Prayer for Today, Saturday, August 20

O Lord,

Sometimes we pray out of habit. Sometimes we pray out of necessity. There are times when life seems like a joyful prayer and there are times when life is a trial and we are filled with doubts. Then prayers are difficult, if not impossible to utter. Forgive us, O Lord, when we turn from You. Help us to realize Your love abounds, regardless of our circumstance or receptiveness. We pray You will cover us with Your protection and grace. All this we ask in Jesus’ name. AMEN.

_______

 

TOMORROW, August 31^st, is MISSION SUNDAY. This is a brand new experience for us with a completely revised Sunday morning schedule.

 

Helen Frost passed away. Her funeral will be on Tuesday at 10:00 A.M. in the sanctuary.

 

Neta Smith has been moved to Greenbrier Assisted Living.

 

Nick Patrizi is back in the hospital.

 

Please continue to lift up Joyce McCoy, Wayne Galer, Judy Parks,  Karen White, Laura Deatherage, Carolynne Blankenship, Teena Cornett, and Kent and Liz Beaty.

 

Please pray for all these family and friends.

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

 

Prayer for Today, Friday, August 29

O Lord, Our Lord,

 

You are the ground of our being, the rock upon which we stand. As the winds blow and the rains come our footing is sure, because You are with us. We look around and see other floundering, searching for certainty and hope. How do we tell our story? How do we share our experience of You? May we be open to the guidance of Your Spirit and trust that We will be Your instruments, not only in words, but in deeds. We pray for the lost, the lonely, the disconnected, and the wounded in our midst. In Jesus’ name. AMEN.

_______

 

This Sunday, August 31^st, is MISSION SUNDAY. This is a brand new experience for us with a completely revised Sunday morning schedule.

 

Neta Smith broke her hip and is hospitalized at St. Mary’s.

 

Nick Patrizi is back in the hospital.

 

David Dell’s brother-in-law, Mark Oblander, has been released from the Oklahoma Heart Hospital.

 

Please continue to lift up Joyce McCoy, Wayne Galer, Judy Parks,  Karen White, Laura Deatherage, Carolynne Blankenship, Teena Cornett, and Kent and Liz Beaty.

 

Jeffery Blakely will be going to Denver for rehabilitation.

 

Vera French’s niece, Janice Billeri, is recovering from breast cancer surgery in Houston.

 

I am doing remarkably well without pain. The neck collar has become bothersome, but, of course, it is required. I am sleeping a lot. Right now I hope to be with you Sunday as a participant (very light duty). Thanks again for all the expressions of concern. Carolyn and I have been overwhelmed with cards and each one is appreciated.

 

Please pray for all these family and friends.

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

 

Prayer for Today, Thursday, August 28

God of Tender Mercies,

Scripture tells us Your history with humankind has always been one of invitation. You continue to seek us out and invite us into relationship with You. Your will is for us to be in relationship with You as You continually shower us with grace. Please forgive us, Loving God, when we turn away and look only inward. May we see You at work in our lives and in the world. Give us courage, we pray, to make today a day of acceptance as we respond to Your love. In Jesus name we pray, AMEN.

______

 

This Sunday, August 31^st, is MISSION SUNDAY. This is a brand new experience for us with a completely revised Sunday morning schedule.

 

Neta Smith broke her hip and is hospitalized at St. Mary’s.

 

Nick Patrizi is back in the hospital.

 

Please pray for all these family and friends.

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

Prayer for Today, Wednesday, August 27

God of This Day,

Sometimes we see only what is right in front of us and often there is trouble, discontent and lack of hope. We Pray that You will forgive us for our short sightedness. We seek higher vistas, O Lord, where the beauty and power of Your grace can been seen and experienced. Empower us to move out of the tombs of our own making and into Your magnificent light where we feel You embrace. Help us to look beyond the present as we work for a world where there is love and peace. Clarify our perspective, Loving God, so that we might lose ourselves and all that is adverse in our lives as we seek to serve others. In Jesus name we pray, AMEN

_______

 

This Sunday, August 31^st, is MISSION SUNDAY. This is a brand new experience for us with a completely revised Sunday morning schedule. Volunteers can work on projects in the community or “sit down” projects in the church. There will be abbreviated worship experiences with communion. Over 80 people have signed up for projects! Join us as we seek to do good work here and in the community.  

