Chinese Community Church

Announcements for June 29, 2008

victoria — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 17:44:57 +0000

WELCOME TO THE PULPIT Mr. Luther Schrum, a recent graduate of Columbia Biblical Seminary in Columbia, SC. Luther has served as Youth Leader and on the Leadership Team of Chinese Christian Church of Columbia, SC and in missions in Niger, West Africa. We are pleased to have Luther and his fiancée, Jessica Lee, join us this morning.

SYMPATHY is expressed to the family of Mae Yaplee. Mae was called home to the Lord on June 20, 2008. May our prayers and God’s peace enfold the family and carry them through this difficult time.

NEW ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL TOPIC “Study of David, Man After God’s Own Heart” will be led by Dr. Peter Wong beginning July 6, 2008 at 9:45 am in Room 102. For details contact pwongmd@gastrofbg.com

CHINESE CHRISTIAN BROADCASTING CENTER: Last week we wrote about the work of Chinese Gospel Broadcasting Center in Sichuan, China. If you would like to support their rebuilding efforts in the earthquake area, you may send donations to CGBC at their headquarters, CGBC, Inc., 59-47 Gates Ave. Ridgewood, NY 11385, USA or CGBC, P.O. Box 150009, Kew Gardens, NY 11415, USA, Tel: 1-212-925-6229 . Email: Info-ny@cgbc.org. Web: http://www.cgbc.org/

CHURC PICNIC on Sunday, July 13 at Capital View Homewood Park in Kensington, MD. Worship for all congregations will be at 11 am followed by picnic lunch and fellowship. Bring your friends, but please sign up in the HMH so we can provide enough food.

WALK THRU THE OLD TESTAMENT Plan for a fun-filled and inspiring learning experience at the Simmer Retreat as we learn how the Old Testament is woven together as part of God’s plan for salvation. Reserve August 8-10, 2008 at Messiah College. Registration and brochure is available in the narthex and bulletin board.

EXTERIOR RENOVATION WORK The townhouse work will be completed this coming week and the next two months will be spent on church building restoration.

New Heart Ministries reached their target of raising $500,000 by 6/1. Praise God! They’ll be moving into their new building in August. Don’t forget to register for the Skycroft Conference on 10/3-5 before 8/4 to get the Early Bird special! Please go to the website for more information: http://www.newheartmusic.org/Heartbeat/HB53/retreat2008_Back_v1.PDF

Prayers

Prayer and praise will be our power house: ‘“Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.” We urge all believers to raise up the church in prayers, expecting God to move and act. Jesus says the harvest is already plentiful but we must pray (Mt 9:38).

Pray for brothers and sisters in Christ:

Those in need of healing and others receiving medical treatments. Also remember family members who provide unending care and support.
Lily Fan, a new believer, who will have brain surgery on July 2. May God bless and heal her. Pray that her daughter in mainland China will get a visa as soon as possible
Pastor Charles’ family members who are struggling with different medical conditions. May God give the family strength and grace to encourage each other.

Pray for needs of the church:

That the children’s Summer Program will bear fruit in God’s timing
For strengthening Bible study groups
Pray for the church’s maturity. “Since we were called into fellowship with the Lord Jesus Christ, all of us should agree with one another, so that there may be no divisions among us, and that we may be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” (1 Corinthians 1:9–10)
For wisdom for Search Committee as they evaluate a number of candidates for Associate Pastor and the needs of the church to find the one God has called to be our Associate Pastor
Summer Retreat will provide teaching and encouragement for all
That the exterior work on the church will finish smoothly
That the church picnic will acquaint many in the community with our church and encourage fellowship among the congregation

Pray for individual spiritual growth:

May I follow Abraham’s example of willingness to offer all that I have to You, holding nothing back and trusting in Your character and in Your promises. (Genesis 22:2–12, 16)
In 1 Peter 4:12-16 you say not to be surprised that we are going to be tested through a “fiery ordeal”. God, help me to pass the test you are giving me. Keep my faith strong, and my eyes on you, delighting in you. Don’t let me yield to temptation or be choked out by the riches or worries of this world.

As we celebrate Independence Day this week, let us remember to lift our nation, its leaders, and its people in prayer: … if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14

Announcements for June 22, 2008

victoria — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 17:37:31 +0000

WELCOME!

Mr. Mark Granfors-Hunt, our guest speaker who has served as pastor of Cheverly United Methodist Church and Chinese United Methodist Church in NY . He is a 2005 graduate of Wesley Seminary.

Ms. Dorothy Yanes, our soloist and known to CCC as Tuptim from the Shared Ministry’s production of The King and I. Dottie is Minister of Music and Arts at the 1st United Methodist Church of Jupiter-Tequesta in Jupiter, FL and is visiting DC with her children.

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY is expressed to May Cheung’s family. May’s brother Sui Po Cheung went to be with the Lord on June 11 in Hong Kong and May just left to attend her brother’s funeral. We pray for her safety in travel and that God’s love with enfold the family and give them peace.

