Pastor John Bristol
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What an event filled year 2008 has been for Christ Community Church! Just consider:-Groundbreaking for our new facility. -Largest turnout EVER for CCCM’s Community Easter Egg Hunt -“A Beautiful Day” service project that brought what the Milpitas Post described as “massive beautification” to Thomas Russell Middle School -More than 500 people attended our National Day of Prayer Celebration at the Milpitas Sports Center -Hundreds of people visited CCCM’s booth at the Berryessa Art and Wine Festival and also heard our musicians perform. Events such as these build important bridges to our community and give us opportunities to serve and share in the name of Christ. A big THANK YOU to all who served in these outreach ministries. The Lord’s gracious Spirit continues to bless CCCM with a servant’s heart and helping hands that minister to many. The vitality of our church reflects a joyful discipleship of Christ followers who know it’s not about us – it’s all about Him. Knowing Him, loving Him, serving Him, putting Him first, we are moving forward into God’s good future, filled with exciting possibilities to share His truth and love. Summer brings us visits from CCCM missionaries – the Lutzes and Broyles will be here to report on their ministries. Our summer ministries, designed to grow young people spiritually, call us as adults to volunteer to shape and serve the younger generation in our Sports Camp, Vacation Bible School and Day Camp. A summer celebration of the halfway point in our Future with Purpose campaign awaits us as we continue progress in the construction of our new building. Vital to all we do is our ministry of prayer. Jesus said, “Apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5) Paul wrote, “I can do all thing through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13) As we pray we open ourselves to God and heaven’s grace descends and flows through us. Summer is a time when our giving is especially important. When I am away I always try to make my weekly gift in advance for the Sundays I will miss or else give a catch-up gift the Sunday I return. I don’t want to fall behind in my giving when my church’s ministries need my continuing support. It is a joy to give to the Giver of all things. “But remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you the ability to produce wealth.” (Deuteronomy 8:18) I’m looking forward to a great summer! In Christ, Pastor John |