Wednesday, October 25, 2017

This Sunday!

Praise Community Fellowship will be leading worship this Sunday Oct. 29th at 8:45am. We will be walking in the circle of God's blessings as I look at more evidence from the Bible that shows us that God want's to open our spiritual eyes so that we can see clearly the path to the blessings He has for our life.

Our New Website

Our new site is up and running. We will be adding more features and continue to modify and change things as we move forward. One of the points the new website stresses is that we are not a traditional church. We do not meet every Sunday and that we are a volunteer organization that meets to connect with God and help those in need. Our Website

True Story

For years now I have been walking in God's peace. Sometimes you don't realize how wonderful things are until you lose something. Last week I lost God's peace because of a mistake I made. It hit me like a ton of bricks. One moment life couldn't be more peaceful and the next moment I was in deep distress. I paced, I hurt, I worried, I walked, I prayed, and then realized that the only thing I could do was to go to the Bible and started reading the Psalms. As I read, I struggled to stay focused because of the stress but I continued to read and pray. I read for about 1/2 an hour and I will tell you it was a struggle to keep reading but I forced myself to continue. Now some may say what happened next was a coincidence or the result of other actions that were put into place over the situation but I will tell you the problem was completely resolved as I was reading and praying. Would the same result have appeared if I hadn't been reading the Bible or praying? We will never know, but my peace returned. There is nothing like walking in God's peace! Seek it like a fine treasure. God's peace is found in the circle of blessings. You must be walking toward God to enter His circle of Blessings!

Friday, October 20, 2017

Be careful What You Seek!

I started to talk this past Sunday about walking in the circle of God's Blessings and to give you a real quick re-cap I said there are two very important points you need to grasp about this teaching.

1.) No one is ever out side the circle of God's grace and love no matter how far you have strayed from God. This means that regardless of your current distance, God's grace is still available to you.

2.) It is possible however to be outside the circle of God's blessing! That means that even though God loves you and His Grace is available to you, it is up to you to begin the journey back to him so you can receive the blessings that are awaiting you. In my talk last Sunday I used the example of parents with teen age children who are not obeying the rules of the household. Maybe they are experimenting with underage drinking or staying out past curfew. You still love them, but most parents would probably say, until you can comply with our rules, I am not going to pay for your cell phone bill, or pay your car insurance etc. There are consequences in being outside the circle of Blessings. The Prodigal son teaches this in Luke. You can read that story here. The Prodigal Son

I also mentioned that the shortcut to Gods blessings is to stay close to Him by praying and reading your bible daily. There is a great way to make bible reading easy no matter what your schedule or where you travel. I use a daily plan from Bible Gateway. There are many different reading plans that they will send directly to your email so if you have a smart phone you will always have a daily scripture to read. You can find out more or sign up fro this free service here. Biblegateway reading plans

Your Prayers Matter!

Faye Heuchert will be having back surgery at Barnes Hospital on October 24th.

Pastor John Shear, Jackie's husband. healing grace for diabetes complications.

Cathy Watson continued healing from cancer!

Emily Norris, continued healing and God's direction and peace!
Linda Cassens, continued prayers for healing!

Stan Rutkowski, blessings and healing
Brad Fultz, cont. healing and God's direction and peace!

African Vision of Hope, God's blessing to open hearts for continued support and direction!

PCF and IUMC, God's direction and wisdom

Beverly Farm, prayers for God's blessings, protection and wisdom for the managers and staff

Pastor John Shear, Jackie husband. healing grace for diabetes complications.

Announcements

Our New website is up for it's "beta" review.. I think that means there is still some tweaking to do but you can see it here. New web site

KID’S NIGHT OUT

This Friday, October 20, beginning at 5:30 pm, children ages 3 through those in 5^th grade are invited to attend Kid’s Night Out until 8:30 pm. The evening begins with a meal (tacos are on the menu for this month!) and then enjoy playing games, doing crafts and other activities, then end the evening watching a movie while munching on popcorn. Please RSVP if you know your children are coming by return e-mail or by calling the church office (618) 656-4648. Adult helpers are very much needed. If you can come help with serving or cleaning up the meal, or come to sit with the children while they watch the movie, you would be most welcome. For more information call Kiffon (618) 210-9628 or Jill (314) 422-6734.

SUDSY SUNDAYS IN OCTOBER

During the month of October we are asking for donations of dishwashing soap, laundry detergent, liquid soap and conditioner for the Glen-Ed Food Pantry. This past Sunday you contributed 27 lbs for the Pantry, which included 6 conditioners, 8 toilet paper, 1 package sanitary napkins, 1 hand soap, 3 detergents, 1 toothpaste and 2 deodorants. We appreciate your contributions! Remember to bring contributions for our Sudsy Sundays for the remainder of October.