CONGRATULATIONS to Carleen Woo and Alexander Lewandowski who were married yesterday. We also congratulate parents of the bride, Mary and Shey Woo. May this new family be bound together with God’s perfect love.

RELIEF DONATIONS Praise the Lord for the love of his people. As of June 15, we have collected almost $30,000 which was sent to Food for the Hungry, an organization which already has teams in place providing for the needs of those distressed by the cyclone in Myanmar and the earthquake in China. We appreciate the generosity of the congregation and community and urge you to keep the victims and relief workers in your prayers!

MAKING SENSE OF CHRISTIAN FAITH The last Sunday School class of Seeking to Understand the Christian Faith will meet next Sunday, 12:30 – 1:30 pm in Room 301. We will discuss how the Bible makes sense philosophically. Contact Garrett or see flyer on the bulletin board.

CHURCH PICNIC on Sunday, July 13 at Capital View Homewood Park in Kensington, MD. Worship for all congregations will be at 11 am followed by picnic lunch and fellowship. Bring your friends, but please sign up in the HMH so we can provide enough food.

EXTERIOR RENOVATION WORK The townhouse work will be completed this coming week and the next two months will be spent on church building restoration.

Prayers

Pray for brothers and sisters in Christ:

Those in need of healing and others receiving medical treatments. Also remember family members who provide unending care and support.
Mae Yaplee after suffering a fall
Lily Fan who is seeking God. A tumor is in her brain. Pray that her daughter in mainland China will get a visa as soon as possible
Pastor Charles’ family members who are struggling with different medical conditions. May God give the family strength and grace to encourage each other.
Faithful, humble and committed Board members seeking out the will of God for our church.

Pray for needs of the church:

That the Summer Program for children will be an avenue of reaching children for Christ
For strengthening Bible study groups
For the missionaries we support. Keep them strong in the Father’s grace. Give them favor in the eyes of those they minister to. Help them be innocent as doves, yet wise as serpents. Take care of their financial needs and their children’s education. Make their ministries extremely fruitful and productive. And most of all, give them a deep abiding joy in you alone that they would constantly be overflowing with rivers of living water so that those around them would look at them and say, “Whatever it is you’ve got, I want it.”
For wisdom for Search Committee as they evaluate a number of candidates for Associate Pastor and the needs of the church to find the one God has called to be our Associate Pastor
Summer Retreat will provide teaching and encouragement for all
That the exterior work on the church will finish smoothly
That the church picnic will acquaint many in the community with our church and encourage fellowship among the congregation

Pray for individual spiritual growth:

For the Holy Spirit to move us to respond in whatever way we can to glorify His kingdom. “And now, O Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to observe the Lord’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?” . Dt 10:12-13
For time to be still and hear God’s voice

Announcements for June 15, 2008

victoria — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 01:55:57 +0000

RELIEF DONATIONS Today we will receive another special offering for relief work in Myanmar and China. Praise the Lord for the love of his people. As of June 1, we have collected $25,863 which was sent to Food for the Hungry, an organization which already has teams in place providing for the needs of those distressed by the cyclone in Myanmar and the earthquake in China. Please encourage friends and family to give as they are able to relieve the suffering in these two countries. Checks should be written to CCC and designated for relief work. Donations not earmarked for a specific country will be divided between relief efforts in China and Myanmar.

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY You are invited to a reception during lunch to honor our graduates and fathers today. We praise God for His love and goodness and for providing our earthly fathers to be examples of courage, faith, and love on earth.

SUNDAY SCHOOL FOR ADULTS A summer class for college students is being held on Sundays at 9:30 am in Room 303. See Michelle Wong or Bert Chee for details. The English Adult Sunday School will resume in July at 9:30 am in Room 102. Contact Peter Wong for details.

ENGLISH ASSOCIATE PASTOR Praise God for continuing to lead a number of pastoral applicants to CCC. Our search effort has resulted in a number of resumes for the English Associate Pastor position. The search committee is continuing the review. While there are no named official candidates at this stage as the application process is still ongoing, and resumes are still coming in, we are inviting a number of applicants to visit our church as guests over the summer months on a rolling basis. Please expect a number of guest speakers at the English service starting next week. Please continue to pray for God’s guidance, wisdom, patience, and obedience.

MAKING SENSE OF CHRISTIAN FAITH We are called to work out our salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12) and to give an answer to why we believe (1 Peter 3:15). The third Sunday School class of Seeking to Understand the Christian Faith will meet today, 12:30 – 1:30 pm in Room 301. We will discuss how the bible relates to science. Does Science support Christianity? Contact Garrett or see flyer on the bulletin board.

EXTERIOR RENOVATION WORK The formstone is off! Worcester Eisenbrandt is working steadily on paint removal, repairing the window frames, and pointing brickwork. Our townhouse windows will be rehung this week. They will continue restoration work for the next few months.

