THE FRIENDLY CONNECTION NEWSLETTER

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1 THE FRIENDLY CONNECTION NEWSLETTER September 2018 January 2018 Volume 8, Issue 9 Volume 9, Issue 1 Published Monthly Published Monthly Newsletter ================= Staff EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Newsletter Staff: EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Deborah Ealy Deborah Ealy ASSOCIATE EDITOR ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Henrietta Givens Evangelist Henrietta EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Givens Robert L. Porter STAFF MEMBERS: Gail Johnson-McIntyre, MFT Elder Larry Ealy STAFF Bettie MEMBERS Young Sherease Sherease Durden Durden Larry Mary Ealy Jackson Mary COLUMNISTS: Jackson Alicia Charmayne Seales Moore Gloria Sterling, WRITERS DMin. Brian Elder Loren Thompson Due, PhD, Bettie DMin, Young MA, and Evangelist COLUMNISTS Arjeana Due Off-Site Arjeana Correspondents: Due Loren Due, Evang. PhD. Isarene DMin, Doyle MA Charmayne Moriah Washington Moore NOTICE OFF-SITE TO OUR READERS: CORRESPONDENTS The views expressed by the authors/originators Isarene Doyle of materials Moriah in this Washington publication are not necessarily those of The NOTICE Friendly TO OUR Connection READERS: or The Friendly views expressed Temple Church by the of authors/originators God in of Christ. materials in this publication Please address are not any necessarily concerns those of or The errors Friendly noted Connection in this or Friendly newsletter Temple Church or God in to larrydeborah@gmail.com Christ. Please address any concerns or errors noted in this newsletter to larrydeborah@gmail.com FRIENDLY TEMPLE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST WHERE EVERYBODY IS SOMEBODY AND JESUS CHRIST IS LORD! E STREET VICTORVILLE, CA (760) BISHOP ROGER THOMAS, PASTOR - DR. MARIE THOMAS, FIRST LADY GIVING THANKS IS A GOOD THING IN 2018!! It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and sing praises unto His name Psalms 92:1 ================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================ let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doeth so easily beset us, and run with patience the race that is set before us Hebrews 12:1 FROM THE PASTOR S DESK WHEN THINGS LOOK BAD, GOD LOOKS GOOD. (continued) And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:28-31 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. II Timothy 3:1 Do you believe that we as Christians are making a difference in this world? Oftentimes, Christians don t think that they are making a difference in the world, but they are making more of a difference than they realize. When things look bad, God s Word looks good; it doesn t matter what the newspapers say or what you see on TV. Once while watching a high-speed chase happening in Los Angeles, I witnessed the state trooper shoot the driver on live TV because he thought the driver was pulling a gun. That s bad. There is very little good news on TV and rest assured no one is going to come in this church and show all of your beautiful faces praising God. Why? Because that will not sell newspapers. The news is about sensationalism because that is what sells. When you read your Bible, it will remind you that when things look bad, God s Word looks good. God said in His word that He would never leave nor forsake you. Don t ever think you are going it alone. You ve got God on your side! There have been people who ve said, I ve got God on my side! My response, that is no big thing to say. I don t even have to be a Prophet to know that. Why? According to the Word of God in Hebrews 13:4KJV Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Don t walk around complaining about what you don t have. No matter what you are going through, God reminds us that He will never leave or forsake us. He is right there with you. People can treat you bad, and children you can even treat your parents bad, but God is watching you. If you want to get into really big trouble with God, disobey your parents. This includes dishonoring, disobeying, disrespecting; but even in this, when things look bad, God s Word looks really good. (To be continued )

