Anticipating Apocalypse, Part 1

Dear Friends, Guests and Members,

Welcome to Hollywood! Tomorrow marks the official beginning of Summer. Schools are letting out, vacations are beginning, the warmth of longer days is inviting people to more outdoor activity. And we’re going into summer mode. 

Over the next two weeks, I'll be teaching/preaching on Adventist apocalypticism, focused on what we've said, what we're saying, and why none of this can be about fear. We believe Jesus is to return to us again, this time in Glory, bringing about the end of the present order, and establishing a kingdom that will never end. The question is whether current movements are a fulfillment of prophecies that move us closer to that day, or whether we're being set up in the quest to force the hand of God? 

In July, we begin our Apocalypse Series, featuring leader/members of our congregation who see God's presence revealed in one aspect of culture or another, or through a type/style of media. "How is God being revealed in the world today?" is the question. The answers will be varied, interesting, and worth prioritizing as you plan your comings and goings this July! 

This next week takes me to Ohio to lecture at Kettering College on the ethical and pastoral issues of Palliative Care and so will not be available locally. I'll do all I can to return calls/emails in a timely way. Also June 30, I'm having a surgical procedure that will require time out to heal. I should be available by phone, email etc as early as July 3, and available again in person by July 9. Please consult with our elders/congregational leadership if you have any special needs. I feel bad that I'm to be absent for these weeks, and grateful for the privilege of being able to serve outside of our Conference on occasion, and happy for the healing that modern medicine provides.

If you're visiting with us, particularly for the first time, we have a special gift for you. You're not obligated! It's simply our way of saying thanks for worshipping with us. We hope you'll join us again soon! 

Praising God for each of you!

Pr. Greg