Prayers

Pray for brothers and sisters in Christ:

Those in need of healing and others receiving medical treatments. Also remember family members who provide unending care and support.
Pray for Lily Fan who is seeking God. A tumor is in her brain. Pray that her daughter in mainland China will get a visa as soon as possible
Pastor Charles’ family members who are struggling with different medical conditions. May God give the family strength and grace to encourage each other.
For our graduates – that they have courage to take on new challenges; that opportunities will present themselves where they can use the talents God has given them; that they will be a witness for God wherever they go.

Pray for needs of the church:

That the Summer Program for children will be an avenue of reaching children for Christ
For strengthening Bible study groups
For wisdom for Search Committee as they evaluate candidates for Associate Pastor and the needs of the church to find the one God has called to be our Associate Pastor
That the exterior work on the church will run smoothly
That the church picnic will acquaint many in the community with our church and encourage fellowship among the congregation

Pray for individual spiritual growth:

God, help me overcome my old nature that constantly wants to do the very thing I know is wrong and causes war with my soul. By His son’s death on the cross, Holy Spirit help me confess my sins, known and unknown, and take control of my life. Holy Spirit, search my heart! Thank you for pardoning me. Search me ,O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Ps 139:23-24

Announcements for June 8, 2008

victoria — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 16:43:48 +0000

PRAISE THE LORD for the love of his people. As of June 1, we have collected $25,863 which was sent to Food for the Hungry, an organization which already has teams in place providing for the needs of those distressed by the cyclone in Myanmar and the earthquake in China. There will be another opportunity on June 15 to give towards the relief work. Please encourage friends and family to give as they are able to relieve the suffering in these two countries. Checks should be written to CCC and designated for relief work. Donations not earmarked for a specific country will be divided between relief efforts in China and Myanmar.

GRADUATION SUNDAY will be observed next week, June 15. We will recognize our college and high school graduates during the English worship service. If you know of a graduate and have not yet passed on the name to the office, please do so as soon as possible.

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Mrs. Gum Yok Goon, who had regularly attended CCC at L Street, passed away on May 22, 2008. May God’s peace and comfort be with her son, William Lee, and his family

THURSDAY’S ENGLISH CLASSES finished last week. A new English class is scheduled to begin in September.

ENGLISH ASSOCIATE PASTOR Praise God for continuing to lead a number of pastoral applicants to CCC. Our search effort has resulted in a number of resumes for the English Associate Pastor position. The search committee is continuing the review. While there are no named official candidates at this stage as the application process is still ongoing, and resumes are still coming in, we are inviting a number of applicants to visit our church as guests over the summer months on a rolling basis. Please expect a number of guest speakers at the English service in June/July. Please continue to pray for God’s guidance, wisdom, patience, and obedience.

MAKING SENSE OF CHRISTIAN FAITH We are called to work out our salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12) and to give an answer to why we believe (1 Peter 3:15). The third Sunday School class of Seeking to Understand the Christian Faith will meet next Sunday, 12:30 – 1:30 pm in Room 301. We will discuss how the bible relates to science. Does Science support Christianity? Contact Garrett or see flyer on the bulletin board.

CHURCH PICNIC July 13 – Save the date! We will worship at Capital View Homewood Park in Kensington – at 11 am followed by lunch and recreation.

SUMMER RETREAT We have an exciting Walk thru the Old Testament seminar planned for August 10-12 at Messiah College. Pick up a brochure today.

EXTERIOR RENOVATION WORK The formstone is off! Worcester Eisenbrandt is working steadily on paint removal, repairing the window frames, and pointing brickwork. They will continue their restoration work for the next few months.

Prayers

Pray for brothers and sisters in Christ:

Those in need of healing, and others receiving medical treatments. Please remember especially Rev. and Mrs. Shen as they cope with Rev. Shen’s recovery from surgery.
Pray for Ms. Fan who is seeking God. A tumor is in her brain. Pray that her daughter in mainland China will get a visa as soon as possible
Pastor Charles’ family members who are struggling with different medical conditions. May God give the family strength and grace to encourage each other.
Those graduating and facing life-changing decisions

Pray for needs of the church:

The Summer Program for children will be an avenue of reaching children for Christ
Strengthening Bible study groups
Wisdom for Search Committee as they evaluate candidates for Associate Pastor and the needs of the church to find the one God has called to be our Associate Pastor
The exterior work on the church will run smoothly
The church picnic will acquaint many in the community with our church
Speakers will receive God’s anointing as they prepare their sermons and the worship services

Pray for individual spiritual growth:

That I learn how to be a good steward of what You have given me. Straighten out my thinking that I am giving back some of my salary to You; help me to realize that, in reality, it is all Yours. Not only is all my money Yours, but everything that I have and own. Help me to be a good steward of all that You have given me. Let me lend my things freely to those in need and in light of my finances, help me increase my tithing to you each year until I hit a plateau of some outrageous percentage that pleases You greatly.
That I can be joyful in spite of whatever physical ailments I may be suffering. “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” - 2 Cor 4:16-18

Announcements for June 1, 2008

victoria — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 20:53:16 +0000

PRAY FOR THE PEOPLE IN MYANMAR AND CHINA Today and on June 15, we will receive special offerings for relief work in Myanmar and China where the cyclone and earthquake have left thousands homeless and in need of medical care, shelter and food. Money will be forwarded directly to Food for the Hungry, a relief organization providing direct care from teams already working in those countries. Checks should be written to CCC and designated for relief work. Donations not earmarked for a specific country will be divided between relief efforts in China and Myanmar.