 

Neta Smith broke her hip and is hospitalized at St. Mary’s.

 

Nick Patrizi is back in the hospital.

 

David Dell’s brother-in-law, Mark Oblander, is recovering from heart surgery at the Oklahoma Heart Hospital.

 

Please continue to lift up Joyce McCoy, Wayne Galer, Judy Parks,  Karen White, Laura Deatherage, Carolynne Blankenship, Teena Cornett, and Kent and Liz Beaty.

 

Jeffery Blakely will be going to Denver for rehabilitation.

 

Vera French’s niece, Janice Billeri, is recovering from breast cancer surgery in Houston.

 

I checked into St. Mary’s Hospital at 7:00 A.M. on  Monday and my surgery began at 9:30 A.M. It was a little more involved that was originally anticipated, but it was successful. Dr. Pollard removed the tumor, part of the vertebrae, built a cage with plates and screws, and did a bone graft. I am sore, but basically pain free. I got home around 2:00 P.M. yesterday. The recovery will take longer than I anticipated, because I will be wearing a collar for three weeks and can’t drive. I won’t be working this week, but plan to be back in the office a few hours beginning next week as we begin our September activities. Thank you again for all your expressions of love and concern.

 

Please pray for all these family and friends.

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

 

Prayer for Today, Monday, August 25

O Divine Presence,

Sometimes the trials and pressures of life immobilize us. There is so much to do and yet we don’t know where to start. We become numbed and inattentive as we sink into hopelessness. While this is not a frequent occurrence for us it is the norm for many in our midst. May we be strengthened and sustained by Your love when such feelings come over us. May we also open our eyes to the needs of others, being less critical and more compassionate. In all of life’s situations may we remember that we are often the unintended beneficiaries when we reach out to someone in need. Help us, O Lord, to understand that our tribulations are often reduced when we help someone else. May we experience Your blessing as we bless others. In Jesus’ name we pray. AMEN.

______

 

Next Sunday, August 31^st, is MISSION SUNDAY. This is a brand new experience for us with a completely revised Sunday morning schedule. Volunteers can work on projects in the community or “sit down” projects in the church. There will be abbreviated worship experiences with communion. Sign-up sheets are in the loggia. Pick a project and join your brothers and sisters as we seek to do good work here and in the community.  

 

Imogene Price has been moved to Greenbrier Skilled Nursing.

 

David Dell’s brother-in-law, Mark Oblander, had heart surgery at the Oklahoma Heart Hospital yesterday after more delays.

 

Please continue to lift up Joyce McCoy, Wayne Galer, Judy Parks,  Karen White, Laura Deatherage, Carolynne Blankenship, Teena Cornett, and Kent and Liz Beaty.

 

Jeffery Blakely will be going to Denver for rehabilitation.

 

Vera French’s niece, Janice Billeri, will have breast cancer surgery today in Houston.

 

Leslie Weldon’s brother, Rick Weber, passed away in Salina, Kansas.

 

I will have neck surgery this morning and will be recovering at home following an overnight stay in the hospital. Please, no visits, but prayers and cards will certainly be welcome. There may be a brief break in these daily prayers. It will depend on how I feel.

 

Please pray for all these family and friends.

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

Prayer for Today, Sunday, August 24

Most Gracious God,

New projects and milestone events bring hope to our lives. We are encouraged and optimistic when we start something new like a job, a school year, an athletic season, and a new course of study, to name only a few. Many times we are fulfilled by the promise of these events, but many times we are disappointed. Forgive us, Loving God, when we place our hope and trust in the mundane and material. Life has it’s peaks and valleys. Forgive us for our shortsightedness. Help us to understand we are fulfilled and completed only through our relationship with You. You are constant when we waver. Our hope comes from You. May we be blessed today as we seek to bless others. In Jesus name we pray. AMEN.

______

 

Today we will ordain our Elders. Because we have three Sunday morning  services we are asking everyone to assembly in the loggia at 10:15 A.M. There we will gather around these Elders, ordain them, and pray for their ministry. Afterwards those who came to the 8:00 chapel service and stayed for Sunday school can leave and the two 10:15 A.M. services can move to their respective locations.

 

Imogene Price has been moved to Greenbrier.

 

David Dell’s brother-in-law, Mark Oblander, will have heart surgery at the Oklahoma Heart Hospital this morning. It was rescheduled from yesterday because of an emergency.