2 IN THIS ISSUE Featured Writers Bishop Roger Thomas Deborah Thompson-Ealy Henrietta Givens Charmayne Moore Mary Jackson Loren Due, DMin, PhD. Moriah Washington Gail Johnson-McIntyre Alicia Seales CONTENTS Pastor s Desk 1 In This Issue 2 Inspirational Message 2 You ve Been Spotted 3 Remembering Mother Walston 3 Did You Miss It? 4 Did You Miss It? 5 When Thoughts Become Words 6 Your Spiritual Health 7 Marriage from My Perspective 8 Answer/Mystery Member 9 And a Time to Laugh 9 What Did You Forget? 10 Bible Mystery. Person 11 Words of Encouragement 11 Medical Corner 12 A Poem for Grandparents 13 For Your Information 14 Answers Bible Mystery Person 15 An Optical Illusion 15 Bettie s Picks 16 Children s Corner (1) 17 Children s Corner (2) 18 Prayer Requests 19 Announcements 19 Our Daily Bread 20 How Can I Be Saved? 21 to all of our new members who joined Friendly Temple during the month of August. We also extend a welcoming embrace to all who accepted Jesus as their Savior and Lord of their lives or rededicated themselves during the month of August. INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE Evangelist Alicia Seales Only Believe While He was still speaking, some came from the ruler of the synagogue s house who said, Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further? As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, He said to the ruler of the synagogue, Do not be afraid; only believe (Mark 5:35-36 NKJV). In the book of Mark, we find the story of a man named Jairus whose daughter was at the point of death. While Jesus was on His way to heal her, some people came from Jairus house to inform him that his daughter had already died. Those words marked the end of Jairus faith for his daughter s healing. However, as soon as Jesus heard what was spoken, He said to Jairus, Do not be afraid; only believe. In this world you are going to hear people saying that can't be done or that is impossible. The words spoken create fear, doubt and discouragement; if you were on the edge before in your faith, negative speaking will push you all the way in to doubting. The devil needs you to open the door of unbelief, doubt or fear to gain access or opportunity to steal your peace. But if you continue to believe what God says in His Word, you will see Him move in your situation. Jairus chose the believe Jesus! We must take a note from Jairus, no matter how final something appears to be, (any dead situation) we must reject the negative thoughts that are flooding our minds. The decision to believe God over circumstances, over feelings and over what people have said will birth a miracle. Jairus saw, with his own eyes, Jesus raise his daughter from the dead and then she got up and walked. God has bound Himself to His Word. This means He cannot operate outside the spiritual laws He has already set forth in His Word. He never promised to respond to your need, but a response to your faith is guaranteed. Jesus said, If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes (Mark 9:23 NKJV). Make the choice today to refuse to listen to the negative voices that speak words of doubt, fear, and worry. Do not be afraid only believe. 2

3 YOU VE BEEN SPOTTED REMEMBERING MOTHER BERNICE WALSTON October 24, August 8, 2018 Praise God, Readers! My name is Darian Moore. I m the YPWW and Collegiate Ministry Coordinator. I attend Cal State University San Bernardino majoring in Psychology, and this is my senior year. I am so honored to be featured in the You ve Been Spotted section of Friendly Temple COGIC s news outlet. I truly love my church, Bishop and First Lady Thomas. They are the epitome of lovingkindness, being genuine and holiness. I thank God for their leadership. Being one of the speakers for Youth and Young Adult Night I shared some verses that have been on my heart and encouraged me. Matthew 24:44: to always be ready! How will you be prepared for the fight through trying times with no weapon (scripture) and power (prayer and spending time with God)? Psalm 37:4: be sure to not let flesh override your life. Delight yourself in the Lord. An emphasis on delight, is to please God. He won t steer you wrong. He knows what we need before we do, just trust in Him! Bernice Ophelia Walston was born in Nayaka, Okmulgee County, Oklahoma on October 24, 1929 to Frank and Magnolia Walker. They both preceded her in death. She was the third child of twelve children. She grew up and attended Nayaka Primary School. She was invited by a cousin to come to Kansas City, Kansas to complete her education; but after three months, she became very ill and had to return home. When she recovered, the exposure of the big city caused her to yearn for living the city life. After her recovery, she moved to California with a family friend where she reconnected with a long-time admirer. They dated for a while and fell in love. She asked permission from her parents to marry, and with their blessings, Mr. R.A. Walston asked for her hand in marriage. Because she was so young she was not able to get a marriage license in California. Her fiancé was informed by a friend that they could get a license in Yuma, Arizona. So off to Yuma they went. On September 27, 1947 she married her long-time love, R.A. Walston. There were no children to this union. However, they delighted in being godparents to Tina Bernice Walker and Judge Walker III. Early in 1948 they bought a home in Willowbrook, CA where they lived for many years and later moved to the Los Angeles area. While living in Los Angeles, they became members of the West Angeles Church of God in Christ. As members, Bernice and her husband joined the Senior Ministry. They gave their lives to Christ at an early age. Upon his retirement, they relocated to Victorville in 1989 where she became a member of the Friendly Temple Church of God in Christ. She served as a member of the Sewing Circle and was a member of the Mothers Board. She also served as a member in an outside organization called the Helping Hands of the High Desert. She was widowed in Bernice was an excellent homemaker; she loved having a beautiful home and, as you know, her favorite color was pink. Her passion was sewing, cooking and she was an excellent baker. Everyone loved her cakes and pies. Her passion was even greater for crafts such as making lace baskets, lace handkerchiefs and all sorts of Christmas crafts. She could enter a craft store, see an item and return home to make it. Her work history was minimal. During the Christmas holiday, she worked at the Boston Department Store. On payday all of her earnings were spent on clothes. She was such a classy dresser. She loved hats and all accessories to match. When she came home from work with all her clothes, her husband would only say Awe Honey. Bernice had an outgoing personality and an engaging smile. She was truly loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Bernice leaves to cherish her memory sisters Lenda M. Walker of Hesperia, CA and Lillie (John) Cottrell of Carson, CA; brothers Warren (Sue) Walker of Inglewood, CA and Earnest Clifford Walker of Portland, Oregon; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends 3

