BELIZE AND GARIFUNA COMMUNITY
Belize and Garifuna Culture
Spirituality
This is where we will post prayers, prayer requests, Biblical readings, links to various websites and all things religious and spiritual.
Alberta Magna (Avila) Gibbs Receives Papal Honor
In this photo Sr Avila and Magna Gibbs
This excerpt was taken from Transfiguration Sunday Bulletin dated July 25th 2010.
Alberta Magna Gibbs has received a Papal Honor by our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI. Magna has received the Papal Honor "BENEMERENTI" WHICH MEANS " SERVING WITH DISTINCTION."
The Papal Honor and its Associate Medal will happen on November 7th at the Cathedral downtown.
Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Let us rejoice!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Jo
PS: Magna's email address: mag5454@aol.com
Meditation July 25 - August 1
True prosperity is not found in the outer world, nor is it determined by the amount of money we possess. True prosperity comes from the wisdom that God is blessing us at all times and in all ways.
Prosperity is not something I have to seek; it is already here, waiting to be discovered. I find prosperity by having faith that God provides for me in every needed way.
Prosperity must be cultivated on the inside. As I begin to understand the power of God within me, it is as if I have inherited millions. I am rich in all ways and enjoy lasting abundance in all areas of my life--my health, wealth and relationships. Mere possessions can never replace the joy I feel when I am filled with the presence of God.
Meditation July 18 - July 25
A Season of Increase (by Pastor Joel Osteen)
Every day, you are reminded of how tough life can be. It's true that life can be really hard but don't ever give up on your tomorrows!
Keep believing, keep looking ahead, keep pressing into more and more of what God has for your life.
Believe your best days are ahead. God's plan is bigger than just what He wants to do for you — it grows into what God wants to do through you.
The power of God's increase is so great that there are no challenges too big and no circumstances too difficult to be radically transformed.
When you keep on believing in the midst of your storm, not only will God lead you out, but He will lead you into His supernatural increase!
What you see as a major setback is really a divine setup.
God's working through the circumstances in your life to create an incredible moment of progress and promotion. He has pre-ordained seasons of increase in your life — not because of anything you do, but because He wants to pour out His goodness in your life.
God's plan for your life is bigger than simply solving today's problem — He wants to promote you. Through His Word and the power of His Holy Spirit, you will be amazed at what God will do in your life.
There's a path to this season of increase. A new season of increase like never before will spring forth in your life. Be encouraged and always remember that God is for you and loves to give to His children.
Meditation July 11 - 18
Every day offers a variety of encounters and experiences. Often I find my experience mirrors my expectations. If I begin with fear or dread, I often have an unpleasant experience. If I am looking forward to what's next, anticipating a new adventure, I often have a rewarding experience. Since I get to choose my thoughts, I choose to expect good. And why wouldn't I expect good? The indwelling Spirit is my constant companion. Even in the face of difficult circumstances, Spirit does not fail. I receive wisdom and guidance through divine ideas. I receive strength and energy through the power of Spirit within me. I am fully supported. In faith, I expect only good in my life.
Recognizing Garifuna Sisters Celebration in LA
Start Time: | Friday, July 9, 2010 at 2:30pm |
| End Time: | Sunday, July 11, 2010 at 6:00pm |
| Location: | Los Angeles and Marina Del Rey |
Description
Friday, July 9 ~ 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
{Private: Sisters, Hosts and Committee only}
Thanksgiving Mass
Saturday, July 10 ~ 2:30 p.m.
St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church
1440 Imperial Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90047
Banquet and Awards Reception
Immediately following the mass
St. Frances Cabrini Church Auditorium
Admission $15.00
Celebration Brunch
Sunday, July 11 ~ 12:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Shanghai Red’s Restaurant
13813 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292
Admission $50.00
RSVP to Anita Martinez by Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Limousine Tour
Sunday, July 11 ~ 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Los Angeles Historical Landmarks
For Information Contact:
Anita Lambey-Martinez ~ (323) 299-6005
Martha Martinez ~ (323) 232-6841
Alice Augustine ~ (323) 753-4711
The nuns who will attend
Meditation July 4 - July 11
When God Gives You a Vision (2)
When God gives you a vision: (1) It will interrupt you. Sometimes God will speak in a voice you can’t tune out. Other times, like Jonah, God will let you go to the bottom to get your attention. Either way, things won’t go right until you say yes to Him. (2) It will illuminate you. You may not like what God says. Ananias didn’t like going to pray for Saul of Tarsus, a man with the power to put Christians to death. But God said, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel…I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake” (Ac 9:15-16 NKJV). Notice the word “suffer.” The Devil isn’t going to send you a congratulatory telegram because you have decided to do God’s will, so be prepared for attack. (3) It will inspire you. You will accomplish things you never dreamed possible. Look at Gideon. When God found him he was hiding in a winepress (See Jdg 6:11 NKJV); not exactly a promising start. When the angel called him “a mighty man of valor” (v. 12 NKJV), he replied, “I am the least in my father’s house” (v. 15 NKJV). When the angel said, “The Lord is with you,” he replied, “If the Lord is with us, why then has all this happened to us?” (vv. 12-13 NKJV). When he finally took the job, he wondered, “How can so few of us defeat so many of them?” Yet at that very moment his enemies were having nightmares about him (See Jdg 7:13-15). The secret of victory lies in knowing: “It is God working in me” (See Php 2:13).
