Nov 17th – Nov 23, 2008

 

This past Sunday evening more than 150 Lifers came together for a wonderful time of food, fellowship and sharing.  New- comers to Life were in attendance and were able to meet new friends and learn about the Life Vision.
During our time of sharing, many ideas were presented regarding major areas of concern; people stepped forward to accept the responsibility of leading ministries and Passion was ignited in the hearts of those in attendance.  How great it is when we DO LIFE TOGETHER!

 

If you have signed up for the banquet and full payment has been received, your tickets will be sent in the mail next week. If there is any discrepancy with your tickets or for some reason you do not receive them by Nov 30^th please contact Kelly Wright immediately. A final headcount and payment is due this Sun, Nov 23^rd. 

 

The evening will be a dressy occasion but formal attire is not necessary.  Childcare will be available at the church for children under 12 years of age.  If you need childcare but did not previously sign up please let Kelly Wright know.  Pizza will be served for the children and they can be dropped off at the church at 5:30 pm. 

 

The banquet doors will open at 5:45 pm with “Open Seating” on a first come basis. We look forward to a wonderful time of fellowship with you in celebration of the Christmas Season.

 

 

In his sermon this past Sunday, Pastor Sammy asked those who are able to sponsor other couples and/or singles for whom it would be difficult because of job or family situations to attend the Christmas Banquet at this time.  Thank you, Life Church for stepping forward and providing for forty-one (41) others to be able to attend.

 

If you would like to attend the banquet on Dec 6^th but are unable to do so because of finances and would accept sponsorship, please advise Kelly Wright immediately 704-824-4286.  A final headcount must be given to the caterer on Monday morning, Nov 24^th.   

 

 

 

It’s that time of year again when the ladies at Life Church decorate our sanctuary with beautiful red Christmas Poinsettias.  These Poinsettias can be purchased for $10 in memory or honor of your special loved one.   The plants can be picked up and taken home for you to enjoy following our Christmas Eve Service on Wed, Dec 25^th.  A special insert will be in this Sunday’s bulletin for those of you who wish to participate.  Please complete the insert with your name and the name(s) of your loved one. Place your form and payment in an offering envelope labeled Poinsettia.  We must receive all payments and forms by Sunday, Nov 23^rd to ensure prompt delivery for the holidays.

 

 

YOU’RE INVITED TO INTERCESSORY PRAYER – TUESDAYS @ 7PM

 

Everyone is invited to attend a time of corporate prayer and intercession every Tuesday from 7 pm ‘til 8 pm in the choir room.   We urge everyone (men and women) to spend time praying together with other believers.

 

 

Sunday,  November 23^rd 

8:00 am WORSHIP

 

“Both Sides of The Cup”

 

 

Pastor Steve

 

In Luke 11:37-41, we see where a group of Pharisees invited Jesus to a posh dinner.  Right before the dinner, Jesus did NOT do something that took the Pharisees, probably many of us as well, by surprise.  He did not wash his hands, (crazy, I know) but He was trying to convey a point to his host – by saying to them it is more important to clean the inside of a cup, than the outside.  If we clean the inside first, then naturally the outside won’t get as dirty.

 

How often do we catch ourselves being like the Pharisees?  We live in a culture that says if you have a pretty front yard, drive a nice clean car, and are a sharp dresser then you have arrived to “suburbia nirvana”.  But if we are honest with ourselves we know it is all just a fake facade, we don’t ever really let people get close enough to see all the dirt and filth inside of us. 

 

This Sunday we will be talking about how to clean both sides of the cup.  And see that we all need a good house cleaning every now and then.  Then at the close of the service we will be partaking in communion.  I look forward to seeing you there. 

 

 

 

Sunday,  November 23^rd 

10:30 am WORSHIP

“BEING THANKFUL IN TOUGH TIMES”

 

   

 

I recently saw an aerosol can which had written on its side, “Warning: Contents Under Pressure.”  I thought that is a warning label that should be put across the foreheads of many of the people I’ve met recently.  I don’t think that I have never seen as many stressed out people as I’ve seen in the last few months.

