing is happening. When everything looks the worst, say it the loudest. I believe I receive!
Activate your faith today-by making those four key words the most important words in your vocabulary.
Talk the Truth "I believe I receive what I ask for in prayer." {Mark 11:24}
Study the Truth Mark 11:12-24
Read the Truth Exodus 16,17; Mark 8
http://www.kids-teens.org/Devotionals/youth.htm
We cannot live an idle life and expect God to answer our prayers. We must align our lives with God's will and He will bless us in ways that we never imagined.
Attitude
Tue, 31 Jul 2007
“The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company…a church…a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past…we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude… I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you… we are in charge of our Attitudes.”
Author: http://youngadults.ag.org/
“The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company…a church…a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past…we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude… I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you… we are in charge of our Attitudes.”
Author: http://youngadults.ag.org/
What Are You Becoming?
Phillipians 3:12-13 says, “I don’t mean to say I am perfect. I haven’t learned all I should even yet, but I keep working toward that day when I will finally be all Christ saved me for and wants me to be. No dear brothers, I am still not all I should be, but I am bringing all my energies to bear on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead.”
You’ve probably heard the phrase before, “do as I say, not as I do.” Why do people use these words? Why is it difficult for most of us to be able to genuinely say “do as I do?” It’s because most of us have areas in our life that are not yet pleasing to God, let alone pleasing to people. And furthermore, many people can’t honestly say that through discipline and prayer they have consistently grown and matured in the majority of their weaknesses.
We live in an undisciplined society. Most Americans are materially, socially and financially okay and content, and until life reaches crisis proportions, many people do little, if anything, of consequence to consistently affect and impact their weak areas.
What are you becoming? Consider these words…
Watch your thoughts – they become words
You’ve probably heard the phrase before, “do as I say, not as I do.” Why do people use these words? Why is it difficult for most of us to be able to genuinely say “do as I do?” It’s because most of us have areas in our life that are not yet pleasing to God, let alone pleasing to people. And furthermore, many people can’t honestly say that through discipline and prayer they have consistently grown and matured in the majority of their weaknesses.
We live in an undisciplined society. Most Americans are materially, socially and financially okay and content, and until life reaches crisis proportions, many people do little, if anything, of consequence to consistently affect and impact their weak areas.
What are you becoming? Consider these words…
Watch your thoughts – they become words
Watch your words – they become actions
Watch your actions – they become habit
Watch your habits – they become character
Watch your character – for it becomes your destiny
You are not all you can be, but what are you becoming? Begin today to become God’s mature woman or man He desires you to be! Discipline your thoughts, words, actions, and habits. Spend time regularly with God!
Author: Dennis Franck
Our call to serve at Providence First Church of the Nazarene
Communication (summary) about our call to serve at Providence First Church of the NazareneSunday, July 8, 2007
In 1 Corinthians12:17-18 we read, “If the body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be?... But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be.”
The Body of Christ works better when we discover our task in this body and we do our best for the unity of the body.
For about 20 years, after earning a BA in theology from Eastern Nazarene College, I had been ministering at the Emaus Church of the Nazarene in various categories, including as a minister of praise and worship. God uses us as we make ourselves available.
To live in the will of God is to live according to His Word. It is to live aware of the fact that the Lord of the harvest is the one who calls, the one who sends laborers, and determines the tasks and length of time to carry out such tasks.
Change is inevitable. Some changes are uncomfortable or difficult to accept even when they are necessary. Change is a fact of life. Whenever there is change there will be adjustments, readjustments, and a price to be paid.
An athlete said, “You pay a price for getting stronger. You pay a price for getting faster. You pay a price for jumping higher. You pay a price for staying just the same.” (H. Jackson Brown)
To stay in the same place avoiding changes is much easier and less stressful.
Since 1980 the Emaus Church had been my only church. Twenty three years later we faced the merger with the Brockton Betel Church of the Nazarene. That was a change - A major change. Even though it was marvelous change it was not easy. Traditions and situations were taken in consideration. Plans were made, accomplished, and others were put aside.
A price was paid in order not to stay the same.
I have sought to serve God with gladness and in obedience fulfilling the task assigned to me with the gifts and abilities He has granted me and leaving the future in His hands. My testimony has been: “Take my life and let it be consecrate, Lord, to Thee.” “Gladly will I bow down as Your servant and I long to do your will. Here I am, till my calling is fulfilled. Here I am.”
Dr. Daniel Boone, a Nazarene pastor and the president of Travecca Nazarene University wrote, “Saying yes to God isn’t a one-time thing; it’s a daily decision to get up and follow Him.”
Someone said, “Ignoring a calling can lead to depression, anger, frustration, and a deep dissatisfaction with life. And I have learned that following a calling can also lead to moments of depression, anger, frustration, and loneliness. Yet, underneath those feelings will be a profound sense of peace and satisfaction.”
In the beginning of June, our superintendent, Dr. Josie Owens, called me with another opportunity. She then gave me some time to think and pray about it. Three weeks later, after seeking divine guidance, a meeting with the board conducting the pastoral search was scheduled. Only then a decision would be made.
The final decision was made after much prayer, meditation, and divine and human guidance. In Amos 3:7 we read, “Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets.” Through the Word of God, the testimony of others, and occurrences in our lives, but specially, through His Spirit who witnesses to our spirit, God made things clearer bringing a sense of assurance and peace.
This is an emotional moment when, after serving God for more two decades in this congregation, in this church that has been my life for 27 years, God willed to call us to serve in another location and assignment. In September I will be starting as senior pastor of Providence First Church of the Nazarene.
It is not always easy to obey. Many times our will prevails. The Apostle Peter said, “We must obey God rather than men!” (Ac.5:29) And many times the “men” is our own self.
Changes and transference are never easy to follow through. This kind of change is made with a spirit of obedience saying, “Yes, Lord, yes to your will and to your way. When your Spirit speaks to me with my whole heart I’ll agree. And my answer will be yes, Lord, yes.”
The Alianca choir has sung and we believe that “His grace is sufficient”. The choir has challenged singing, “God will make a way.” We have been exhorted when we sing, “Your anxiety and fear take to the Lord in prayer.” And we have all sung, “My service, my problems, my future I offer to You.” Whether singing or speaking, we have to live what we preach. It is based on this faith, “being sure of what e hope for and certain of what we do not see,” that we go on.
It has been an incredible blessing to be the pastor of praise and worship. It has been a privilege directing the choir Alianca despite its difficulties and limitations has ministered to the church but mainly to me. The brothers and sisters members of the choir has always shown willingness to do anything in order to praise and exalt our God. After all our audience has been an audience of one – God, the author and goal of our worship. The fellowship with many choir members during these 20 years will never be substituted.
Indeed, it has been a joy and privilege serving this congregation. We will be leaving this congregation but not our fellowship. As members of this “body”, we will be relocated to another part of the Body of Christ. From the other side of the body, we will be strengthened by your sincere love, dedicated friendship, and continued support.
It had been a privilege working alongside pastors Antonio and Daniel Leite at the Emaus Church, and more recently, with pastors Joao Monteiro, Natanael Duarte e Carlos Tavares. Presently, at the Nova Alianca Church, it has been a blessing serving alongside pastors Benedito Monteiro, Natanael, e Carlos.