See you Sunday at 8:45am located at 800 North Main Street Edwardsville. Sincerely, pastor kent

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

This Coming Sunday. "Blessings Flow!"

This Sunday The PCF praise team will be back and we will be having a dedication, and a look into what happens when your spiritual eyes are opened. Blessings Flow!

When you are able to read the Bible with spiritual eyes and spiritual understanding, you realize that the entire bible was written to you, about you and for you! We have stifled the power of God and His word in our lives but that can be reversed. Learn how to start walking within the circle of God's blessings everyday. It is going to be an amazing Sunday!

PCF Board Activities

Last night we had a board meeting and the board will have some exciting news to present this coming Sunday. All I'll say now is, "There are going to be some very blessed people because of the generosity of of the PCF family!

We will be launching our new website later this week. I'll keep you posted.

Annual Halloween Parade Free Hot Dog Giveaway

Once again we will sponsor a free hotdog giveaway at the Glen Ed halloween parade on October 31st at 6:00pm. We meet at the Joiner Law office located at 116 West Street Edwardsville. There is very limited parking there so it is recommended if you are gong to join the fun to come early and park somewhere close and walk to the property. This is our 3rd or 4th year and it is a blast. Thanks to Barb Joiner who generously allows us to cook our hotdogs in her kitchen and use her parking lot for the giveaway!

Your Prayers Matter!

Cathy Watson Praises for good days, continued healing from cancer!

Emily Norris, continued healing and God's direction and peace!
Linda Cassens, continued prayers for healing!

Stan Rutkowski, blessings and healing

Brad Fultz, cont. healing and God's direction and peace!

Jeff Wiles, direction and healing.

Cynthia Bastholm heart failure and other complications, God's peace!

Jack Butler, praises for feeling better, continued healing prayers!

Mary Knapp praises for good days and continued healing!

Mike Rodgers, continued healing and God's peace!

Gaye Kell, Krista's mom praises for good surgery results and cont, healing!

African Vision of Hope, God's blessing to open hearts for continued support and direction!

PCF and IUMC, God's direction and wisdom

Beverly Farm, prayers for God's blessings, protection and wisdom for the managers and staff

See you Sunday at 8:45am located at 800 North Main Street Edwardsville. It's going to be a great Sunday!
Love, pastor Kent

Thursday, October 5, 2017

This Sunday

A reminder that this Sunday Immanuel United Methodist will be sponsoring a chicken dinner at the Edwardsville Moose located at 7371 Marine Road (RTE 143) from 11:00am until 3:00pm. Carryouts are available and the proceeds are being used for the Immanuel Property Maintenance projects. It's a win/win. Eat chicken, raise money for the building improvements.

Pastor Jackie will be leading worship this Sunday. Her Sermon topic is centered on living freely in God's mercy to do justice.

God has a plan for your life but you must get in contact with Him to get the details!

Hope to see you soon! Love, pastor kent

Tuesday, October 3, 2017

Is there a Short Cut?

John 11:25-26

Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?"

As Jesus said to Martha, the brother of Lazarus, "Do you believe this?" Believers will never die. A great God given peace comes to those who can grasp the truth of this scripture, a great peace!

I know that the world is filled with tragedies. Monday's news of the Las Vegas shootings being another example of how fragile and unpredictable this life can be. Our physical existence in this physical world, as beautiful as it can be, is also a world of pain and suffering. Jesus is the answer. That is the short and long answer.

A true story about Short Cuts

Definition of a short cut: An accelerated way of doing or achieving something.

Recently Bonni and I were in in Maine where I visited an art gallery. I love looking at oil paintings of local artists. I was talking with the owner of this particular gallery who also had some of his own work on display. I asked him how he learned how to paint so well, and if he studied art. His answer was wonderful. He said he was a retired physicist and that he always wanted to learn how to paint but he knew he didn't have the time to spend years learning all the various techniques of oil painting so he began taking lessons directly from accomplished artists that he admired. He said this saved him years of trial and error as he learned the craft. In other words, he didn't spend years in a classroom talking about theory and technique, instead he watched and learned directly from established artists who he said greatly shortened the learning curve.

The point

Be a short cutter when it comes to walking with Jesus. Go directly to His word (the Bible) and directly to Him (prayer) and learn from the master Himself. That is the fastest way to know what God want's for your life, and the fastest way to know His voice and His direction. Pastors and churches can be part of that plan, but the shortcut is to go direct to the source! The source wants to speak directly to you.

