Newsletter Date

Dr. E. J. Ward, Pastor

Pastor’s Page………….………2

Birthday Wishes…………..…3

4 Seasons Tea………………..3

Know Your Neighbors…….3

The Day They AllDisappeared……….………….3

One Didn't.....................3

Calling All Young Adults...4

4 Seasons Tea...............4

Spotlight on Health………..4

Pastor's Appreciation…....5

Bible Word Search....….….6

From the Editor……………...7Taking the Long Way………7

Missing Pronouns……..…….7

Worship Schedule…………..8

Newsletter, Volume 45

2015

Star Bethel celebrated its 77th Year Anniversary on March 8, 2015. Joining inthe celebration was the Love Temple Baptist Church and Williams ChapelBaptist Church. Our Theme: “A Church in True Worship” (John 4:23-25) wasemulated throughout the day, for a service that will be remembered for a verylong time, thanks to the efforts of our Chairperson, Bro. Roman Bridges and hisentire committee.

The Lord has blessed our church with great favor and a unique purpose in theBody of Christ. It is through this favor and purpose that we have been able tobless God’s people and serve as a place of refuge for those who are seeking agreater relationship with Jesus Christ.

Whether it is preaching and teaching God’s Word, spirit-filled choir singing, missionor community work, the pastor and members of the congregation continuously seeknew opportunities to transmit the Word of God.

Sunday School classes are held for all ages, at 9:00 a.m., followed by WorshipServices at 11:00 a.m., each Sunday.

If you are looking for a church with a strong desire to love God and serve others,

LOOK NO MORE!

Please submit info for newsletter to:Pastor Earl Ward -or-

veronicacorprew@aol.com

EDITOR: Veronica Corprew, B.S.

Missionary Baptist Church 5800 San Pablo Avenue, Oakland, CA 510-652-6464

Newsletter Date

Dr. E. J. Ward, Pastor

Pastor’s Page………….………2

Birthday Wishes…………..…3

4 Seasons Tea………………..3

Know Your Neighbors…….3

The Day They AllDisappeared……….………….3

One Didn't.....................3

Calling All Young Adults...4

4 Seasons Tea...............4

Spotlight on Health………..4

Pastor's Appreciation…....5

Bible Word Search....….….6

From the Editor……………...7Taking the Long Way………7

Missing Pronouns……..…….7

Worship Schedule…………..8

Newsletter, Volume 45

2015

Star Bethel celebrated its 77th Year Anniversary on March 8, 2015. Joining inthe celebration was the Love Temple Baptist Church and Williams ChapelBaptist Church. Our Theme: “A Church in True Worship” (John 4:23-25) wasemulated throughout the day, for a service that will be remembered for a verylong time, thanks to the efforts of our Chairperson, Bro. Roman Bridges and hisentire committee.

The Lord has blessed our church with great favor and a unique purpose in theBody of Christ. It is through this favor and purpose that we have been able tobless God’s people and serve as a place of refuge for those who are seeking agreater relationship with Jesus Christ.

Whether it is preaching and teaching God’s Word, spirit-filled choir singing, missionor community work, the pastor and members of the congregation continuously seeknew opportunities to transmit the Word of God.

Sunday School classes are held for all ages, at 9:00 a.m., followed by WorshipServices at 11:00 a.m., each Sunday.

If you are looking for a church with a strong desire to love God and serve others,

LOOK NO MORE!

Please submit info for newsletter to:Pastor Earl Ward -or-

veronicacorprew@aol.com

EDITOR: Veronica Corprew, B.S.