We are grateful to God for a church that has learned to demonstrate a true Christian love. A church that has embraced us and showed tolerance toward our weaknesses. A church that has learned to obey the voice of the Holy Spirit, the One that speaks to the churches. We appreciate your prayers.
May God continue making adjustments in our lives in order that the world may know about the unity in a healthy Body.
Yours, in Christ, Pastor Silas Almeida
'Help My Unbelief'
Mark 9:14-29
The Healing of a Boy with a Spirit
When they came to the disciples, they saw a great crowd around them, and some scribes arguing with them. When the whole crowd saw him, they were immediately overcome with awe, and they ran forward to greet him. He asked them, "What are you arguing about with them?" Someone from the crowd answered him, "Teacher, I brought you my son; he has a spirit that makes him unable to speak; and whenever it seizes him, it dashes him down; and he foams and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid; and I asked your disciples to cast it out, but they could not do so." He answered them, "You faithless generation, how much longer must I be among you? How much longer must I put up with you? Bring him to me." And they brought the boy to him. When the spirit saw him, immediately it convulsed the boy, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at the mouth. Jesus asked the father, "How long has this been happening to him?" And he said, "From childhood. It has often cast him into the fire and into the water, to destroy him; but if you are able to do anything, have pity on us and help us." Jesus said to him, "If you are able!—All things can be done for the one who believes." Immediately the father of the child cried out, "I believe; help my unbelief!" When Jesus saw that a crowd came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, "You spirit that keeps this boy from speaking and hearing, I command you, come out of him, and never enter him again!" After crying out and convulsing him terribly, it came out, and the boy was like a corpse, so that most of them said, "He is dead." But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he was able to stand. When he had entered the house, his disciples asked him privately, "Why could we not cast it out?" He said to them, "This kind can come out only through prayer."
The Five Finger Prayer
This is so neat. I had never heard this before...This is beautiful - and it is surely worth making the 5 finger prayer a part of our lives.
1. Your thumb is nearest you. So begin your prayers by praying for those closest to you. They are the easiest to remember. To pray for our loved ones is, as C. S. Lewis once said, a "sweet duty."
2. The next finger is the pointing finger. Pray for those who teach, instruct and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and ministers. They need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction. Keep them in your prayers.
3. The next finger is the tallest finger. It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for the president and other leaders. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion. They need God's guidance.
4. The fourth finger is our ring finger. Surprising to many is the fact that this is our weakest finger; as any piano teacher will testify. It should remind us to pray for those who are weak, in trouble or in pain. They need your prayers day and night. You cannot pray too much for them.
5. And lastly comes our little finger; the smallest finger of all which is where we should place ourselves in relation to God and others. As the Bible says, "The least shall be the greatest among you." Your pinkie should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for the other four groups, your own needs will be put into proper perspective and you will be able to pray for yourself more effectively.
Have a Great & Blessed Day.
Forwarded by Neida
Windsor Hills Senior High Camp, July 23-28/REPORT
The Beginning: We all thought that this retreat was going to be like Singing Hills. We thought that we would choose cabins, have games to choose from, go to church, and then start a new day. However, everything was way different then what we believed. The holy spirit was truly with us during this week and blessed us with friends, relationships, insight, and open heart for our Jesus to dwell in. The first day was as follows:
Registration: we were checked off for being present, we were told our cabins and counselors. Then we were checked for lice and were told that a swim test was required later on.
Registration: we were checked off for being present, we were told our cabins and counselors. Then we were checked for lice and were told that a swim test was required later on.
Introduction: We were told to meet at the chapel so that they could tell us rules and how the camp was going to be run. Challenge: When we got to our cabins the first day, we were told to change into clothes that we wouldn't mind throwing away. We, first, played the name game to get to know our cabin mates. Then, we went to the upper field and had challenges; girls against girls cabins and guys against guys. The games were messy and on top of that it was pouring rain. We went from tug of war, steal the greased melon, marshmallows soaked in ketchup and mustard that we threw at out opposing team, water slide and the messiest of all mud wrestling. The freshest part of this experience was meeting our cabin buddies and joining together to get the victory prize of first in line for our meals. The day ended with cabin devotions between the counselors and mates and ended in a prayer and everyone went to bed.
The Week: Breakfast was served at 8am every morning and the food (by the way) was really good. After breakfast, we had a couple of games and activities to choose from that we were to participate in for an hour. After that, we had a half-hour to go back to our cabins for devotional and prepare for Chapel. At 10:45, we all went up to the Chapel to praise, worship, and learn about our Lord. After Chapel we were given a few minutes to go back to our cabins to talk about what we learned and to have a short prayer amongst our cabin mates. and then we went to lunch.[Yummy!! =)] Prior to Tuesdays schedule we chose groups that we wanted to be a part of based on our athletic, artistic, our unknown talents. Of course, the group that came from Brockton/Cambridge chose Group B (the lets chill and do whatever feels right at the time group). So after Chapel, we would separate into our groups and go to one out of the four designated activities for a certain amount of time. After the long hours in the sun, we would return to the mid-field and have dinner. After dinner we would have an hour of free time, where we could do whatever we pleased and could get ready to go back to Chapel. After the second service there was another hour where we could choose to go to the snack shack and have junk food. We decided to either have junk food, hang out, or have a moment with the wonderful preacher we had. At 10pm we returned to the Chapel for instructions on what we could do until it was time to go to our cabins. Everyday had different activities that we were to choose from.You could either stay in a room and ask the preacher questions that didn't make sense in the service, or go back to "the hanger" and chill, or you could go to the hall where musicians played for any fans!!! Everyone was to return to their cabins at 11:30 and lights were out at 12.
The Experience: On the first day, we all agreed that we were outcasts. Everyone was so excited to see one another as we just walked in, no one giving us eye contact or friendly waves. When we saw our cabins and beds, we thought, "Wow, how many days are left?" However, this attitude quickly changed in all of us once we actually did meet people. When the campers came together in the Chapel before a service and started dancing and running around we thought that we had come to the wrong camp. But quickly that idea escaped from our minds. When the campers and counselors came together there was a definite bond in the air and that bond was through Jesus and his mighty love. The love that each of us felt came together and made this great force against anything we didn't want to deal with. Whether it was problems in our lives at home, or awkwardness being around complete strangers, it all changed once we entered the Chapel. There was something about Windsor Hills that touched all of our hearts in special ways. We all made friends and each night after the last service, God was talking so loudly to all of us that no one was able to ignore. Some of us made friends that wouldn't leave our backs and wanted to learn more about our culture and amazing cape verdean creole language! Others, spent moments alone pouring out their hearts and crying to the call of Christ in their hearts. Some of us, didn't show how much they opened up until the end of the retreat. Some of us felt touched by the message God put through our wonderful preacher Jeremiah. Some of us held our hands high to Jesus in praise and worship. Some found new love like the joy of reading the bible and faithfully believing the deep message that was being preached through the bible. Some enjoyed fellowship out in the field and fellowship with our cabin counselors as they listened to our cries. The first time I went up to the alter, I felt a hand being placed on my back and then another, and another, I soon heard many voices praying for me and tears ran down because I couldn't believe that I felt the presence of my Lord with me and my fellow Christ believers. The amazing love that the people at Windsor Hills showed us was unforgettable and forever undescribable. Every teen that went up to Jeremiah told him how scared they were that they were going to leave the Camp and go back to living in the ways of the world. However, by the end of the week, we all came on our way home, humming new songs that we learned about the Lord, thinking about the friends and laughter we shared with our cabin mates, and most definitely not forgetting that we belong to Jesus and that the message that we received at Windsor Hills will be practiced in our lives until the next time we return and learn more to contribute to our daily lives as Christians. What a wonderful time we had at Windsor Hills and I pray that God blesses all the souls that attended, that everyone may see the love of God through them, not just by their checklist deeds, and that we try our best to live for Christ no matter the temptations that follow us. May we not let anyone look down on us because we are young, but dear Lord, we ask that you help us set an example for the believers in speech, life, love, faith, and purity. Amen & Amen.