There’s a well known instrument called the Holmes Stress Scale.  It lists the 100 most stressful events you can have in life – the death of a spouse, a divorce, loss of a job, etc.  On that scale, after much study, they have discovered that the single most stressful time of the year is the period between Thanksgiving and New Years.  You start to worry about presents.  You start to worry about parties.  You start to worry about all kinds of problems that happen, gifts, finances.  Some people worry about the relatives you’re going to have to see.  The stress level goes up significantly.  Someone has said “This is the season to be uptight.”  Have you been to the mall lately?  Nothing destroys the Christmas spirit faster than trying to find a parking spot.  You start worrying.

This week we will be celebrating Thanksgiving.  How can you be thankful in tough times?  When the economy is not good.  When things aren’t going your way. How do you extend thanks during tough times? 

In Philippians 4:4 the Apostle Paul says, “May you always be joyful in your life in the Lord.”  Is that possible?  Is it always possible to be joyful, no matter what the circumstance?  I believe it is possible.  In my sermon for this Sunday, I feel like I need to share with you some scriptures on a strategy for surviving seasonal stress.  I suggest that you come prepared to write these down and then tape them to your refrigerator door for the next month to help you make it through the pressured times of the holidays.

Philippians 4:6 says, “Don’t be anxious about anything but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God and the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”  Then it says, “Finally whatever is true and noble and right and pure and lovely and admirable, think about such things and the God of peace will be with you.” 

In this very short passage we have the four keys to surviving stress.  That’s what I want to talk about this Sunday.  Please join with the Life Church Family this week as we gather to worship and to share.

                                                                      Pastor Sammy

 

 

 

THIS WEEK AT LIFE CHURCH

Monday

 

Tuesday

Walkers for Life @ 6 pm

Prayer and Intercession 7 pm ‘til 8 pm (Choir Room)

 

Wednesday

Dinner @ Life Church 5:30 pm ‘til 6:30 pm

Adult Bible Study 7pm at the Presbyterian Church in Cramerton

 

“Hilltop” Bible Study 7 pm

 

Children & Youth Activities 7 pm Nursery provided

 

Thursday

Walker’s for Life @ 6 pm

 

Friday

“Young At Heart” Senior Adult Fellowship 6:30 pm

 

Saturday

Prayer Walk @ Life Church 8:00 am ‘til 9:00 am

Ladies Fellowship Breakfast @ Ryan’s 9 am

 

Sunday

Early Worship 8:00 am

The Truth Project Class (3rd session) 8:45 am

Class 201 & 301 (final session) 9:30 am

Sunday School 9:30 am

2^nd Service 10:30 am

Hispanic Worship 1 pm

“The Truth Project” Small Group begins @ 6:30 pm (Home of Charles & Karin Stegall)

 

 

 

 LIFE CHURCHCH LADIES FELLOWSHIP BREAKFAST

Ladies, don’t forget that we will meet for breakfast on Saturday, November 22^nd at Ryan’s in Franklin Square for a great time of food and fellowship.  We want to encourage newcomers to attend as well.  Ladies of any age are welcome to join us.  We know you’re busy but it’s always good to carve out a little time for yourself, you’ll be glad you did!  Meet in the private dining room. The buffet cost is $7.

 

THE TRUTH PROJECT  COMES TO LIFE CHURCH        

 

Did you know that only 9% of all Christians have a Biblical Worldview?  Come join a new 12-week Bible study that could change how you view the world we live in.

 

We have been praying for you already..those who will be in attendance.  We pray that God will move in our hearts as we study His Word.

 

Space is limited.  Please call to reserve your spot!

 

Beginning Sunday evening, Nov 23rd at 6:30 pm at the home of Charles & Karin Stegall 4416 Winder Trail, Gastonia, NC 28056 (704) 824-1206. 