FRIDAY ENGLISH FELLOWSHIP The monthly potluck dinner at Tom and Joanne’s will be on Friday, June 6 at 7:00 pm. Coordinate potluck dishes and RSVP to Jo Ann Eng and rides from the metro with Tom. Peter Yim will share how God is preparing him for missions work in Singapore.

ENGLISH ASSOCIATE PASTOR Praise God for continuing to lead a number of pastoral applicants to CCC. Our search effort has received a number of resumes for the English Associate Pastor position. The search committee is continuing the review. While there are no named official candidates at this stage as the application process is still ongoing, and resumes are still coming in, we are inviting a number of applicants to visit our church as guests over the summer months on a rolling basis. Please expect a number of guest speakers at the English service in June/July. Please continue to pray for God’s guidance, wisdom, patience, and obedience.

APPRECIATION Thank you for your assistance, your prayers, and your gifts for my Mom’s passing into God’s glory. May God continue to bless your ministry. -Ann Tang and Family

MAKING SENSE OF CHRISTIAN FAITH We are called to work out our salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12) and to give an answer to why we believe (1 Peter 3:15). The second Sunday School class of Seeking to Understand the Christian Faith will meet today 12:30 – 1:30 pm in Room 301. We will discuss the historical evidence for Christianity; outside sources for the bible; translation; credibility of the New Testament. Contact Garrett or see flyer on the bulletin board.

UPCOMING EVENTS: June 15 – Graduation Sunday (please give names of graduates to church office or Linda Wong); July 13 – Church Picnic; August 8-10 – Summer Retreat, Walk thru the Old Testament.

Board Highlights from May 17, 2008 Meeting [this will be provided after every Board meeting]

Natural disaster relief fund (China earthquake and Myanmar cyclone) established and collections scheduled for June 1 and June 15.
Search committee following up on 11 applications for Associate Pastor position. Some applicants may visit during the summer as guest speakers in English service.
AALEAD (Asian American Leadership Empowerment and Development for Youth and Families) will conduct a 6-week, all-day Summer Children’s Program from June 16 to August 1. The church will use the lunch hour for Bible teaching.
Coordinating with DC election office for use of HMH as a polling facility during the September and November elections.
Seven plaques (of historical significance) have been selected to hang in hallway.
Board vacancy left by Chi Chang Lee’s move to CA will not be filled until the next election.
Combined Federal Campaign application for Chinatown Service Center has been approved.
Nominating Committee appointed and chaired by Tow Moy and Texas Chee.

Prayers

Pray for brothers and sisters in Christ:

Those in need of healing, and others receiving medical treatments. Please remember especially Rev. and Mrs. Shen as they cope with Rev. Shen’s slow recovery from surgery.
Pray for Ms. Fan who is seeking God. A tumor is in her brain. Pray that her daughter in mainland China will get a visa as soon as possible
Pastor Charles’ family members who are struggling with different medical conditions. May God give the family strength and grace to encourage each other.
Greg Chen and his family in China as they mourn the loss of Greg’s father on Monday, May 26. May they be comforted by God’s love and our prayers.

Pray for needs of the church:

Coworkers to lead our young people
Strengthening Bible study groups
Wisdom for Search Committee as they evaluate candidates for Associate Pastor and the needs of the church to find the one God has called to be our Associate Pastor
The exterior work on the church will run smoothly
Plans for retreats, youth programs and outreach
The strengthening of our bible study groups
All speakers as they prepare their sermon and the worship services

Pray for individual spiritual growth:

Pray that our faith will not waiver despite disappointments, loss, and lack of understanding in our lives. Ask God to keep our eyes focused on him and our trust wholly in His hands.
Take your focus off your circumstances, and look to the One who promises His help. Scripture from Isaiah 41:10 gives this assurance: “Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you. Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand”.

Announcements for May 25, 2008

victoria — Mon, 26 May 2008 13:40:45 +0000

ORGAN DEDICATION Praise God for our new organ which is dedicated to his glory today to coincide with a visit from the donor, Dr. Vernon Wong. We appreciate Dr. Wong’s generosity and support. Already, the organ has inspired the renewal of CCC’s congregation during a Concert of Praise and Thanksgiving on April 6 featuring Handel’s Messiahpresented by the Christian Oratorio Society and the CCC Choir. The sanctuary was full as our Shared Ministry organist, David Yoder, also showcased our beautiful, new instrument with a brief organ program. $4,281.00 was donated for the concert and after expenses, $2,359.48 will go to the church’s music ministry. In celebration of this wonderful blessing, you are all invited to lunch in the Hung Memorial Hall after worship service.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR SEMINARIANS We praise God for what he has been doing in the lives of two of CCC’s coworkers. Greg Chen, Seminarian intern for the Mandarin congregation, was awarded his Master of Arts in Ministry Leadership from Capital Bible Seminary last Saturday, May 17. Stephen Leung, one of the missionaries we supported at International Students, Inc in St. Louis, completed his Master of Divinity Degree from Covenant Theological Seminary on May 16. May God use his faithful servants in a mighty way for his kingdom.