Missionary Baptist Church 5800 San Pablo Avenue, Oakland, CA 510-652-6464

Newsletter Date

Dr. E. J. Ward, Pastor

Pastor’s Page………….………2

Birthday Wishes…………..…3

4 Seasons Tea………………..3

Know Your Neighbors…….3

The Day They AllDisappeared……….………….3

One Didn't.....................3

Calling All Young Adults...4

4 Seasons Tea...............4

Spotlight on Health………..4

Pastor's Appreciation…....5

Bible Word Search....….….6

From the Editor……………...7Taking the Long Way………7

Missing Pronouns……..…….7

Worship Schedule…………..8

Newsletter, Volume 45

2015

Star Bethel celebrated its 77th Year Anniversary on March 8, 2015. Joining inthe celebration was the Love Temple Baptist Church and Williams ChapelBaptist Church. Our Theme: “A Church in True Worship” (John 4:23-25) wasemulated throughout the day, for a service that will be remembered for a verylong time, thanks to the efforts of our Chairperson, Bro. Roman Bridges and hisentire committee.

The Lord has blessed our church with great favor and a unique purpose in theBody of Christ. It is through this favor and purpose that we have been able tobless God’s people and serve as a place of refuge for those who are seeking agreater relationship with Jesus Christ.

Whether it is preaching and teaching God’s Word, spirit-filled choir singing, missionor community work, the pastor and members of the congregation continuously seeknew opportunities to transmit the Word of God.

Sunday School classes are held for all ages, at 9:00 a.m., followed by WorshipServices at 11:00 a.m., each Sunday.

If you are looking for a church with a strong desire to love God and serve others,

LOOK NO MORE!

Please submit info for newsletter to:Pastor Earl Ward -or-

veronicacorprew@aol.com

EDITOR: Veronica Corprew, B.S.

Missionary Baptist Church 5800 San Pablo Avenue, Oakland, CA 510-652-6464

2

HHoollddiinngg oonn ttoo FFaaiitthh iinn DDiiffffiiccuulltt TTiimmeessHave you ever asked God why he is allowing you or your loved ones to suffer? If youhave ever gone through some type of emotional, spiritual, or physical pain, then thechances are you have asked or thought about this question.

When we experience difficult times, we normally pray to God and expect immediaterelief. However, as we all know, God answers prayers in His own time.

But, after suffering a long time, we start wondering why God hasn't intervened. We begin questioningourselves. “What have I done to deserve this?” Then we feel as though God has abandoned us. We feel aloneand isolated from God.

Many great men of God experienced these types of emotions. For example, David experienced a feeling ofisolation from God when he was running for his life from Saul. We read in (Ps. 13:1), that David cried out toGod and said, “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” Ifyou read the rest of the Psalm, you will realize that David, who was obedient to God at this time, believed thatGod was not with him during his trials and tribulations. He felt isolated from God.

Job, who lost everything--his children, his wealth, his servants, his reputation, and his friends--experienceddespair and isolation from God. It is common to feel Isolated from God when we experience difficultsituations; however, the Bible assures us that God is present even when He seems far away.

Another example is described in Luke 24:13-35. In this passage, two of Jesus’ disciples were walking towardEmmaus. They had just come from Jerusalem and were undoubtedly very upset and depressed because theywitnessed the crucifixion of Jesus. They were not only discouraged because Jesus was dead, but also becauseit was the third day and they had hoped that Jesus would have been raised from the dead, as their Lordpromised. They had given up hope on Jesus’ resurrection and decided to head home, back to their old way oflife. But as they were walking, something marvelous happened. The Bible said in vs. 15, 16, “As they talkedand discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them…”These men, who were experiencing emotional and spiritual pain because of Jesus’ death, did not know thatJesus was walking right along with them the whole time. During their time of anguish, Jesus was next to theirside.

If we are faithful, God is walking right along with us especially during our times of suffering, even when we feelisolated from Him. He has not abandoned us, for we are His children and He loves us and cares for us. Wemust realize that He is watching over us and is doing what is best for us. 1 Pet. 5:7 tells us to cast all cares onHim because He cares for you.