 

Please continue to lift up Joyce McCoy, Wayne Galer, Judy Parks,  Karen White, Laura Deatherage, Carolynne Blankenship, Teena Cornett, and Kent and Liz Beaty.

 

Jeffery Blakely will be going to Denver for rehabilitation.

 

Vera French’s niece, Janice Billeri, will have breast cancer surgery tomorrow in Houston.

 

Leslie Weldon’s brother, Rick Weber, has passed away in Salina, Kansas.

 

I will have neck surgery tomorrow morning and will be recovering at home following an overnight stay in the hospital. Please, no visits, but prayers and cards will certainly be welcome. There may be a brief break in these daily prayers. It will depend on how I feel.

 

Please pray for all these family and friends.

 

Mission Sunday is August 31^st. This is a brand new experience for us with a completely revised Sunday morning schedule. Volunteers can work on projects in the community or “sit down” projects in the church. There will be abbreviated worship experiences with communion. Sign-up sheets are in the loggia. Pick a project and join your brothers and sisters as we seek to do good work here and in the community.  

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

 

Prayer for Today, Saturday, August 23

God of All Generations,

There are moments in our lives when we are filled with hope, enthusiasm and energy. There are other times when life is a struggle and we feel useless, lifeless and near despair. In our minds we know You are with us in the valleys as well as the mountain tops, but, when we are low, our hearts feel empty. In all things You are our God. Forgive us when we fail to see You, hear You, and feel You. Help us to realize You are the closest to us when we feel You are the farthest away. Please hug us today, Loving God. Hold us close so that we might be comforted by the rhythm of Your heart. In Jesus name we pray. AMEN.

______

 

Tomorrow we will ordain our Elders. Because we have three Sunday morning  services we are asking everyone to assembly in the loggia at 10:15 A.M. There we will gather around these Elders, ordain them, and pray for their ministry. Afterwards those who came to the 8:00 chapel service and stayed for Sunday school can leave and the two 10:15 A.M. services can move to their respective locations.

 

Imogene Price has been moved to Greenbrier.

 

David Dell’s brother-in-law, Mark Oblander, will have heart surgery at the Oklahoma Heart Hospital this morning.

 

Jimmy Davis had a stent inserted to open an artery yesterday and spent the night in the hospital. He will be released today.

 

Please continue to lift up Joyce McCoy, Wayne Galer, Judy Parks,  Karen White, Laura Deatherage, Carolynne Blankenship, Teena Cornett, Jeffery Blakely, and Kent and Liz Beaty.

 

Vera French’s niece, Janice Billeri, will have breast cancer surgery on Monday in Houston.

 

Leslie Weldon’s brother, Rick Weber, has passed away in Salina, Kansas.

 

I will have neck surgery on Monday and will be recovering at home following an overnight stay in the hospital. Please, no visits, but prayers and cards will certainly be welcome.

 

Please pray for all these family and friends.

 

Mission Sunday is August 31^st. This is a brand new experience for us with a completely revised Sunday morning schedule. Volunteers can work on projects in the community or “sit down” projects in the church. There will be abbreviated worship experiences with communion. Sign-up sheets are in the loggia. Pick a project and join your brothers and sisters as we seek to do good work here and in the community.  

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

 

 

Prayer for Today, Friday, August 22

God of All Being

A new weekend is before us and we give You thanks for the opportunities for service and witness that it brings. We pray You will open our eyes to the beauty that surrounds us. Please heal our brokenness and make us one with You and with Christ Jesus our Lord. It is in His name we pray. AMEN.

_______

 

Sunday we will ordain our Elders. Because we have three Sunday morning  services we are asking everyone to assembly in the loggia at 10:15 A.M. There we will gather around these Elders, ordain them, and pray for their ministry. Afterwards those who came to the 8:00 chapel service and stayed for Sunday school can leave and the two 10:15 A.M. services can move to their respective locations.

 

Imogene Price is in St. Mary’s hospital.

 

David Dell’s brother-in-law, Mark Oblander, will have heart surgery at the Oklahoma Heart Hospital tomorrow.

 

Jimmy Davis is to have a heart cath today.

 

Please continue to lift up Joyce McCoy, Wayne Galer, Judy Parks,  Karen White, Laura Deatherage, Carolynne Blankenship, Teena Cornett, Jeffery Blakely, and Kent and Liz Beaty.

