In the video “Take Your Next Step // Sam Thigpen (May 28, 2023)” by Real Life, Real Hope, speaker Sam Thigpen shares various announcements and updates for the upcoming week. He highlights the need for adult volunteers for Vacation Bible School (VBS) starting on June 5th, as well as the upcoming summer music and arts camp happening on June 26th-30th. Along with these events, Sam mentions the start of Grief Share, a ministry for those grieving, and the Women’s Ministry kick off event on June 14th. Throughout his message, Sam emphasizes the importance of taking steps of faith in our spiritual journey and trusting in God’s guidance and faithfulness.
During Memorial Weekend, it’s essential to remember the sacrifices made for our freedom, both in the military and in our spiritual lives. As we honor and pray for those who have given their lives, we also reflect on the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. Galatians 5 reminds us that Christ set us free for freedom’s sake. Just as we appreciate the price paid for our earthly freedom, we must not forget the incredible price paid for our eternal freedom. May we continue to take steps of faith, trust in God’s plan, and live in the freedom that Christ has provided for us.
Announcements and Updates
VBS starting on June 5th
Get ready for a fun-filled week of Vacation Bible School (VBS) at Anastasia Church! Starting on June 5th, our VBS program will be in full swing, engaging children of all ages in various activities, games, and lessons centered on the teachings of Jesus. Not only will your children have the opportunity to learn about God’s love, but they will also have the chance to make new friends and create lasting memories. Make sure to mark your calendars and register your children today!
Volunteers needed for VBS
To make VBS a success, we rely on our dedicated team of volunteers. We are calling upon all members of the Anastasia Church community to consider giving their time and talents to help make VBS a memorable experience for the children. Whether you can assist with organizing activities, leading small groups, preparing snacks, or setting up and cleaning up, your contribution will make a difference. We believe that by investing in the spiritual growth of our children, we are helping to build a strong foundation for the future of our church and our community. Please reach out to our VBS coordinator to sign up as a volunteer.
Summer music and arts camp on June 26th-30th
Calling all budding musicians and artists! Join us for our summer music and arts camp from June 26th to June 30th. During this week-long camp, participants will have the opportunity to explore their creative talents through various workshops and activities. From painting and drawing to singing and playing musical instruments, our dedicated staff will guide the campers in honing their artistic skills while also nurturing their spiritual journey. Open to individuals of all ages, this camp promises to be an inspiring and exciting experience. Don’t miss out on this enriching opportunity and register today!
Grief Share ministry starting up
We understand that dealing with the loss of a loved one can be an incredibly challenging journey. To provide support and comfort during these times, Anastasia Church is launching a Grief Share ministry. Whether you are in the early stages of grieving or further along in your healing process, this ministry aims to provide a safe space for individuals to share their stories, receive guidance, and find solace in the presence of others who understand. Led by compassionate facilitators, our Grief Share ministry offers a supportive community that walks alongside you during this difficult time. If you or someone you know could benefit from this ministry, please reach out to our church office for more information.
Women’s Ministry kick-off event on June 14th
Ladies, get ready for an evening dedicated to celebrating sisterhood and faith! Join us on June 14th for our Women’s Ministry kick-off event. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with other women in the church, build new friendships, and deepen your relationship with God. Through worship, interactive discussions, and engaging activities, we will explore what it means to live a purposeful and fulfilling life as women of faith. Come be a part of this exciting evening and bring along your friends and family!
Other announcements and opportunities
In addition to our highlighted events, there are several other exciting announcements and opportunities to look forward to at Anastasia Church. Stay updated with our weekly newsletter and bulletin board for information on upcoming workshops, Bible study groups, community outreach projects, and more. We believe in the power of community and strive to provide a wide range of opportunities for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to engage in meaningful and transformative experiences. Keep an eye out for these announcements and get involved!
Recognition of Pastor Walter
Pastor Walter’s 25th anniversary of serving Anastasia Church
It is with great joy and gratitude that we celebrate Pastor Walter’s 25th anniversary of serving Anastasia Church. For a quarter of a century, Pastor Walter has faithfully led our congregation with wisdom, compassion, and dedication. His unwavering commitment to spreading the teachings of Christ and supporting our spiritual growth has had a profound impact on our church community and the lives of countless individuals. We are immensely grateful for his leadership and the inspiration he brings to our lives.
Throughout his tenure, Pastor Walter has consistently demonstrated a deep love for God and a genuine care for the members of our congregation. His insightful sermons, compassionate counseling, and genuine presence have touched hearts and helped many find solace, direction, and encouragement. Pastor Walter’s steady guidance has enabled Anastasia Church to grow spiritually and to effectively impact our surrounding community.
As we honor Pastor Walter’s 25 years of service, let us not only express our gratitude but also take this opportunity to reflect on the ways in which his leadership and ministry have shaped our own faith journeys. Let us be inspired by his example and strive to live out our faith wholeheartedly, just as he has modeled for us throughout the years. May Pastor Walter continue to be blessed as he continues to serve and may his legacy endure for generations to come.
Relevance of Abraham’s Faith Journey
Abraham’s faith journey still relevant today
The story of Abraham’s faith journey is not just an account from ancient times; it is a living testimony that continues to resonate with us today. Just as Abraham was called to trust and have faith in God’s promises, we too are called to embark on our own faith journeys and trust in the faithfulness of God.