When we suffer, we may feel isolated from God, but the reality is that God is with us step-by-step… Not onlywill God not leave us in our time of suffering; but, His timing is perfect. When we go through tough times, themost important thing for us to do is to keep our faith in God. Faith is important to God. (Hebrews 11:6) “Andwithout faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists andthat He rewards those who diligently seek Him.”

If you are without a church home, we invite you to visit Star Bethel, where we are witnesses to God’s Graceand His Mercy during difficult times! Remember, the first time you come to Star Bethel, you are a visitor, thesecond time…you are just coming home!

Dr. E. J. Ward

(Neighbors of Star Bethel MBC)

Serendipity Hair, Spa & Massage510-228-2970

&Serendipity Hair Salon5653 San Pablo Avenue

Oakland

Choice Meats5676 San Pablo Avenue

Oakland

Unique Hair Styling5696 San Pablo Avenue

Oakland

(Those listed above have graciously allowedthe Star Bethel Main Line to be displayed in

their place of business.)

3

MISSED YOUR COPY OF THE NEWSLETTER? Get it online!

You may also

There are several Facebook sites with the name of Star BethelMissionary Baptist Church. Our official site has a picture of ourchurch and pastor on the front page. “Like us” on our officialpage!

Visit our Website @www.starbethelmbc.com

Everyone is cordiallyinvited to attend

Saturday,May 2, 2015

The Star BethelDrama

Departmentpresents…

Saturday, April 25, 20153:00 p.m.

Star Bethel Missionary Baptist Church5800 San Pablo Avenue, Oakland, CA

Everyone Welcome!

(Neighbors of Star Bethel MBC)

Serendipity Hair, Spa & Massage510-228-2970

&Serendipity Hair Salon5653 San Pablo Avenue

Oakland

Choice Meats5676 San Pablo Avenue

Oakland

Unique Hair Styling5696 San Pablo Avenue

Oakland

(Those listed above have graciously allowedthe Star Bethel Main Line to be displayed in

their place of business.)

3

MISSED YOUR COPY OF THE NEWSLETTER? Get it online!

You may also

There are several Facebook sites with the name of Star BethelMissionary Baptist Church. Our official site has a picture of ourchurch and pastor on the front page. “Like us” on our officialpage!

Visit our Website @www.starbethelmbc.com

Everyone is cordiallyinvited to attend

Saturday,May 2, 2015

The Star BethelDrama

Departmentpresents…

Saturday, April 25, 20153:00 p.m.

Star Bethel Missionary Baptist Church5800 San Pablo Avenue, Oakland, CA

Everyone Welcome!

(Neighbors of Star Bethel MBC)

Serendipity Hair, Spa & Massage510-228-2970

&Serendipity Hair Salon5653 San Pablo Avenue

Oakland

Choice Meats5676 San Pablo Avenue

Oakland

Unique Hair Styling5696 San Pablo Avenue

Oakland

(Those listed above have graciously allowedthe Star Bethel Main Line to be displayed in

their place of business.)

3

MISSED YOUR COPY OF THE NEWSLETTER? Get it online!

You may also

There are several Facebook sites with the name of Star BethelMissionary Baptist Church. Our official site has a picture of ourchurch and pastor on the front page. “Like us” on our officialpage!

Visit our Website @www.starbethelmbc.com

Everyone is cordiallyinvited to attend

Saturday,May 2, 2015

The Star BethelDrama

Departmentpresents…

Saturday, April 25, 20153:00 p.m.

Star Bethel Missionary Baptist Church5800 San Pablo Avenue, Oakland, CA

Everyone Welcome!

.

Asthma Warning Signs Wheezing—A high pitched, whistling sound when breathing out (exhaling)

Coughing — An unproductive cough (it doesn’t clear mucus from the throat)that lasts for more than four weeks. Coughing at night. A funny little coughthat sounds as if you’re clearing your throat.

Shortness of Breath — feeling as if you can’t breathe in as much air as youneed. Panting heavily after exercise.