4 DID YOU MISS IT?? Happy Birthday to Assistant Pastor Corey Thomas! Congratulations Deacon Staton & Mother Fannie Gibson! 4

5 DID YOU MISS IT?? Brotherhood Applebee s Fundraiser 5

6 When thoughts become words. A personal commentary in the opinion of Charmayne Char Moore "It becomes a war of pride. Why? Because our personal importance grows when we don't forgive...the real problem is pride. Because of pride, because of honor, we add more fire to the injustice to remind ourselves that we cannot forgive. Guess who is going to suffer and accumulate more and more emotional poison? We are going to suffer for all kinds of things people do around us, even though they have nothing to do with us." -Don Miguel Ruiz (The Mastery of Love). There is something so freeing about practicing forgiveness - to not be bound or shackled by another person's behavior or actions. We all want to be free, right? Who wants to be bound by people, wasting limited time out of your life being angry over a person? We all know how this works: person angers us, we get mad, can't let it go and that person is living their best life completely oblivious to the fact that you are alone in your room seething over their actions. No matter how cliché it sounds, it's true that when you don't forgive, it affects you more negatively than the person who hurt you. I cannot begin to tell you how many times I've been miserable due to unforgiveness. I experienced depression, anxiety attacks, insomnia, bad attitude, isolation, etc. It would literally make my blood boil when I saw or heard that the person who hurt me was happy. How dare they be happy? How dare they be blessed after what they did to me. I was enraged. Reflecting back on this, I laugh now because I can't believe how mad I was over silly things, things out of my control. I was trying to control their behavior, make them see that they hurt me and hope that they would be just as miserable as I was. Guess what? They were far from miserable. The opposite, to be exact. They never apologized or acknowledged that they hurt me, instead they moved on. So, you know what I started doing? THE SAME. I literally said to myself, well I'm going to live my life to the fullest since I only have one and it would be foolish to waste it on unhappiness. The end of last year I asked God if He could help me deal with people the right way. I can say with confidence that He has done that this year. I've argued with way less people than last year; actually, I can't say that I've been angry with anyone this year, just disappointed. I've let things roll off my back that weren't as serious. I've given more chances than I should've. I made up my mind that I will no longer be present for arguments, pettiness, shenanigans. I will quickly remove myself and let people argue by themselves. Remember this: it's pointless to argue with a fool. You're not weak for forgiving someone. In fact, you're more free than your enemy. At some point they have to acknowledge their actions. It won't always be an explanation from them, so you have to move on and stop worrying about the why. Often times it is a reflection of their own insecurities, which means it's out of your control, so LET IT GO. Lastly, forgiveness is classy not petty. If you forgive someone, do just that, not anything extra. No side comments, side glances and stares, retaliation, etc. I believe that when you truly forgive someone the feelings you have towards them are indifferent. Meaning when you hear their name or see them in a room your mood and facial expressions won't change. No negative thoughts, you can simply be cordial. Forgiveness doesn't mean that you accept their behavior and let them back into your life, some people need to stay away. It means that you recognized they've hurt you, you let it go, you refuse to be treated that way again and you carry on with living your life as God allows. I'll ask this question again; do you want to be free or bound? Choose wisely. BE BLESSED -Char 6