Written By:Yara C. and Kerlin R.
Campers:Yara C., Samantha G., Vanessa DS., Kerlin R., Jovanni T.
Camp Counselor: Manny DB.
The Week: Breakfast was served at 8am every morning and the food (by the way) was really good. After breakfast, we had a couple of games and activities to choose from that we were to participate in for an hour. After that, we had a half-hour to go back to our cabins for devotional and prepare for Chapel. At 10:45, we all went up to the Chapel to praise, worship, and learn about our Lord. After Chapel we were given a few minutes to go back to our cabins to talk about what we learned and to have a short prayer amongst our cabin mates. and then we went to lunch.[Yummy!! =)] Prior to Tuesdays schedule we chose groups that we wanted to be a part of based on our athletic, artistic, our unknown talents. Of course, the group that came from Brockton/Cambridge chose Group B (the lets chill and do whatever feels right at the time group). So after Chapel, we would separate into our groups and go to one out of the four designated activities for a certain amount of time. After the long hours in the sun, we would return to the mid-field and have dinner. After dinner we would have an hour of free time, where we could do whatever we pleased and could get ready to go back to Chapel. After the second service there was another hour where we could choose to go to the snack shack and have junk food. We decided to either have junk food, hang out, or have a moment with the wonderful preacher we had. At 10pm we returned to the Chapel for instructions on what we could do until it was time to go to our cabins. Everyday had different activities that we were to choose from.You could either stay in a room and ask the preacher questions that didn't make sense in the service, or go back to "the hanger" and chill, or you could go to the hall where musicians played for any fans!!! Everyone was to return to their cabins at 11:30 and lights were out at 12.
The Experience: On the first day, we all agreed that we were outcasts. Everyone was so excited to see one another as we just walked in, no one giving us eye contact or friendly waves. When we saw our cabins and beds, we thought, "Wow, how many days are left?" However, this attitude quickly changed in all of us once we actually did meet people. When the campers came together in the Chapel before a service and started dancing and running around we thought that we had come to the wrong camp. But quickly that idea escaped from our minds. When the campers and counselors came together there was a definite bond in the air and that bond was through Jesus and his mighty love. The love that each of us felt came together and made this great force against anything we didn't want to deal with. Whether it was problems in our lives at home, or awkwardness being around complete strangers, it all changed once we entered the Chapel. There was something about Windsor Hills that touched all of our hearts in special ways. We all made friends and each night after the last service, God was talking so loudly to all of us that no one was able to ignore. Some of us made friends that wouldn't leave our backs and wanted to learn more about our culture and amazing cape verdean creole language! Others, spent moments alone pouring out their hearts and crying to the call of Christ in their hearts. Some of us, didn't show how much they opened up until the end of the retreat. Some of us felt touched by the message God put through our wonderful preacher Jeremiah. Some of us held our hands high to Jesus in praise and worship. Some found new love like the joy of reading the bible and faithfully believing the deep message that was being preached through the bible. Some enjoyed fellowship out in the field and fellowship with our cabin counselors as they listened to our cries. The first time I went up to the alter, I felt a hand being placed on my back and then another, and another, I soon heard many voices praying for me and tears ran down because I couldn't believe that I felt the presence of my Lord with me and my fellow Christ believers. The amazing love that the people at Windsor Hills showed us was unforgettable and forever undescribable. Every teen that went up to Jeremiah told him how scared they were that they were going to leave the Camp and go back to living in the ways of the world. However, by the end of the week, we all came on our way home, humming new songs that we learned about the Lord, thinking about the friends and laughter we shared with our cabin mates, and most definitely not forgetting that we belong to Jesus and that the message that we received at Windsor Hills will be practiced in our lives until the next time we return and learn more to contribute to our daily lives as Christians. What a wonderful time we had at Windsor Hills and I pray that God blesses all the souls that attended, that everyone may see the love of God through them, not just by their checklist deeds, and that we try our best to live for Christ no matter the temptations that follow us. May we not let anyone look down on us because we are young, but dear Lord, we ask that you help us set an example for the believers in speech, life, love, faith, and purity. Amen & Amen.
Written By:Yara C. and Kerlin R.
Campers:Yara C., Samantha G., Vanessa DS., Kerlin R., Jovanni T.
Camp Counselor: Manny DB.
2007 Nazarene Youth Conference report
I wanted to write and share NYC '07 highlights. We were able to travel with 127 people from New England district with 4 different flights on Monday July 9th and arrived safely in St. Louis by 10:00 PM. We were given $25.00 on Tuesday morning and traveled to City Groceries near our hotel to purchase groceries for Feeding of the 5,000. We then carried our groceries to the America's Center where we were directed to sort our groceries in various categories. We each were assigned to a tract for Wed-Thurs-Fri. from 1-5:00 PM. Many signed up for sports {football, volleyball, soccer, softball, baseball} The days were hot but our everyone really enjoyed learning from their instructors. There were many who signed up for Habitat for Humanity. They were able to complete 25 houses during the week . They were able to paint and complete landscaping for the new homes built. Many were assigned to the Feeding of the 5,000 tract. The food had been sorted on Tuesday but they needed to sort out some that had been damaged and learned how the food would be distributed to the different agencies in St. Louis. On Saturday, the day was planned with a Missions emphasis. We started the day with Princess Zulu challenging each of us on the awareness of the needs around the world. She educated us on the 42 million people who live with Aids. She empowered the teens by saying that "Youth have energy and charisma and when God speaks --- Youth Act!" We need to be doing something to meet the needs of those around us who are less fortunate than ourselves. The plea was made for Children Sponsorship Ministry. Many people came forward to adopt a child or give a very generous donation. The stadium was divided in half. One half went to lunch where we were served a bowl of "porridge" and a story card of a child in another country. The other half went to pack a box of food for the Feeding of the 5,000. Then we switched places. We collected $17,840.44 in donations, 1500 children were adopted, 500 churches signed up for the 30 Hour Famine and 10,084 boxes of food packed. We were able to feed not 5,000 families but over 10,000 in the St. Louis area. PRAISE GOD FOR HIS BOUNTIFUL BLESSINGS!!!! Everyone was blessed by the music presented at each worship service. On Tuesday night, many from New England had a look reservation on their faces about the worship. But by Friday night, not a seat was filled with a body, everyone was on their feet praising and worshiping our Great God! We were challenged in each service to live out the theme "Water - Fire - Wind". We had great presenters with a word from the Lord and many, many teens committed their lives to the Lord in a real and sincere way. Our teens took time each service contemplating on the challenge given to them and were able to surrender their all by the end of the week. You must know that our teens and leaders who went to St. Louis represented New England District in a respectable manner. I filtered myself throughout NYC lunches, dinners and other districts and we really are "The Best District in the Whole Wide World". It is a privilege and honor for me to be serving the teens and leaders of this fine district. My prayer is to continue on with Water-Fire-Wind for the New England District NYI. May the Great God we serve continue to give us the wisdom and direction we need to lead our people closer to His Kingdom.
