10/4/2008
For the first time in the 15 year history of the SDA Christian Fellowship, members and guests alike took to the road to celebrate the anniversary in a very literally “moving” way. In Friday, September 26, 2008 a group of 54 left North Hollywood on a chartered tourist bus and headed for a 3 day-2 night trip to Northern California. The trip only stopped for lunch en route then proceeded to Jelly Belly for kids and parents alike to tour the world famous candy factory in Fairfield, CA. From there the group drove west to spend a night in Vallejo, California and to welcome the Sabbath with a vespers program. They were joined later in the night by 15 other members who traveled by private transportation. Some arrived as late as just after midnight.
By daylight it was time to hit the road again. For that Saturday drive, the bus was mystically transformed into a church on wheels. En route to Pacific Union College, the eager travelers conducted a one of a kind program – the “Sabbus” School. With a moving scenery of beautiful Napa vineyards in the background, elders Nager, Julit, and Paul expounded eternal lessons from God’s word. No travel is complete though without some little misadventures. Touched by the messages presented during the trip, Alex, the bus driver took a wrong turn which made for a much longer ride. What seems to be a misadventure though turned out to be a purposeful experience. Alex recalled his past connections with Adventists and has expressed enthusiasm in getting to know more about our faith. In retrospect, the incident became a wrong turn in the right direction. Truly with God there are no mistakes.
The Fellowship arrived at PUC by 11:00 in the morning making it in time to attend the late morning services. The group had a healthy lunch together at the college cafeteria and by 2:00 it was time to proceed to Elmshaven.
The Fellowship made it in time for the residence’s actual opening – a remarkable accomplishment for itinerants who have to travel from hundreds of miles down south. As is always the case in that poignant setting of Ellen White’s former home, every heart was touched and every mind spiritually refreshed as docents walked the group through every room of the prophet’s home. It was the travel’s most emotional highlight. It was hard keeping back the tears from flowing upon entering Mrs. White’s bedroom where angels once appeared in glory and sang their heavenly chorus. It didn’t matter if one were a returnee or a new comer to Elmshaven, God spoke anew a clear message of comfort, guidance, admonition, and promises to all who lend their sincere and humble attention. What a message for a group who’s celebrating 15 years of service and ministry.
After the emotional and spiritually refreshing stop at Elmshaven the group then headed a few more miles north to witness the water spewing antic of Old Faithful Geyser in Calistoga. The show mesmerized everyone who witnessed 2 on the dot pure nature spectacle courtesy of God’s creative powers. Yet even in the unassuming, little rustic corner of Calistoga there were plenty of lessons about God’s power and majesty to be learned. Sun down worship was conducted at the bus as the group traveled for their next stop – San Francisco!
Culminating the day’s travel was a family time at Pier 39. The group was fortunate to travel along route 101 so that entering San Francisco allows the crossing of the Golden Gate bridge under its night lights and through thick fog. The stop allowed opportunity for each family to take a stroll along Beach Street to witness the lights and sound of Fisherman’s Wharf and dine at some great restaurants. The group returned to Vallejo for another night’s repose.
Sunday, the group departs for the final leg of the trip having devotional along the way. It was time to go back to San Francisco for an opportunity to see the world famous bridge in daylight. Admittedly though most of the fun was found not from viewing and learning about the engineering marvel that stood behind but from the continued fellowshipping and socializing of the group. While dense fog blocked part of the bridge’s glory it was enunciating that of the group’s.
By 12 noon, the group found themselves in the middle of China Town as if the bus traveled through time and space and magically transported them to Shanghai. They dined in one of the many Chinese restaurants in the area. Misua, anyone?
It was then time to head home. Not wanting the weekend long celebration to come to an end everybody lazily boarded back to the bus. Hungry for more entertainment the group (especially the men) took time to have a “gay” time witnessing SF’s dark side while the bus navigates a seemingly long exit out. From there it was all snooze and snores as Alex drove the tired and drained travelers home to L.A. One can only sigh, “I wish our trip would never end.”
It won’t!
Not until you and me are with God in that most wonderful destination He’s planned for all of us. While some of our members have missed the fun of last week’s travel, God promises that none will in this greater journey through life into everlasting…
Hollywood Bowl 87th Anniversary Easter Service
03/24/2008
The 87th Anniversary of the Hollywood Bowl Easter was held today, March 24, 2008, in the Hollywood Bowl and began very early in the morning.