7 YOUR SPIRITUAL HEALTH. In the opinion of spiritual philosopher Loren Due, DMin and Ph.D. What Did the Lord Say? (conclusion) Article 54 In this section, Job makes his famous statement. But notice God did not say the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away. When you use this statement in real life, you are copying Job, not God. Satan takes and God gives, so you preachers and teachers do not ever say again at a funeral what Job said unless you say, Job said that, not God. [20] Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped, [21] And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord. Here is the only thing you want to copy Job and that is not to charge God foolishly: [22] In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly. Final thoughts: Even though Job made his statement that the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away he did not charge God foolishly nor curse God as his wife suggested, but he maintained his integrity. Can you do that when it seems a train is running over you, all your money is gone, your children are on drugs and your husband left you for another? The key point from this writing is that we have the power to speak to our situation and learn to trust God for everything. Because the way God sees is the reality of heaven and the way we see ourselves is the reality of earth, but the way we are healed and delivered is to see ourselves the same way God sees us. God does not give in order to take away, what did the Lord say? 7

8 MARRIAGE, from my perspective. A commentary in the opinion of Moriah Washington Christ s Love Being Seen in Marriage What is the purpose of marriage? To be with your soul mate forever? To finally have that happily ever after? For me it was to finally be with the man of my dreams, the one that would never hurt me and love me unconditionally. Even though my husband loves me unconditionally, he has also hurt me deeper then I have ever been hurt before, and even though my husband prayed for a wife like me I wasn t the wife God intended for me to be at times. I now understand why so many preachers talk about the effects of bringing unnecessary baggage into your marriage. My husband had a lot of baggage and so did I; and some of the baggage I had I didn t even know about until after we said I do. Things were tough at first and at times they still are. Going from not trusting anyone to now trying to become one with your spouse was and still is one of the hardest things I ve ever done. Thankfully, our marriage is going on 5 years because of God being our foundation, and our personal choices to fight for our marriage. Let me be honest, there was a time when I wanted to stop fighting for my marriage and I bought a plane ticket and was ready for divorce; but God reminded me of better or worse and taught me how to love my husband unconditionally. I mean, think about it, God knows all your wrongs and He still continues to bless you; but yet someone does us wrong and we are ready to write them off - at least I am. Another obstacle we faced was learning what God says about marriage and not the world: marriage is supposed to reflect God s love for the world not us living out our happily ever after. You are going to face challenges anytime you deny your flesh and live according to God s word, especially in marriage. There is power when two or three are gathered in His name. (Matthew 18:20) What helps me is remembering that my husband is not perfect, and neither am I! As many times as I have to forgive him, he has to do the same for me. He is going to hurt me and I am going to hurt him, but as long as we forgive each other and ask God to heal our hearts (because we are human and sometimes it takes us awhile to truly forgive someone) we are going to have that marriage where everyone can see God s love. Satan is always going to give it his all to destroy your marriage anytime you re one step closer to becoming one! Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers Galatians 6:

9 AUGUST MYSTERY PERSON Evangelist Verrene Palmer Then Now MYSTERY PERSON THIS MONTH Who is this distinguished young man? 9

