Newsletter

Our long time elder, Mrs. Kimiko Nikaido passed away on September 4, 2021.  We had her funeral service and committal service on October 16.  More than 40 family members gathered and remembered her life.  She was a dedicated leader and her God-given gifts were abundantly used in her life, and God was glorified through her life. (Psalm 116:15)

I believe that God told her when she went to heaven, “Good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:21)  She is now rewarded greatly, being with the Lord.  We all should use our God-given gifts, talents, and possessions and can begin even new ministries. 

Please be interested in starting your new ministry or continue your present ministry, using God-given talents and abilities as best as possible to the glory of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

-Rev. Masaaki Shiraiwa

Union Church is at a critical stage in the life of the church. With the continuing problem with the pandemic, the question of whether to open the church is vital. With the ongoing question of whether members and visitors would opt to mask or not, remains. Would all of the members return—obviously not as some have already moved further away, some have decided to attend a neighborhood church, and unfortunately some have passed on to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ in His heavenly paradise. How many new people would consider coming to Union Church, what can we offer that would fill their particular need-spiritually, socially, psychologically, etc.?

Pastor Ted Esaki strongly recommended expanding the availability of small groups to all as a source where we can encourage, support, uphold one another in prayer and deepen our understanding of the Bible. One can support each other in tangible ways, such as providing transportation, a meal to those who recently lost their loved ones or who do not have the time or energy to prepare a meal as they are focused on being available to the seriously ill loved ones. One person may just need someone to be there with him/her to “talk with” in their loneliness or in their overwhelmed situation. The help may be with the cleaning of the yard, moving furniture, watching the ill person while the spouse or parent completes a task which may require absence from the home for a short time. Being a companion, prayer partner, handy man or woman, are all possibility to show God’s love to one another as stated in I Corinthians 13: 14 and “now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is LOVE.”  How can we show God’s love to our family, neighbors, community, and strangers as we open up the church physically and more importantly as a warm, Christ loving congregation, which is serious about our faith in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior? 

It would certainly be a testament to God to have a church full of people enthusiastic lovers of Jesus Christ, singing, praising, worshipping Him and living a life worthy of His command—to Love your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. (Matthew 22:37-39). The challenge is before us, let us together reopen Union Church with enthusiasm and hearts seeking God’s leading. May God be with us now and forevermore.

Tadashi Kowta
10-17-2021

Start your day by diving deeper into God's Word
 

3 Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.”  Revelation 1:3

The book of Revelation is the only book in the bible that promises a blessing if you read, study, and take to heart what is written in it. Beginning Tuesday, October 19th we will begin a new study on the seven churches of Revelation. In Revelation chapters 2 and 3, Jesus gives to the apostle John words of commendation as well as condemnation to 7 churches in Asia Minor. Through our study we will look at what type of church is pleasing and glorifying to God. I hope you will be able to join us.  

Come join the Monday Night Zoom Fellowship group. It will be a time to encourage, uplift one another, and develop a deeper relationships. We will end each meeting praying for one another, the members of our church, and the city. If you are looking for a community then please join us.
 

Robin's Facebook Post from Monday, October 11
 

11 month update
Michael is still healing very slowly. His speech is coming along and he is getting physically stronger. His right hand and arm are moving more and we remain hopeful that he will gain use soon. He has some uncontrolled movement in his right leg.
Although he acknowledges the progress, he is easily discouraged and often sad. There are times when he smiles and shows a bit of his wonderful sense of humor.
We've had some difficulties with an infection and with meds, but are getting through those and other hurdles.
Prayers appreciated for:
• his emotional health
• continued physical strength and healing
• my physical health, energy, and endurance
• my emotional health
• approval for needed resources
It is harder work to climb out than it is to stay in 'the valley.' But we are #Staffordstrong.