Our Prayer List

Cathy Watson Praises for good days, continued healing from cancer!

Emily Norris, continued healing and God's direction and peace!
Linda Cassens continued prayers for healing!

Stan Rutkowski continues to battle pressure wounds.

Brad Fultz, cont. healing and God's direction and peace!
Jeff Wiles for back pain!
Cynthia Bastholm heart failure and other complications, God's peace!
Jack Butler, praises for feeling better, continued healing prayers!
Mary Knapp praises for good days and continued healing!
Mike Rodgers, continued healing from latest back surgery!
Gaye Kell, Krista's mom praises for good surgery results and cont, healing!
African Vision of Hope, God's blessing to open hearts for continued support and direction!
PCF and IUMC, God's direction and wisdom as we continue our relationship!

See you soon! Love, pastor kent

Thursday, September 28, 2017

The Power of One

Right now, as you read this blog, there are millions of people all over the world in desperate need. Need of food, shelter, clothing, love, protection, and hope. As a Christian we are called by Jesus to intervene and be a blessing to those in need.

If someone came to you and said, "Could you give $1 dollar a month each month to help someone from suffering?" Most of us would do that without hesitation. I would imagine that many people may even ask, "Only a Dollar a month, what good will that do?" $1 dollar certainly doesn't seem very significant by its self, however if you multiply that $1 dollar times a million donors it becomes very significant. If a million people would commit to just $1 per month, $12 million dollars could be raised in a year. $12 million dollars could help a lot of people. Even though this seems like a no brainer, we all know it isn't that simple.

The need in this world is so great that we often get numb to all the requests. So how can we become more effective stewards of the blessings we have been given? It begins with prayer, bible reading and obediance. Go to God and ask him to open your eyes to a need and what He wants you to commit to regarding that need. It may be more than just writing a check. God may want you to get involved in other ways. What I do know is that God is looking for an open and willing heart to work through. We as Christians are the answer to the needs of the world. But we are given free will. We can listen and obey, or we can turn our heads and close our eyes and ears and ignore. The choice is always ours. I will begin a series of teachings on walking in God's blessings beginning on Oct 15th. I can tell you this, when you become a blessing, you receive a blessing.

Isaiah 58:10

If you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom be as the noonday.

Proverbs 19:17

Who ever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.

Acts 20:35

In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

Announcements:
This Sunday we will be celebrating World Communion Sunday where we are invited to remember that we worship and work for God's Kingdom with other faith communities and interfaith partners. But what does working for God's Kingdom in the world look like for a small local community?
The message this Sunday will be delivered by Jordan Grammer and his sermon title is: Justice for All.

Shauna Boad, who is developing Amazing Grace at Logan Place a place to mentor young girls, is looking for volunteers. She is currently looking for help to hang yard sale flyers in local businesses and for help at the sale on October the 21st. You can see all the progress Shauna and her volunteers have made by driving by the property at #7 Logan Place Edwardsville. You can reach Shauna at 618-971-5029.

Monday, September 25, 2017

It's About Your Outcome!

People everywhere are trying to figure out how to improve their life! It seems as if there is always something we wish we could make better; our work life, our health, our relationships, our financial stability, our attitude, etc...

This past week, Bonni and I returned home from two weeks of work travel with the Shriners Hospitals for children. We visited the Hospital in Erie PA. and ended at the hospital in Boston MA. The hospital in Boston is a burn trauma hospital. It is one of the best hospitals in the world when it comes to treating children with severe burns. While we were working at that hospital I sat in on the interviews with the doctors. These people are the best of the best. They are not only top rated doctors specializing in burn trauma but many of them are also involved in the research and development which continues to improve the outcomes for their patients.

As I listened to the interviews with these amazing men and women who are affecting the outcomes of children lives every day, I realized what they were saying and doing was practicing many of the things that Jesus taught.

Here are just a couple of the profound messages I got while listening tho these doctors speak about their work at Shriners Hospital for children.

The first thing that struck me was this saying, "We care beyond Costs!" The whole staff at Shriners hospitals live by this. It's all-about the children's "outcome!" They love and care for these kids and have made a commitment that means they will do what ever it takes to restore them back to as close to normal as is within their ability to do so regardless of what it costs!

God has done this exact thing for you and I! He said, I love you so much, and want to restore you back to me so much, that I am willing to do what ever it takes, regardless of the cost! And so He sent his only son Jesus to die for or sins so that we could be restored back to Him. Now that is love!

