When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed; this must take place, but the end is not yet. - Mark 13:7
These words do not sound like words of hope. And you might hear these words as an alarm bell like for a fire drill. But this is not a drill. This is a statement of fact that a part of the human experience is experiencing life in turmoil. But turmoil does not signify an immediate end. In our contemporary context we often hear of conflict or unrest, and definitely uncertainty. Yet, mixed in with these troubling signs, Jesus offers a directive “do not be alarmed”. Did you see it?
This call to remain calm is profound. Jesus acknowledges the reality of fear and anxiety that can accompany news of wars and crises. However, Jesus urges the disciples (and us) to maintain a perspective rooted in faith and trust in God’s plan. “The end is not yet”. God’s ultimate plan is still unfolding. This is all a part of a divine narrative in which we are invited to live our faith actively, caring for one another and our community.
DO NOT BE ALARMED, do not worry. The end is not yet, there is more to come…. Peace be with you
Peace, Pastor Erin
Thank you to everyone who turned in their commitment cards last Sunday! Your generosity is a reflection of the many blessings we share as a church community.
If you didn’t have a chance to submit your card, it’s not too late! You can mail it to the church office or bring it with you next Sunday. For your convenience, I’ve included the stewardship packet again.
Let’s give thanks together! Join us for a special Thanksgiving Eve worship service on November 27 at 6:30pm. Following the service, enjoy delicious pie and wonderful fellowship in the coffee shop, brought to you by the Worship and Creative Arts Team with support from a Thrivent Action Plan.
Join Ventura Interfaith Ministerial Association’s celebration of Thanksgiving with song, stories, and friendship on November 24 at 3:00pmin the garden at the Mission Basilica San Buenaventura.
This Advent season, TLC will be adorning the altar area with luminaria instead of poinsettia dedications. These beautiful luminaria feature cut-out designs, LED candles, and dedication names, creating a glowing reminder of the season’s meaning.
To dedicate a luminaria, please complete the form and submit it along with $5 per dedication to the church office by December 8. You’re welcome to take your luminaria home following the Christmas Day service.
Danielle and Manuel Mendoza are thrilled to announce the arrival of their new baby, Clara! As they settle into this joyful new chapter, we’re organizing a meal train to support them . If you’d like to help, please consider signing up to bring them a side dish. Your kindness and support will mean so much to their family during this special time.
Mark your calendars for a festive Family Movie Night on December 14 at 6:00 PM on the lawn! Join us for the hilarious and heartwarming film, Elf, and enjoy Buddy the Elf's unforgettable holiday cheer and optimism.
Bring your own chair, blanket, snacks, and drinks, and get ready for an evening of laughter, fellowship, and holiday fun with loved ones. Don’t miss this special night to celebrate the season together!
December Blood Pressure Check Schedule
December 1 - 10:00am in the Prayer Room
December 15 - 10:00am and Noon in the Prayer Room
Blood pressure checks are available the 1st and 3rd Sundays in the prayer room between services. Our faith community nurse, Karen Jensen, RN, PhD, will be on hand.
Project Understanding is in need of any type of nonperishable food items and heavy plastic grocery bags.
City Center is in need of any type of cleaning supplies and size 6 diapers.
Your support is greatly appreciated. Please place items in the baskets located in the gathering space.
December 21 - Kathy Eggert December 24 - Pam Berkel, Dell Muntzel December 26 - Sonora Coats
Please keep the following people in your prayers:
For Healing and Comfort:
Robyn and Ann, sisters of Debe Bylo.
Shannon, niece of John and Diane Stef
April Pike
Joyce Opjorden
Mike Diaz
The family of Valentin, family member of Pr. Erin Martinson.
The family of Jeanette Nagel, mother of Mike Nagel, at her death.