Meditation 6/27 - 7/4
TODAY'S SCRIPTURE
"Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ…"
(2 Corinthians 2:14, NKJV)
TODAY'S WORD from Joel and Victoria
There are times in life when we all face situations that seem impossible. It's easy to get discouraged and think that things won't ever work out. But the Scripture tells us that God goes before us and makes our crooked places straight. In other words, even though you may not have the connections you need right now, you don't have to worry. God is going before you lining up the right people, arranging the right breaks, and setting up the right opportunities. He is preparing the way for victory!
Today, if you are facing difficulty, don't fall into the temptation to get negative and sour. That adversity is no a surprise to God. He's not up in the heavens scratching His head and thinking, "Oh, no. Now what am I going to do?" No, He already has every day of your life written in His book. Before you had that problem, God already had the solution. He is going before you right now preparing the next chapter of your life. Stay in faith and keep the right attitude because He is moving you forward into the victory He has prepared for you!
A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father God, thank You for ordering and directing my steps. Thank You for working behind the scenes on my behalf. I choose today to trust in You, knowing that You are good, and You always lead me into victory. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Meditation 6/20 - 6/27
Meditation 6/13 - 6/20
Meditation 6/6 - 6/13
The Prayer that Leads to Praise
Bishop Keith Butler
Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. Philippians 4:6 (KJV)
Now, Philippians 4:6 says don't be worried or anxious about anything. Be anxious for nothing, but in every-thing, everything. That means in your financial things, in your physical things, in your relational things, in everything in life. In everything there are three things that you must do: pray, supplicate, and offer thanksgiving to God for delivering you out of the situation.
Now, in Acts, the 16th chapter, it says when Paul and Silas were taken captive, beaten in the city square, stripped, placed in a cold, dark, dingy dungeon at midnight, they prayed. Now, of course, I believe that midnight was a literal midnight, but that midnight also represents whatever dark time is in your life. And if you live long enough, you're going to see a midnight. But I want you to know you can shine some light in the middle of the darkness.
Well this was their opportunity to miss the rest of God. Instead they began to pray. Instead of thinking about what was about to happen, they prayed for God's deliverance. And they sang songs of praise to God, praising Him for their deliverance. They refused to take the thoughts of what their body was telling them and what the situation was telling them. They decided to take God's thoughts by praying. They prayed such a prayer that it started making them rejoice, so much so that there was an earthquake and their shackles fell off and the prison doors swung open.
Now, I know what kind of prayer that had to be. That had to be, Father, I thank you, you are the one who made the world. Everything is in your hands. You are the God who is more than enough, you are my creator, you are the way maker, you are the one that opens the door for me, and you are the one who gives me victory. You are the one who gives me strength. I mean, that's the kind of prayer that they prayed. They're praying that prayer until they came to the place where their prayer made them praise God, and their praise led them to deliverance!
And that's the kind of prayer you must pray when you are in your midnight-your dark situation. Pray a prayer that leads to praise and God will bring you out just like He delivered Paul and Silas.
Scripture References: Acts 16:25-26; Philippians 4:6-8
Meditation for 5/30 - 6/6
Think About This!!!
Ever wonder what would happens if we treated our Bible like we treat our cell phone?
What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?
What if we flipped through it several times a day?
What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it?
What if we used it to receive messages from the text?
What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?
What if we gave it to children as gifts?
What if we used it when we traveled?
What if we used it in case of emergency?
This is something to make you go....hmm...where is my Bible?
Oh, and one more thing.
Unlike our cell phone, we don't have to worry about our Bible being disconnected, because Jesus already paid the bill. And by the way, no dropped calls!
Stop and think 'where are my priorities?'
When Jesus died on the cross, he was thinking of you! Think about it!You were first on His list. So, where are your priorities?
Meditation for 5/22 - 5/29
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Meditation 5/16-5/23
I trust in the presence and power of God to provide whatever I need today. God is creative energy and spiritual substance working in and through me. In prayer, I ask, give thanks and know that it is given. Even though I cannot yet see the results, I cease asking and wait.
I enter into a time of Sabbath as I rest from doubt and fear. Releasing any struggle or mental strain about how my good will come, I trust that God in me is doing the work. I let go, and I let God.
I anticipate the fulfillment of my needs with eagerness and joy. My highest good is now on its way. I expect great things and give great thanks. In my time of Sabbath, my mind and heart are open to God's peace.
Meditation 5/9 - 5/16
As a child I may have learned that I must earn all good things in life. In school, awards are handed out for special achievement; at work, promotions are given to high achievers. I may also have believed that God, too, rewards only those who make an extra effort.
Grace teaches me that I am loved right where I am, regardless of what I have or have not done. I do not have to earn God's love. I do not have to achieve a certain status or reach a certain milestone to be loved. Right where I am, God loves me. In gratitude, I become more aware of the gifts of life and love that are mine every day. I relax as I awaken to the wonder of being God's beloved, right here and now.
Meditation 05/02 - 05/09
Meditation 4/25 - 5/2
Today’s Blessing As Delivered To The Cornerstone Church Congregation By Pastor Hagee
AND NOW MAY THE LORD BLESS YOU AND MAY THE LORD KEEP YOU AND MAY THE LORD MAKE HIS FACE TO SHINE UPON YOU AND MAY THE LORD BE GRACIOUS UNTO YOU AND MAY YOU LIVE WITH THE CONFIDENCE THAT YOU ARE A CHILD OF GOD AND WHATEVER THE FUTURE HOLDS, IT’S GOING TO BE ALL RIGHT WITH YOU BECAUSE IT IS THE FATHER’S PLEASURE TO BLESS YOU, TO PROTECT YOU, TO PROSPER YOU IN ALL THINGS. DO NOT BE CONCERNED ABOUT THE CRISIS; FOCUS ON THE CHRIST. HE IS THE ANSWER. HE IS THE WAY-MAKER, SAYS THE LORD UNTO HIS PEOPLE. IN JESUS’ NAME RECEIVE THAT BLESSING.