Chest Tightness — Chest feels as it it’s been wrapped tightly. It’s difficult tocatch a full breath.

Fatigue — Tiring quickly, which can be caused by symptoms themselves, orbecause symptoms are interfering with sleep.

Breathy Speech—Inability to speak loudly or in full sentences withoutexperiencing shortness of breath.

If you have any of these symptoms, see your health care professional for anexamination and diagnosis.

4

One thing that has become abundantly clear is the desire of our Young Adult Department to do more thingstogether; Whether that includes going on trips around the city or just doing some recreational activities hereat Star Bethel. They have decided as a group that fellowship and growing as a group is a major priority forthings we hope to improve on this year (along with learning about the Bible and serving the community).

Our young adults are encouraging one another, singing, ushering, and growing in Christ. But, it is clear; theyoung adults need your support. Come out and support our YAMs as we continue our quest to grow inChrist! If you have questions, please contact the YAMs president, Bro. Lamar James.

There is a large population of young adults in the Bay Area with energy, ideas,creativity and passion.

It is our priority at Star Bethel to empower this generation to use their gifts forGod’s purposes and the benefits of His people. As a result, we havetransformed the ministry into a Life Café, where we will tackle the difficultproblems that our young adults are faced with daily, WITHOUT JUDGING!!

The Life Cafe is held on the first Saturday of each month, at 11:00 a.m. Theregular Young Adult Meeting is held on the second Saturday, also at 11:00 a.m.

44

.

Asthma Warning Signs Wheezing—A high pitched, whistling sound when breathing out (exhaling)

Coughing — An unproductive cough (it doesn’t clear mucus from the throat)that lasts for more than four weeks. Coughing at night. A funny little coughthat sounds as if you’re clearing your throat.

Shortness of Breath — feeling as if you can’t breathe in as much air as youneed. Panting heavily after exercise.

Chest Tightness — Chest feels as it it’s been wrapped tightly. It’s difficult tocatch a full breath.

Fatigue — Tiring quickly, which can be caused by symptoms themselves, orbecause symptoms are interfering with sleep.

Breathy Speech—Inability to speak loudly or in full sentences withoutexperiencing shortness of breath.

If you have any of these symptoms, see your health care professional for anexamination and diagnosis.

4

One thing that has become abundantly clear is the desire of our Young Adult Department to do more thingstogether; Whether that includes going on trips around the city or just doing some recreational activities hereat Star Bethel. They have decided as a group that fellowship and growing as a group is a major priority forthings we hope to improve on this year (along with learning about the Bible and serving the community).

Our young adults are encouraging one another, singing, ushering, and growing in Christ. But, it is clear; theyoung adults need your support. Come out and support our YAMs as we continue our quest to grow inChrist! If you have questions, please contact the YAMs president, Bro. Lamar James.

There is a large population of young adults in the Bay Area with energy, ideas,creativity and passion.

It is our priority at Star Bethel to empower this generation to use their gifts forGod’s purposes and the benefits of His people. As a result, we havetransformed the ministry into a Life Café, where we will tackle the difficultproblems that our young adults are faced with daily, WITHOUT JUDGING!!

The Life Cafe is held on the first Saturday of each month, at 11:00 a.m. Theregular Young Adult Meeting is held on the second Saturday, also at 11:00 a.m.

44

.

Asthma Warning Signs Wheezing—A high pitched, whistling sound when breathing out (exhaling)

Coughing — An unproductive cough (it doesn’t clear mucus from the throat)that lasts for more than four weeks. Coughing at night. A funny little coughthat sounds as if you’re clearing your throat.

Shortness of Breath — feeling as if you can’t breathe in as much air as youneed. Panting heavily after exercise.

Chest Tightness — Chest feels as it it’s been wrapped tightly. It’s difficult tocatch a full breath.

Fatigue — Tiring quickly, which can be caused by symptoms themselves, orbecause symptoms are interfering with sleep.