The sunrise service has now become an anticipated Easter tradition among participating religious organizations in the Los Angeles area. It features a multi-denominational clergy, a 240 voice adult choir, 250 children in the Living Cross and Children’s Choirs in nature’s cathedral, decorated with thousands of Easter Lilies and ending with the mass release of the White Birds of Peace.
The eChords was one of the special participants in the program. This is the third year in a row now that they’ve been requested to be part of LA's Easter tradition.
Association Meeting
02/23/2008
The California Association of Fil-Am Seventh-day Adventist Churches held last Saturday was a huge success. Constituents of three participating churches gathered together for a joint Sabbath service, for worship, fellowship, and business meeting.
The Sabbath School featured a lively panel discussion headed by Pastors Rudy Alabat, Em Jim McClintock of the “Ministry of the Cross” continued the convocation with his music and preaching ministry. A business meeting was convened at 2:00 PM where constituents ratified the Constitution and elected officers to lead the Association. The following are the Association’s first set of officers: Elmer Ferraren, president; Levi Sisona, secretary; and Eunice Sabate, treasurer.
The meeting was followed by “Afternoon Praise,” a musical presentation which featured the one-of-a-kind talents of different individuals and their unique abilities to play music instruments. Among the performers were Armi Dacalos who playes the marimba, the Ursales children played the violin, and Don Derequito who skillfully playes his saxophone.
The Association Meeting was attended by young and old alike and it gave former friends the opportunity to fellowship in a spiritually inspiring and socially invigorating way. It will now become a quarterly event for the Association. The next meeting venue will be in Eagle Rock and will be held in May 24.
Click HERE to view photos.
Pastor Honesto Talento Farewell Program
12/30/2007
In a special afternoon program jointly hosted by the Christian Fellowship and the Los Angeles SDA Church, leaders and members alike convey their emotional farewell to Pastor Honesto Talento. The program was a way for members to express their gratefulness to Pastor Talento who for almost 30 years dedicated himself untiringly to the work of ministry.
It was a very emotional day for many, especially to those whose life has been touched and transformed by Pastor Talento’s passion for God’s work and compassion for people. “We will terribly miss you,” was the tearful remark by one of those who gave their parting words.
Pastor Talento has officially retired beginning 2008. His post as senior pastor of Hollydale Community is filled by Pastor Sam Gaurino. He will take up a year of ministry at his brother’s church in Canada after a two month vacation in the Philippines. We wish him all the best in his retirement.
Click HERE to view photos.
Winter Spiritual Retreat Inspires Huge Turnout
12/29/2007
Last weekend’s Winter Retreat, the first ever to be held jointly by three Fil-Am churches was a huge success. It was attended by members of the North Hollywood, Eagle Rock, and Altadena groups.
The retreat started Friday, December 21, but the bulk of the attendees came early Saturday morning to escape Friday’s travel rush. Everyone was treated to a variation of inspiring programs and uplifting activities. There were the usual devotional but the entire retreat program also included a colorful Christmas pageant, a lecture and even an outdoor activity in the snow. Saturday evening’s social was the zaniest of them all.
Everyone had a chance to participate in the many line-up of wacky presentations. One attendee remarked, “...it was 100% pure fun, our raucous was heard all the way to L.A.”
By Sunday, though obviously exhausted, attendees weren’t ready to call it “quits.” In fact some wished the retreat would go on a day more. Some parents took their kids to slide and play at the snow while several young people headed to Mountain High to try their skills in snowboarding.
All in all, it was a great retreat and everyone enjoyed it in at least more than one way. It was a welcome time out from the usual activities yet it was spiritually uplifting and emotionally refreshing. The retreat also gave members of the three participating groups an opportunity to bond in a united fellowship, edifying the body of Christ, the church. Because of its huge success, everyone’s already looking forward to next year’s. Thank you everyone for your support and cooperation!
Click HERE to view event photos
14th Anniversary Recap
09/29/2007
The Fellowship in the Valley unceasingly sang its way to Heaven as they celebrate 14 years of existence serving the Lord! The celebration offered special thanksgiving to the Lord through the ministry of music.