SPECIAL JOINT SERVICE ON JUNE 1 All congregations will worship together and celebrate communion next Sunday at 11 am. Simultaneous translation in Chinese will be provided.

CALENDAR FOR JUNE will be published next week. Please send in your activity details to the office by Wednesday at noon.

MAKING SENSE OF CHRISTIAN FAITH We are called to work out our salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12) and to give an answer to why we believe (1 Peter 3:15). A new Sunday School class, Seeking to Understand the Christian Faith, started last Sunday and was well attended. The class will meet every other week in June from 12:30 – 1:30 pm in Room 301. The next class is June 1 when we will discuss the historical credibility of the Bible. Bring your questions, bring your friends – for anyone interested in building confidence in their faith. Contact Garrett or see flyer on the bulletin board.

GOOD NEWS MINISTRY will hold an Earthquake Relief Performance to raise money for earthquake relief in China. Members of the Ministry come from different Chinese churches in the area. They want to comvey hope to a community hurting from this disaster by leading people to Jesus Christ. All are invited to attend. May 25, 2008, at 7:30 pm at Chinese Bible Church of Maryland, 4414 Muncaster Mill Rd. Rockville, MD 20853.

Mayor Fenty’s Asian and Pacific Islander American Heritage Month Closing Ceremony You are all invited to attend the close the APIAH month festivities at the DC Historical Society, 801 K Street, NW, on 5/27/08 at 6 pm.

UPCOMING EVENTS: June 15 – Graduation Sunday (please give names of graduates to church office or Linda Wong); July 13 – Church Picnic; August 8-10 – Summer Retreat,Walk thru the Old Testament.

EXTERIOR RENOVATION WORK The formstone is off! Worcester Eisenbrandt is working steadily on paint removal, repairing the window frames, and pointing brickwork. They will continue their restoration work for the next few months.

Prayers

Pray for brothers and sisters in Christ:

For those in need of healing, and others receiving medical treatments. Pray also for family members who have a heavy burden to handle other concerns that long-term illness brings.
For Pastor Charles’ family members who are struggling with different medical conditions.
For those who have been left wounded and homeless from the earthquake in China and the cyclone in Myanmar. Pray that the world may respond with love and generosity to care for them. Pray for those whose hearts have been broken by the loss of loved ones. Pray for the Holy Spirit to move us to respond in whatever way we can.
Thank God for those who have lost their lives serving to preserve our freedoms in this country. Pray for those who continue to put their lives in danger for our safety.
For those who serve as missionaries – may their eyes never stray from God’s face so his strength may become theirs
For graduates finishing their degree work in the month ahead – may God provide them clear direction and open doors for the path He has chosen for each one

Pray for needs of the church:

Faithful, humble and committed Board members seeking out the will of God for our church
The new Sunday School class for adults
Wisdom and perseverance for Search Committee as they seek the one God has called to be our associate pastor
The exterior work on the church will run smoothly
The strengthening of our bible study groups

Pray for individual spiritual growth:

Father, give us courage to have non-Christian friends to whom we will share our lives and faith so that unbelievers will have an opportunity to hear the Good News.
Teach us that happiness is not found in things but in attitudes. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted,…Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy…Blessed are the pure in heart , for they will see God…Mt 5:1-10

Announcements for May 18, 2008

victoria — Sun, 18 May 2008 17:08:57 +0000

WELCOME TO THE PULPIT, on this Missions Weekend, Brother John, who with his wife, Sister Donna, have served the Lord as tentmakers in Hong Kong and mainland China. They both gave encouraging and enlightening messages at yesterday’s missions workshop and we thank God for their dedication and love for the Lord.

LUNCH TODAY Norman and Esther Chang cordially invite everyone to lunch today to give thanks to God for his mercy, love and blessings, especially to Esther and all the people in CCC.

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY is expressed to the family of Mrs. Chiu Mui Tam-Tang who went to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 10. Funeral services were held on Friday, May 16. Memorial donations may be made to the Chinese Community Church Seminarian Fund. We pray that God’s love with enfold the family and give them peace.

CONGRATULATIONS to the Cheng family (from Mandarin congregation) and the birth of a son. We pray that God will bless this new little one and his family.

PRAY FOR THE PEOPLE IN MYANMAR AND CHINA On Communion Sunday, June 1, we will receive a special offering for relief work in Myanmar and China where the cyclone and earthquake have left thousands homeless and in need of medical care, shelter and food. Money will be forwarded directly to a reputable organization providing care in those countries.