"The Lord your God is with you; the mighty One will save you. He will rejoice over you. You will rest in his love; he will sing and be joyful about you." Zephaniah 3:17
In Joyful Service,
Victoria Clark, NYI President
Psalm 119:7
"I will praise you with an upright heart as I learn your righteous laws".
Thoughts on today's verse
Praise is integrally connected with our character. So for us to worship God, the intent of our heart and the effort of our life must show forth a determined desire to know and live his will. While we will never do this perfectly, grace covers us. But grace must never be used as a pretense to excuse spiritual laziness or intentional weakness.
Prayer:
Holy God, I want to be more like you in character even though I will never be like you in might or majesty. Open my eyes and through the Spirit illumine me as I seek your will in your Scriptures and as I seek to be obedient in my daily life. Forgive me of my sin and create a clean, holy, determined heart. Through Jesus I pray. Amen.
God Bless,
Juventude
Holy God, I want to be more like you in character even though I will never be like you in might or majesty. Open my eyes and through the Spirit illumine me as I seek your will in your Scriptures and as I seek to be obedient in my daily life. Forgive me of my sin and create a clean, holy, determined heart. Through Jesus I pray. Amen.
God Bless,
Juventude
Building a New Temple...for God!!!!
On Sunday, July 1, Pastor Benedito preached from 1 Chronicles 29:1-9, which was about King David petitioning his people to contribute gifts to help build God’s temple. Pastor could not have chosen a better story to illustrate the importance of coming together to complete God’s work. Nova Aliança has a great task ahead as we are planning to build a new temple in Brockton , which is not to gratify people but to glorify and honor God. After the sermon, Pastor Benedito, just like King David, challenged the leaders of the church to contribute, in addition to tithing, towards the building of our new temple. The words in 1Chronicles chapter 29 came to life as the leaders of the church went to the front of the church pledging their three year commitment to help financially with the task. This inspired the rest of the congregation to give freely and wholeheartedly to the Lord. It was moving to witness so many people faithfully committed, especially those on fixed incomes, to this project. I see this as an investment for the future: to reach out to the Cape Verdean community so they can know God and have Jesus as their personal Savior. I pray that Nova Aliança will be the salt and the light to a community that has been riddled with drugs and crime. I am excited with what God has in store for the future.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
Sonya Neves
Car Wash
When I came to Mystic Street and saw teenagers awake and ready for action, I thought today is going to be a good day. We started out with a few volunteers at each station. We scrubbed tires, washed the car, rinsed, dried, and even had volunteers recruiting cars down our street in the hot sun with big signs. It was amazing!!! Not only because we had so much fun but because a lot of people were really dedicated and got down and dirty to get the job done. Even though all the teenagers didn’t stick through until the end, we had God’s younger hands do an enormous amount of work towards the end, and let’s just say…those huge rims were really scrubbed by many little hands!! Overall, the car wash was an experience that will never be forgotten. We had people from church and others from around the neighborhood show their support in the construction of our new home and plenty of donations were made, along with the price charged for washing each car. I’m sure that God was with us that day smiling at every soul, as we were smiling, laughing, and playing with each other. We had a lot of fun and that fun paid off in the end. We raised over 250 dollars that I believe we are all excited about.
Yara Cardoso
Yara Cardoso
The Passion - Like Jesus
By Ed Young
The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. John 1:14
Whether they are traveling through a small farming town in Nebraska, a surfing village in California or an industrial community in Pennsylvania, politicians love to show how they can relate to the people in that area. But the sad thing is that they can't really meet those people on the same level; they can't identify with them no matter how hard they try to make it appear like they can.
Jesus, though, never gives us that illusion of identity. He doesn't throw up a façade to try and appear like he gets where we are coming from. Jesus Christ connected with the people of two thousand years ago, and he connects with you and me today on a level that we can understand and appreciate.
At one point we've all said, "No one understands my situation." But that statement could not be farther from the truth. Jesus understands; he's been there; he knows what we go through day in and day out. He had a job - for most of his life he was a carpenter. He had the same relationships that you and I have today - mother, father, brothers, sister, friends, and enemies. He even faced the same temptations that you and I face. Jesus knows what daily living is like. He knows because he's been there himself.
So this week, when you feel like there is no one that can grasp what you are going through; when you feel like throwing up your hands and giving up; when you have that gut reaction of, "No one understands my situation..." remember that our Savior has been there and then add two words to your statement: "Like Jesus."
Juventude will be praying that you have a wonderful week and that your relationship with God will strength as each day goes by.
God Bless,
Juventude
The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. John 1:14
Whether they are traveling through a small farming town in Nebraska, a surfing village in California or an industrial community in Pennsylvania, politicians love to show how they can relate to the people in that area. But the sad thing is that they can't really meet those people on the same level; they can't identify with them no matter how hard they try to make it appear like they can.
Jesus, though, never gives us that illusion of identity. He doesn't throw up a façade to try and appear like he gets where we are coming from. Jesus Christ connected with the people of two thousand years ago, and he connects with you and me today on a level that we can understand and appreciate.
At one point we've all said, "No one understands my situation." But that statement could not be farther from the truth. Jesus understands; he's been there; he knows what we go through day in and day out. He had a job - for most of his life he was a carpenter. He had the same relationships that you and I have today - mother, father, brothers, sister, friends, and enemies. He even faced the same temptations that you and I face. Jesus knows what daily living is like. He knows because he's been there himself.
So this week, when you feel like there is no one that can grasp what you are going through; when you feel like throwing up your hands and giving up; when you have that gut reaction of, "No one understands my situation..." remember that our Savior has been there and then add two words to your statement: "Like Jesus."
Juventude will be praying that you have a wonderful week and that your relationship with God will strength as each day goes by.
God Bless,
Juventude
Love does no harm
By: Melissa Green
Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. Romans 13:10 In highschool, I had a friend who I trusted and I told her to pray for me in an area that I had a weakness in. She told me she would pray for me. I was crushed when I overheard her telling someone what I had confided to her. She was telling it as if I were an evil person and because of this weakness she said I wasn’t saved. She seemed so proud to point out my fault to others and that was her excuse to reject me... I was bad. I felt betrayed and embarrassed. I cried out to God. He and my “true” friends and family comforted me and built me up and encouraged me. I learned that we will never be perfect on this side of heaven and God is not going to reject us because we have weaknesses. His strength is made perfect in our weaknesses. And we are saved by faith in Jesus Christ. We can not earn salvation. I later found out that she was jealous of me because I was so kind and I “seemed” to have it all and she was just waiting for the opportunity to make me look bad, especially in front of my boyfriend who she secretly liked. I wasn’t the first person she had done this to. Romans 13:8-10 says, “Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law. For the commandments You shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not bear false witness, You shall not covet and if there is another commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. Love does no harm to a neighbor: therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” I challenge you to stop focusing on other’s or your imperfections but instead focus on how you can be kind, loving and encouraging to others and yourself. For this is what pleases God.