The day-long service opened with Sabbath School with SS Council members as its participants early in the morning. A beautiful duet was given by Charolyn Bonagua and Dexter Sarmiento aptly performing “Because He Lives”, an epitome of the church’s mission and existence, singing, “and the willing voice of gratitude proclaim because My Savior lives!” The Lesson Study was instantaneously carried out by Pastor Rudy Alabat, leader of the Los Angeles Adventist Fellowship.
Sabbath School was followed by the Praise Worship Hour organized by the Music Department with the leadership of Elder Nager Ornopia. The program consisted of singing groups such as LUO, Golden Girls, eChords and the youth groups of the Fellowship. The theme of the event, “Singing Our Way to Heaven,” was definitely in effect as the performers sang in gratitude the Lord’s providence to the members of the congregation. Elder Paul Penaranda structured special video projections which showed the history of the groups and the important role music has played in their ministry.
The afternoon Music Fest kicked off with special performances by Lorelei Cinco, D’ Followers and LBDJ. The Fellowship was privileged by the presence of long-time friends, music director Fred Settle, composer Raul Ferrando (in the morning service) and recording artist Ullanda Innocent-Palmer, who also performed with the eChords and the GLAR Choir, the splendor and essence of the Coming of Jesus Christ - “In Majesty”. The program culminated with a duet by Aeisha Faith Canete and Joshua Penaranda who both wowed and inspired the audience by their rendition of “Amazing Grace.”
It is truly by amazing grace that God has allowed us to fellowship with Him in all 14 years. Let us all look forward to that day when our Savior comes again and together with the angels, ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousand of thousands, we will sing our way to Heaven!
“The redeemed raise a song of praise that echoes and re-echoes through the vaults of heaven: "Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb." And angel and seraph unite their voices in adoration… In all that shining throng there are none to ascribe salvation to themselves, as if they had prevailed by their own power and goodness. Nothing is said of what they have done or suffered; but the burden of every song, the keynote of every anthem, is: Salvation to our God and unto the Lamb.” ~ The Great Controversy, pp 678.
Click HERE for event photos
by: Bellie Jo Sarmiento
Church Clerk
Count Your Blessings...!
09/08/2007
September 8, 2007 served to be a very significant day for the Soriano’s, Loja’s, and Alvin and company—a day truly embossed by the Lord to the families and the church as a whole.
Early in the day, the congregation shared in the joy of Roger and Liezel Soriano as their two girls, Shaelyn and Lavryl were dedicated to the Lord. It was a truly special day as loving friends and family surrounded and filled the church. So special that three special songs were sang during the morning worship service by our very own Dexter Sarmiento and Marjorie Pechon and an appearance by Lorelei Cinco.
The afternoon continued on to the abode of the Soriano’s and the Loja’s for a house blessing. Members of the church stayed for the feast served by the generous family. Sister Araceli Loja offered her house for mid-week prayer meetings or any future church activities.
After the House Blessing, the remaining members of the church progressed to the newly-acquired townhouse of Alvin and company. Sundown worship was observed and thanksgiving dinner was served.
Our sisters and brothers in Christ serve as living testimonies of the love and grace of our Father in Heaven. Their struggles and blessings prove that God is there for our needs, may it be physical, spiritual or emotional. May we all continue to count the blessings He gave us and continue to thank Him sincerely all the days of our lives.
Malibu Camping: Another Big Success!
In many ways, this year’s church camping was a huge success! By sunset Friday, 48 campers have already registered and about 30 more arrived on Saturday to take part in the remaining activities.
Saturday, though a “day of rest,” admittedly was the busiest day of all. After a long, quiet and peaceful night, campers woke up to a rather cold and foggy summer morning. By the time the sun beamed down its Sabbath radiance breakfast was already served and consumed. Everyone was ready for the day’s event.
Sabbath School started just before the clock struck 10 o'clock and proceeded with a very lively discussion of the lesson quarterly by Pastor Sam. After a short break, the morning service continued with part 3 of Nager’s “Congregation of Champions” seminar series. Engaged in vivacious group dynamics, the congregation showed no sighs of slowing down. No sooner than the service ended was potluck rapidly prepared and served. The combination of a highly spirited service, informal attire, and outdoor setting all added up to an intense feasting of truly wholesome goodies and delights for lunch from sinugba, to kinilaw,sinabwan to bulad—you name it!