APPRECIATION is expressed to all who supported the Mother’s Day fund-raising plant and bake sale last week. More than two thousand dollars were raised for the Building Fund - $1091 for plants and $1072.50 for the bake sale. Special thanks to organizers Blanche Hung and Kathy Gleason and also to Hank Doong for donating plants from Behnke’s Nurseries.

MAKING SENSE OF CHRISTIAN FAITH We are called to work out our salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12) and to give an answer to why we believe (1 Peter 3:15). A new Sunday School class, Seeking to Understand the Christian Faith, will start today, from 12:30 – 1:30 pm in Room 301 to discuss how Christianity makes sense, and how it relates to history, science, and philosophy. Bring your questions, bring your friends – for anyone interested in building confidence in their faith. Contact Garrett for more details or see flyer on the bulletin board.

UPCOMING EVENTS: May 25 – Organ Dedication, 11 am; June 15 – Graduation Sunday (please give names of graduates to church office or Linda Wong); July 13 – Church Picnic; August 8-10 – Summer Retreat, Walk thru the Old Testament.

TIDINGS, the church newsletter will be published at the end of the month. Please give articles or activity information to Linda Wong today.

EXTERIOR RENOVATION WORK The formstone is coming off! Worcester Eisenbrandt is working steadily on the removal, repairing the window frames, and pointing brickwork. They will continue their restoration work for the next few months.

CHINESE EXCHANGE STUDENT HOSTS are needed from July 15 – August 5 for Chinese teens coming to Rockville for cultural and English enrichment. For more information, contact Linda Sankanung at 301-340-1941 or lsankanung@yahoo.com.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES at Calvary Women Services, 928 5th Street, NW. Call Will Mount at 202-783-6651 if you can help.

Prayers

For those in need of healing, and others receiving medical treatments.
For Pastor Charles’ family members who are struggling with different medical conditions.
For wisdom to CCC leaders.
For those who have been left wounded and homeless from the earthquake in China and the cyclone in Myanmar. Pray that the world may respond with love and generosity to care for them. Pray for those whose hearts have been broken by the loss of loved ones. Pray for the Holy Spirit to move us to respond in whatever way we can.
For protection and direction for our children.
For those who serve as missionaries – may their eyes never stray from God’s face so his strength may become theirs
For graduates finishing their degree work in the month ahead – may God provide them clear direction and open doors for the path He has chosen for each one

Pray for needs of the church:

Faithful, humble and committed Board members seeking out the will of God for our church
The new Sunday School class for adults
Wisdom and perseverance for Search Committee as they seek the one God has called to be our associate pastor
The exterior work on the church will run smoothly
The strengthening of our bible study groups

Pray for individual spiritual growth:

Father, keep us holy. Every look of our eyes, every thought in our minds, may they be taken captive in Christ for your glory.
Thank God for the life you live and enjoy.
Stretch ourselves to think of others first. …and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like noonday. Isaiah 58:10

Announcements for May 11, 2008

victoria — Mon, 12 May 2008 19:05:14 +0000

EVERYONE IS INVITED to be guests of the Wong Family for lunch today in the Hung Memorial Hall to celebrate Mother’s Day and Mrs. Wong’s 93^rd birthday. We praise God for the blessings which have filled her life as well as the blessings all mothers have been to us.

MISSIONS WORKSHOP NEXT SATURDAY, MAY 17 The Missions Committee has invited Brother John and Sister Donna, two career missionaries with a heart for church-planting to present next weekend. They have extensive experience in evangelism, discipleship and Biblical training in China and will share their experiences both at the workshops next Saturday and the Cantonese and English worship services on Sunday. Plan on joining us – it is sure to be an inspirational time.

Sat (Hung Memorial Hall)

12:00 noon Lunch - Please sign up on the bulletin board or with Theresa Chee

12:45 pm Welcome and Introduction

1:00 pm “Glory in Weakness” - Sister Donna

2:00 pm Mission Minutes - Sharing by CCC short-term missioners

3:00 pm “Reaching the Unreached in 2008” - Brother John

Sun Worship

11:00 am “Mindset for Missions” - Brother John

FUND-RAISING PLANT AND BAKE SALE TODAY Support the Building Fund fundraiser during lunch today by purchasing plants and baked goods. We appreciate Blanche Hung and Kathy Gleason for coordinating this project.

UPCOMING EVENTS: May 25 – Organ Dedication, 11 am; June 15 – Graduation Sunday; July 13 – Church Picnic; August 8-10 – Summer Retreat, Walk thru the Old Testament

DOWNTOWN CLUSTER GERIATRIC DAY CARE CENTER invites you to support their seniors program for elderly Washingtonians by advertising or being a sponsor in their 32^nd Recognition Gala souvenir journal which will be published in time for the gala on May 16, 2008. Please see Andre Manley at the front door for details about the gala or sponsorship. Deadline is TODAY.