One of the doctors being interviewed said there was a time about 20 years ago when we defined success for these children with serious burns as survival. In other words if they lived, we considered it a successful outcome. The problem with that definition was quality of life after surviving the initial trauma. We knew we could get much better and redefine what success should look like. So over the years we have diligently poured ourselves into research and study, and have been continually developing new and better ways of doing treatments so that the "Outcome" for the patients continues to improve. This doctor said there was a time when a patient who came in with 25% of their body severely burned, they would have about a 20% chance of survival. Now, a child can come in with 80% severe burns and there is more like a 90% chance of survival. But because of their tenacity of study and research, they are taking their patients far beyond just survival. With their ever improving treatments, the kids are now enjoying much greater outcomes for their lives.

The doctors at Shriners Hospitals develop a specific program for each patient and keep these patients "In Treatment" over a period of years so that greater functionality can be restored so that their life experience is greatly enhanced. Outcomes at Shriners Hospitals keep improving.

Christians please reread that last paragraph. How are we defining success within the church? Are we continuing to to improve the outcomes for people who come to us? Are we continually researching, and studying, and then practicing new ways of thinking and doing?

Do you want a better outcome for your life?

I think the church could learn a great deal from the Shriners Hospitals for Children because they continue to study, stay focused, and develop new ways to positively affect the outcomes of peoples lives!

One of the doctors commented that they have a had a few children come in for treatment, and then for whatever reason the parents decide not to stay with the treatment program. They drop out. The doctor made this profound statement about these kids, "Children who drop out of the treatment program have significantly reduced "Outcomes" for their lives. The message is clear, if you want a better outcome, you need to stay in the treatment program! I believe this is the exact message Christians need to hear today. If you want a better outcome for your life, you must remain in treatment! In other words, if you want the blessings that are possible for Christians, meaning a better life outcome, you must do what the doctors at Shriners Hospitals do. Research, study, change your ways of thinking and then start doing according to the teachings of Jesus.

I will begin a teaching series coming up in October on Walking in God's Blessings.

The bottom line, if you want to change the outcome of your life for the better! Stay in Treatment! and for the Christian that means we remain in treatment our entire life!

Please continue t lift these people in prayer:

Cathy Watson Praises for good days, continued healing from cancer.

Emily Norris, continued healing from cancer and God's direction and peace.
Linda Cassens continued prayers for healing.

Stan Rutkowski continues to battle pressure wounds.

Brad Fultz, God's peace and healing!
Jeff Wiles for back pain!
Cynthia Bastholm prayers for healing.
Mary Knapp praises for good days and continued healing!
Mike Rodgers, continued healing from latest back surgery
Gaye Kell, Krista's mom praises for good surgery results and cont, healing!

Hope to see you soon. Need to talk? Call me or text me at 618-334-3575.
Love, pastor kent

Thursday, September 21, 2017

One more thing about this Sunday

This Sunday, Sept. 24th Pastor Jackie asked me to announce the following: Immanuel Methodist will be having a service at the church this Sunday at 8:45am. That means you have two options for worship this coming Sunday. Praise Community Fellowship informal outdoor service at Glik Park at 8:45am or Immanuel United Methodist service at the church at 8:45am.

See you soon! Love, pastor kent

John 10:10

10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. Love, Jesus

Tuesday, September 19, 2017

This Coming Sunday, September 24th

Glik Park here we come!

Praise Community Fellowship will be leading worship this coming Sunday and since the weather is predicted to be absolutely beautiful, we will plan on meeting at Glik Park once again! We will meet at our regular time at 8:45am at the big pavilion. This is a perfect place to invite a friend to hear about Jesus in a very casual, informal atmosphere.

I really enjoy this type of very informal meeting, I think it is more representative of the way Jesus taught and interacted with people.

Bonni and I were able to attend the Brooklyn Tabernacle this past Sunday, we had a break over the weekend from our Shriners Hospital work tour. Attending the Brooklyn Tabernacle is always a highlight for us when ever we get to New York City because it is always a spiritual blessing.

This Sunday

"Being Blessed" I will be looking at God's instructions for receiving His blessing. Here is what I have learned, "All" blessings come from God! Everything that can possibly fill your life to the full, comes from Him. When the bell finally goes off and you realize that staying in God's circle is where all blessings flow, your life will never be the same.

Our Prayer List

Cathy Watson Praises for good days, continued healing from Great cancer.

Emily Norris, continued healing from cancer.
Linda Cassens continued prayers for healing.

Stan Rutkowski continues to battle pressure wounds.

Brad Fultz, God's peace and healing!
Jeff Wiles for back pain!
Cynthia Bastholm prayers for healing.
Mary Knapp praises for good days and continued healing!
Mike Rodgers, continued healing from latest back surgery
Gaye Kell, Krista's mom praises for good surgery results and cont, healing!