Now, what could be better after a huge meal than a sound, restful nap? Under the shade of towering oaks and sycamores and the winds blowing a comfortable 780 breeze, tell me what human being cannot resist to do “lay activities?”
By 3 P.M., campers were putting on their hiking shoes and got ready to explore the scenic beauty of Malibu Creek. Paul led the company of eager hikers to a 3-mile adventure walk through dirt trails, grasslands, and dry creek beds. The destination? A natural pool of spring water, hidden amidst tall and imposing Sepulveda adobe and limestone rocks—a worthy trophy for those who made it. Remarked one hiker, “kung dili lang Sabado, nag palutaw-lutaw na unta ko!”
When hikers returned to the camp site from their adventure, it was time for sundown worship. Nager ended the Sabbath with part 4 of his seminar. Though obviously exhausted from the day’s activities, everyone still agrees that the best way to unwind is in finding time to reflect upon God’s goodness and grace throughout the day.
Then came Saturday night, which was barbeque and social night. Campers extended their fun through the evening hours with more great grilled goodies and the young people having an awesome time with each other with different games. Others had fun around unexpected guest Esteban Escudero. Others slipped in to their sleeping bags early to recharge their batteries.
One more devotional was held Sunday morning, before breakfast. Ray Cinco (through Elmer Ferraren’s ambush tactics) delivered a lively message full of hilarious short stories. Byrna, meanwhile, played lively music and proved that even a Sabbath School superintendent can dance. It was a great way to start an otherwise lazy Sunday. Afterwards, campers hesitantly ate their breakfast, knowing camp break is only few hours away.
But just before camp broke, the young people endeavored to squeeze a few more fun out of the remaining hours by scaling the rocky peaks adjacent the camp grounds. The summit offered a great picturesque view of the canyon behind—a nice place to take souvenir photos.
It’s difficult to chronicle all the significant and meaningful experiences that transpired in the past weekend and write it all out in a very limited space when we all see things from quiet different perspectives. We’d love to hear your story. Take time to express your feelings in words and send it to us at sdafellowship@msn.com.
I thank God for the joy of shared relationships and experiences with you all. It has been a great retreat altogether and words cannot express the joy and excitement that I feel in my heart even today. Thank you all and I’m looking forward to another thrilling winter camping 4 months from now.
Click HERE to view camping photos
Let the Little Children Come
On June 23, 2007, the Fellowship successfully held a Child Dedication service for Gianna Rose Salalima and David Ragas.
Numerous relatives and friends came to witness last week’s dedication, which made for a really inspiring day for all. The emotional parents Harvey and Theresa (Gianna’s parents), Fidel and Jocelyn (David’s parents), are overwhelmed at how meaningful the occasion became. They are both glad and thankful to everyone who came to show and to commit their support in helping them raise their kids to God’s glory.
Easter Sunrise Service at the Hollywood Bowl
On January 20, 2007, the Fellowship officially accepted into membership the Batulayan family. The excited church family overwhelmingly voted to accept the transfer of Mr. and Mrs. Julit and Maybelle Batulayan from San Jose Fil-Am Seventh-day Adventist Church. Also included in the said acceptance by the general membership are the transfers of Ronel Batulayan and fiancé, Jesa Mae Ogoc from the Philippines.
Julit and Maybelle have recently moved to Los Angeles from Northern California. They will be permanently dwelling here in L.A. and in fact bought a lovely home in North Hollywood. The two are blessed with wonderful children, Jaime (who just turned 3) and Kiera (10 mos. old). The Batulayans have been frequently attending church here since they arrived in L.A. and the Fellowship is both honored and delighted of their desire to become members.
Ronel (brother of Julit) and Jesa on the other hand are planning of settling down soon. And while they are also contemplating of becoming permanent Angelinos, they too have expressed their wanting to make the Fellowship their home church. Indeed, that is now the case.
To Julit, Maybelle, Jaime, Keira, Ronel, and Jesa: we wholeheartedly welcome you to the Christian Fellowship. The entire church family looks forward to a wholesome fellowshipping, worshipping, and doing ministry with you in the days ahead. God bless you!