MAKING SENSE OF CHRISTIAN FAITH We are called to work out our salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12) and to give an answer to why we believe (1 Peter 3:15). A new Sunday School class, Seeking to Understand the Christian Faith, will start next Sunday, May 18 from 12:30 – 1:30 pm in Room 301 to discuss how Christianity makes sense, and how it relates to history, science, and philosophy. Bring your questions, bring your friends – for anyone interested in building confidence in their faith. Contact Garrett for more details or see flyer on the bulletin board.

TIDINGS, the church newsletter will be published at the end of the month. Please give articles or activity information to Linda Wong by next Sunday.

EXTERIOR RENOVATION WORK Worcester Eisenbrandt has begun pointing the bricks on the townhouse, repairing the window frames, and removing some of the formstone on the church. They will continue their restoration work for the next few months.

CHINESE EXCHANGE STUDENT HOSTS are needed from July 15 – August 5 for Chinese teens coming to Rockville for cultural and English enrichment. For more information, contact Linda Sankanung at 301-340-1941 or lsankanung@yahoo.com.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES at Calvary Women Services, 928 5th Street, NW. Call Will Mount at 202-783-6651 if you can help.

HELP NEEDED A mother and her young son, victims of domestic violence, need temporary housing in Silver Spring and an elderly couple in Burtonsville need help with household chores. Please contact Lisa in the Service Center (202-898-0061) if you can provide some assistance.

Prayers

Pray for brothers and sisters in Christ:

Those in need of healing, and others receiving medical treatments. Please remember especially, Mrs. Chui Mui Tam who is in hospice care and Rev. Shen who is recovering from surgery.
Pastor Charles’ family members who are struggling with different medical conditions.
Pray that God provides wisdom to CCC leaders.
Please pray about the devastation in Myanmar (Burma) from the cyclone. Besides prayers, if you’re looking for ways to help, here are some links to Christian organizations that have people already in the country. They may be more helpful as the Myanmar government’s willingness to receive aid from other countries has been slow. Let’s lift up this nation and the people God is using to comfort those in distress. Gospel for Asia (www.gfa.org/cyclone) and World Vision www.worldvision.org).
Protection and direction for our children.

Pray for needs of the church:

Faithful, humble and committed Board members seeking out the will of God for our church
The new Sunday School class for adults
Wisdom and perseverance for Search Committee as they seek the one God has called to be our associate pastor
The exterior work on the church will run smoothly
The strengthening of our bible study groups
Safe travels for Brother John and Sister Donna; guidance in their message preparations so that what is heard encourages stronger commitment for missions; that the congregation will be obedient to the Great Commission, either in going or sending.

Pray for individual spiritual growth:

That when tough times come into our lives, we realize God is completely in control and promises to “never stop doing good to us” during both tough and easy times. Let us not doubt God’s commitment to us during the rough times.
That we continue to learn more about God so we can love Him more.
Know therefore your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands. Dt 7:9 May we strive to keep our end of the covenant so that we can claim the promise.

Announcements for May 4, 2008

victoria — Sun, 04 May 2008 20:20:19 +0000

MISSIONS WORKSHOP ON MAY 17, 1 - 4 pm Hear some first-hand accounts from missionaries from the field. John and Donna McAdams from Seattle, WA, who are on sabbatical and have extensive experience building the church in China, will be the keynote speakers in this afternoon workshop which will also include presentations from missionaries from our church congregation. Save the date!

Mother’s Day Luncheon All are invited to join the Cantonese Fellowship to celebrate Mother’s Day at China Garden for Lunch at 11:00 am on Saturday, May 10. Cost is $15 per person. Reserve with Monica Wong or Pui Han Lee.

MAKING SENSE OF CHRISTIAN FAITH We are called to work out our salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12) and to give an answer to why we believe (1 Peter 3:15). A new Sunday School class, Seeking to Understand the Christian Faith, will start on Sunday, May 18 from 12:30 – 1:30 pm in Room 301 to discuss how Christianity make sense, and how it relates to history, science, and philosophy. Bring your questions, bring your friends – for anyone interested in building confidence in their faith. Contact Garrett for more details.

GIFT FROM THE PASTOR If your family missed church last Sunday, please see one of the ushers after service to pick up a fat skimmer which Pastor Charles brought back from his vacation for each family in the church.

EXTERIOR RENOVATION WORK BEGAN Worcester Eisenbrandt continues removing the old paint from the townhouse building and re-mortaring the joints. Next week they will refurbishing the townhouse windows which includes some repair work in the shop. The whole project is expected to take about four months.

CHINESE EXCHANGE STUDENT HOSTS are needed from July 15 – August 5 for Chinese teens coming to Rockville for cultural and English enrichment. Besides spending time with the students in the evening and room and board, transportation to College Gardens Elementary School in Rockville would be the responsibility of the host family. The sponsoring agency is American International Learning Institute and Compass USA. For more information, contact Linda Sankanung at 301-340-1941 or lsankanung@yahoo.com.