Breathy Speech—Inability to speak loudly or in full sentences withoutexperiencing shortness of breath.

If you have any of these symptoms, see your health care professional for anexamination and diagnosis.

4

One thing that has become abundantly clear is the desire of our Young Adult Department to do more thingstogether; Whether that includes going on trips around the city or just doing some recreational activities hereat Star Bethel. They have decided as a group that fellowship and growing as a group is a major priority forthings we hope to improve on this year (along with learning about the Bible and serving the community).

Our young adults are encouraging one another, singing, ushering, and growing in Christ. But, it is clear; theyoung adults need your support. Come out and support our YAMs as we continue our quest to grow inChrist! If you have questions, please contact the YAMs president, Bro. Lamar James.

There is a large population of young adults in the Bay Area with energy, ideas,creativity and passion.

It is our priority at Star Bethel to empower this generation to use their gifts forGod’s purposes and the benefits of His people. As a result, we havetransformed the ministry into a Life Café, where we will tackle the difficultproblems that our young adults are faced with daily, WITHOUT JUDGING!!

The Life Cafe is held on the first Saturday of each month, at 11:00 a.m. Theregular Young Adult Meeting is held on the second Saturday, also at 11:00 a.m.

44

Dr. Earl Ward was called to be the pastor of the Star Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in 2008. While servingat Star Bethel, he has provided faithful, compassionate, and committed leadership that has led to the spiritualand physical reviving of Star Bethel. Pastor Ward has organized many workshops, prayer sessions, leadershipseminars and numerous revivals to encourage spirituality within the congregation and to inspire continuedgrowth and development of the members. His passionate and visionary leadership has also led to theinstallation of elevators and completely remodeling the second floor dining room, kitchen facilities, andbathrooms…to the glory of God!

Pastor Ward holds an AA Degree in Business Administration; BA, Master’s, and Doctorate Degrees in Theology.He also studied music in college and has a passion for excellence in the music ministry. Additionally, Dr. Ward

served as president and director of the Star Bethelchoirs.

He served his country for 2 years, spending 13months in Viet Nam and was honored with a PurpleHeart after being wounded while in combat onEaster Sunday in 1967.

A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, born to EdwardWard, Sr. and Hattie H. Gray; he accepted Christand was baptized at the age of 5, also on EasterSunday in New Orleans. Pastor Wardacknowledged and accepted his calling into theGospel ministry on January 12, 1980, was licensedto preach in April of 1980 and ordained in April of1983 by Dr. C. Cedric Claiborne in Oakland,California.

Join us, as we show our appreciation to ourPastor for his faithful service, outstanding

leadership and unwavering faith!

Pastor Ward’s 7th Anniversary ProgramWill be held

Friday, May 22, 2015, 7:00 p.m.Sunday, May 24, 2014, 3:30 p.m.

&

Appreciation Banquet:Saturday, May 30, 2015, at 12:30 p.m.

Star Bethel Social Hall

Theme: “Saved to Serve”Ephesians 2:8-10

5

Dr. Earl Ward was called to be the pastor of the Star Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in 2008. While servingat Star Bethel, he has provided faithful, compassionate, and committed leadership that has led to the spiritualand physical reviving of Star Bethel. Pastor Ward has organized many workshops, prayer sessions, leadershipseminars and numerous revivals to encourage spirituality within the congregation and to inspire continuedgrowth and development of the members. His passionate and visionary leadership has also led to theinstallation of elevators and completely remodeling the second floor dining room, kitchen facilities, andbathrooms…to the glory of God!

Pastor Ward holds an AA Degree in Business Administration; BA, Master’s, and Doctorate Degrees in Theology.He also studied music in college and has a passion for excellence in the music ministry. Additionally, Dr. Ward

served as president and director of the Star Bethelchoirs.

He served his country for 2 years, spending 13months in Viet Nam and was honored with a PurpleHeart after being wounded while in combat onEaster Sunday in 1967.