Meditation 4/18 - 4/25
Lord, help me wash away all my selfishness and vanity, so I may serve you with perfect humility through the week ahead.
Tuesday Ironing Day
Dear Lord, help me iron out all the wrinkles
of prejudice I have collected through the years so that I may see the beauty in others.
Wednesday Mending Day
set a bad example for others.
Thursday Cleaning Day
Lord Jesus, help me to dust out all the many faults I have been hiding in the secret corners of my heart.
Friday Shopping Day
O God, give me the grace to shop wisely so I may purchase eternal happiness for myself and all others in need of love.
Saturday Cooking Day
Help me, my Savior, to brew a big kettle of brotherly love and serve it with clean, sweet bread of human kindness.
Sunday The Lord's Day
O God, I have prepared my house for you. Please help me so I may spend the day and the rest of my life in your presence.
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Be kinder than necessary; almost everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.
Meditation for week of 4/11 - 4/18
Meditation for 4/4 - 4/11
Prayer for Soldiers Especially Kenrick Ramirez
I would like for you to pray for all the soldiers in the military and in particular for the soldiers serving in Afghanistan or Iraq. Please say a special prayer for Kenrick Ramirez and for his family during this difficult time.
Kenrick Ramirez was in an accident in Afghanistan on our around March 2 or 3 I can't recall right this minute. He was serving there and the vehicle he was driving was hit by a roadside bomb. All of the other seven passengers died Kenrick survived, but suffered a fractured skull and had to be amputated. He was transported to Germany and from Germany to the U.S. He is currently at Walter Reed Hospitaland making progress.
To put him in perspective as a relative, he is Tia Pola (Apolinaria Petillo) great grandson. His grandmother was Concha. He is also the nephew of Anthony Noralez (your buddy from police days), and his mom is Diana Ramirez. She and another son are at the hospital now.
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me. All I am asking now is if
you know of any one out there who would be able to offer some moral support.
Walter Reed Army Medical Center Ors
Washington, DC 20307-0003
(202) 782-6573
Prayers for the Sick and for Healing
Prayers for the members of this website community who are sick or dealing with illness. I pray for complete healing for this community member, Francis Estrada, who is recovering from a heart attack and heart surgery. I pray for his speedy recovery. I also just now heard about DJ Evon. I also pray that you are feeling better. I ask God to heal you completely.
Kindly pray for Marlon Bevans, who is Tina Gabourel's nephew. He was in a motorcycle accident in VA. He is in coma. Pray for his full recovery in Jesus name amen.
Prayers also go out to Ms Beatrice Cayetano who is battling cancer. Pray that she will be able to get money to be able to pay for her treatment. Also, pray that God will remove all cancer cells from her body from the bottom of her feet to the top of her head.
I also say a special prayer for my dad, Theodore Palacio, that he is completely healed. I give God thanks for him and for his life. He is celebrating his 80th birthday on April 4. This is significant since it is Easter Sunday. Happy birthday dad. I love you.
I also give thanks for my mom, Bridget Palacio, who is a great care taker. Mom I pray that God will continue to give you the strength and vitality. Love you as well.
I also pray for continued and complete healing for Carolyn Johnson who gives us these uplifting meditations every week. Thank you Jesus for Her.
Meditation for March 28 - April 4
I DECLARED THAT I AM BLESSED !
(Taken from Joel Osteen’s book “Your Best Life Now”-page 140)
I will be blessed...when I start declaring His goodness. I have to make declarations in my life:
$ I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and I have clear direction for my life.(Praise God!)
$ I declare that I am blessed with creativity, with courage, with ability and with abundance.(Thank You, Lord!)
$ I declare that I am blessed with a strong will and with self-control and self-discipline.(Hallelujah!)
$ I declare that I am blessed with a great family, with good friends, with good health and with faith, favor and fulfillment.(Thank You, Jesus!)
$ I declare that I am blessed with success, with supernatural strength, with promotion and with divine protection.(Glory to His Name!)
$ I declare that I am blessed with an obedient heart and with a positive outlook on life.(Lord, I Thank You!)
$ I declare that any curse that has ever been spoken over me, any negative evil word that has ever come against me is broken right now.(Yes, Lord!)
$ I declare that I am blessed in the city. I am blessed in the country. I am blessed when I go in. I am blessed when I come out.(I Believe It!)
$ I declare that everything I put my hands to do is going to prosper and succeed.(Hallelujah and Praise God!)
I DECLARE THAT I AM BLESSED! (Yes!)
“For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me strength I need.” Philippians 4:13 (I know it and I believe it!)
04/02/08
Meditation for March 22 - March 29
Be Generous
TODAY'S SCRIPTURE
"A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed"
(Proverbs 11:25, NIV)
TODAY'S WORD from Joel and Victoria
Do you need refreshing today? So many people go around overwhelmed, tired, worn down, barely getting by. But that's not God's best. He wants us to prosper. He wants us to be refreshed. Here's the key: be generous and refresh others. Is there someone at the office you can be a blessing to? Can you lighten someone's load? Maybe a family member is going through a hard time. Can you help them out? Can you cook them a meal? Refreshing someone can be as simple as a smile or an encouraging word. Don't wait until you feel like doing it, that day may never come! Do it because the Scripture tells us to. Do it because it blesses the Lord.