WOMAN CHALLENGE Interested in improving your health? Join the US Department of Health and Human Services 5th annual WOMAN Challenge – Women and girls Out Moving Across the Nation. Start on Mother’s Day and continue for eight weeks to improve levels of physical activity to improve health. Check out the website for details: http://www.womenshealth.gov/woman/.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES at Calvary Women Services, 928 5th Street, NW. Call Will Mount at 202-783-6651 if you can help.

HELP NEEDED A mother and her young son, victims of domestic violence, need temporary housing in Silver Spring and an elderly couple in Burtonsville need help with household chores. Please contact Lisa in the Service Center (202-898-0061) if you can provide some assistance.

LUNCH COOKS are needed. Please sign up on the bulletin board outside the kitchen. If no one has signed up, we will not have lunch that week. The Kitchen Committee will be glad to give you assistance in planning.

Prayers

Pray for brothers and sisters in Christ:

Those in need of healing, and others receiving medical treatments. Please remember especially, Mrs. Chui Mui Tam who is in very serious condition.
Pastor Charles’ family members who are struggling with different medical conditions. May God give the family strength and grace to encourage each other.
Those who serve God through their work at church.
Protection and direction for our children.

Pray for needs of the church:

Coworkers to lead our young people
Plans for new Sunday School classes and strengthening Bible study groups
Fruitfulness in Search Committee’s task to find the one God has called to be our Associate Pastor; perhaps in the replies that have been received so far
The exterior work on the church will run smoothly
Plans for retreats, youth programs and outreach
The strengthening of our bible study groups
All speakers as they prepare their sermon and the worship services

Pray for individual spiritual growth:

Pray that our greatest joy is to be in God and God alone. Not in things. Not in other people. Not in our accomplishments. But in God.
Pray that as God blesses us, our eyes are focused on God rather than the blessings.
Seek to keep a life from sin. ‘Come now, let us reason together,’ says the Lord. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. (Isaiah 1:18) Thank God for his mercy and forgiveness in your life.

Position Announcement: Associate Pastor

victoria — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 14:53:39 +0000

Call for an English-speaking Associate Pastor to serve at the Chinese Community Church of Washington, D.C.

500 I Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20001
http://www.cccdc.com

Primary Objectives of Position:
To disciple, shepherd, and provide strong biblical-based preaching and teaching to the English-speaking congregation under the direction of the Senior Pastor.

Overall Responsibilities:

Planning

Help organize and lead the English-speaking congregation and its Ministry Team(s)
Plan ministry activities for the English-speaking congregation
Report to the Senior Pastor on programs and activities of the English-speaking congregation
Provide support and guidance as required to adult volunteers who shepherd the youth ministry

Teaching and Training

Preach regularly in the English-speaking services
Teach Adult Sunday School
Train volunteers and lay leaders

Other Duties

Participate in various church functions
Provide assistance as requested by the Official Church Board and Senior Pastor
Visitation
Promote Christian education

Qualifications:

Master of Divinity is preferred
Desire to minister to an Asian-American congregation
Commitment to urban ministry in Washington, D.C.
Chinese language is not required, but desirable

Interested candidates please contact the CCC search committee (Ming Wei Lim, 202-247-5510, mingweilim@yahoo.com).

Church office contact information: (202) 637-9852, cccdc@verizon.net.

The Church

The Chinese Community Church (CCC) is the oldest Chinese-American church in the Washington metropolitan area and the only Chinese-American church located in the District of Columbia. The church started as a mission outreach to Chinese immigrants in 1935 and continues to minister today to new immigrants, as well as 2^nd and 3^rd generation Chinese-Americans living in the greater Washington, D.C. area. The church embraces multicultural membership.

Revitalization initiatives in the Chinatown area – such as the Verizon Center sports arena, the Washington Convention Center, new businesses, and residential real estate projects present exciting new ministry opportunities for CCC. In the summer of 2006, we relocated from 900 Massachusetts Avenue, NW to our new current church site on 5^th and I Streets, NW in the heart of Chinatown.

Church Organization and Structure

We are an independent, non-denominational, multi-cultural, and multi-generational church with three Sunday services:

English service, blended worship serving families, youth, and young professionals
Cantonese service, serving recent and long-time immigrants
Mandarin service, serving recent immigrants, scholars, and students

CCC also operates the Chinatown Service Center, an on-site outreach program serving the Chinese-speaking community in the surrounding neighborhood.

CCC’s form of governance is congregational. Our pastors are the spiritual leaders of CCC. The Pastors are ex-officio members of the Official Board and are accountable to the Board.

Church Doctrine

It is the policy of CCC to defer on doctrinal issues to the Church Board for decision under the spiritual leadership of the Senior Pastor. The church believes in the supreme authority of God and the Holy Bible.

Current Church Needs

Changes within the Washington, D.C. area are bringing increased opportunities to minister to Asian immigrants as well as young professionals. We believe in God’s promise to further grow and develop our English-speaking congregation through strong bible-based preaching, teaching, visitation, discipleship, stewardship, mission, and evangelism.