Abraham’s story reminds us that faith is not confined to a particular time or place. It is a timeless invitation to trust in the unseen, to believe in the impossible, and to rely on the character and promises of God. In our fast-paced and uncertain world, the story of Abraham serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that we can place our trust in a faithful and loving God.
Every step in our faith journey is important
Abraham’s faith journey was not a linear path; it was filled with uphill battles, moments of doubt, and unexpected turns. Yet, at every step of the way, Abraham’s faith was being shaped and strengthened. Similarly, our own faith journeys are not always smooth or predictable. They are marked by victories and setbacks, moments of clarity and confusion, but each step is significant and has the potential to shape our character and deepen our trust in God.
Every experience we encounter contributes to our growth and equips us for the next phase of our journey. Just as God molded and refined Abraham through his trials and triumphs, He too works in our lives, using our experiences to shape and strengthen us. We may not always understand the purpose behind our circumstances, but we can rest assured that God is working all things together for our good.
God calling us to step out in faith and trust Him
Abraham’s faith journey began with a call from God to leave his homeland and embark on a new adventure. Like Abraham, God calls each of us to step out in faith, leave our comfort zones, and trust Him with the unknown. He invites us to surrender our plans, dreams, and desires, and to embrace His greater purpose for our lives.
Stepping out in faith requires courage and a willingness to relinquish control. It means acknowledging that there is a greater plan at work, even if we cannot fully comprehend it in the present moment. When we choose to trust in God’s guidance and surrender our own agendas, we open ourselves up to the incredible possibilities that await us. We may face challenges along the way, but we can be assured that God is with us every step of the journey.
Trusting God with our lives, purpose, and future
Abraham’s faith journey teaches us the importance of entrusting our lives, purpose, and future to God. When Abraham received the promise of descendants as numerous as the stars, it seemed impossible in the natural realm. Yet, he chose to believe in God’s faithfulness and embraced the promise with hope and expectancy.
In the same way, God invites us to trust Him with our deepest desires and longings. He invites us to dream big, knowing that His plans for our lives far exceed our wildest imaginings. When we submit our desires to Him and align our hearts with His will, we position ourselves to experience His abundant blessings and fulfill our God-given purpose.
Abraham and Sarah’s journey reminds us of God’s faithfulness
Abraham and Sarah’s journey is a testament to God’s faithfulness and His ability to bring about what seems impossible. Despite their initial doubts and shortcomings, God remained faithful to His promises and fulfilled them in His perfect timing. Through their story, we are reminded that God’s faithfulness knows no bounds and that His plans always come to fruition.
As we face challenges and uncertainties in our own lives, we can find strength and encouragement in the knowledge that the same God who fulfilled His promises to Abraham and Sarah is with us today. We can trust that He will never leave us nor forsake us and that He will work all things together for our good. Let Abraham and Sarah’s journey be a source of hope and inspiration, reminding us that God is faithful and will bring about His purposes in our lives.
Call to Action: Taking a Step of Faith
Called to take a step of faith in our journey
Each one of us is called to take a step of faith in our personal journey with God. It may be a small step or a significant leap, but what matters is our willingness to trust in God’s guidance and follow His leading. Just as Abraham responded to God’s call, we too are invited to step out in faith and embark on a journey of obedience and reliance on Him.
Living in faith is trusting God’s guidance
Living in faith involves trusting God’s guidance even when the path ahead seems uncertain or challenging. It requires us to relinquish our desire for control and to surrender to His wisdom and sovereignty. By trusting in God’s guidance, we can experience peace and confidence, knowing that He is leading us in the right direction.
While it may be tempting to rely on our own understanding or to seek the advice of others, true faith calls us to fix our eyes on God and to trust His leading above all else. When we align our hearts and minds with His truth, we can navigate through life’s twists and turns with unwavering faith.
Faith moves us towards the promises of God
When we choose to live in faith, we position ourselves to move towards the promises of God for our lives. Just as Abraham and Sarah experienced the fulfillment of God’s promise in due time, we too can experience His blessings and provisions when we trust and obey Him. Faith empowers us to persevere through the challenges and obstacles that may arise along the way, knowing that God is faithful to His promises.
As we take steps of faith in our journey, we must remember that faith is not just a one-time decision but a daily commitment. It is an ongoing journey of trust and obedience, characterized by a growing relationship with God. By embracing faith as a lifestyle, we can cultivate a deeper intimacy with Him, experience His transformative power, and witness the miraculous unfolding of His plans in our lives.
In conclusion, Anastasia Church has exciting announcements and opportunities lined up for the community. From VBS and summer camps to ministry kick-off events, there are various avenues for individuals to grow spiritually, serve others, and build meaningful connections. We also recognize and celebrate Pastor Walter’s 25th anniversary of serving the church, acknowledging his immense contributions and faithful leadership.
The relevance of Abraham’s faith journey is a reminder of God’s faithfulness and the importance of trusting Him in our own lives. As we take steps of faith, embracing the unknown and surrendering our plans to God, we position ourselves for a transformative journey where we can experience the fulness of His promises. May we all be encouraged to live a life of faith, trusting in God’s guidance and moving towards the promises He has for us.