Have a wonderful week.
God Bless!
Juventude
"TURNING YOUR BELIEF IN GOD INTO A LIFESTYLE"
“He must have a strong belief in the trustworthy message he was taught; then he will be able to encourage others with wholesome teaching and show those who oppose it where they are wrong." Titus 1:9(NLT)
THANK YOU, CAPTAIN MANNY
Wow!!!
"I just wanted to say that today's service was really good and inspirational. Even though the seats weren't full, my heart was FULL of praise & worship!!! I'm so happy that the people that came, and hopefully they enjoyed the service as much as I did. When we did the
choreography, I felt a message going through me, my cousins, Monique, and everyone else in the congregation. Me, myself, and I...felt like I was talking to God telling him that I couldn't do anything in this pressuring, crazy, doubtful, untrustworthy, sinful world. I was telling God that I didn't know how I could be living, or where I would be in life without him. Monique, when Nunu introduced me to the song and told me it was your favorite song, I listened to it, and fell in love. Its a song that you can play over and ovar and never get tired of. Its so beautiful, and heartfelt.
I am glad that we had this service. The message was great and I am more than determined to bring back the spirit!! I am so happy that it went the way it did, and I can't wait for the upcoming events and for the next youth service. I FeEl ThE sPiRiT!!!!!!..AMEN & AMEN. " Yara Cardoso, Leadership Team
choreography, I felt a message going through me, my cousins, Monique, and everyone else in the congregation. Me, myself, and I...felt like I was talking to God telling him that I couldn't do anything in this pressuring, crazy, doubtful, untrustworthy, sinful world. I was telling God that I didn't know how I could be living, or where I would be in life without him. Monique, when Nunu introduced me to the song and told me it was your favorite song, I listened to it, and fell in love. Its a song that you can play over and ovar and never get tired of. Its so beautiful, and heartfelt.
I am glad that we had this service. The message was great and I am more than determined to bring back the spirit!! I am so happy that it went the way it did, and I can't wait for the upcoming events and for the next youth service. I FeEl ThE sPiRiT!!!!!!..AMEN & AMEN. " Yara Cardoso, Leadership Team
"There were definitely hearts of worship at the service. I too was touched by the level of fellowship we felt and the new voices that are emerging. HE continues to do marvelous things... I am feeling the presence of the holy spirit all around our church, youth, and personally... we may be outgrowing our theme...let go of the old and let GOD bring in the new. I ask that we all pray about it.
As we pray, I would like to request that you all pray for our church, raising funds, bringing more youth to GOD. " Monique, youth President
As we pray, I would like to request that you all pray for our church, raising funds, bringing more youth to GOD. " Monique, youth President
I can only go one way...
So here we are again now morning has arrived. Darkness still prevails. New light stings my eyes, what hapenned yesterday now rests within the past, Sometimes I think that's good, so bad times never last. Thank you for this moment, this time you have created. Can I ever begin to understand, you know how long I've waited. There's just no going back, I can only go one way.
I'm so glad to know, with you everyday is a new day! Waiting means patience, putting all my trust in you. Long days, short days, influenced by things to do, stillness, quiet times, reflecting on days goneby. Talking, praying, still listening for your reply. Speak to me, enlighten me, show me the way to go. Be my guide, my everything, let new life in me grow.There's just no going back, we can only go one way. More mistakes, tainted thoughts, will I ever get it right? Hurtful words, a wrong approach, you're slipping out of sight.I know I can't be perfect, that you accept me as I am, through you all sins forgiven, the sacrificial lamb. Let my heart reflect your love, your glory fill my soul. Praises to you in all things, Jesus be my every goal. Hopeful now, joyful now, at peace in my repent, your promise of forgiveness, fresh dew from heaven sent.You found me and gave me a life so close to you. A bond never to be broken, a spirit joined life anew. There's just no going back, I can only go one way...
I'm so glad to know, with you everyday is a new day! Waiting means patience, putting all my trust in you. Long days, short days, influenced by things to do, stillness, quiet times, reflecting on days goneby. Talking, praying, still listening for your reply. Speak to me, enlighten me, show me the way to go. Be my guide, my everything, let new life in me grow.There's just no going back, we can only go one way. More mistakes, tainted thoughts, will I ever get it right? Hurtful words, a wrong approach, you're slipping out of sight.I know I can't be perfect, that you accept me as I am, through you all sins forgiven, the sacrificial lamb. Let my heart reflect your love, your glory fill my soul. Praises to you in all things, Jesus be my every goal. Hopeful now, joyful now, at peace in my repent, your promise of forgiveness, fresh dew from heaven sent.You found me and gave me a life so close to you. A bond never to be broken, a spirit joined life anew. There's just no going back, I can only go one way...
-Neida
To be holy is to be placed in a special relationship to God
We tend to think of holiness as an attribute of people—God and humans. But a curious aspect of holiness in the Bible is how things such as the Sabbath and temple utensils are regarded as holy. The fact that even things can be holy gives us an important insight: To be holy is to be placed in a special relationship to God. Because God is holy, anything that stands in this relationship to God becomes holy just because of that relationship. The Sabbath, for example, is holy because God distinguished it from the other six days, and because it has a special relationship to God—it is a reminder of God’s creative activity and resting. The utensils were holy because they were consecrated to exclusive use in worshipping God. So anything that God has chosen to be specially related to is holy. Deuteronomy 7:6 affirms this point: “For you are a people holy to the LORD your God; the LORD your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on earth to be his people, his treasured possession” (NSRV). Israel was holy because God had separated it from the other nations and brought it into a relationship of belonging. When the New Testament speaks about our being separated and placed in relation to God, the writers used the term “called.” To be called is to be addressed by God. For beings made in God’s image, “called” also means our capacity to respond to that call. Holiness is more than just being called. It also involves our responding in consecration and faithful obedience. So, while we are holy because we are called and placed in relationship to God,
Because God is holy, anything that stands in this relationship to God becomes holy just because of that relationship.we must respond to that call in order to be holy. We are both called unto holiness, and we are also holy because we are called—because God has separated us from the fallen world and brought us into a relationship of belonging. God’s act of calling us is always the first step in our becoming holy. If we forget this fact, we may think of holiness as something that we alone accomplish by consecrating ourselves or by obeying God’s commands. Holiness becomes our achievement. The gospel of grace tells us otherwise. Although our consecration and obedience are vital in our pursuit of holiness, they are our response to God’s initiative and to God’s grace. They follow God’s call to us. Holiness is more than just being used for God’s service. According to the Bible, God chose Pharaoh, the Babylonians, and Cyrus to be instruments of His will. But that did not make them holy. Their relationship with God was temporary and lacked intimacy. They did not belong to God as Israel belonged to God. The situation is different with people called into a holy relationship. First, this relationship is not temporary but eternal. Paul stated, “the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable” (Romans 11:29, NSRV). In spite of Israel’s sin and the church’s failings, God’s covenant is everlasting. Second, this holy relationship is marked by unusual intimacy and belonging. Hosea likened Israel’s relation to God with the relation of a wife to a husband. Paul saw the Church as the Bride of Christ and as the Body of Christ. The Church is as close to Christ as branches are to the vine that gives them life. To be holy is to be called by God into a relationship that will never end, and that means our belonging to God. This holy relationship is also closely connected to worship. As Peter says of the Church, “You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9, NSRV). Like Israel, the Church is a chosen, holy nation. We have been called out of darkness into God’s light. Moreover, we are a nation of priests. We are considered as priests so we may “offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 2:5, NSRV). Like the priests of Israel, the Church offers sacrifice to God—the sacrifice of thanksgiving, praise, and good works (Hebrews 12:28, 13:15-16). That is why we must maintain our holiness through our consecration and faithful obedience, for (like the ancient priests) those who stand before God in worship must be holy. Finally, this relationship of belonging pertains first of all to the whole community of the people of God—first Israel, then the Church. Only secondarily should we think of individuals being chosen and called. The Church has been chosen “in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless" (Ephesians 1:4, NSRV). And the Church as the Body of Christ stands in an everlasting relationship of belonging to God. The Church as the Bride of Christ has been made holy “with the washing of water by the word” (Ephesians 5:26, NSRV). God calls individuals to become members of this called, holy community. As we enter this community, and as we consecrate ourselves and respond to God’s grace with faithful obedience, we participate in the church’s relationship with God. We belong to God because we belong to the Church. We are holy because we are members of this holy priesthood. Holiness requires consecration and faithful obedience. But it rests on God’s call to us in Jesus Christ to enter the body of Christ and, as holy priests, to offer spiritual sacrifices. The church’s constant prayer is that it may continue to hear the call of God, to respond faithfully to it, and to live in a way that honors that call. In doing this, the church will be the holy people of God.
