Tag: unity

Categories
Updates

Upson Downs 9-17-2020

Last week we had another ESCC (El Segundo Christian Church) ecumenical meeting with 13 people, pastors and other church folk, discussing topics and concerns of today. We dipped our toes in the murky waters of racial reconciliation. We do not expect to exhaust this issue by any means, but we know it is at the heart of the Gospel, and we must try. Opening up communication in Christ’s name is a start, always remembering that Christ died to break down the dividing wall of hostility.

To that end, and to the goal of mutual understanding and respect, we are committed to seeking unity in Christ’s kingdom. This is a daunting task to be sure, not for the faint of heart, but necessary if we want to live authentically in Jesus’ name.

We are continuing our “international” Zoom Bible studies on Thursday nights, as well as our Sunday morning outdoor gathering, with social distancing. This seems to be of great benefit to all those participating. This week we will be working on apologetics, equipping the saints to always have an answer for the hope that lies within us. Please continue to pray for all our outreach endeavors.

This week a few old friends stopped by, and it reminds us how great it is to be found faithful where people can still locate us.It seems to bring comfort to people through the years to know that we are still here. We were glad to hear some wonderful memories of Rich, how he has touched peoples’ lives, and how he loved others so deeply and so well. A young man recounted that Rich was the first person who said “I love you” to him when he was 14 years old. That’s the Spirit.

We wish you all well and are grateful for your prayers, support, encouragement, and interest in our lives. We can’t be us without you, and we believe the reverse is also true, according to God’s word. Stay well and faithful. Grace and peace to you all.

Categories
Service Unity

Walk for peace

Pastor Sonja Dawson of New Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church and Pastor Jack Read from Church of the Servant King marching for peace and justice in Los Angeles today.

What a special moment was shared today with Pastor Jack Read of the Church of the Servant King. Our fathers marched together over 28 years ago during the 1992 civil unrest and we are still fighting the good fight today. Thank you, Pastor Read and COSK for your support.

Pastor Sonja Dawson (Facebook post)

The purpose of march today was to demonstrate unity and peace in light of the recent injustices. It was coordinated with the police and mayor’s office and marked by prayer, peacefulness and unity. Many different churches were represented. In light of our history with our brothers and sisters at New Mount Calvary we felt we could and should send whoever we could.

We prayed for peace and true Christian brother and sisterhood to be demonstrated and feel that this was accomplished. There are other media, news reports, video, and photos we will add to this story as we are able. Thank you.

Categories
Service Updates

Expressing oneness

a banquet table

A Banquet Anniversary

Saturday night we served a banquet to 240 people who came to support a vital inner-city ministry. We realized this was something of an anniversary as we had been serving this group for 25 years; this also marked the inception of our banquet ministry. The first time we were asked to come and help at one of their early fundraisers, we quickly ascertained that it was a rather chaotic event. The people who were actually the leaders, teachers, and ministers were in the kitchen with us, frantically trying to serve the guests!

To say there was a drastic lack of leadership and direction would be a mild understatement. Everyone was pitching in and trying to help but there was no way for the hosts to visit, explain, or answer questions about their ministry, much less enjoy a meal. And voila! A seed was planted in us and we realized that we could offer our hands in service.

Though we are few in number, we have a vision for unity in the body of Christ. Currently we are blessed to serve many banquets each year, Some are gourmet, catered affairs, and some we cook ourselves. This service is offered up free of charge, asking only for out of pocket expenses such as food or decorations as well as covering our gas money. We have learned to be very economical, saving considerable money. We cook pretty well, and we clean up too!

Some put in their reservations as soon as their banquet is over for their next year’s event. A few years ago we served a banquet where the late Frank Pastore was the speaker. “What a neat ministry,” he said. “Come on my radio show and I will gladly promote your services!” While we appreciated his enthusiasm, we weren’t sure we could handle the outcome, so we never pursued the opportunity.

But we gladly promote the need for brothers and sisters to get creative and use whatever gifts you have to support, encourage, and edify the bigger body of Christ. This may help fulfill our Lord’ s last prayers, “…that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that thou hast sent me…” John17:23