A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, born to EdwardWard, Sr. and Hattie H. Gray; he accepted Christand was baptized at the age of 5, also on EasterSunday in New Orleans. Pastor Wardacknowledged and accepted his calling into theGospel ministry on January 12, 1980, was licensedto preach in April of 1980 and ordained in April of1983 by Dr. C. Cedric Claiborne in Oakland,California.

Join us, as we show our appreciation to ourPastor for his faithful service, outstanding

leadership and unwavering faith!

Pastor Ward’s 7th Anniversary ProgramWill be held

Friday, May 22, 2015, 7:00 p.m.Sunday, May 24, 2014, 3:30 p.m.

&

Appreciation Banquet:Saturday, May 30, 2015, at 12:30 p.m.

Star Bethel Social Hall

Theme: “Saved to Serve”Ephesians 2:8-10

5

Dr. Earl Ward was called to be the pastor of the Star Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in 2008. While servingat Star Bethel, he has provided faithful, compassionate, and committed leadership that has led to the spiritualand physical reviving of Star Bethel. Pastor Ward has organized many workshops, prayer sessions, leadershipseminars and numerous revivals to encourage spirituality within the congregation and to inspire continuedgrowth and development of the members. His passionate and visionary leadership has also led to theinstallation of elevators and completely remodeling the second floor dining room, kitchen facilities, andbathrooms…to the glory of God!

Pastor Ward holds an AA Degree in Business Administration; BA, Master’s, and Doctorate Degrees in Theology.He also studied music in college and has a passion for excellence in the music ministry. Additionally, Dr. Ward

served as president and director of the Star Bethelchoirs.

He served his country for 2 years, spending 13months in Viet Nam and was honored with a PurpleHeart after being wounded while in combat onEaster Sunday in 1967.

A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, born to EdwardWard, Sr. and Hattie H. Gray; he accepted Christand was baptized at the age of 5, also on EasterSunday in New Orleans. Pastor Wardacknowledged and accepted his calling into theGospel ministry on January 12, 1980, was licensedto preach in April of 1980 and ordained in April of1983 by Dr. C. Cedric Claiborne in Oakland,California.

Join us, as we show our appreciation to ourPastor for his faithful service, outstanding

leadership and unwavering faith!

Pastor Ward’s 7th Anniversary ProgramWill be held

Friday, May 22, 2015, 7:00 p.m.Sunday, May 24, 2014, 3:30 p.m.

&

Appreciation Banquet:Saturday, May 30, 2015, at 12:30 p.m.

Star Bethel Social Hall

Theme: “Saved to Serve”Ephesians 2:8-10

5

6

6

7

When Ralph Waldo Emersonreflected on true success, hedidn’t mention fame, fortune orsocial status. Ponder his thoughts— and your own definition ofsuccess:

“To laugh often and much; to win the respect ofintelligent people and the affection of children; to earnthe appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayalof false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best inothers; to leave the world a bit better whether by ahealthy child, a redeemed social condition or a job welldone; to know even one other life has breathed becauseyou lived — this is to have succeeded.”

The True Definitionof Success

It’s human nature to look for shortcuts. Wewant the quickest, surest route to ourdestination. Delays, detours and dead endsare frustrating and discouraging.

Consider this: “When Pharaoh let thepeople go, God did not lead them by way ofthe land of the Philistines, although thatwas nearer...God led the people by theroundabout way of the wilderness towardthe Red Sea” (Exodus 13:17-18, NRSV).

The Red Sea looked like a fatal wrong turn,but God was protecting the Israelites. Hehad a plan in place to lead them to thePromised Land.

When God seems to prefer delays anddetours in your life, keep in mind that thelong way just might be better.

You cannot pray the Lord's Prayer andeven once say I.

You cannot pray the Lord's Prayer andeven once say My.

Nor can you pray the Lord's Prayer andnot pray for one another,

To ask God for “our” daily bread, youmust include your brother.