See you Sunday at Glik park at 8:45am! Love, pastor kent

Wednesday, September 6, 2017

This Sunday and more....

Jesus taught by the seaside and along the streets to everyday people. He kept it short, simple, and always life changing. This coming Sunday, Praise Community Fellowship will lead worship at Glik Park at 8:45am. It looks as if it is going to be a beautiful morning and I hope you can join us for this very informal gathering. There will be hot coffee and other goodies as well. We meet under the large pavilion and have seating for about 70 but if it is easy to bring a lawn chair please do.

Should You Buy Life Insurance? I was a life insurance agent for some years prior to becoming a pastor. Life Insurance is one of those products that in most cases requires two things before anyone would purchase it.

1.) Love for someone other than self

2.) An understanding of how the product works

It is interesting that many people today still cannot quite comprehend the value that a properly designed life insurance policy can provide for a family. You noticed I didn't say financial security, I said value. In the years I spent as a life insurance agent I delivered my share of what I think was improperly named "death benefits" to families who had a loved one die with an in-force life insurance policy. What I brought to them as a life insurance agent was more than a large, tax free check. I was bringing them peace of mind in the form of relieving financial pressures that can arise from an unexpected death of a loved one, especially a parent who is providing income for the family. There are also certain types of life insurance that provide what we called "Living Benefits!" These types of policies also served as a savings plan along with a death benefit. If a finical emergency came up, these types of policies had the ability to provide needed cash either through a loan or a withdrawal.

Life insurance does not remove the risk of death, but it does provide a means for people to take a breath, and figure out their new reality without the worries and pressures of having a financial burden on top of the many other decisions that must be made when a close family member dies. Life insurance is a promise to the policy holder. The policy promises to pay a determined amount of money, tax free, to the named beneficiary. It is a legal agreement that is backed by hundreds of millions of dollars of assets of the issuing company.

Jesus is offering us eternal life beyond this life. It is a covenant agreement to anyone who comes to him and believes in him and follows him and his teachings. Unlike the life insurance policies I used to sell which required a premium to be paid for the policy to stay in force, Jesus has paid the premium in full for anyone who is willing to receive his promise. It is backed by the creator of the universe. It is truly valuable. And, just like some of the life insurance policies designed by man, Jesus offers many living benefits which are too many to mention here, but I will be talking about these benefits when we meet. Consider getting in on it today!

Ephesians 2:8-9For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast.

Announcements

Please join the Metro East Community Rotary Club after your worship service on 9/24/17 from 11am to 2pm at the Edwardsville Moose Lodge for an all you can eat chicken dinner. Tickets are $9 for adults and $4 for children ages 3-12. We will also be selling desserts. We hope to see you there

Kid’s Night Out Resumes

Our very popular monthly Kid’s Night Out will resume in September, with chil- dren ages 3 through those in 5th grade meeting on Friday, September 15th from 5:30 – 8:30 pm. The children eat a meal together, and then enjoy crafts, games, and various other activities before ending the evening with watching a movie and munching on popcorn. You can RSVP to the church office via phone or e-mail, 656-4648, or anita@immanuelonmain.org, or sign up on the sheet in the Hospitality Room. There is no cost to attend, and all children and friends are welcome! Helpers are always needed! Speak to Kif- fon Lewis or Jill Winte.

Our Prayer List

Linda Cassens Praises for good scan and continued prayers for healing!

Cathy Watson Praises for good days, continued healing from Great cancer!

Emily Norris, Praises for good attitude and feeling stronger, continued healing!

Stan Rutkowski continues to battle pressure wounds.

Brad Fultz, Faye Heucherts nephew praises for better strength and off life support, cont. healing!
Jeff Wiles for back pain!
Cynthia Bastholm heart failure and other complications!
Jack Butler, praises for feeling better, continued healing prayers!
Mary Knapp praises for good days and continued healing!
Mike Rodgers, continued healing from latest back surgery
Gaye Kell, Krista's mom praises for good surgery results and cont, healing!

See you at Glik Park at 8:45am Sunday Sept. 10th, located on East lake Drive, Edwardsville.
Love, pastor kent

Tuesday, August 29, 2017

One More Thing about my Last Sunday's Sermon

I have Ben at Home today. I can't do much when he is home. His needs are many and I must always be on alert because although he is now 33, he is still like a small child. But as I sit here on the screened in porch with him, he reminds me of what I was talking about this past Sunday. The scripture I used is:

Matthew 11:28-30. "Come to me all you that are weary and heavy burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Jesus was speaking of the heavy burdens that the current religious system was putting on people. He was letting the religious leaders of the day know that their laws and their demands for perfection would not produce the righteousness required for everlasting life. The laws and the rituals were a heavy burden that people weren't capable of accomplishing and it left them hopeless and joyless.