 

I will have neck surgery on Monday and will be recovering at home following an overnight stay in the hospital. Please, no visits, but prayers and cards will certainly be welcome.

 

Please pray for all these family and friends.

 

Mission Sunday is August 31^st. This is a brand new experience for us with a completely revised Sunday morning schedule. Volunteers can work on projects in the community or “sit down” projects in the church. There will be abbreviated worship experiences with communion. Sign-up sheets are in the loggia. Pick a project and join your brothers and sisters as we seek to do good work here and in the community.  

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

 

Prayer for Today, Thursday, August 21

Merciful God,

It seems the one constant in our culture is change and change is difficult. We age. Our children mature. Friends move away. Birth and death are real experiences. There is an ebb and flow in all of life. Nothing remains the same, except for Your love. Forgive us, Loving God, when we build our lives on the sand. May You be the solid rock that gives us stability. Help us to realize that change isn’t a threat to us when we trust in You. In Jesus name we pray. AMEN.

_______

 

Sunday we will ordain our Elders. Because we have three Sunday morning  services we are asking everyone to assembly in the loggia at 10:15 A.M. There we will gather around these Elders, ordain them, and pray for their ministry. Afterwards those who came to the 8:00 chapel service and stayed for Sunday school can leave and the two 10:15 A.M. services can move to their respective locations.

 

Imogene Price was dismissed from St. Mary’s hospital but she got sick and has been readmitted.

 

David Dell’s brother-in-law, Mark Oblander, will have heart surgery at the Oklahoma Heart Hospital on Saturday.

 

Jimmy Davis is to have a heart cath on Friday.

 

Please continue to lift up Joyce McCoy, Wayne Galer, Judy Parks,  Karen White, Laura Deatherage, Carolynne Blankenship, Teena Cornett, Jeffery Blakely, and Kent and Liz Beaty.

 

I will have neck surgery on Monday and will be recovering at home following an overnight stay in the hospital. Please, no visits, but prayers and cards will certainly be welcome.

 

Please pray for all these family and friends.

 

Mission Sunday is August 31^st. This is a brand new experience for us. Volunteers can work on projects in the community or “sit down” projects in the church. There are sign-up sheets in the loggia.  

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

Prayer for Today, Wednesday, August 20

Dear Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer,

We bring our prayers to You today. May our hearts be filled with hope, joy, and compassion. We think about those affected by the deadly disease in Africa and the other terrible events around the world. So often the plight of others rarely touches our hearts. We, in the west, often take an “out of sight, out of mind” approach to human tragedy distant from us. Forgive us, we pray. We know the true heart of the Christian is revealed in our treatment of those in need. May we find ways to respond. In Jesus’ name we pray. AMEN.

______

 

Tonight the Board will meet at 7:30 P.M. in the multipurpose room. All Elders, Deacons, Board Officers, Committee Chairs, and Fellowship Group Chairs are encouraged to attend.

 

Remember: no WWNF activities until September 10^th . Then we will be calling our gatherings WNF (Wednesday Night Fellowship).

 

Please continue to pray for Jeffery Blakely, George and Mary Oller’s grandson. He is off the respirator, awake, and able to say a few words. He is to be moved him to Jim Thorpe for rehabilitation.

 

Imogene Price was dismissed from St. Mary’s hospital but she got sick and has been readmitted.

 

Teena Cornett is home following her neck surgery.

 

David Dell’s brother-in-law, Mark Oblander, is in OKC at the Oklahoma Heart Hospital for additional procedures.

 

Jimmy Smith is to have a heart cath on Friday.

 

Please continue to lift up Joyce McCoy, Wayne Galer, Judy Parks,  Karen White, Laura Deatherage, Carolynne Blankenship, and Kent and Liz Beaty.

 

Please pray for all these family and friends.

 

Mission Sunday is August 31^st. This is a brand new experience for us. Volunteers can work on projects in the community or “sit down” projects in the church. There are sign-up sheets in the loggia.  

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

Prayer for Today, Tuesday, August 19

Comforting Spirit,

We experience You in so many ways: in the kind word from a friend, in the gentle touch of a child, in the care of a community, in the embrace of a spouse, and in the power of Your unexplainable Presence. There is so much about Your love, O God, that is beyond our understanding, yet there are times when we feel Your embrace. We are then comforted and filled with hope. May we be a conduit, Loving Lord, extending Your comfort and peace to those in need. In Jesus’ name we pray. AMEN.