For others are included ... in each andevery plea,

From the beginning to the end of it, itdoes not once say Me.

7

When Ralph Waldo Emersonreflected on true success, hedidn’t mention fame, fortune orsocial status. Ponder his thoughts— and your own definition ofsuccess:

“To laugh often and much; to win the respect ofintelligent people and the affection of children; to earnthe appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayalof false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best inothers; to leave the world a bit better whether by ahealthy child, a redeemed social condition or a job welldone; to know even one other life has breathed becauseyou lived — this is to have succeeded.”

The True Definitionof Success

It’s human nature to look for shortcuts. Wewant the quickest, surest route to ourdestination. Delays, detours and dead endsare frustrating and discouraging.

Consider this: “When Pharaoh let thepeople go, God did not lead them by way ofthe land of the Philistines, although thatwas nearer...God led the people by theroundabout way of the wilderness towardthe Red Sea” (Exodus 13:17-18, NRSV).

The Red Sea looked like a fatal wrong turn,but God was protecting the Israelites. Hehad a plan in place to lead them to thePromised Land.

When God seems to prefer delays anddetours in your life, keep in mind that thelong way just might be better.

You cannot pray the Lord's Prayer andeven once say I.

You cannot pray the Lord's Prayer andeven once say My.

Nor can you pray the Lord's Prayer andnot pray for one another,

To ask God for “our” daily bread, youmust include your brother.

For others are included ... in each andevery plea,

From the beginning to the end of it, itdoes not once say Me.

7

When Ralph Waldo Emersonreflected on true success, hedidn’t mention fame, fortune orsocial status. Ponder his thoughts— and your own definition ofsuccess:

“To laugh often and much; to win the respect ofintelligent people and the affection of children; to earnthe appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayalof false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best inothers; to leave the world a bit better whether by ahealthy child, a redeemed social condition or a job welldone; to know even one other life has breathed becauseyou lived — this is to have succeeded.”

The True Definitionof Success

It’s human nature to look for shortcuts. Wewant the quickest, surest route to ourdestination. Delays, detours and dead endsare frustrating and discouraging.

Consider this: “When Pharaoh let thepeople go, God did not lead them by way ofthe land of the Philistines, although thatwas nearer...God led the people by theroundabout way of the wilderness towardthe Red Sea” (Exodus 13:17-18, NRSV).

The Red Sea looked like a fatal wrong turn,but God was protecting the Israelites. Hehad a plan in place to lead them to thePromised Land.

When God seems to prefer delays anddetours in your life, keep in mind that thelong way just might be better.

You cannot pray the Lord's Prayer andeven once say I.

You cannot pray the Lord's Prayer andeven once say My.

Nor can you pray the Lord's Prayer andnot pray for one another,

To ask God for “our” daily bread, youmust include your brother.

For others are included ... in each andevery plea,

From the beginning to the end of it, itdoes not once say Me.

FOR OUR NEIGHBORS NEARAND FAR

Star Bethel Missionary Baptist Church5800 San Pablo AvenueOakland, CA 94608

SUNDAY

9:00 a.m.Church School

11:00 a.m.Morning Worship

CD’s & DVD’s of Sunday WorshipServices available.

TUESDAY6:00 p.m.

General Mission Meeting(1st Tuesday of the month)

WEDNESDAY11:00 a.m.

Daytime Prayer Service

7:00 p.m.Prayer & Bible Study

THURSDAY6:30 p.m.

Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal

SATURDAY11:00 a.m.

Men’s Ministry

10:00 a.m.Youth Choir Rehearsal

(Saturday before the 1st and 2ndSunday)

10:00 a.m.Ushers & Youth Meetings/Bible

Class(Saturday before the 4th Sunday)

10:00 a.mDeborah Circle #2

(2nd Saturday)

10:00 a.mRuth Circle

(3rd Saturday)