(Maybelle and Julit, second and third from left; Ronel and Jesa, first and
second from right.)
Last week, the EVA Alumni Association, U.S.A., hosted a fun and exciting gathering of former school mates and class mates. The reunion, hosted by the Class of 1977, gave old friends a chance to met again, reconnect, and exchange stories about life as an EVA alumni.
The association sponsored the worship services in the morning and activities continued well into the afternoon hours as more former graduates and their family arrived. The morning worship was highlighted by the songs of the Advent Voices, a music ministry of composed of singers from General Santos City. Pastor Sam Gaurino was present to give the day’s homily. Though several members were not fortunate enough to be able to attend, there were enough attendees to make the program a success. The EVA alumni and the Fellowship have had several collaborative activities in the past, mostly hosting special alumni meetings. It’s always been both an inspiration and an honor to work with such an active organization of passionate Adventists.
In behalf of the Fellowship, we wish you, the alumni association, a fruitful and meaningful year. May God grant you His blessings and guidance so that you may successfully reach your goals in continuing to give essential support and aid to your Alma Mater and strengthen those who’ve left her portals. More power to you!
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Winter Excursion Deemed a Success!
Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall...! After a successful winter retreat at snowy Wrightwood, CA, it is clear now that to most of the Fellowship members, neither snow nor sun, coldness nor heat is a deterrent to a meaningful, joyous, fun-filled and spiritually uplifting excursion.
The idea of having a winter retreat was actually conceived only a week after the Fellowship held a successful camping in Lake Isabella this past summer. As if hungry for more time out together in nature, immediate actions were taken to secure a reservation in Mount Kare.
The excursion began Friday afternoon with a handful of families arriving to a welcome coldness and fresh snow. More campers came Saturday morning and most of them arrived to be treated to a warm and sumptuous breakfast prepared by those who arrived the night before.
More treats came in the form of special skits, musical presentation, and Bible activities which made the Sabbath a truly wholesome experience. In keeping with spirit of Christmas, organizers of the retreat made the precious truth of Christ’s incarnation the theme of the entire weekend. The Sabbath ended with the evening socials which included carol singing, exchange gift, games, and more refreshments.
Mount Kare in Wrightwood seemed to be the proper place to hold such an activity. The facility is equipped with modern conveniences appropriate to its natural setting to make anyone’s excursion in the snow mountains of San Bernardino not only comfortable but safe and convenient. Included in the rental agreement is the use of 3 centrally heated cabins, a huge meeting and dining hall, and a fully-equipped and sanitized kitchen. In the basement is a huge game room furnished with pool tables and table tennis to name a few. But the most important feature of all is Mount Kare’s 16 acres of snowy hillsides, perfect for picture taking, sledding, snowboarding, or the usual snowman making and snow angels. The natural winter setting is also perfect for drawing close to God, friends and families, which was the ultimate goal of the retreat. Based on the enthusiastic responses I gathered, I can say no one was disappointed, in fact, plans are under way for a similar activity next year.
I want to thank everyone who came as well as those who weren’t able to. Our excursion was made a success not because of what happened while we were there but because of what we intentionally cause to happen in our sweet and godly fellowship throughout the months past. Thank you church for wholesome retreat and an amazing year 2006!
We wish you all a Happy New Year, everyone!
Click HERE to view photos
New Leaders Inducted
In December 2, 2006, the newly elected officers of the Fellowship were inducted into their respective ministry responsibilities. The induction Service was held during the morning worship with Pastor Sam Gaurino giving the charge to the new leaders.
The induction is as meaningful and significant as the election itself because it gives the leaders a privilege to personally accept their divine appointment and willingly submit themselves to the work of ministry before the on-looking congregation. The congregation themselves participated in the induction when the Induction Litany was read responsively.
We want to thank every member for your part in making a memorable and meaningful beginning to a new and promising fiscal year 2007. May God never cease to provide us with wisdom and His guidance!
A total of 38 composes the new leadership structure from a general membership of 82.
Southern California Conference exec meets local leaders
Southern California Conference Executive Secretary, Elder Velino Salazar, met with the Church Board last Saturday to report on the progress of the church’s application for company status. The visit is part of an on going assessment in order to determine whether or not the church is eligible to be granted a company status.