10 What did you forget? Submitted by Administrative Assistant Dr. Gloria Sterling From Clearing the CLUTTER from your MIND -- by Lady Mae L. Blake DISAPPOINTMENTS Disappointments form a grieving cluster in your mind. This devasted feeling just sits there speaking in your ear and talking to you. This distressed feeling causes you to get more and more provoked and stirred up, bringing on a tantrum, which causes you to feel that you are mistreated and overlooked. It takes a permanent place in your mind, becoming clutter. Self-pity, or feeling sorry for ourselves, is one of the unhappiest and overwhelming faults that we know. It is a hindrance to progress and can cut off all effective communication in our association with others because of its needs and obsessive demands for attention and sympathy. In order to get past and eliminate self-pity and disappointments and remove this type of mind clutter, when any feelings of depression, unhappiness or low periods of mind come upon you, make it a rule not to advertise it by complaining, but by thankfulness and praise. Hebrews 4:14-16 (KJV) King James Version Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. 10

11 BIBLE MYSTERY PERSONS by Evangelist Henrietta Givens STARTS WITH THE LETTER S 1. God is our refuge and, a very present help in trouble. 2. Above all, taking the of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 3. The name of the Lord is a tower; the righteous run into it and are safe. 4. Wicked city destroyed with fire and brimstone. 5. Know ye that the LORD He is God: it is He that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people, and the of His pasture. 6. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the of death, I will fear no evil for you are with me. 7. Who was the first King of Israel? 8. The LORD is my ; I shall not want. 9. Paul chose him as a traveling companion after disagreement with Barnabas. 10. All is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER (Submitted by Evangelist Alicia Seales) Praise the Lord! Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever (Psalm 106:1 NKJV). God loves it when you praise Him, despite what you see, feel, or hear. He loves it when you trust in His goodness and His love towards you, even when it looks like things are going from bad to worse. The fact that God is going to turn your situation around is grounds to praise Him right now. Regardless of the circumstances you may be facing today, take the time to praise God. When you do, He will fully satisfy you with His goodness. Confession: I trust in my heavenly Father and His never-ending love for me. I believe His plans and purposes for me are for my good. Right now, I declare my praise and thanks to the Lord, whose mercy endures forever! 11

12 With Stroke Comes Higher Dementia Risk: Study People who've had a stroke face up to twice the normal risk of dementia, a new review suggests. In what they say is the largest analysis of its kind, British researchers examined 48 studies that included 3.2 million people worldwide. "We found that a history of stroke increases dementia risk by around 70 percent, and recent strokes more than doubled the risk," said researcher Ilianna Lourida, from the University of Exeter Medical School. "Given how common both stroke and dementia are, this strong link is an important finding," Lourida added in a university news release. "Improvements in stroke prevention and post-stroke care may therefore play a key role in dementia prevention." The association between stroke and increased dementia risk remained even after other dementia risk factors such as blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease were taken into account, the researchers said. Though the study did not prove that strokes cause dementia, this is the strongest evidence to date of a link between the two, according to the researchers. Researcher David Llewellyn, also from the University of Exeter, said, "Around a third of dementia cases are thought to be potentially preventable, though this estimate does not take into account the risk associated with stroke. "Our findings indicate that this figure could be even higher and reinforce the importance of protecting the blood supply to the brain when attempting to reduce the global burden of dementia," he said. More study is needed to find out if factors such as ethnicity and education influence dementia risk following stroke, the study authors added. In the latest review, there was some suggestion that the risk might be higher for men. The investigators also noted that most stroke survivors do not develop dementia, so further research is needed to determine whether differences in post-stroke care and lifestyle can reduce the risk of dementia. About 15 million people worldwide have a stroke each year, according to the World Health Organization. About 50 million people worldwide have dementia, and that's expected to almost double every 20 years, reaching 131 million by The findings were published Aug. 31 in Alzheimer's & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association. 12

