Happy July 2020, MVPC!

We are half- way through 2020 and have been apart for what sometimes feels like an eternity to me. We wear our facemasks, social distance, wash our hands and don’t touch our faces. We respect, and some fear, our new invisible enemy, the COVID-19 virus. We stay home or go out cautiously.

 

As time passes, more lives are lost, more are sickened, and more test positive, some without having known they carry the virus and can pass it on to others. Scientists, medical professionals and researchers delve deeper and deeper into understanding “the enemy” and search for a way to annihilate that vicious virus. Health care workers work tirelessly to save those they can. Politicians try to make much of it a “Red” or “Blue” issue.

 

Then, just as we are starting to adjust to this so-called new normal we live in, we have something else with which we must come to terms. I’m speaking of the untimely death of a black man under the knee of a white police officer that sparked protests, riots and demands for change. And, not for only this man, but for countless more men and women whose unjust persecution, devaluation, tyrannizing and deaths have been “swept under the rug”.

 

While you may not completely agree with all that is said or done, or the movement’s “war cry” we must all truly acknowledge the validity of the problem. I know I do. I also acknowledge that while I thought I didn’t have a racist bone in my body, I still found one or two lurking, much to my disdain. And I also acknowledge that I, as a privileged white person, cannot completely comprehend the entirety of the painful differences and fears people of color have had to face all their lives. But, I know it’s not nice, and I would not wish for myself or my family to endure similar.

 

And you know what else? I acknowledge that I am a part of the problem! So, I am determined to get educated, and thereby hope to gain greater understanding and compassion. This is not simply a skin color issue. It is a cultural issue. It is an issue of “We are different from them,” and “They are different from us”. As Christians, we know all humanity is created by God, and all are equal in His sight and heart. Until we can move that knowledge from our individual intellects into our hearts and souls, can we hope for true change? Can we effect change for all those we see as different – races, cultures, beliefs? Can we truly love all of God’s children? I pray so.

 

I pray for the day that all free people can live free. Free from fear, discrimination and bias.

 

As you contemplate on all of the above, let me remind you should we chose to continuously dwell on negativity, we damage ourselves emotionally and spiritually. I hope you won’t do that. Try to dwell on what is good… Recite to yourselves Philippians 4:8, Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- think about such things. (NIV)

 

In the love of Christ,
Blessings and health,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are excited to introduce the Health Ministry Team Members! Dian Ward, RN, Paula Anderson, Tim Friday, Laura Martin, Tim Martin, and Beverly Norton. 

 

PLEASE NOTE: MVPC DOES NOT ACCEPT SUCH DONATIONS.

We have been asked what can be done with these items you no longer use or need. Our suggestion is donating to a local organization that is willing to take unused supplies. Many hospitals and home healthcare companies take supplies to give to patients who are unable to afford them on their own. Call them to inquire.

 

Other places which may offer pick up services include:

The American Red Cross Las Vegas – Phone (702) 791-3311,

The Salvation Army Southern Nevada – Phone (702) 870-4430

Viet Nam Veterans of America – Phone (702) 384-VETS (8387)

 

It may take you a couple phone calls, but it is worth it to know those items are helping someone else.

What makes this group different than the others out there? It is spiritually based! The support you’ll find at these meetings comes not only from others who are walking or have walked the cancer road. Your support and strength come from the Lord!!

The understanding and insight shared by others who have experienced living with, dealing with and battling cancer is such as no one else can offer. Many friends and family may love you, show you support in any way they can. Others, maybe not so much, because cancer is too much for them to handle or even think or speak about. However, someone who has walked the walk you are on understands as no one else can. The benefit of this, as well as the prayer support offered is priceless.

Helping and leaning on one another, whether you are in active treatment, now in remission or are now considered cancer free is truly such a blessing to you and the others whose lives and spirits you touch!

Come join our strictly confidential group on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month. Gather and get acquainted at 6PM upstairs in the Esther Room. The meeting starts at 6:30PM. Please tell a friend or acquaintance who has or has had cancer if they would like a spiritual approach to group support. They do not need to be a member of MVPC. Tim and Willette, the group facilitators will give you and them a very warm Christian welcome!