The Secretary is very pleased with his visit saying he finds worshipping and fellowshipping with our congregation very inspiring and meaningful. He encourages that whether or not the Conference grants the church an official company status, the church should continue to move forward with its mission in bringing people to Jesus, leading members to live spiritually mature Christian lives and become a constant beacon of hope and healing to the surrounding communities—a sacred charge that our leaders submit themselves to do and fulfill with God’s help.
We invite you to pray with us for God’s guidance and direction in this process.
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Showers of Blessings
by Bellie Jo Sarmeinto (10/04/06) The SDA Fellowship in the Valley has been showered by countless blessings this year. I know everyone will agree with me that last weekend was one of the highlights of our church's growing history.
September 30, Sabbath, started with the Child Dedication service conducted by Pastor Honesto Talento. Keira, Hart and Jared shared the pulpit with their respective parents who proudly recognized the responsibility to commit themselves to raise their child to love Jesus. The three infants are the newest members of the Cradle Roll Class under Mrs. Joy Batiller and the latest addition to our church family. That afternoon, the church continued on with the community service Bro. Paul Penaranda organized with the senior residents in Los Angeles. The program consisted of a number of songs from the eChords, the male quartet, the Golden Girls and an instrumental from our very own Sajed Gaurino. The senior community celebrated International Day and the church as a whole served as special guest.
Approaching sunset, the congregation gathered around the Ornopia family pool to witness the solemn baptism of Gervea, Rosanne, Regan and Andy. The four publicly declared their acceptance of Christ as their personal savior as church members surrounded them with love, support and hymns. Continue to pray for them as they continue to learn more about God's love through the Holy Bible. October 1, Sunday afternoon, the church once again reunited, this time at the new residence of our dear Pastor Sam Gaurino and his family in Loma Linda. Several members and neighbors took part in the house blessing the Pastor called " not ours but everybody’s". As Pastor Sam related in a story how the house was acquired, it was evident that it was by God's grace that they received the lovely three-bedroom house. With the shortage of time and finances, Pastor Gaurino lovingly admitted that it was the church that helped the family through the whole process, and that they are truly thankful. Thank you also Pastor for shepherding this young yet growing church. Whatever the Lord has planned for you in the future, the members of this church will embrace you back anytime with open arms. (if we let you go, that is)
Churches and the names that come with it rise and fall. But a church that is built on God's foundation will never wither. Members and leaders come and go, but a heart that always trusts in the Lord will always have that burning desire to move on and believe that God is using him to perfect His plan. Our church is a growing church. Each member has a task to perform. Each member should have that desire to forgive, love and accept one another, invite more souls to accept Christ in their lives and take wherever road the Lord leads you on. It is then that showers of blessings will pour endlessly.
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A Sabbath with Jim McClintock
Jim McClintock, former King’s Herald Quartet bass singer, was guest speaker last Sabbath, September 16, 2006 at the North Hollywood Christian Fellowship. Jim came with his wife Ann and presented a very inspiring musical presentation during the morning service. Interspersed between his songs are uplifting messages reminding listeners about the need of a constant and continuing relationship with Jesus Christ. Jim seems to have not only the talent of singing; he is an equally gifted preacher.
Jim started singing at the age of six. In 1962, he joined the King’s Herald quartet and produced over 25 different Gospel music albums. Jim is the founder of Ministry of the Cross, a personal music and preaching ministry that involves concerts, revivals, and television and radio appearances throughout the United States, Canada, and Latin America.
Jim’s wife, Ann, is a nurse and is Associate Executive Director of Ministry of the Cross. She is active in the Ministry as a contralto singer, and is featured in solos and duets on several different albums.
Last Sabbath’s program was truly unique and we hope to have more of it in the future. We praise God for disciples like Jim and Ann. The message they bring is powerful: for Christians to make the most of their existence in this world, they ought to demonstrate a singing faith in God.
