Monthly support group forum for sharing stories of caregiving and learning techniques from Silverado (provider of dementia hospice care) and others who have experience. For more info, visit the website or contact Katie, kballou@marinerschurch.org

Dementia Caregivers Support
Mon, Aug 3, 10a-12:30p Life Development Bld r204

Come check out your local farmers’ market hosted here at Mariners Church every Saturday! For questions regarding the farmers’ market, call (714) 573-0374 or visit orange.cfbf.com. For volunteer opportunities, email Kacy, kacyku@marinerschurch.org

Saturdays 8a-12p, lower parking lot off Bonita Canyon

I can hardly believe summer is about to hit the halfway mark, and what a summer it has been so far! As I reflect on this past month, our family has already packed in so many memories including beach trips, pool time, a family trip to the desert (one word: HOT), an Angels game, BBQs, summer nights and rain (what?!). It has been a joy to see summer through the eyes of my kids, who see adventure in everything from water balloons, or trips to the fair, to having a lemonade stand outside of our house. I am sure so many of you have had a full summer so far, as this time of year always brings new adventures and fun memories. As I look back on the past few months, and even look forward to what is to come, I am reminded and grateful for God’s presence in each step. For the community He has surrounded my family with, the things He teaches me through parenting and relationships, and for how He is leading me in my marriage, life and ministry. I am thankful for a God who guides our steps and cares about the big and little things in our lives. So I encourage each of us, as we find ourselves on a summer adventure, or just enjoying a warm evening outside; may we be grateful and reminded of His presence, His guidance and that He watches over us each step of the way.

This weekend, we will continue in our series, Oh! The Places We’ll Go, as we find our way forward and discover the pathway for our life. I know God will continue to speak powerfully this weekend through Kenton and the weekend worship experience. You won’t want to miss Saturday night, as we play Beach Blanket Bingo after service. Come play games. win prizes, enjoy food from The Burnt Truck, The California Grill Truck, Burgers and pizza. And what summer night would be complete without some refreshing dessert from Scooters Italian Ice! I look forward to seeing you (and your kids!) this weekend.

Jen Epperson
Children’s Pastor

You’ve heard the buzz about Summer Saturday Nights. Find out what you’re missing!

There are over 40 students waiting to be sponsored through our Mexico Child Sponsorship Program and it’s only $25/month. Please stop by the patio table after services if you would like to become a sponsor, or contact Susan, susanmexicoministry@cox.net

We are taking a team to Kenya in November 2015 to serve alongside our partner, Mavuno Church. This is an incredible opportunity to experience God’s global church and to serve with our family in Kenya. We’ll be focusing on our cancer support ministry and film ministry under Mavuno. If you’re interested, please join us for a brief meeting to learn more and how to apply. Questions? Contact Pamela at pphilp@marinerschurch.org.

Sunday, July 26, 12:30p, Life Development Bld r209

Outreach Ministries is looking for volunteers to serve on their weekend special events and drives team! We have upcoming opportunities to help with our Back-To-School supply drive beginning August 1st, benefiting after school programs and ministries around Orange County. We are looking for volunteers to help receive and sort donations on the weekends. To sign up, please email Steve at outreach@marinerschurch.org

Join Truthworks this summer for You Asked for It Part 2. Teacher Ron Keller will be answering various questions regarding current world events and other Biblical topics. For more info, click here.

Sundays, August 2 – September 27, 11a-12p, Upper Room

Our family has been enjoying some time away this week at the Oregon Coast. This year we made it a priority to gather all of our families to celebrate my dad’s 70th birthday. I have three older brothers, and with all of our kids together, there are 22 people that have stayed in one beach house. Although at times we argue, and it can seem chaotic, it has been interesting to see how unique and valuable each member is to this family.

It reminds me of our church and how the family of God is meant to be. The Apostle Paul describes the church “body” twice in the New Testament, both in 1 Corinthians and also in Romans 12. Romans 12:4-8 most famously puts it this way:

For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.

Mariners Church is a large church with increasing vision to change the world for Jesus Christ. If we truly want to see this vision realized, it will take all of us operating in the unique gifts God has given us. At times you may feel like your life is chaotic, but remember that you are important and have something valuable to offer those around you. Whether it’s leading, serving, teaching, encouraging, showing mercy, being generous… find your place in our church family and let’s see what God will do! I’m excited to be back this weekend and use the gift God has given me to lead our church in worship. What gift are you bringing this weekend?

Never settle,

Caleb Clements / worship pastor