13 A poem for Grandma and Grandpa 13

14 FOR YOUR INFORMATION submitted by Mary Jackson Don t Miss this 2-Day Classic Car Show in Ontario, California! Vehicle Registration is now open. Vendor Applications are now open. Two days of cruisin, contests, live music, delicious food, and more on Historic tree-lined Euclid Avenue in Ontario, California. This spectacular family friendly event is FREE to attend! Over 1,000 amazing classic cars, muscle cars, kids activities, live entertainment and more. Along the Route you ll find a wide variety of food vendors we have a little something for everyone! Hot Dogs, BBQ, Tacos, Burgers, and so much more! Enjoy strolling along historic Euclid Avenue, visiting with car owners, chatting with friends, and of course there s always some fun shopping with our unique vendors NEW IN 2018! SPLASH DOGS A nationally recognized dog enthusiast company. Shows throughout the weekend. o Friday 2 shows (5 PM & 7 PM) o Saturday 5 shows (10 AM, 12 PM, 2 PM, 4 PM and 6 PM) Dog Gone Good o West End Animal Shelter will by one site! Learn more about this local no kill shelter. Prize opportunities too. Extended Hours o Friday 5pm 11pm / Saturday 9am Midnight Classic and Muscle Cars 1988 and Older! Blacksmith Boys See the 1932 Ford Truck Forge FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 G STREET STAGE presented by KCAL/KOLA Radio 5:00 PM 7:00 PM Various Local Bands from Rock Stars of Tomorrow. LIVE ON STAGE AT ONTARIO TOWN SQUARE 6:30 PM 8:30 PM CHICAGO TRIBUTE EXPERIENCE 9:00 PM 11:00 PM BLUFFETT Tribute to Jimmy Buffet SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 G STREET STAGE presented by KCAL/KOLA Radio 9:00 AM 6:00 PM Various Local Bands from Rock Stars of Tomorrow. LIVE ON STAGE AT ONTARIO TOWN SQUARE 5:00 PM 6:00 PM THE ALLEY CATS Doo Wop 6:00 PM 7:00 PM MY GENERATION British Invasion Tribute Show 7:00 PM 7:30 PM CLASSIC CAR Awards 7:30 PM 9:15 PM HOTEL CALIFORNIA The Original Eagles Tribute Band 9:30 PM 11:00 PM VOYAGE Journey Tribute Band We ll see you September 21-22, 2018! 14

15 ANSWERS TO BIBLE MYSTERY PERSONS by Evangelist Henrietta Givens 1. Strength Psalm 4:1 2. Shield Ephesians 6:16 3. Strong Proverbs 18:10 4. Sodom Genesis 19, 19:24 5. Sheep Psalms 100:3 6. Shadow Psalms 23:4 7. Saul 1 Samuel 15:1 8. Shepherd Psalms 23:1 9. Silas Acts 15: Scripture 2 Timothy 3:16 15