Today, look for someone to be a blessing to. As you step out and refresh others, as you live a life of generosity, you will be refreshed and experience His blessing in your own life in return.
A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your grace and mercy in my life. Thank You for blessing me so that I can be a blessing to others. Teach me to be generous. Show me how I can refresh others and bring glory to You. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Meditation for March 14-21
READ | 1 Peter 1:3-9
Hope is both a strong belief and the anticipation that something good is going to happen. When our goals are not achieved, we may experience discouragement, which over time can turn into depression and even despair—the absence of hope.
How can we remain optimistic in the face of unmet expectations? First, we’re to remember the reason for our confidence: our relationship with Jesus. At salvation, we were born into a living hope (v. 3)—God made us a “new creation,” and we are no longer in bondage to the old sin nature (2 Cor. 5:17 NIV). His Spirit lives within us. We have been made co-heirs with Christ, and our true home is in heaven with Him. Nothing can alter our familial connection with the Lord.
Second, to maintain a positive outlook, we must spend daily time in the Scriptures. Romans 15:4 says that the Bible was written to give us encouragement and hope. The Psalms can be especially helpful in difficult times because they express the feelings we have and also tell us about the comfort available from God.
Third, we rely on the Lord’s faithfulness. Trusting in Him will never disappoint us because all of His promises are yes in Christ (2 Cor. 1:20).
Believers should not react to trials as the world does. We’re to live by faith—“being sure of what we hope for ” (Heb. 11:1 NIV). When circumstances overwhelm you, shift your focus to the Lord. Read the Scriptures to find encouragement, and be reminded of what is yours in Christ (Eph. 1:3-8).
Meditation 3/6 - 3/13
Pastor Paula White
The effective fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. James 5:16
In order to have an effective prayer life, it is important to understand the various ways that we can communicate with God using the tool of prayer. It is important to know why we are praying, and what we are praying for. It is important that we have worked our faith to a point where we can trust in God to answer our prayers according to His will for our lives.
The Bible instructs us to cast all our cares to God in prayer, making our requests known to Him with an attitude of thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6). We are to request what we need and then trust Him to meet our needs. As we do that, God acts - imparting to us His peace, and providing all that is beneficial for our eternal good.
God may not answer our prayers when we want... or even how we want. But He will always answer - even if the answer is not apparent to us, and it feels like He has ignored us, or not heard us. God's ways are higher than our ways - and therefore, how He 'answers' our prayers, will also operate on a heavenly and supernatural level that reveals and carries out His best intentions and plans for our lives.
It is good to know that we can pray effectively when we are in covenant with God and aligning ourselves with His divine will - praying as a "righteous man," as James instructs in 5:16. There are also different prayers to use in different situations. Knowing why we are praying, what we are praying for, and understanding how God answers prayers is vital if we want to pray effectively. Different prayers we can approach God with include:
Prayer of Faith. The Prayer of Faith should always be based on God's revealed will and His Word. It requires boldly declaring the Word of God over one's situation. Instead of 'God, please heal me, " one should pray, "Lord, your Word declares that by Your stripes, I AM HEALED!" This way you are declaring what you already know to be true based on God's Word.
Prayer of Commitment. 1 Peter 5:7 tells us we should pray "casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you." This kind of prayer declares your decision to give all of your concerns, fears, anxieties and problems to God. It is a conscious refusal to worry or have anxiety. This type of prayer has two parts: stating all of your requests to God, and committing to all Him to handle each request without interference from you.
Prayer of Agreement. This is the most powerful type of prayer. Matthew 18: 19 -20 tells us, "that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them." This is a profound and powerful promise given to us by Jesus Christ! It means that whenever two people will believe together, and with the utmost faith believe on the Word of God, whatever they seek will be granted.
Intercessory Prayer. This involves praying for other people, nations, cities, and against the powers of darkness. The best example of and intercessor is Jesus himself; Romans 8:34 says that Jesus sits at the right hand of God and makes intercession for us. He asks the Lord to forgive us, and it is through Jesus' prayer that our slates are wiped clean when we repent and seek forgiveness. We have the ability to 'stand in the gap' of others in the same way, petitioning God on their behalf to answer our prayers -- by meeting their needs, saving their souls, or simply by showing mercy.
And remember: take every opportunity to appreciate the smallest answered prayer, and to meditate on God's faithfulness. You don't have to wait until you 'see' that your prayer has been answered -- give Him a prayer of thankfulness and praise right now for answering your prayers in His time, in His wisdom, and according to His will.
Because God is Good!
Meditation 2/28 - 3/6
Lamentations 3:21-26 (New Century Version)
21 But I have hope
when I think of this:
22 The Lord's love never ends;
his mercies never stop.
23 They are new every morning;
Lord, your loyalty is great.
24 I say to myself, "The Lord is mine,
so I hope in him."
25 The Lord is good to those who hope in him,
to those who seek him.
26 It is good to wait quietly
for the Lord to save.
Meditation 2/21 - 2/28
We as believer and a child of God, must know that we are well protected and the safe arms of God. Let's continue to be reminded as we read the 91st Psalm. Praise God for His protection!
Psalm 91 (New Century Version)
Safe in the Lord
1 Those who go to God Most High for safetywill be protected by the Almighty.
2 I will say to the Lord, "You are my place of safety and protection.
You are my God and I trust you."
3 God will save you from hidden traps
and from deadly diseases.
4 He will cover you with his feathers,
and under his wings you can hide.
His truth will be your shield and protection.
5 You will not fear any danger by night
or an arrow during the day.