Click HERE to view more photos. |
The Music Ministry of the Minstrels
The Palawan State University Minstrels reunited for the second time this year to heed a calling they could not refuse- minister the Word of God through music in Vallejo Central Adventist Church on August 26, 2006. The choir, conducted by Dr. Sally Lo Saberola, put together a program composed of solos, duets, Bible readings, testimonials and choruses for the Hour of Worship. The performance was made possible through an invitation from Dr. Mel Quiba, a church elder of Vallejo and one of the many generous sponsors the group had when they first toured the US. The group also was requested to sing in the Southwestern Adventist University located in the small, rural town of Keene, Texas.Joining them for the first time after 5 years was Racqueline from Michigan, while Mr. Ding Ricon could not make it because of their new-born baby.
On July 8, the Minstrels also took part iner the AUP-AWESNA Convocation (Alumni Western North America) held in American Canyon, Vallejo. It was at this event that the members of the PSU Minstrels received an invitation for Vallejo Central and Las Vegas, the latter pending for November.
The PSU Minstrels, like the eChords, is one of our church’s instruments in administering the Great Commission asked of us by Jesus Christ himself. Let us continue to support and pray for them, their ministry, and spiritual endeavors.
Camping at Lake Isabella (by: Bellie Jo Sarmiento)
This is my Father’s Word
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Father's Day Highlights
Last Saturday the Fellowship hosted another inspiring program to honor and pay tribute to fathers. The celebration began with a Sabbath School special feature by Jedidiah Gaurino entitled “Father’s Day Picnic. Highlighting the event was Elder Ornopia’s humorous but holistic homily on fathers mixed with special musical intermission by the LOU. It was a day full of inspiration and adoration, to say the least, and every father deserves it.
Click HERE to view more photos.
Philippine Independence Commemorated
Diversity was also displayed during the potluck with the wide variety of native Filipino dishes and delicacies each family brought with them.
The day was further graced by various groups rendering inspirational Visayan songs and the youth leading a Tagalog praise worship. The highlight of the morning’s worship, of course was the message given by guest speaker Pastor Paul Gunida in a combination of English, Visayan, and Tagalog languages. Many in the Fellowship expressed how inspired they were to worship and wished there’d be more occasions like it in the future. For now though, based on the program’s success, it’s guaranteed that the event will be repeated in June 2007.
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CF welcomes new "baby" member to the family
Jared was born 3:33 a.m. at the new White Memorial Medical Center birthing center, weighing 8 lbs. 1oz., and with a length of 20.5 in.
The providences of God behind the birth of Jared is the result of the many prayers and petitions offered in his behalf and proud father, Paul Penaranda, conveys both appreciation and gratefulness to everyone who’s become a part of this momentous event.
Jared’s birth is the second of the two anticipated in the past couple of months (Hart Cabog being the first), and the Fellowship is truly blessed to welcome both into the church family and into the world. As a community of faith, it is our privilege to share in the joy of our growing families.
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Mother's Day Highlights
The Seventh-day Adventist Christian Fellowship presented a special Mother's Day program to honor all CF mothers on May 13, 2006. Highlights of the event included a tribute to mothers by CF children during the Sabbath School and the worship homily expounded on the selfless ministry of mothers. A program in the afternoon featured a praise worship and more testimonials. All CF mothers received presents and flowers prepared by the Women's Ministry and the Sabbath School department. The Personal Ministry, for its part, presented a surprise music video during the midday service which brought many mothers to tears. This is just one of the many ways the CF family expresses their gratitude and appreciation for every bit of love and sacrifice every mother has for her loved ones. To all mothers, MORE POWER!
Click HERE and select Mother's Day 2006 from the Media Library to view the music video prepared by the Personal Ministry department. Note that Windows Media Player is required. Enjoy and don't forget to turn up the volume!
Memorial Service held for Jasmine Labajo
The Seventh-day Adventist Christian Fellowship held a memorial service on May 6, 2006 for Jasmine Labajo. Jasmine, mother of Erlyn Marroquin (CF Spanish ministry assistant coordinator) peacefully passed away on April 26, 2006 at her home in Lake Elsinore. Friends and relatives who spoke in the service recall of fond memories with Jasmine who is considered to be a very warm-hearted and friendly Christian. Her body was cremated on Teusday, May 2, 2006 at Temecula. Jasmine was 86 years old.
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32nd Annual Greater Los Angeles Region Convocation
On April 29, the eChords participated in the 32nd Annual Greater