16 WEEKNIGHT COOKING Chicken with Apple, Onion and Cider Sauce Lo Mein with Hoisin Meatballs Crispy Almond Chicken with Apple-Fennel Salad Grilled Shrimp with Rice Noodles INGREDIENTS 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds) Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper All-purpose flour, for dredging 2 to 3 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 large red onion cut into large pieces 1 sweet cooking apple cored and cut into large pieces 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter 1 handful fresh parsley roughly chopped DIRECTIONS Preheat the oven to 350 Fahrenheit. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and dredge in the flour, shaking off the excess. Add 2 TBL oil to the pan. Place the chicken in the skillet smooth-side down and cook until golden, about 5 mins per side. Transfer to a baking dish and bake until cooked through, about 8 mins. Meanwhile, add the onion and apple to the skillet, along with 1 TBL oil, if the pan is dry, and increase the heat to high. Cook, tossing, until the onion has wilted slightly, and the apple is golden brown, about 2 mins. Add the vinegar and use a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits from the pan. Let the mixture boil until the vinegar becomes syrupy, about 1 minute. Add the chicken broth and return to a boil. Cook until the broth reduces by half. Remove from the heat, season with salt and pepper and whisk in the butter. Remove the chicken from the oven; add any collected juices to the sauce. Divide the chicken among four plates and spoon the apple, onion and pan sauce over each piece. Sprinkle with the parsley. INGREDIENTS 1-pound ground beef 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce 3 cloves garlic minced 1 TBL minced peeled fresh ginger Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper 8 ounces dried wide lo mein noodles 2 TBL plus 1 tsp vegetable oil 2 tablespoons oyster sauce 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil 2 scallions thinly sliced 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved 1 1/2 cups snow peas trimmed DIRECTIONS Preheat the broiler; line a baking sheet with foil. Mix the ground beef, 1/4 cup water, 2 TBL hoisin sauce, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tsp ginger, 3/4 tsp salt and a few grinds of pepper. Form into 12 meatballs. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet and broil, turning once, until browned and cooked through, 6 to 7 minutes. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook as the label directs; drain and rinse under cold water. Toss with 1 tsp vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Whisk 1/3 cup water, the oyster sauce, sesame oil, remaining 1 TBL hoisin sauce, 1/4 tsp salt and a few grinds of pepper in a liquid measuring cup. Heat the remaining 2 TBL vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 2 minced garlic cloves and 2 tsp ginger, the scallions (reserve some of the greens for topping), cherry tomatoes and snow peas. Stir-fry until the snow peas are bright green, 30 sec to 1 min. Add the noodles and toss. Pour in the sauce mixture and toss until mostly absorbed, 1-2 mins. Divide the noodle mixture and meatballs among bowls. Top with the reserved scallion greens. INGREDIENTS 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs 1/2 cup almond flour Grated zest of 1 lemon, plus 1 tablespoon lemon juice, plus wedges for serving Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper 2 large eggs 8 thin-cut skinless, boneless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds) 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more as needed 4 cups mixed baby greens 1/2 bulb fennel cored and thinly sliced 1 small crisp red apple thinly sliced 1/2 cup roughly chopped fresh basil 1/2 small red onion thinly sliced DIRECTIONS Combine the panko, almond flour, lemon zest and 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper in a shallow dish, using your fingers to evenly blend the zest into the crumbs. Lightly beat the eggs in a separate shallow dish and season with salt and pepper. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat about 1/3 cup olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat (it s hot enough when a pinch of panko sizzles when it hits the oil). Working with 2 or 3 chicken breasts at a time, dip each piece in the beaten egg, letting the excess drip off, then press the chicken into the crumb mixture to coat. Add to the hot oil and cook until browned and cooked through, 1 1/2 to 2 minutes per side. Transfer to paper towels to drain. Reduce the heat if the chicken is browning too quickly and add more olive oil as needed between batches. Toss the greens, fennel, apple, basil and red onion with the lemon juice and the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a bowl; season with salt and pepper. Divide the chicken among plates and serve with the salad and lemon wedges. INGREDIENTS 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, plus more for grill 1 8-ounce package thin rice noodles, such as vermicelli 1 1/4 pounds peeled and deveined large shrimp 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 1/4 cup drained pickled ginger, chopped, plus 1 tablespoon brine Kosher salt 1 seedless cucumber cut into matchsticks 1 yellow bell pepper thinly sliced 1 carrot grated 1/2 cup fresh cilantro roughly chopped DIRECTIONS Preheat a grill to medium high; oil the grates. Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook as the label directs. Drain and rinse under cold water. Toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon curry paste and the vegetable oil. Let sit at room temperature, about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, whisk the remaining 1 tablespoon curry paste, the peanut butter, vinegar, ginger brine, 2 tablespoons water and a pinch of salt in a large bowl until smooth and thick. Add the cucumber, bell pepper, carrot, most of the cilantro, the ginger and a generous pinch of salt; toss well until the sauce loosens. Cut the noodles into shorter pieces with kitchen shears and add to the vegetables; season with salt and toss well. Grill the shrimp until just cooked through, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Serve on top of the noodle mixture. Top with the remaining cilantro. mixture. 16