Jesus was trying to teach the people that all that is needed is for us to be yoked to Him, that He would bear the burden of perfection of which we are incapable. Only Jesus' sacrifice can accomplish our righteousness. Being yoked to Jesus is the only way people can enjoy salvation which produces the fruit of peace and rest for our souls.

It reminds me of the time when I let my son Ben, "help" me mow the lawn. I put his hands on the mower and I put my hands on top of his and stood right behind him, together we walked very slowly and mowed, only for a couple of minutes because that was all Ben was capable of doing. He could not help me push the mower to complete the job, he probably had no concept of what it was we were doing, yet we participated in mowing the lawn together. He took part in the frailest way, but he was right there with me, and together that day, he helped me mow the lawn.

Ben was and still is incapable of mowing the lawn. But, if he is yoked to me, he can still participate even if in the slightest way. You and I are no different. That is why Jesus wants us to be yoked to him because we are not capable of helping ourselves with our own salvation. It is only being yoked with Jesus that we can participate, though in a very inadequate way. It is the relationship and the trust and the love of walking with the only one who can help you accomplish something that makes all the difference. God's peace to all of you. Pastor Kent

About our prayer list.

I want to share with you how I pray for the people on our prayer list. First of all, I pray for more than those who are on the list. The list is always people that I know have serious immediate need. I do not do well with schedules. So what I do is pray for the list and others when ever any of them come to mind which is frequent. It may be at a stop sign while I'm driving, in the shower, during lunch, during a walk, during a coffee break, in the evening and almost always in the middle of the night when I wake up to get a drink which is usually at least twice. I have no set prayer for anyone but I do find myself using the words, Lord I lift up ......... please bless them, heal them, surround them with your healing angels and fill their hearts with your healing peace. But this varies too. I pray when my heart is ready to pray. I have mentioned that I do not believe in what I call routine thoughtless prayers. I believe God hears only sincere hearts. The following people need you to participate with God in His healing touch. This happens when we pray!

Mike Rodgers, Lori's husband for healing of back surgery.

Gaye Kell, Krista's mom healing for kidney surgery.

Allen Kunz MRI and tests for pain in legs and back.

Barb Weiss continued healing from back surgery.

Linda Cassens diagnosed with bladder cancer.

Cynthia Bastholm heart failure and other complications.

Cathy Watson going through chemo therapy for breast cancer.

Emily Norris, Donna and Will Bowers Daughter, has just been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Stan Rutkowski continues to battle pressure wounds.

John Shear, pastor Jackie's husband for strength and healing from diabetes.

Brad Fultz, Faye Heucherts nephew for healing.
Bonni Rutkowski for continued strength and healing.

See you soon. Love, pastor kent

Wednesday, August 23, 2017

This Sunday

For the first time in about a month, PCF will be leading the worship service at 8:45am. I look forward to seeing everyone. The PCF singers and worship band will be leading the praise and worship and I am in the process of praying and developing the message.

Even though it feels like the summer has slipped by quickly this year, the good news is, being with your spiritual family on Sunday morning and hearing God's words from the Bible can renew and refresh our dreams, our spirits, and the possibilities that lie dormant inside each of us.

Do you have a seed inside of you that just hasn't germinated? A seed that could produce a whole new life for you and your loved ones?

Are you frazzled?

Is there something deep inside of you that keeps picking at your heart? Something that is telling you that the road you are on just isn't going to lead you to where God want's you to be?

Is there a dream, an idea, a possibility deep in your heart planted by God Himself that just hasn't been watered allowing it to sprout and grow?

Then join us, we are all in this together! We gather together on Sunday's to experience the reality, the hope, and the power of God when people come together seeking His presence and wisdom. Come with your doubts. Let God come to your rescue.

Come with your questions.

Come with your disappointments.

Come with your hurts.

Come with your pain.

Come with your illnesses.

But come also with an open heart and mind and expectation of experiencing the life changing power of God!

Now watch this!

See you Sunday at 8:45. 800 North Main Edwardsville.

Sincerely, pastor kent

Thursday, August 17, 2017

I Am Thankful

Today is my 61st birthday. Today, like everyday, I am thankful.

Bonni and I have been very blessed to be able to serve the PCF family and all our friends at IUMC and Esic Baptist church. The journey continues to unfold each day and I will continue to be thankful.