 

LIFE ANGEL TREE

You have an opportunity to spread a little Christmas cheer to a family in need.  The Angel Tree in the church foyer has several gift items requested by families in our community that need a little help this Christmas.  If you would like to help please purchase the items listed on the tag.  Return your gift with the tag attached by Sun, Dec 7^th.  It is imperative that you bring in these items by the deadline to ensure adequate time for delivery.

  

Come Join The  B.L.A.S.T.

Believing, Living and Surviving Together

 

Kindergartners – 5^th Graders

Jr. B.L.A.S.T. for 3 year olds – Rising Kindergartners

Jr. B.L.A.S.T. and B.L.A.S.T. Connection each Wednesday Night at 7:00 p.m.

 

 

 

 

Bible Basis: This week we will learn how God Heals.  When crowds gathered to meet Jesus, people wanting physical healing were usually up front and center.  They knew Jesus could cure even hopeless cases.  But Jesus didn’t heal every sick person in Israel.  Not every leper was made whole, not every one was healed.  God heals, yes…but God doesn’t always heal us physically.  This week we will discover that Jesus didn’t come to be our doctor; he came to be our Savior.  And he’s always willing to provide the healing we need most.

 

Key Verse:  “Jesus said, ‘I will come and heal him.’” (Matthew 8:7)

 

Family Challenge:  Put together a simple first-aid kit for times when you need quick healing for your bodies.  Include a stuffed, plastic, or candy heart to remind you that Jesus heals you all over, even when your first-aid kit can’t help.

 

Jr. BLAST and BLAST Christmas Party

Wednesday, December 17^th

6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Sign Up at the Children’s Church Office

 

FOR INFORMATION ON YOUTH EVENTS VISIT: WWW.LIFESTUDENTOUTREACH.WORDPRESS.COM  OR CONTACT JEFF PADGETT, YOUTH PASTOR 980-722-3055.

 

The Youth Winterfest trip will be March 13^th – 15^th in Knoxville, TN.  If your youth is interested in attending please see, Life Youth Pastor, Jeff Padgett to sign up.  A $50 deposit is due now.  Further details concerning the trip will be announced closer to the date.

 

WHO’S ON DUTY THIS WEEK

 

Wednesday

Nursery – Jill Moore

Blast Kid’s Church – Chris & April Ray/ Valerie Hall

Jr. Blast Lil Kids Church – Amy Odom

 

Saturday

Chair Team – Duckworth

Cleaning Team – Duckwork/Green/Lawing

 

 

8:00 AM Sunday

Nursery – Donna Hughes

BLAST/ JR. Blast – Valerie Hall

 

 

10:30 AM Sunday

Nursery – Sandra & Crystal Ocasio

BLAST – Chris & April Ray

JR. BLAST – Melissa McFalls and Kelly Wright

 

MEN’S FELLOWSHIP BREAKFAST – SAT, DEC 6^TH

All men are welcome to attend a time of fellowship together.  Meet at 8 am at the Golden Corral in Gastonia on Saturday December 6^th.  You’ll be glad you came!

 

“LOVE FROM HOME” – SUPPORT OUR TROOPS        

The East Gastonia Girl Scout Service Unit will be collecting items and Valentines to send to Iraq.  These items must be turned in by Sun, Jan 4^th to ensure delivery to Iraq by Valentines Day.  A collection box will be located in the church foyer. One of the adopted military units sent a request list of special goodies. 

 

Valentines to our soldiers (Handmade with support messages are the best)

Canned Ravioli & Spaghetti O’s.