6 You will not be afraid of diseases that come in the dark
or sickness that strikes at noon.
7 At your side one thousand people may die,
or even ten thousand right beside you,
but you will not be hurt.
8 You will only watch
and see the wicked punished.
9 The Lord is your protection;
you have made God Most High your place of safety.
10 Nothing bad will happen to you;
no disaster will come to your home.
11 He has put his angels in charge of you
to watch over you wherever you go.
12 They will catch you in their hands
so that you will not hit your foot on a rock.
13 You will walk on lions and cobras;
you will step on strong lions and snakes.
14 The Lord says, "Whoever loves me, I will save.
I will protect those who know me.
15 They will call to me, and I will answer them.
I will be with them in trouble;
I will rescue them and honor them.
16 I will give them a long, full life,
and they will see how I can save."
Sister Germaine Bevans RIP Feb 12, 2010
Meditation for 2/14 - 2/21
Taken from HomeWord devotional for February 13, 2010: A Love Story
By Jim Liebelt
I trust in God’s unfailing love, for ever and ever.
Psalm 52:8b
Around Valentine’s Day most people think about love. With all of the media hype, even people who are not in love, think about love! Here, however, is a great story (author unknown) about the depths of real love; a love that goes far beyond romance; and a love that is instructive to all!
It was a busy morning, about 8:30 a.m., when an elderly gentleman in his 80's arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He stated that he was in a hurry as he had an appointment at 9:00 a.m. I took his vital signs and had him take a seat knowing it would be over an hour before someone would be able to see him.
I saw him looking at his watch and decided since I was not busy with another patient that I would evaluate his wound. It had healed well, so I talked to one of the doctors and got the needed supplies to remove his stitches. While taking care of the wound we began a conversation.
I asked him if he had another doctor’s appointment that morning as he was in such a hurry. He told me no, but that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife. I then inquired about her health. He told me that she had been in the nursing home for a while and that she had Alzheimer’s disease. As we talked, I asked him if she would be worried if he was a bit late. He replied that she no longer knew who he was and that she had not recognized him in five years. I was surprised, and asked him why he was still going every morning to visit his wife even though she didn’t know who he is. He smiled and patted my hand and said,
“She doesn’t know me but I still know who she is.”
I tried to hold back tears as he left—I had goose bumps on my arm—and I thought to myself, this is the kind of love I want in my life.
We all want to be loved in that kind of way—a love that remains strong and unchanged even when we don’t recognize it! Thank God that He loves us in that same way! Though we may not recognize it, feel it, appreciate it and even take it for granted, God’s love for us never changes! He is always there for us! And God’s love for us sets the example of how we are to love others: our spouses, children, close friends, casual friends, and strangers alike.
As we celebrate another Valentine’s Day, may you be reminded of God’s love and experience it in a new and fresh way – and pass that same kind of love on to the loved ones in your life!
Meditation
And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
-- Acts 2:38
Are there struggles and sins that plague your life? Is there a bondage that you find impossible to escape?
Well, in our own strength, it is impossible for us to overcome those things that bind us! But Jesus has given you and me a way to experience victory in every area of our lives! When we give the Holy Spirit command of our lives, we begin to experience his transformational power.
The Holy Spirit gives you the strength to overcome. You will find strength in the midst of struggles, renewed joy and fellowship in Christ, and a passion for sharing the Gospel. And when you witness for Jesus, you will speak with his spiritual power, authority, and anointing!
Isn’t this the kind of Christian life you want? Well, it can be yours! This is the gift of the Holy Spirit living in you! Ask the Holy Spirit to help you overcome the sins and things that have you in bondage and help you live in victory. That’s when transformation will be within your grasp!
Start winning life’s big battles! Give the Spirit of God command of your life… and be transformed!
THROUGH THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT START WINNING LIFE’S BIG BATTLES!
Sr Mary Avila Jubilee Celebration in NY June 26 and 27
26 JUNE 2010
Sister Avila's Golden Thanksgiving Mass
3:30 p.m.
St. Bonaventure Church
114-58 170th Street, Jamaica, NY 11434
718-526-0040
{ Garifuna Attire Preferred }
After-Mass Reception
Parish Hall
St. Bonaventure Church
27 June 2010
Brunch on the Hudson
11:00 a.m. Boarding
World Yacht Marina, Pier 81
West 41st St. @ Hudson River
$70.00 per person donation (layaway plan available)
6 March 2010
Food Sale
790 Eldert Lane, Apt. 10L
10 April 2010
Atlantic City Trip
1 May 2010
Food Sale
790 Eldert Lane, Apt. 10L
For additional information visit Sungarifuna Sr Avila website
Meditation for 1/31 - 2/6
Allowing time for the silence of prayer and meditation is vital to my well-being. In the quiet, I am serene. I am still. I am calm. Inner peace permeates my body and clears my mind. I am connected to the Divine.
If at a later time I find myself in a challenging situation, the time I spent in the silence allows me to maintain tranquility. I am able to focus on the peace of God in the midst of the challenge. I focus on faith and love and know that all is well.
My actions of compassion, gratitude and service reflect the serenity I feel within. In choosing inner peace, I bring greater peace to the outer world.
Meditation for 1/24 - 1/31
"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand".
(Ephesians 6:13, NIV)
TODAY'S WORD from Joel and Victoria Osteen
Sometimes, people have problems because they are making poor choices or doing something wrong. But other times, people are having difficulties because they are doing something right.