Samuel M. Powell is professor of philosophy and religion at Point Loma Nazarene University.
Because God is holy, anything that stands in this relationship to God becomes holy just because of that relationship.we must respond to that call in order to be holy. We are both called unto holiness, and we are also holy because we are called—because God has separated us from the fallen world and brought us into a relationship of belonging. God’s act of calling us is always the first step in our becoming holy. If we forget this fact, we may think of holiness as something that we alone accomplish by consecrating ourselves or by obeying God’s commands. Holiness becomes our achievement. The gospel of grace tells us otherwise. Although our consecration and obedience are vital in our pursuit of holiness, they are our response to God’s initiative and to God’s grace. They follow God’s call to us. Holiness is more than just being used for God’s service. According to the Bible, God chose Pharaoh, the Babylonians, and Cyrus to be instruments of His will. But that did not make them holy. Their relationship with God was temporary and lacked intimacy. They did not belong to God as Israel belonged to God. The situation is different with people called into a holy relationship. First, this relationship is not temporary but eternal. Paul stated, “the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable” (Romans 11:29, NSRV). In spite of Israel’s sin and the church’s failings, God’s covenant is everlasting. Second, this holy relationship is marked by unusual intimacy and belonging. Hosea likened Israel’s relation to God with the relation of a wife to a husband. Paul saw the Church as the Bride of Christ and as the Body of Christ. The Church is as close to Christ as branches are to the vine that gives them life. To be holy is to be called by God into a relationship that will never end, and that means our belonging to God. This holy relationship is also closely connected to worship. As Peter says of the Church, “You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9, NSRV). Like Israel, the Church is a chosen, holy nation. We have been called out of darkness into God’s light. Moreover, we are a nation of priests. We are considered as priests so we may “offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 2:5, NSRV). Like the priests of Israel, the Church offers sacrifice to God—the sacrifice of thanksgiving, praise, and good works (Hebrews 12:28, 13:15-16). That is why we must maintain our holiness through our consecration and faithful obedience, for (like the ancient priests) those who stand before God in worship must be holy. Finally, this relationship of belonging pertains first of all to the whole community of the people of God—first Israel, then the Church. Only secondarily should we think of individuals being chosen and called. The Church has been chosen “in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless" (Ephesians 1:4, NSRV). And the Church as the Body of Christ stands in an everlasting relationship of belonging to God. The Church as the Bride of Christ has been made holy “with the washing of water by the word” (Ephesians 5:26, NSRV). God calls individuals to become members of this called, holy community. As we enter this community, and as we consecrate ourselves and respond to God’s grace with faithful obedience, we participate in the church’s relationship with God. We belong to God because we belong to the Church. We are holy because we are members of this holy priesthood. Holiness requires consecration and faithful obedience. But it rests on God’s call to us in Jesus Christ to enter the body of Christ and, as holy priests, to offer spiritual sacrifices. The church’s constant prayer is that it may continue to hear the call of God, to respond faithfully to it, and to live in a way that honors that call. In doing this, the church will be the holy people of God.
Samuel M. Powell is professor of philosophy and religion at Point Loma Nazarene University.
Nova Aliança Church of the Nazarene: a brief history of a new church
November 6, 2005, will certainly be remembered as a truly landmark day in the life of our church, Nova Aliança Church of the Nazarene. It was then that, upon a lengthy and careful examination, Nova Aliança was officially inaugurated by our District Superintendent, Dr. Jossie Owens. Judged by that day solely it would appear that our church is just less than two years old, but a closer and more careful look will yield quite a different conclusion. In fact, Nova Aliança has a much richer history firmly rooted in the history of the two congregations that preceded her, Bethel and Emaus. As such, the emergence of Nova Aliança should not be construed as a denial or repudiation of the past, but rather it represents a creative incorporation of that past into the present. Indeed, the transformation of Bethel and Emaus congregations into one united church, Nova Aliança Church of the Nazarene, is the direct result of the implementation of a bold vision, which calls for a strong and expanding Nazarene presence within the Capeverdean community in the city of Brockton.
Also, there is no doubt that November 6, 2005, stands simultaneously both as an end and as a beginning mark. It was the culmination of a long, arduous and fruitful journey, which not only involved Emaus and Bethel churches, their leaders and their boards, but also the District Advisory Board, several district committees and two district superintendents, the late Dr. Charles Zink and our current superintendent, Dr. Jossie Owens. The importance and the magnitude of such an endeavor and its far reaching implications prompted all the parts involved to carefully examine each step in this process and to seek diligently divine guidance in every aspect and detail.
The circumstances, which led to the formation of this new church, were the following:
For over ten years the former Emaus congregation had the blessing of worshiping God in a wonderful temple in Walpole. It had truly been a real source of inspiration to notice that through all those years a large number of faithful – young and old, married and single people, youth and children – from various cities within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (Cambridge, Somerville, Malden, Chelsea, Dorchester, Milton and Brockton) overcame great distances in order to congregate in the temple of the church in Walpole. This very fact stood as a powerful testament to the believers’ devotion to God and to their commitment to His church.
But soon, it became apparent that the church’s location in Walpole constituted a formidable challenge to her mission of reaching out to more Capeverdeans and Portuguese-speaking people with the gospel of Christ Jesus. In fact, due to its location, the church could not function as a community church and, therefore, was very limited in the type of ministries she could offer. Mindful of this, the pastors of the Emaus church, Dr. João Monteiro, Revs. Carlos Tavares, Silas Almeida, and Natanael Duarte, challenged the members of the board to take some time to pray and reflect upon the church and their vision for the church.
Shortly afterwards, in a subsequent meeting, the same members were invited to share their dreams and their vision for the church. It is worth mentioning that most of them were eagerly looking forward to the day when the church would be fully established within the community. Such aspiration did not stem from any personal or selfish desire. Rather, it was rooted in a profound conviction that the church could not minister effectively in a temple outside of the community.