Today I want to post the song I wrote for Shriners Hospital for those who haven't heard it. I have been writing songs my whole life but this song is extra special because it being used to help the Shriners Hospitals all over the country. Bonni's company produced the video. It's a happy song for a happy day!

Shriners New Song

Please continue to pray for these people:

Emily Norris, Donna and Will Bowers Daughter, Donna said that Emily will be having surgery on August 23rd. Let's lift Emily and her family with healing prayer.
Allen Kunz MRI and tests for pain in legs and back.

Barb Weiss continued healing from back surgery.

Linda Cassens diagnosed with bladder cancer.

Cynthia Bastholm heart failure and other complications.

Cathy Watson going through chemo therapy for breast cancer.

Gary Watson for strength and peace as he helps Cathy through the chemo treatments.

Faye Heuchert will be having tests for pinched nerves in her back causing leg pain and weakness.

Stan Rutkowski continues to battle pressure wounds.

Lee Knapp healing from infection and hip surgery.

John Shear, pastor Jackie's husband for kidney healing.

Brad Fultz, Faye Heucherts nephew in ICU on life support.
Bonni Rutkowski for continued strength and healing.

Announcements

Sunday August 20th Pastor Jackie with the PCF Praise Band

Sunday August Pastor Kent and the PCF Praise Band

See you all soon. Love, pastor kent

Monday, August 7, 2017

God's Peace

The greatest blessing I know of is God's Peace. There may be greater blessings that I am unaware of at this stage of my life, but currently I know of no greater blessing than living in God's Peace.

What is God's Peace? God's Peace comes when our worries and fears fade from our existence. The Bible gives us these verses to contemplate and meditate upon.

Psalm 46:1 "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."

Psalm 62:8 "Trust in Him at all times; O people, pour out your heart before him, God is our refuge for us."

Psalm 91:1 "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High, will abide in the shadow of the Almighty."

Philippians 4:7 "And the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Most fear comes from the assumption of loss; loss of life, loss of health, loss of wealth, loss of love, loss of freedom, some even fear loss of salvation. The list varies from person to person but fear robs us of peace. So the big question is, "How can I receive God's Peace?" I wish I could give you a simple prayer or blessing that would allow you to connect with this awesome gift but the truth is, God's peace is only found by remaining in a close relationship with Jesus and His teachings. God's Peace is in direct correlation to the closeness of relationship with Him. I did experience what I will call an anointing of God's Peace when I first surrendered my life to Him many years ago, but it did not remain on me. It has taken me time to develop the relationship of trust to walk in God's peace as I do now most of the time. Yes I did say most of the time. If I allow myself to wander from our relationship for very long, I quickly find my peace wandering also. I find that God's peace allows me to have deeper understanding of the scriptures which in turn gives me deeper understanding of the events of this life. My suggestion is that you read the Bible with the help of the Holy Spirit and pray for God's peace and understanding in all things. Love, pastor kent

Our updated Prayer list:

Allen Kunz MRI and tests for pain in legs and back.

Barb Weiss continued healing from back surgery.

Linda Cassens diagnosed with bladder cancer.

Cynthia Bastholm heart failure and other complications.

Cathy Watson going through chemo therapy for breast cancer.

Gary Watson for strength and peace as he helps Cathy through the chemo treatments.

Emily Norris, Donna and Will Bowers Daughter, has just been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Faye Heuchert will be having tests for pinched nerves in her back causing leg pain and weakness.

Stan Rutkowski continues to battle pressure wounds.

Lee Knapp healing from infection and hip surgery.

John Shear, pastor Jackie's husband for kidney healing.

Brad Fultz, Faye Heucherts nephew in ICU on life support.
Bonni Rutkowski for continued strength and healing.

Worship schedule for August

August 13th, Pastor Jackie leads worship

August 20th, pastor Jackie leads worship PCF provides music

August 27th, pastor Kent and the PCF worship team

Announcements:

Community Children’s Ministry Brunch

Each year we are happy to be part of a great church ministry to help supply winter coats for some of our area children. This year we will again be serving a Brunch in our Fellowship Hall on Sunday, August 13 from 9:45 am until 12:15 pm.

A $7.00 donation will be collected for the Brunch. ($4.00 children 6-12, and Free for children age 5 and under). This money will be used to purchase 20-30 coats and perhaps help our families in need in the Edwards- ville area. Join us after Contemporary ser- vice at 9:45 am—serving until after Tradi- tional service until 12:15 pm.