When you're determined to fulfill your God-given destiny, and you're taking steps to improve your life or make a difference in your family or community, don't be surprised if you face opposition. The enemy is not going to just roll out the red carpet and watch you fulfill your God-given destiny. He'll do whatever he can to keep you from moving forward. The Apostle Paul said this, "A wide door of opportunity is open for me and there are many adversaries." I've found anytime you try to go forward in life, anytime you try to make progress, there will be opposition. But with God on your side, you can stand your ground! Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world. If you're facing opposition today, keep standing, keep believing, keep hoping. Keep fighting the good fight of faith until you see the victory He has in store for you!
A PRAYER FOR TODAY
" Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promise of victory. I choose today to take my eyes off my challenges and focus on You. Thank You for equipping me with Your armor so that I can stand strong in You. In Jesus' Name. Amen."
Meditation for 1/17 - 1/24
What does it take for us to obey the Lord? We must believe that God is sovereign—He controls
all things at all times (Ps. 103:19). Even when we don’t understand, you and I must trust that
God will work for our good in every situation (Rom. 8:28).We must love Him. In fact, the Bible
says we show our love for the Father by obeying His commands (1 John 5:3)—and not just when
they are convenient and desirable.We also must listen to Him.When you pray, don’t do all the
talking. Make time to hear what He has to say. Obeying God takes courage. Following His will
often leads to conflict. You must be willing to do what is right anyway. Fully surrender to Him.
Otherwise, you can’t expect the Lord to turn every circumstance in your life to good.
Following God leads to great reward. The Lord told Joshua that he would prosper if he meditated
in the eyes of the world, but you will experience personal victory if you follow His will. Obeying
the Father brings peace and joy. No matter what happens around you, God can bring serenity and
happiness. Suffering is another thing you and I can expect when we follow the Lord’s will for our
lives. God uses our suffering to change the world. And in the midst of conflict and difficulty, we
develop spiritually—growing more like Christ. There have been many times when God told
me to do something that didn’t make sense from a human perspective. The Father may lead you to
give up a hobby or donate a valuable item. He may prompt you to give financially when you
feel you can’t afford it. God might want you to serve in your church or take a leadership role
although you feel inadequate. Your faithfulness can inspire others to surrender to Him as well.
And in every situation and circumstance of life,you can be sure God will supply all your needs
and glorify Himself through your obedience.
When you need to make an important decision, don’t rely primarily on your own reasoning,
the opinions of others, or even what worked in the past. Get on your knees before the Lord
and pour out your heart to Him. Spend time prayerfully reading His Word. Take time to listen
for His voice, and then follow His specific guidance for your life. Obey God and leave all the consequences
to Him. If you will take this one principle to heart, you will have the awesome privilege of
watching the Lord accomplish great things in and through you.
Meditation for 1/10 -1/17
Meditation 1/3 - 1/10
CHRISTMAS TREE
I KNOW WHO I AM
I am God's child. (John 1:12)
I am Christ's friend. (John 15:15)
I am united with the Lord. (1 Cor. 6:17)
I am bought with a price. (1 Cor. 6:19-20)
I am a saint (set apart for God). (Eph. 1:1)
I am a personal witness of Christ. (Acts 1:8)
I am the salt & light of the earth. (Matt. 5:13-14)
I am a member of the body of Christ. (1 Cor. 12:27)
I am free forever from condemnation. ( Rom. 8: 1-2)
I am a citizen of Heaven. I am significant. (Phil. 3:20)
I am free from any charge against me. (Rom. 8:31 -34)
I am a minister of reconciliation for God. (2 Cor.5:17-21)
I have access to God through the Holy Spirit. (Eph. 2:18)
I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realms. (Eph. 2:6)
I cannot be separated from the love of God.(Rom.8:35-39)
I am established, anointed, sealed by God.(2Cor.1:21- 22)
I am assured all things work together for good.(Rom.8:28)
I have been chosen & appointed to bear fruit. (John 15:16)
I belong to God
And that is who He says I am. How about you?
“The LORD bless you and keep you;
the LORD make His face shine upon you
and be gracious to you;
the LORD turn His face toward you
and give you peace…”
Numbers 6:24-26
Meditation 12/27 - 1/3
God, thank you for sending your Son to us. I know this time of year we often forget why we celebrate. We tend to be so caught up in planing for parties and gift giving that we forget why we are doing all of these things in the first place. Let me not forget the struggles and strife that Mary and Joseph faced in bringing your son, Jesus, into the world. Yet, Lord, let me not forget the blessings you bestowed on them. You gave them a great gift of a child and you blessed them with shelter in a time when it seemed they might not have anywhere to stay. And then you brought our Savior into this world to two loving parents and believers who awaited his presence. I cannot imagine your sacrifice, Lord, but I know that I am blessed by it. I know that every day I feel your presence and look around the world in wonder at your creation. So, this year as I decorate the tree, this year as I singChristmas carols, let me not forget that Christmas is so much more than gifts and lights. Provide me with the presence of mind to keep me rooted in faith this season. And let the world find the blessings I have found in you. As cliche as it may sound, let there be peace on earth this season. Let us have the hope and love in our lives that you brought us through the birth of Jesus. Thank you, Lord. Thank you for bringing my Savior into the world, and thank you for your blessings on my life. Amen.
Meditation for 12/20-12/27
Joy is my natural state of being. When I am expressing joy, I feel intimately connected to God. At times when I fully experience a joyful manifestation of Spirit, I may feel a wellspring of emotion. It is a great gift to witness a sunset, hold the hand of a frail loved one, behold the innocent face of a newborn child and then to express my heartfelt gratitude for that moment, that person, that inspiration.