______

 

Please continue to pray for Jeffery Blakely, George and Mary Oller’s grandson. He is off the respirator, awake, and able to say a few words. He is to be moved him to Jim Thorpe for rehabilitation.

 

Imogene Price was to have been dismissed from St. Mary’s hospital yesterday.

 

Teena Cornett was in the hospital overnight at Bass following her neck surgery. They may keep her another day.

 

David Dell’s brother-in-law, Mark Oblander, is to have a heart cath today.

 

Jimmy Smith is to have a heart cath on Friday.

 

Please continue to lift up Joyce McCoy, Wayne Galer, Judy Parks,  Karen White, Laura Deatherage, Carolynne Blankenship, and Kent and Liz Beaty.

 

Please pray for all these family and friends.

 

Mission Sunday is August 31^st. This is a brand new experience for us. Volunteers can work on projects in the community or “sit down” projects in the church. There are sign-up sheets in the loggia.  

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

Prayer for Today, Monday, August 18

Loving God,

There is so much in life that is frightening. The change in family structures, stock market issues, economic concerns, crime, the violence in a neighboring state, and on and on. Forgive us, O Lord , when our fear overwhelms us. Forgive us, O Lord, when we are numbed to the point of inaction. May our trust always be in You. May we follow the path of Jesus who taught us to care for others, even when our lives are unsettled. May our focus be outward, not inward. Help us, O Lord , to share the Good News, to trust in You, and to seek to be agents for good in an uncertain world. We cast our fears on You, O Lord. May we be open to Your forgiveness and love. In Jesus’ name. AMEN.

______

 

Mission Sunday is August 31^st. This is a brand new experience for us. Volunteers can work on projects in the community or “sit down” projects in the church. There are sign-up sheets in the loggia.  

 

Please continue to pray for Jeffery Blakely, George and Mary Oller’s grandson. He is in ICU at Bass following an ATV accident.

 

Imogene Price is in St. Mary’s hospital. She fell but didn’t break any bones. They are treating her for an infection.

 

Teena Cornett is having surgery on her neck this morning at Bass Hospital. Please lift her up in prayer. She will be in the hospital overnight and probably off work for six weeks.

 

David Dell writes: “John, Please put my brother-in-law Mark Oblander on the prayer list. He had a Cardiac Arrest Saturday night and is in St. Mary's Hospital. Dr. G. is going to see Mark today to see what the next step is. They had taken the tube out yesterday and he was sitting up in the chair so that is good. Thanks.”

 

Please continue to lift up Joyce McCoy, Wayne Galer, Judy Parks,  Karen White, Laura Deatherage, Carolynne Blankenship, and Kent and Liz Beaty.

 

As of the time of this email, it looks likes the surgery on my neck will be on Monday, August 25^th  . Your prayers are always appreciated.

 

Please pray for all these family and friends.

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

 

Prayer for Today, Sunday, August 17

Author of Love,

We yearn for simplicity, O Lord. It is a distant memory and we often sentimentalize the past. Forgive our backward yearnings, Dear God. Today is the day You have made and we are called to rejoice. Honest reflection tells us it is human nature to wish for earlier times because we often remember only the good, not the difficulties. Clutter and distractions, however, are a past and present reality. So may we seek to live in the moment, with less clutter, and rejoicing in Your love and grace. This is our prayer in Jesus’ name. AMEN.

_______

 

TODAY IS BRIDGE SUNDAY! All students and parents are invited to the multi-purpose room for a breakfast and promotions for Sunday school and youth groups. It will be an important event that begins at 9:00 A.M.

 

There is a very important Youth Parents Meeting today at 3:00 P.M.

 

Mission Sunday is August 31^st. This is a brand new experience for us. Volunteers can work on projects in the community or “sit down” projects in the church. There will be sign-up sheets in the loggia tomorrow.  

 

Please continue to pray for Jeffery Blakely, George and Mary Oller’s grandson. He is in ICU at Bass following an ATV accident.

 

Teena Cornett will have surgery on her neck on Monday at Bass Hospital. Please lift her up in prayer.

 

Chuck Pritchett received good news following his medical tests.