Vienna Sausages & Potted Meat

Dukes Mayo in (Plastic no glass jars)

Chex Mix and Trail Mix (Without chocolate)

Nuts & Bubble Gum

Jelly peach rings, dried fruit especially Craisins

Candy: Nerds, gummy worms, skittles, sour candy and hard candy (No chocolate)

Personal items: tootbrushes, toothpaste, pocket combs, disposable razors, nail clippers, Gold Bond Powder , athlete’s foot cream, moisturizer, sunblock and chapstick, unscented deodorant, hand sanitizer & soaps (Unscented so the enemy can’t smell them)

Dark colored socks and lightweight gloves

Pocket knives, mini maglites, extra batteries, all-in-one tools

Disposable cameras that can download to a PC (CVS, Rite Aid & Wal-mart have them)

Non-reflective sunglasses & watches

Small toys they can give to the Iraqi children: Matchbox cars, Polly Pockets, Colored pencils, Crayons, Kid Watches, Nose Flutes, Kazoos, Hand Puzzles, Playing Cards, etc. (No GI Joe or military toys)

Paperback books

New or gently used Music CD’s & DVD movies

Crossword, Word Search & Sudoku magazines.

 

FURNITURE ITEMS AVAILABLE FOR THOSE IN NEED

If you are in need of a computer desk, coffee table or hutch, please contact Heather Sircey at hlthomps@uncc.edu.  Heather is willing to donate these items to someone in need.

 

COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING SERVICE

Join us on Sunday evening, November 29^th at the First Baptist Church in Cramerton for the annual community service at 6:00 pm.  The Cramerton churches unite together during this time to worship and give thanks.

 

SPECIAL PRAYER REQUESTS & PRAISE REPORTS  

 

If you currently have a prayer request on our list and have not given an update recently please contact Kelly Wright to do so.  Email kwright@carolina.rr.com or call the church office 704-824-4286. 

 

Blue Denotes New Prayer Request or Updates to Former Requests.

 

George Webb – Passed away on Saturday.  The funeral was held yesterday at Carothers in Gastonia.  George was the husband of Ida Webb, father of Rachel Baker and the grandfather to David Baker and Debbie Baker. Please remember this family in prayer.  

 

Danny Goodson – Serious health issues pertaining to his heart. Danny is Brian Goodson’s father. 

 

Sarah Warnock – Ed Warnock’s mother hospitalized for a broken hip.

 

Gayle Trado’s brother, Buddy Rankin passed away last week.

 

Stranger Dunn, co-worker of Sandra Huggins – Cleveland, the brother of Stranger suffered a stroke and was able to finally come home last week.  PRAISE GOD!

 

Susan Brito – Cancer surgery scheduled for Nov 19^th at 11 am.

 

Curtis Forbes – Father of Life Youth, Faith, Caleb & Mekayla. Curtis is suffering from Melanoma.  He is not healing well from a surgery he had in April 2007.  Biopsies are being done today for more lesions and moles that look abnormal.  He is also having a problem with swelling in his legs and feet. 

 

August Gray “Gus” (Grandson of Sonny & Judy Carver) – Born healthy to adoptive parents, Mike and Michelle on Nov 17^th at 11:43 am.  Weighing 7lbs 15 oz and 20 inches long. Please pray that the process of finalizing the legalities will go smoothly.  

 

White Family – Josh White (Phillips), 16 years old passed away. Josh was struck by a train last week as he was walking from South Point High School to his home in Cramerton.   Josh and his family were known by several in our community as he attended Cramerton Christian Academy for many years.  Please lift this family up in prayer, that they will know the Peace of God. Also, remember to pray for the train operator as well.

 

Holladay Family – Financial situation, Steve has been laid off at Freightliner, he needs prayer about finding the right job.  Pray for Amber, she needs direction on where to attend college.

 

Donna Cleveland’s mother – Had quadruple heart bypass surgery on November 10th. 

 

Brad and Khristie, submitted by Helen Hudson – Brad is fighting Pancreatic Cancer.  Tumors have now been found on Brad’s liver.   Khristie delivered a healthy baby boy.    This couple needs a miracle.  Brad desperately wants to be around to raise his son, pray for healing.

 

Chris Goodson – Personal family situation needs urgent prayer.  Pray that God will intervene.

 

Jo – Grave’s Desease.