From that meeting there was a clear consensus that the time had finally arrived for the church to be relocated. But the question naturally arose: Where should the new church be located?
When we considered the church’s make up, we noticed that while the temple was located in Walpole, 70 percent of its members reside in Brockton. The remaining 30 percent are distributed the following way: 14 percent are from Chelsea/Cambridge/Somerville, 15 percent from Dorchester/Roxbury, and 1 percent from other localities. But in a regular Sunday morning service 81 percent of the people attending come from Brockton and 19 percent from other localities. For this reason, it became obvious that a relocation of the church to Brockton was advisable. But a move of the Emaus church to Brockton would be in partnership with the Bethel church with which she had good cooperation. The two churches had been having joined services for some time on Fridays and Sundays nights.
The leaders of Emaus church shared with the pastor of Betel church, Rev. Benedito Monteiro, the vision of the board of Emaus to relocate the church to Brockton and inquired about the possibility of working together. At that time, the Bethel church was seeking to expand her presence in Brockton. It was then that we started the arduous challenge marked by prayer, careful planning and meetings to draft a proposal that basically argued in favor of the unification of the two churches for a more effective ministry in the community.
The proposal was presented simultaneously to the boards of the two churches followed by its presentation to the congregations, and both responded with great enthusiasm.
Afterwards, the proposal was submitted to the district superintendent, Dr. Charles Zink and he made some suggestions that would be incorporated in a future draft of the same. Several months later, it was time to meet again with Dr. Charles Zink and with one of his assistants, Dr. Jossie Owens (Dr. Owen would later become the new district superintendent). In that meeting Dr. Zink informed us that he was stepping down as district superintendent and would be serving the denomination in a new capacity. It then became clear that a decision on the proposal would have to be made by his/her successor. Also, in that meeting it was established the creation of a committee composed of members of the District Advisory Board whose primary function would be to prepare and facilitate our future meeting with the District Advisory Board when the proposal would be finally submitted to that board. Meanwhile, the two congregations had the opportunity to express their opinion by voting on the proposal, and the results were overwhelmingly in favor.
Few days later, we were able to meet again with the new superintendent, Dr. Jossie Owens. Dr. Owens informed us that the District Advisory Board had chosen Revs. José Delgado and Vince Crouse to assist her in the unification process of the two churches. Indeed, we had several meetings with them and in those meetings our initial impressions were confirmed that in order for the proposal to be accepted it would have to be approved by the District Superintendent, the District Advisory Board and the General Superintendent with jurisdiction. That finally happened in the beginnings of 2005. It is important to notice that even after its approval, Dr. Owens still met with the boards of the two churches and visited the churches to hear directly from their members. Once the proposal was approved, we created several committees with the sole purpose of addressing and preempting the major challenges that we would certainly face.
Finally, we had reached the stage where two separate entities were no longer advisable. The time had arrived for the two churches to become one united church and to start implementing the vision spelled out in the proposal.
Since then, we have been blessed by God and we continue to seek His guidance and to depend on Him as we move forward in our mission of reaching out people with the redemptive gospel of Christ Jesus, our Lord.
We are especially thankful to God for our pastor, Rev. Benedito Monteiro for his leadership and dedication to God and to His church. It is our strong belief that God has raised him for such a time like this.
As we move forward, we are aware that challenges will abound and that the enemy will attempt to impede us and frustrate our work. But one thing is sure: the same God who has sustained us in these past 18 months will continue to sustain us as we put our trust on Him. It is our hope and prayer that a hundred years from now, when our grandchildren write the history of this church that it will be a history of how the church has been faithful to God and of how He has worked powerfully within her to fulfill His promises. To God and God alone be glory and honor now and forever!
Natanael Duarte, Assistant Senior Pastor
Also, there is no doubt that November 6, 2005, stands simultaneously both as an end and as a beginning mark. It was the culmination of a long, arduous and fruitful journey, which not only involved Emaus and Bethel churches, their leaders and their boards, but also the District Advisory Board, several district committees and two district superintendents, the late Dr. Charles Zink and our current superintendent, Dr. Jossie Owens. The importance and the magnitude of such an endeavor and its far reaching implications prompted all the parts involved to carefully examine each step in this process and to seek diligently divine guidance in every aspect and detail.
The circumstances, which led to the formation of this new church, were the following:
For over ten years the former Emaus congregation had the blessing of worshiping God in a wonderful temple in Walpole. It had truly been a real source of inspiration to notice that through all those years a large number of faithful – young and old, married and single people, youth and children – from various cities within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (Cambridge, Somerville, Malden, Chelsea, Dorchester, Milton and Brockton) overcame great distances in order to congregate in the temple of the church in Walpole. This very fact stood as a powerful testament to the believers’ devotion to God and to their commitment to His church.
But soon, it became apparent that the church’s location in Walpole constituted a formidable challenge to her mission of reaching out to more Capeverdeans and Portuguese-speaking people with the gospel of Christ Jesus. In fact, due to its location, the church could not function as a community church and, therefore, was very limited in the type of ministries she could offer. Mindful of this, the pastors of the Emaus church, Dr. João Monteiro, Revs. Carlos Tavares, Silas Almeida, and Natanael Duarte, challenged the members of the board to take some time to pray and reflect upon the church and their vision for the church.
Shortly afterwards, in a subsequent meeting, the same members were invited to share their dreams and their vision for the church. It is worth mentioning that most of them were eagerly looking forward to the day when the church would be fully established within the community. Such aspiration did not stem from any personal or selfish desire. Rather, it was rooted in a profound conviction that the church could not minister effectively in a temple outside of the community.
From that meeting there was a clear consensus that the time had finally arrived for the church to be relocated. But the question naturally arose: Where should the new church be located?
When we considered the church’s make up, we noticed that while the temple was located in Walpole, 70 percent of its members reside in Brockton. The remaining 30 percent are distributed the following way: 14 percent are from Chelsea/Cambridge/Somerville, 15 percent from Dorchester/Roxbury, and 1 percent from other localities. But in a regular Sunday morning service 81 percent of the people attending come from Brockton and 19 percent from other localities. For this reason, it became obvious that a relocation of the church to Brockton was advisable. But a move of the Emaus church to Brockton would be in partnership with the Bethel church with which she had good cooperation. The two churches had been having joined services for some time on Fridays and Sundays nights.
The leaders of Emaus church shared with the pastor of Betel church, Rev. Benedito Monteiro, the vision of the board of Emaus to relocate the church to Brockton and inquired about the possibility of working together. At that time, the Bethel church was seeking to expand her presence in Brockton. It was then that we started the arduous challenge marked by prayer, careful planning and meetings to draft a proposal that basically argued in favor of the unification of the two churches for a more effective ministry in the community.
The proposal was presented simultaneously to the boards of the two churches followed by its presentation to the congregations, and both responded with great enthusiasm.
Afterwards, the proposal was submitted to the district superintendent, Dr. Charles Zink and he made some suggestions that would be incorporated in a future draft of the same. Several months later, it was time to meet again with Dr. Charles Zink and with one of his assistants, Dr. Jossie Owens (Dr. Owen would later become the new district superintendent). In that meeting Dr. Zink informed us that he was stepping down as district superintendent and would be serving the denomination in a new capacity. It then became clear that a decision on the proposal would have to be made by his/her successor. Also, in that meeting it was established the creation of a committee composed of members of the District Advisory Board whose primary function would be to prepare and facilitate our future meeting with the District Advisory Board when the proposal would be finally submitted to that board. Meanwhile, the two congregations had the opportunity to express their opinion by voting on the proposal, and the results were overwhelmingly in favor.