 

Please continue to lift up Joyce McCoy, Wayne Galer, Judy Parks,  Karen White, Laura Deatherage, Carolynne Blankenship, and Kent and Liz Beaty.

 

Check out the church’s website at www.centralenid.org . Gene Heitfeld has added the sermon that included the Men’s Quartet. Thanks Gene.

 

Well, the best laid plans of mice and men oft times go astray. Dr. Pollard looked at the CAT scan and believes he can do surgery that will alleviate the pain, so I will have neck surgery on Monday, August 25^th , unless there is an earlier cancelation. Frankly this is not a moment too soon because the pain is increasing. I will then follow up with radiation.   Your prayers are always appreciated.

 

The Men’s Quartet is singing on the 8:00 A.M. chapel and 10:15 A.M. sanctuary service today. I am looking forward to these services.

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

Prayer for Today, Saturday, August 16

Faithful God,

Forgive us, O Lord, when we fail to laugh and have fun. Forgive us, Loving and Eternal Parent, when we take ourselves too seriously. You have given us the ability to cry and laugh. There are certainly appropriate times for both, but may we laugh today. Life can be full of so much joy. Even in the midst of trials and tribulations, may we experience moments of glee. In Jesus’ name we pray. AMEN.

______

 

Mission Sunday is August 31^st. This is a brand new experience for us. Volunteers can work on projects in the community or “sit down” projects in the church. There will be sign-up sheets in the loggia tomorrow.  

 

Please continue to pray for Jeffery Blakely, George and Mary Oller’s grandson. He is in ICU at Bass following an ATV accident.

 

Teena Cornett will have surgery on her neck on Monday at Bass Hospital. Please lift her up in prayer.

 

Chuck Pritchett received good news following his medical tests.

 

Please continue to lift up Joyce McCoy, Wayne Galer, Judy Parks,  Karen White, Laura Deatherage, Carolynne Blankenship, and Kent and Liz Beaty.

 

Rev. Allen Nagel’s (UMC Methodist minister in Lamont) 30 year old son, Jason, lives in Denver and was the victim of the new trend of young males randomly hitting people in the head and knocking them to the ground. Jason has improved and was recently released from the hospital.

 

Rev. Dr. Sharon Watkins mother, Billie Lee Caton Watkins has passed away. Sharon is the General Minister and President of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the United States and Canada. She and her family were also residents of Enid and active members at University Place Christian Church in Enid. Services for Sharon Watkins’ mother, will be held: Sunday, August 17, 2014, 1:00 PM PDT at First Christian Church 1314 SW Park Avenue Portland, OR and Sunday, August 24, 2014, 3:00 PM EDT Central Christian Church 701 N. Delaware Indianapolis, IN. A reception will follow each service. Memorial gifts may be made to: First Christian Church 1314 SW Park Avenue Portland, OR 97201 or Global Ministries Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) PO Box 1986 Indianapolis, IN 46206

Funeral services for Rev. Kirk Jones, pastor of First Christian Church, Ada, will be held at 1 pm, Saturday, August 16 at the church.  A viewing will be from 7 – 9 pm at Wadley Funeral Home in Purcell.  Rev. Jones was killed in a motorcycle accident on Wednesday, August 13^th.  Messages of concern may be sent to his wife, Jennifer, in care of the church: 101 E. 13^th, Ada, OK 74820.

Check out the church’s website at www.centralenid.org . Gene Heitfeld has added the sermon that included the Men’s Quartet. Thanks Gene.

 

Well, the best laid plans of mice and men oft times go astray. Dr. Pollard looked at the CAT scan and believes he can do surgery that will alleviate the pain, so I will have neck surgery on Monday, August 25^th , unless there is an earlier cancelation. Frankly this is not a moment too soon because the pain is increasing. I will then follow up with radiation.   Your prayers are always appreciated.

 

The Men’s Quartet is singing on the 8:00 A.M. chapel and 10:15 A.M. sanctuary service tomorrow. I am looking forward to these services.

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

 

Prayer for Today, Friday, August 15

O Lord Our God,

It disturbs us when we are disappointed in others and when they disappoint us. Our actions, intentional and otherwise, affect others and certainly their actions affect us, yet You have created us as social beings. We need one another, in fact it is said that You, O Lord, are experienced in the depth of human relationships. Forgive our pettiness. May we constantly be guided by the scriptural mandate to “love one another”, to do unto others as we would have them do unto us. May we also be reminded of Jesus’ mandate to be more concerned about the “log in our own eye”, than by the “speck in our neighbor’s eye”. Relationships are difficult at times, yet they sustain us. Forgive us, we pray, when we are not kind and accepting. May we celebrate and give thanks for others. In Jesus’ name we pray. AMEN.