When I experience joy, I fully understand my reason for being. All else falls away, all worries, all doubts. I am one with the Creator. I am fully present, fully engaged in life. I am called to find joy, to be joy, to wake up to joy in every moment.
Affirmation Week of 12/13-12/20
Affirmation the week 12/6-12/13
Affirmation Week of 11/29-12/5
Our prayer for the week is taken from Stormie Omartian's book. Let's continue to be in prayer at all times; and at the same time, let's praise Him always. Glory to His Name!
Affirmation Week of 11/22-11/29
Pastor Greg Laurie raised some good questions. See if you can answer them.
When is the last time you said...
Lord, thank You that You have allowed me to live in (the country where you live)...
Thank You for my church and allowing me to be a part of it...
Thank You for sending Your Son to die on the cross for my sins...
Thank You that He rose again...
Thank You that my life, which was once filled with guilt, is now filled with Your purpose and peace...
Thank You that no matter what happens, You are coming back again for me...?
(When was the last time you said "Thank You" for the things mentioned above?)There is so much to give thanks for. Have you been thanking God? Let's not wait until the fourth Thursday of November. Because for the Christian, every day should be Thanksgiving. (Praise God!)
Affirmation week 11/15/09 - 11/22/09
Affirmation week of 11/8-11/14
Affirmation for week 11/1-11/7
Proclamation/confession from Pastor John Hagee's sermon "The Miracle in Your Mouth". Let's say this proclamation everyday, all week, believing in faith that abundance, more than enough is ours and soon we will have no more empty hands. Praise God for loading us with His benefits. (Psalm 68: 19a) Now start saying this proclamation, declaring that if we worship and bless the Lord, He will give us the desire of our heart. Yes! Praise His Name.
Affirmation for the week of Oct 25-Nov 1
Affirmation for the week of October 18-25
Meditation for the week 10/5-10/12
Living As A New Creation
Pastor Andre Butler
"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature" 2 Corinthians 5:17a
The Bible says that when you accepted Jesus as the Lord of your life, your spirit was recreated. You went from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of light. The spirit that is living inside your body looks just like God's, and wants you to act just like God. Have you noticed that there is a part of you that always wants to do the right thing? Why is that? Because, your spirit is holy and always wants you to do things God's way. Your flesh, however, may still want to drink, smoke, sleep around, tell people off, party, or curse from time to time. Your flesh is working to bring you into the captivity of sin again.
There is a war going on inside of you right now. Your spirit and your flesh are in a boxing ring every day. Have you ever said, "I'll never tell off someone like that again," only to find yourself saying the same things one week later? Have you ever said, "I'll never go to that porn website again," only to find yourself at the same website a month later? For some reason, you just keep doing the same things. You are fighting a war, and your flesh is winning. This describes the plight of many Christians, particularly those who are still carnal. The word carnal means "flesh ruled." Carnal Christians plan to do the right thing and try to grow spiritually, yet keep making the same mistakes.
God did not put you in a place where you're winning in one moment and losing in the next. He wants you to live in constant spiritual victory. Where you are today is not where you are supposed to end up. But you cannot get to where God wants you to be until you deal with the issues of your flesh.
God asks you to be holy, and live for Him. Christian believers should not be like non-believers. We should not talk like they talk or react like they react. Our lifestyle should be separate and different from that of the world. This is more easily said than done. You are surrounded by the world. You live in the world. What is a Christian to do? How do you get to a place where you are holy, obedient, and blessed? By renewing your mind using the Word of God.
What you have is a battle between your spirit and your flesh to gain control of your mind. If your flesh can get you to start thinking in line with your fleshly desires, then your flesh wins. But if you renew your mind and start thinking in line with God's Word, your spirit wins. You need to decide to daily renew your mind with the Word of God, because it is only when you do that you will change, and your spirit will have ultimate victory.
Meditation for Sept 28 - Oct 5
Praise and Worship
By Jim Burns
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ in accordance with his pleasure and will—to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. And he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment—to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ. In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession—to the praise of his glory.
Ephesians 1:3-14
When we praise the Lord, we unleash the Spirit of God to do awesome acts of power. Here are a few reasons why my heart is filled with praise and worship to the King of Kings today. How about you?
Praise God for the beauty of his creation (Psalm 19).
Praise God for the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8).
Praise God for the blood of Christ for our redemption (Revelation 5:9).
Praise God for healing the broken-hearted (Psalm 147:3).
Praise God for his birth: Emmanuel (Luke 2).
Praise God for his life on earth (John 13:15-17).
Praise God for the cross and sacrificial love (Romans 5:8).
Praise God for his mighty acts of power (Deuteronomy 3:24).
Praise God for his surpassing greatness (Psalm 150:2).
Praise God for his Word (1 Peter 1:24-25).
Meditation Prayer for week of 9/16- 9/23
RIP Ms Dolly Sampson-Lopez (NEW)
Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 10:16:43 -0400
It is with deep regret that we announce the death of our beloved Mother and Aunt Mrs Christina "Dolly" Sampson-Lopez. Funeral arrangements are currently under way and when all arrangements are completed the information will be made public. For further information please call 718-210-7841, May her soul rest in peace.
Your Friend,
Wellington C. Ramos
Meditation Prayer for the week 9/9-9/16
Meditation for the week 9/2-9/9
Meditations for the 8/26-9/2
Here are seven (7) scriptures that were given to me to help us find or share our faith in Christ:
1. His love for you is more precious than pure gold. "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3: 16
2. Selfishness and self-will separate you from God. "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Romans 3:23
3. Jesus Christ died on the cross for your sins and the sins of the world. "Christ died for our sins...He was buried...He was raised on the third day..." 1 Corinthians 15: 3-4
4. You are forgiven when you confess your sins, repent and accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. "Repent and turn to Go so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord." Acts 3:19
5. You are cleansed from sin and given the gift of eternal life when you accept Jesus Christ. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."