17 Color this page and give to your grandparents. Be sure to use bright, pretty colors!! 17

18 CAN YOU MAKE THE SHOT?

19 THE EFFECTUAL FERVENT PRAYER OF A RIGHTEOUS MAN AVAILETH MUCH Sis. Wooten Sis. Pearlena Jones Jeraline Lewis Magda Littles Gray Hosey Freda Stevens Sharon Howard Joyce James Viola Briggs Nelson Taylor Sr Robert Williams Christine Collins Novella Jordan Mother Grace Robinson Rosie Hudson Alvernon Caine Diane Drayton Ella McKenzie Erna Sutton Kevin R. Jackson Cassandra Williams Elder James Ham Sis. Mary Ham Josiah Hunter Michael Ray Philips Sis. Mattie Allen Diane Tyler-Fulson Josephine Alsup Jessica Ogura Dea. Odell Jones Zoe Pascoe Freddy George & Family Brandon Borja The Wrights Elizabeth Peters Joshua Isaiah Brown Brian Thompson Bereavement The Sims Family The Andrews Family The Hill Family The Burnett Family The Walston/Walker Family PLEASE PRAY FOR OUR MILITARY AND OUR COUNTRY Pray also for our missionaries abroad who are being persecuted. ANNOUNCEMENTS SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP SERVICES: 8:00 am and 11:30 am, Sunday School 9:45 am CORPORATE PRAYER: Every Tuesday & Thursday at 6 am, and Wednesdays at 6:30 am. Call (641) and enter code #. Missionary Circle Prayer every 2 nd and 4 th Sunday at 7:00 am. Monday Prayer 6:00 am and pm. Noon Day Prayer Wednesday and Friday at 12:00 noon. PRAYER & BIBLE BAND: Tuesdays at 9:00 am PRAYER & FAMILY BIBLE STUDY: Wednesdays at 7:00 pm FRIENDLY TEMPLE S ANNUAL CHURCH PICNIC: Saturday, September 15 th 11 am to 4 pm. NEW LOCATION: Spring Valley Lake ADDRESS: Country Club Dr. We will be at the Spring Valley Lake Park West Beach location. Auxiliaries: don t forget what you have been asked to donate to help make our picnic a success. ATTENTION MEN: Male Chorus rehearsal will be every 2 nd & 3 rd Monday of the month. The Men s Chorus sings in our 8 am service every 3 rd Sunday. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 TH,

20 ================================================================================================ Because of Love Faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect. James 2:22 The other day I came home from work to find a plate of peanut butter snack bars on the kitchen counter. Accompanying the delectables was a note from my 12-year-old daughter Melissa to her grandparents. Dear Grandma and Grandpa, I made these for you. Love, Melissa. No one told her to do this. She didn t have to. She just did it. But why? Was Melissa trying to gain their favor? Was she trying to make sure that they loved her? Was she trying to win Brownie points (well, snack-bar points) with her grandparents? No, she cooked up this little confectionary delight just to show her grandparents she loves them. It was evidence of their close relationship. She did it because she is their granddaughter, not to somehow earn the right to be their granddaughter. That s how it is with the good works we should do as followers of Jesus Christ. We don t do good works so we can win a place in heaven. Rather, our good deeds show evidence of our salvation and faith in Christ. Jesus did all the work of providing salvation. But we still have to work. Why? Not to win His favor but to show our love. It s an outpouring of a grateful heart. Keep me faithful, keep me grateful, This my earnest plea each day! Keep me serving, keep me telling Of His love while yet I may! Thiesen Serving Christ under law is a duty; serving under love is a delight. 20

21 HOW CAN I BE SAVED? You must confess and believe. Romans10:9 says, If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus and shalt believe in thine heart that God raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. If you believe that God raised Jesus of Nazareth up from the grave and can confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, you shall not maybe you shall be saved. THE PRAYER If you desire to be saved, would you pray the following prayer? Dear God, I know that I am a sinner. And I know that Jesus died for my sins. I believe You raised Jesus from the dead, and I want Him to be my Lord and Savior. Jesus, come into my heart and save me. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen. We re on the Web! Visit us at: Also, our newsletter can be viewed at friendlytemple.wordpress.com. Bishop Roger Thomas, Church of God in Christ California Southern Third Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction Prelate Mother Ida Martin, Jurisdictional Women s Supervisor-Designee FRIENDLY TEMPLE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST E Street Victorville, CA Postage 21