________

 

A great amount of enthusiasm for local outreach was generated by  Mission Enid. As a result we are going to have a Mission Sunday on every 5^th Sunday where volunteers can work on projects in the community or “sit down” projects in the church. Our first Mission Sunday will be August 31^st. Look to the Church Visitor  or the Sunday bulletin for more details. There will be sign-up sheets in the loggia this Sunday.  

 

Please pray for Jeffery Blakely, George and Mary Oller’s grandson. He is in ICU at Bass following an ATV accident.

 

Teena Cornett will have surgery on her neck this Monday at Bass Hospital. Please lift her up in prayer.

 

Chuck Pritchett received good news following his medical tests.

 

Rev. Dr. Sharon Watkins mother, Billie Lee Caton Watkins has passed away. Sharon is the General Minister and President of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the United States and Canada. She and her family were also residents of Enid and active members at University Place Christian Church in Enid. Services for Sharon Watkins’ mother, will be held: Sunday, August 17, 2014, 1:00 PM PDT at First Christian Church 1314 SW Park Avenue Portland, OR and Sunday, August 24, 2014, 3:00 PM EDT Central Christian Church 701 N. Delaware Indianapolis, IN. A reception will follow each service. Memorial gifts may be made to: First Christian Church 1314 SW Park Avenue Portland, OR 97201 or Global Ministries Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) PO Box 1986 Indianapolis, IN 46206

Funeral services for Rev. Kirk Jones, pastor of First Christian Church, Ada, will be held at 1 pm, Saturday, August 16 at the church.  A viewing will be from 7 – 9 pm at Wadley Funeral Home in Purcell.  Rev. Jones was killed in a motorcycle accident on Wednesday, August 13^th.  Messages of concern may be sent to his wife, Jennifer, in care of the church: 101 E. 13^th, Ada, OK 74820.

Check out the church’s website at www.centralenid.org . Gene Heitfeld has added the sermon that included the Men’s Quartet. Thanks Gene.

 

After the appointment with my oncologist it was determined the best course of action was to begin radiation. I should hear today when those are to begin. Once again, this is something I did two years ago on my hip and I tolerated it well. This time it will be on the neck and back. Your prayers are always appreciated.

 

The Men’s Quartet is singing on the 8:00 A.M. chapel and 10:15 A.M. sanctuary service this Sunday.

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

Prayer for Today, Thursday, August 14

Ever Living God,

We approach You with humility, feeling unworthy. We sin and miss the mark. We usually choose our own path. We pray for forgiveness. Such a prayer seems so common that we wonder if it really has any meaning. Indeed, our unworthiness to receive Your grace overwhelms us. Touch our hearts, we pray. As we look at Jesus we see Your love. Help us to open our hearts to You so that we might be assured by the power of Your graced filled acceptance. In Jesus’ name we pray. AMEN.

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A great amount of enthusiasm for local outreach was generated by  Mission Enid. As a result we are going to have a Mission Sunday on every 5^th Sunday where volunteers can work on projects in the community or “sit down” projects in the church. Our first Mission Sunday will be August 31^st. Look to the Church Visitor  or the Sunday bulletin for more details. There will be sign-up sheets in the loggia this Sunday.  

 

Please pray for Jeffery Blakely, George and Mary Oller’s grandson. He is in ICU at Bass following an ATV accident.

 

Please pray for Chuck Pritchett. He is dealing with health issues.

 

Check out the church’s website at www.centralenid.org . Gene Heitfeld has added the sermon that included the men’s quartet. Thanks Gene.

 

I have an appointment with my oncologist today. Chemo-therapy is scheduled, but we may do something else because of the pain in my neck and left arm. Your prayers are always appreciated.

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

Prayer for Today, Wednesday, August 13

God of Forgiveness and Understanding,

We seek the comfort and hope that comes from You. Despair invades our world. Doubt and fear are present. Uncertainty is a reality, yet in the midst of the darkest hours, You are there. When life seems empty, You are there. You forgive us, love us and call us by name. Your presence transforms the darkness into marvelous light, doubt into faith, despair into hope. Make us new creations in Christ, O Lord, so that we might share this amazing understanding with our fragmented world. In Jesus’ name we pray. AMEN.

