Hello Everyone,
Let me begin with an announcement I wouldn’t want you to overlook.
Sunday, September 8, 2013, Bill and Joyce Holeman will be at Bell Gardens in the evening service at 5:00 PM. This will be our one and only opportunity to visit with and hear personally just what the Holemans have been up to since we last saw them (ten years ago). If you live (somewhat) locally, you are invited. If you live as far away as the Holemans, or farther, you are invited, too!
These past few months have been as different as summer is from winter (except here in Southern California, of course--you know what I mean).
Pastor Emilio Núñez had quadruple bypass surgery. He is now in his sixth week of recovery and rehabilitation. Soon, he will be released to begin driving again and preaching again can’t be far behind. He is progressing toward good health as expected by the doctors.
The leaders of the Spanish congregation have taken turn to preach each Sunday in the pastor’s absence. What a blessing to see the spiritual fruit of these men demonstrated in a responsibility they may have thought would never be asked of them.
A wedding for Joaquin and Marjorie was planned before the surgery but now the “officiant” could not participate. It was a privilege to become part of “Plan B” and help. But the best surprise of the wedding was an audio recorded greeting, blessing, and prayer, in Spanish.
Ten days later, there was a death. Although young (41), Lisa had been extremely ill with scleroderma for a little over a year. In Tony’s last visit, Lisa expressed her desire that he preach at her funeral, whenever that time would come. When that time came, he could not because of his recent surgery. It was an honor to again assist where I could.
This “season” at Bell Gardens has been unusually different. While more could be said, this is enough. Except to say that our Lord Jesus Christ is always faithful and has never failed us. Thank You, Lord for glimpses of Your greatness!
