for 3 1/2 years. We had turned it over to other leadership last year. After praying about
this decision for several weeks, we felt that God was leading us to take this step. His
direction for us was specific: foster community in the family of God here in Redding and
love people into wholeness. In our first meeting we had approximately 50 people in attendance. We shared burgers and hot dogs from the grill, swam in the pool, played volleyball and had a great time of fellowship together. As the sun set, we met in the front yard for a time of worship and sharing. After a good time of ministry to God through worship, I shared with everyone our vision for the group along with a short message on love. We ended the evening with a time of prayer for those who had need. We prayed over a lady with cancer, a man with MS and a young lady, who is entering Bethel's School of Supernatural Ministry next week. Everyone seemed to be touched by God. As this time was ending, a young couple came to me and asked if I would be willing to pray for their marriage. They were visiting from out of town and stated that they were having marital problems. God touched the wife with words affirming to her that she was lovable and loved. She wept silently. God encouraged the husband that he was to be a student of His wife and that he had the responsibility of knowing how to love her well. This was a powerful and encouraging time.
Praise God!! He is good and loves his people.