 

Baby Briggs Chambers, requested by Janet Grice –CEREBRAL FOLATE DEFICIENCY SYNDROME. After a two year battle with CFD Brigg’s has finally found a team of well informed doctors in Houston, Texas to treat him.  They continue to be hopeful & are encouraged that his condition was caught at such a young age. Briggs will begin a new experimental drug that is used in Autistic patients to help them begin their speech development. Continue to pray him and his family as he battles this condition and fights for his life on a daily basis.  To see photos of Briggs and send encouragement to the family visit: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/briggschambers.                                                                                                                                             

 

John Barham – Eye sight

 

Glenn Baker – Fell while at a trip to the Outer Banks.  He suffered a broken hip.  He is at Courtland Terrace.

 

Cherisse Shirley – Special touch (requested by Shirley Black)

 

Pam Marsh, requested by Ismenia Azcanio – Diagnosed with Lymphoid Cancer.  Pam did not qualify for the chemo treatment as hoped.  She had additional surgery to remove more of the cancer.  She has developed a cyst and infection on her wound.  She and her 14 year old daughter have no family in N.C, They needs a special touch. 

 

JoAnn Wyatt – Cancer. Submitted by Aretha Rogers.  JoAnn is Aretha’s son John’s mother-in-law.

 

Sebastian Greenawalt, son of Joe Englehart’s co-worker – 3 years old with a very rare giant cell tumor in the skull, there have only been 3 other cases and non of them were in a child.  Sebastian had a very wide margin of his left skull removed.   CT scans are performed every 3 months. There are no new tumors or growths at this point.  (Updated 10/13/2008) 

 

Tiffany Pate, requested by Aundee Barrett – 34 yrs old with 2 children. Praise God!  The Liver Cancer is no longer visible.  She is waiting to hear if it is in remission.

 

Diane Lawson, requested by Aundee Barrett – Breast Cancer is in remission for now but she also has a brain tumor.  She is scheduled for surgery to remove the tumor sometime before Christmas.

 

Louis Nanney, Jr. – Pancreatic Cancer.

 

Wanda Garris, David Pullen’s sister was diagnosed with throat cancer.  As she was undergoing further test to remove the tumors doctors found an aneurysm on her brain.  Surgery will be scheduled soon.

 

Lori Fulton moved to Gaston Place.

 

Chris and Amy Gates Family – Pray for wisdom, direction and peace regarding an employment decision.

 

Mr. Pham, Father-in-law of Chris Goodson’s daughter – Reoccurring prostate cancer.  The cancer is inoperable and malignant.  It has spread to his stomach. 

 

Juanita Farmer - Friend of Jan Jolley, - Chemo treatment for various areas of cancer. 

 

McKenzie Manuel request pray for a co-worker, Otoniel Gomes-Gonzales.  He has terminal cancer and is receiving chemo to try to slow the very fast progression.  He is enduring a great deal of pain; Otoniel is a firm believer in the Lord.  Please remember him and his family during this time.

 

Glenda Parker’s husband – Receiving Radiation and Chemo for Lung Cancer.  Doctors are not able to operate and are not giving him much hope.

 

Harriet Simpson, requested by Jimmy Upton – Small Cell Cancer, she has come out of remission and more cancer has been found.

 

Susan Tull – Employment.

 

Ellie Potvin, requested by Helen Hudson – Ellie is 6 years old and will undergo chemo and radiation for 1 year to try to shrink stage 4 cancer called Rhabdomyosarcoma.  Ellie is a twin and lives in Charlotte.  Please pray for healing in her body and strength for this family.

 

Britt – Britt played the role of the devil in our production of “Heaven’s Gates and Hell’s Flames”.  Britt had bladder cancer in the past and it has returned.  The returning Cancer doesn’t seem to be as aggressive according to doctors but he gets scopes every 3 months.  Britt needs to have surgery but is unable to at this time.

 

Dave Young’s Father, Dan Young is suffering from COPD.  He is down to 17% lung capacity and has been given a life expectancy of 1 year.  He is trusting in the Lord.  Please pray for God’s continued grace, strength and healing.

 

Carzella Lawing, friend of Irene Day – Lung Cancer