Few days later, we were able to meet again with the new superintendent, Dr. Jossie Owens. Dr. Owens informed us that the District Advisory Board had chosen Revs. José Delgado and Vince Crouse to assist her in the unification process of the two churches. Indeed, we had several meetings with them and in those meetings our initial impressions were confirmed that in order for the proposal to be accepted it would have to be approved by the District Superintendent, the District Advisory Board and the General Superintendent with jurisdiction. That finally happened in the beginnings of 2005. It is important to notice that even after its approval, Dr. Owens still met with the boards of the two churches and visited the churches to hear directly from their members. Once the proposal was approved, we created several committees with the sole purpose of addressing and preempting the major challenges that we would certainly face.
Finally, we had reached the stage where two separate entities were no longer advisable. The time had arrived for the two churches to become one united church and to start implementing the vision spelled out in the proposal.
Since then, we have been blessed by God and we continue to seek His guidance and to depend on Him as we move forward in our mission of reaching out people with the redemptive gospel of Christ Jesus, our Lord.
We are especially thankful to God for our pastor, Rev. Benedito Monteiro for his leadership and dedication to God and to His church. It is our strong belief that God has raised him for such a time like this.
As we move forward, we are aware that challenges will abound and that the enemy will attempt to impede us and frustrate our work. But one thing is sure: the same God who has sustained us in these past 18 months will continue to sustain us as we put our trust on Him. It is our hope and prayer that a hundred years from now, when our grandchildren write the history of this church that it will be a history of how the church has been faithful to God and of how He has worked powerfully within her to fulfill His promises. To God and God alone be glory and honor now and forever!
Natanael Duarte, Assistant Senior Pastor
Something has to change!
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"We are in the middle of a battle for the hearts of a whole generation. If you are like most youth leaders in America, you are in the trenches every day. You're wearing yourself out trying to do whatever you can to love kids, lead them to Christ, and help them grow. Even with all that's done in the name of youth ministry, we are still losing a generation. It seems like the media and the enemy have been working harder than we have. They are destroying a generation at a faster rate than we are rescuing it. At current rates of evangelism, only four percent of this generation will be Bible-believing Christian adults. If we continue doing youth ministry the way we have been, we will end up with an America unlike any we have ever known. Something has to change..." Ron Luce, President and Founder of Teen Mania Ministries
I encourage you to begin to dream God's dream for our youth ministry. I believe if we all throw our hearts into this, work hard, work smart, and ask the Holy Spirit to guide us, we can win this war. We need to have drastic change in the way we do ministry, in our worship and specially, in our relationship with Jesus, Himself. It has to start now...it has to start with us. I believe we can do it. Are you with me??
His and yours
Carlos Tavares, Youth Pastor
I encourage you to begin to dream God's dream for our youth ministry. I believe if we all throw our hearts into this, work hard, work smart, and ask the Holy Spirit to guide us, we can win this war. We need to have drastic change in the way we do ministry, in our worship and specially, in our relationship with Jesus, Himself. It has to start now...it has to start with us. I believe we can do it. Are you with me??
His and yours
Carlos Tavares, Youth Pastor
Singing Hills 2007
Yes, we felt the fire of the Holy Spirit. The fellowship was unique. Come back for more pictures. Take a look at the photo slide show
"One of the things that stands out most is the spirit and openness everyone brought to our fellowship. Friday I was impressed with the positivity and smiles on everyone's face which were both so welcoming. Saturday was FUN--- there were games, Manny was off the hook with WORDS, and the Rev. Dan set the perfect tone in the evening service. For the first time, we had a camp fire with the 16plus- young adult crew that was extremely connecting for Brockton/Cambridge. Sunday-- much of the same; lots of games and swimming in the lake by many, and most importantly incredible messages and devotions. Monday-- we left feeling like ONE and proud to support each other in being devoted/accountable DISCIPLES!!!It still gives me chills to reflect on all that I took from the retreat. PRAISE GOD!!!" Monique Rodrigues, Youth President
Living ...on the edge
"Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity" I timothy 4:12
Mother's Day 2007 (Click for Photos)
More than 70 mothers were present during the Sunday School special service dedicated to them.
New, clarified, Nazarene Mission
General Superintendents Move to Clarify Nazarene Mission
The Goal is Christlikeness for Everyone—
To Do All He Commands With the Church of the Nazarene facing some of the biggest generational and cultural changes in 60 years, the Board of General Superintendents voted unanimously in its December 2006 meeting to update language used to define the mission as it approaches its Centennial in 2008.To make Christlike disciples in the nations is the new seven-word statement of mission for the 1.6 million member denomination. This mission is built on the Church of the Nazarene’s core values of being Christian, holiness, and missional. While the primary motive of the church is to glorify God, the Board believes the church is also called to actively participate in His mission of reconciling the world to himself.“The seven words in the statement of mission embody the historical essentials of Nazarene mission—evangelism, sanctification, discipleship, compassion, and equipping all who respond in faith,” noted Dr. Jerry Porter, current Board chair. “The essence of holiness is Christlikeness.” “The Church of the Nazarene is blessed with some of the most dedicated disciples of any denomination. Our goal is to build on this strength,” Dr. Porter emphasized. Dr. Jesse Middendorf, vice chair of the Board added, “We’re also moving from a ‘sending’ to a ‘sent’ church. The responsibility is to be a witness, helping make Christlike disciples, in whatever nation we happen to be. And missionaries are now sent from all regions of the world.” The Board recognizes that thousands of statements have been created by Nazarene churches, districts, regions, and educational institutions since the denomination last revised the wording of its statement of mission in the early 1980s.Dr. Nina Gunter, Board secretary, said the general superintendents believe now more than ever there is a reason to have a clear, overarching statement of mission. “Since the denomination has a presence in 151 world areas, the need is for something succinct and translatable.“After 10 years of review the decision was made in part to try to capture what is now taking place in the church—a renewed desire to lift up Christ and be more like the Savior. This is especially so among the church’s youth and young adults,” observed Dr. Gunter.The Board’s decision was based on the following:
• Timing. Going through major generational and cultural change is the time to clarify, renew, and revitalize something, including the mission.• Simplification. In a 24/7, over-communicated society, it's an over-simplified (but not simplistic) message that has the best chance of getting through.
• Timing. Going through major generational and cultural change is the time to clarify, renew, and revitalize something, including the mission.• Simplification. In a 24/7, over-communicated society, it's an over-simplified (but not simplistic) message that has the best chance of getting through.
• Stewardship. The church, and especially the General Board, cannot attempt everything and remain viable. There must be focus and priorities of mission in order to properly allocate limited financial and human resources.Congregations and others are encouraged to use the new statement of mission. How and where the statement is used is a local decision. The Board of General Superintendents intends this statement to be complementary and compatible with what has already been developed in many churches and institutions. It underscores the common ground shared by Nazarenes everywhere.To help communicate this change, bookmarks and posters are being made available to congregations worldwide in different languages through district assemblies
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NYI NOVA ALIANÇA
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