1 John 1:9
6. Through prayer, reading the Bible and fellowship, you will have spiritual growth. "...grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 3: 18a
7. Through His Spirit God will help you live a godly life. "Those who obey His commands live in Him and He in them. And this is how we know that He lives in us: We know it by the Spirit He gave us." 1 John 3:24
"Lord Jesus, I need you. Thank You for dying on the cross for my sins. I open my heart to receive You as my Lord and Savior. Thank You for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life. Show me Your way and make me the person You want me to be. I pray in Your Name, Jesus. Amen! "
Meditation for 8/19-8/26
A. Magna Avila Gibbs 7 minutes agoPrayers
Prayer for Financial Blessings (5-11)
Submitted by Carolyn Johnson (Thanks very much)
Lord, I come interceding for all that is need of a financial breakthrough immediately, including me. We honor and praise You, Lord, for who we are in You. We are above and not beneath. We are the head and not the tail. We are blessed coming in and blessed going out. We are more than conquerors. We shall lend, give and not borrow. Thank You for the power to get wealth. No weapon formed against us shall prosper from us receiving Your abundance financial blessing. You promised to supply all our needs and we believe it. Lord, we pray that You will open the windows of heaven and pour us an abundance of blessings, whereas, we will not have room enough to receive. Turn our lack into more than enough. We command money to come today. Send a financial breakthrough immediately and right now, we ask according to Your will. Bless us to be good stewards and cheerful givers. Bless us to give towards the expansion of Your kingdom. Bless our giving,whereas, we receive some 30, 60 and/or 100 fold. Rebuke the devourers from attacking our finances. Dissolve all hindrances and obstacles that maybe keeping us from receiving prosperity. Bless our wallets, our bank accounts, our investments. Give us increase, in the Name of Jesus. We are doing, Lord, and believing as You say to do...ask and it shall be giving; seek and we shall find;knock and the doors shall be open. We have faith that You will give; and that we shall find; and the doors will be open. Praises to You, Lord, for all of Your goodness. Praises to You, Lord, for all of Your blessings. Praises to You, Lord, praises to You. We thank You for hearing and answering our prayers. May we be blessed today and tell of your goodness and kindness. May we tell of Your mercy and faithfulness. Grant us favor today, Lord, and we will not be ashamed of giving You thanks and praises. Glory to Your Name and all praises belong to You. We ask in Your Name that this is Your will and that it is already done. Hallelujah! Amen!
Prayer for the Unemployed and the difficult time
Submitted by Carolyn Johnson (Thanks very much) Lord, I come interceding for those who are unemployed, having financial difficulties and battling with health issues. I know, according to 2 Corinthians 4, these times are only for a moment and we are experiencing only light affliction. According to Ecclesiates 3, there is a right time for everything and everything is appropriate in its own time. Strengthen our faith as we go through these times, believing that You will work everything out for our good, if we don't give up. Dissolve every hindrances and obstacles that may be stopping every door from opening for our job to come through, for our finances to come through, for our healing to come through, for our blessing to come through, in the Name of Jesus. May no weapon formed against us prosper and may You rebuke every devourer that comes against us from receiving the blessings from the windows of heaven. Lord, we will walk by faith and not by sight, believing that You are willing and able to do exceedingly, abundantly and above all that we ask, imagine or think. Thank You, Lord, for that job right now that You are sending our way. Thank You right now for that financial increase that You have established for us right now. Thank You for that healing that You declared on the cross, with Your blood and stripes we are healed. Victory is our today and we praise You for supplying all of our needs; for giving us the desires of our heart; for sending Your Word and snatching us from the door of joblessness, from proverty, from foreclosure, from loneliness, from anxiety, from fear and from death. Thank You that Your Words go forth and do not return void. Thank You for peace, comfort and assurance, knowing that You hear our prayers and always answer, according to Your Will and divine timing. In the Name of Jesus, I pray for favor and blessing upon all who pray the prayer of faith. Glory to Your Name . Amen!Pray for the Deceased (New)
We like to say a prayer for the repose of the soul of Mr Robert Garcia. We also pray for his family that God will comfort them during this time of loss. God let them know that his time here on earth was well spent. He is home with his maker. May the soul and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace Amen.Prayer for Members of the Military
Eternal and Everlasting God through the merits of your son Jesus, we make supplication to you for our sons and daughters who are in the military. Lord we ask you to protect them and their families from all hurt, harm or danger. We ask that you would provide for their every need. Father when they are lonely please provide a friend. When they are sad please give them joy. When they are weary give them strength. I declare the joy of the Lord is their strength. Comfort them with your word that says that that you will never leave them or forsake them and that you have carved their names in the palm of your hands. We thank you that you are compassionate towards them and that your loving kindness is with them always even to the end of the age. Father, I rebuke discouragement and speak life to their spirit as they respond to your call in the trenches of their lives in the name of Jesus. Father your will is that none be lost, so I plea the blood of Jesus over them all and pray that all will be saved Amen.
Father God we give special intentions for the following soldiers
Delsie Rodriguez, Emeri Palacio, Kalina Castillo
attracting lay people to their vocation in the church either as teachers, as in their own profession, but it is living the lay life in a way that is service oriented.”Search
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