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THIS EVENING at 7:30 P.M. in Room 109 the cabinet will meet. All Board officers, Fellowship Group leaders, and Committee Chairs are encouraged to be present.

 

Thank you, again, for all the birthday wishes via Facebook, email, and cards. Some are still coming in. I appreciate all the comments.

 

Please pray for Jeffery Blakely, George and Mary Oller’s grandson. He is in ICU at Bass following an ATV accident.

 

Please pray for Chuck Pritchett. He is dealing with health issues.

 

A great amount of enthusiasm for local outreach was generated by  Mission Enid. As a result we are going to have a Mission Sunday on every 5^th Sunday where volunteers can work on projects in the community or “sit down” projects in the church. Watch the Church Visitor for more details.

 

Check out the church’s website at www.centralenid.org . Gene Heitfeld has added the sermon that included the men’s quartet. Thanks Gene.

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

Prayer for Today, Tuesday, August 12

God of Eternal Promises,

You bring a melody to our hearts. May Your Spirit flow through us, causing us to sing joyfully of Your eternal presence. Life is a symphony and we each have our part to play. May our tunes be in harmony with Your everlasting and majestic themes. May we listen for the amazing nuances that are present in our ensemble, where our music blends with the music of others to grandly praise You. We thank You for the notes and tempo of the universe. Bless us, O Lord, as we add our parts. In Jesus’ name we pray. AMEN.

_______

 

Thank you for all the birthday wishes via Facebook, email, and cards. I appreciate all the comments.

 

Please pray for Jeffery Blakely, George and Mary Oller’s grandson. He is in ICU at Bass following an ATV accident.

 

A great amount of enthusiasm for local outreach was generated by  Mission Enid. As a result we are going to have a Mission Sunday on every 5^th Sunday where volunteers can work on projects in the community or “sit down” projects in the church. Watch the Church Visitor for more details.

 

Check out the church’s website at www.centralenid.org . Gene Heitfeld has added the sermon that included the men’s quartet. Thanks Gene.

 

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

 

Today Rev. Dr. Lisa Davison will talk about the Book of Esther at the Tuesday Noon Bible Study. This is a great opportunity. Bring a sack lunch and join in the discussion.

 

Wednesday we will have a cabinet meeting with all the Board officers, Fellowship Group leaders, and Committee Chairs present.

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore

 

 

Prayer for Today, Sunday, August 11

O Great Benefactor,

The Apostle Paul says we are “joint heirs with Christ”. Our kinship with Jesus is hard to comprehend, yet we stand before You as beneficiaries. You bestow great gifts upon us, not gifts as the world interprets, but gifts of life, love, peace, hope and a place in eternity. We are unworthy to call Jesus our brother, yet He himself claims us as His own and said we would accomplish great things, even more than what he did. The responsibility is overwhelming. Please forgive us when we have feet of clay. May we stand boldly within the power of Your grace. May we follow Jesus’ example. May our influence lead others to a life transforming relationship with You. We pray in Jesus’ name. AMEN.

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Please pray for the refugees in Northern Iraq who are being persecuted because of their faith. Christians are included in this group.

 

Please pray for the Central American children who are seeking asylum in the United States. May our government find appropriate and passionate solutions to this growing problem.

 

You have responded in an overwhelming, generous way to help Tammy Hagen and her family bring a young girl from Enid into their family in Florida. We have $1,069 to help them return to Florida and to provide for this orphan.

 

Please pray for Jeffery Blakely, George and Mary Oller’s grandson. He is in ICU at Bass following an ATV accident.

 

A great amount of enthusiasm for local outreach was generated by  Mission Enid. As a result we are going to have a Mission Sunday on every 5^th Sunday where volunteers can work on projects in the community or “sit down” projects in the church. Watch the Church Visitor for more details.

 

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

 

Tomorrow Rev. Dr. Lisa Davison will talk about the Book of Esther at the Tuesday Noon Bible Study. This is a great opportunity. Bring a sack lunch and join in the discussion.

 

Wednesday we will have a cabinet meeting with all the Board officers, Fellowship Group leaders, and Committee Chairs present.

 

Grace and peace,

 

John McLemore