We need some of our good cooks to donate and prepare breakfast foods such as, Sweet Rolls—Coffee Cakes—Sweet Breads—Fruit trays or cut fruit—Egg Casseroles—Potato Casseroles—Quiche and other items. We will also be serving Biscuits & Gravy. There are sign-up sheets on the table in the Hospitality Room.

If you do not or cannot cook or bake you may make a monetary donation—just mark your check “Brunch” or call Sharon at 633-2659. If you would like to make a donation to purchase winter coats, pick an envelope from the Christmas Tree in the Hospitality Room to put your check in and drop in the basket. Thank you for your generosity in helping the Community Children’s Ministry. Hope to see you at the Brunch. Always good food and good fellowship!

Blessing of Backpacks

On Sunday, August 13th we will have our annual Blessing of the Backpacks for all students at both morning worship services. Students from preschool through college are urged to bring your backpacks for a special blessing on the school year. Invite your friends to attend this special service with you!

Bible Sunday

It is our tradition at Immanuel to give Bibles to students who are entering the 3rd grade. We will give these Bibles to the students at both services on Bible Sunday, August 13th. If your child will be going into the 3rd grade and you did not receive a letter from us, please notify the church office as soon as possible so that a Bible can be ordered for your child. We don’t want to miss anyone!!

If you need prayers or pastoral care please call the church office at 618-656-4648.

See you soon. Love pastor Kent and pastor Jackie

Tuesday, August 1, 2017

The Christian Secret to Success

If I could give anyone a formula for success it would come right from the Bible. First and foremost I would tell people to Glorify God in all that they do. No matter what the job or what the pay, make sure you are Glorifying God!

You cannot glorify God by hiding from work.

You cannot glorify God by cheating your customers or your boss.

You cannot glorify God by doing less than what you are expected to do or what you are capable of doing.

You cannot glorify God by wasting company time or materials.

The best shot you have of accomplishing your dreams is to follow this wisdom from the Bible and allow Gods wisdom to guide you in all your decisions and efforts.

Proverbs 16:3 Commit to the Lord whatever you do and he will establish your plans.

Proverbs 16:11 Honest scales and balances belong to the Lord; all the weights in the bag are of his making.

Proverbs 22:29 Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.

Ephesians 4:28 Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share wit those in need.

Colossians 3:23 Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men,

1 Corinthians 10:31 So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God

Love, pastor kent

Monday, July 31, 2017

Effective Prayer

Today's Thought:

"Do the people you care about the most get the best of who you are, or are they getting the ragged left overs?"

Effective Prayer

The Bible gives us plenty of lessons on effective prayer. The following are some of these lessons.

Isaiah 1:15-16 "When you spread out your hands in prayer, I hide my eyes from you; even when you offer many prayers, I am not listening. Your hands are full of blood! Wash and make your selves clean. Take your evil deeds out of my sight; stop doing wrong. (We can accomplish this today by accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior. He washes us clean due to His sacrifice for us!)

Isaiah 59:2 "But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear. ( We are called to confess our sins to Jesus and His sacrifice will bring us into the throne of grace so that God does hear our prayers!)

Mark 11:25-26 "And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins." ( In the Lord's prayer we pray, "Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who have sinned against us.")

Matthew 5:23-24 "Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the alter and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the alter. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. ( God consistently makes it clear throughout the Bible that we are to love one another. There is power when we allow forgiveness and love to dominate our life!)

1 Peter 3:7 "Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers."( This was written in a different culture but the essence of this teaching is still important. If we want our prayers to be effective, we must have love and respect for our spouse!)

John 15:7 "If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you." ( This is a huge clue to effective prayer. We must abide or remain in all that Jesus has taught us and be applying His teachings to all areas of our life. You cannot abide in Jesus' words and teachings if you you do not know them.)

1 Timothy 2:8 "I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling; (If we have anger in or lives we must resolve this anger with love and forgiveness so that when we lift our hands in prayer we have God's attention.)

Our prayer list:

Cathy Watson going through chemo therapy for breast cancer.

Gary Watson for strength and peace as he helps Cathy through the chemo treatments.

Emily Norris, Donna and Will Bowers Daughter, has just been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Faye Heuchert will be having tests for pinched nerves in her back causing leg pain and weakness.

Stan Rutkowski continues to battle pressure wounds.

Mary Knapp seeking diagnosis for dizzy spells.

John Shear, pastor Jackie's husband for kidney healing.

Brad Fultz, Faye Heucherts nephew in ICU on life support.
Bonni Rutkowski for continued strength and healing.
Bonni Schuette continued strength and healing.

Need prayer or pastoral care? Call the church office 618-656-4648.

Love, pastor kent