Simply Beautiful - 'Tis the Season

Throughout the year, we hear or read the word, “seasonal” in the advertisements of fashion, décor, menu items, and the dreaded allergies. Seasonal. If we could only experience the “season all” in our Texas weather!

I have often experienced the definition of “seasonal”. For example, in mid-September, a delicious pumpkin pie (a “seasonal” menu item) is served at a local barbeque restaurant for a “season” which ends too soon.

On a search at a local department store for a thermal shirt needed for a ski trip in February, I was told, “Sorry, we do not carry thermals year ‘round. Those are “seasonal” items.” Of course, I should have noticed that the store was decorated with red and pink hearts. It was the Valentine “season”. “Seasonal”? Clearly defined as clearly experienced. Here one day…gone the next!

Reflecting on the seasons of life, as shared by many of the women throughout our Simply Beautiful Bible Study, it is unanimously agreed that the Word of God is not only the soil and the water; it is the life of growth needed in every “season”. Undoubtedly, it is the best source and the only source that maintains an abundant life that flourishes unhindered through all seasons.

As believers, we must continually express praises to God for His Word. His Word is not a “seasonal” item. His Word is not here one day and gone the next! You may recall that in Isaiah 40:8, we are reminded that the grass withers and the flower fades…”But the Word of our God stands forever.” His Word stands forever! Forever is far from “seasonal”.

Jesus states in Matthew 24:25, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” What assurance we have knowing that His Word IS forever!

From beginning to forever, He is! “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God”(John 1:1). Also found in scripture is that God is the same yesterday, today and forever. The Word of God is forever because He is forever! Praises be to God! He is to be exalted as He is not just some god found on the shelves in the “seasonal” department. He is forever!

During this beautiful Christmas season, choose God to be Lord of YOUR season. Perhaps you have found yourself lost in the shuffle of life and clueless as to the next step to take. Are you spinning in circles with whirlwinds that have swept you in a detoured direction that you never intended?

What a season of celebration as you invite God to come into the season you are experiencing in your life! God awaits the heart-felt invitation to be your Lord and desires to come into your life no matter the season. God and His Word are not “seasonal” but are “all season”! HE will be with you and for you in “all seasons” of life just as He has promised in His Word!

MAY THE SEASON OF YOUR LIFE BE FILLED
WITH THE REASON FOR HIS LIFE!

“For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.” (John 3:16,17)

Merry Christmas to all!

written by Cynthia Vela (Women's Ministry Director)

Water Baptism - September 2008

Baptism is a crucial point in a believer's Christian journey. In the Scriptures, the apostles took new believers right away to be baptized. It’s a time to identify that believer with Christ in his life, death, and resurrection. It’s a proclamation to every witness that Jesus is their Lord and Savior. Thankfully in America, with it’s Christian heritage, baptism is something that is generally accepted. However, in many cultures people are rejected and even persecuted by family and friends for their new found faith.

We are so pleased that Niki, a young lady here at Destiny, accepted Jesus into her heart and desired to be baptized. On the second Sunday in September, the congregation celebrated with her and her family as she was baptized in the Youth Center Auditorium and we broadcasted the signal to the Family Life Center for the entire church to participate.

We want to encourage any other adults or children who also want to obey Christ in baptism to let us know right away. Here is an excerpt from AllAboutGod.com that will help you better understand water baptism and prepare your heart.

Water Baptism - Many People Ask If It's Required for Salvation
Baptism isn't an act that gets us into heaven - it is faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord that offers that assurance. Baptism (by full immersion as taught in the Bible) is an act of obedience that should be an immediate part of our acceptance of the gift of grace offered by Jesus Christ. But it does not mean that one who truly gives their heart to Jesus on a death bed, in the heat of warfare, or in a crashing airplane, will be kept out of heaven because they failed to be baptized. The thief on the cross next to Jesus didn't have time to be baptized before he died, but he had an opportunity to believe in Jesus and put his trust in Him, and Jesus responded by saying, "Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise" (Luke 23:43).

True faith in Jesus Christ and His work on the cross for our sins is sufficient for salvation. Christ has already done everything. By definition, His grace doesn't require any additional "works" by us. That being said, Jesus Christ commands us to be baptized (Matthew 28:18-20), and therefore, all believers should be baptized. Immediately following Christ's command, the Book of Acts describes the practice of administering baptism to almost every group or individual who believed in the preaching of the Gospel by the apostles (Acts 2:37-41; 8:5-13; 8:35-39; 9:10-18; 10:34-48; 16:13-15; 16:30-33; 18:8; and 19:1-6).

Water Baptism - What does it symbolize?
According to the Bible, the symbolism of baptism declares that three things happen to believers who are baptized: (1) they die with Christ to their old self; (2) they rise with Christ to become a new creature; and (3) they are incorporated in their new life with a living community which looks for the coming of the Lord (Romans 6:1-11). Contrary to what some denominations teach, it seems obvious that a Christian's baptism must necessarily require a responsible decision to accept Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, and therefore, must be delayed until an age of reason or discretion (knowing right from wrong within God's perspective).

In short, Jesus Christ commands baptism for His followers. Although the act of baptism does not cause eternal salvation, it seems that any believer who refuses baptism should truly examine his or her conversion.

"Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I will be with you always, to the very end of the age'" (Matthew 28:18-20). - AllAboutGod.com

Water baptism is generally held on the second Sunday of every month. Contact the church office at 210-349-2295 to talk to a pastor about water baptism.

written by Ted Thevaos (Children's Ministry Pastor)

Destiny Kids Volunteers - Thank You Luncheon

At the beginning of October we gathered the Destiny Kids volunteers to say thank you for their incredible work of serving over the past year. It's only with the help of nearly 80 volunteers that we care for and teach the children of Destiny Church. With this diligent and faithful team we are able to share the responsibility and not overwhelm anyone. Our goal is for every volunteer to be able to participate in the adult services while serving at least once a month. Some serve more and we are grateful for that.

Our luncheon turned out very well. We enjoyed a fried chicken meal that was good for the appetite and then took a glimpse of some great moments of volunteers interacting with kids by way of video. Check out the video at the end of this article!

I felt impressed of the Spirit to read the passage of scripture from Acts 20:17-37, where Paul said farewell to the Ephesian elders on his way back to Jerusalem. I wanted to remind everyone of what the Apostle Paul was convinced of and lived for in obedience to Christ who said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." This type of lifestyle and ministry brought such a depth of relationship to Paul and those he led. In fact, in just three short years their relationship that was defined by giving and serving brought weeping as they prayed a final farewell prayer with Paul.

My encouragement to the "givers" that were before me was to keep giving. As God's children we are a part of an amazing family. If we love God and His people we will receive so much love in return. "Love never fails."

Our time continued as Doug Pitman shared some words of appreciation and several volunteers also shared some encouraging testimonies. Jeff Stevens reassured everyone present that as we build the kingdom of God here at Destiny, God will build our families as well. It was a meaningful time for me and I hope every volunteer felt appreciated and encouraged. The best is yet to come!

I've included the passage of scripture we read together. I pray it encourages you as you serve Christ and His Church.

Acts 20:17-37 New International Version (NIV)

17From Miletus, Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church. 18When they arrived, he said to them: "You know how I lived the whole time I was with you, from the first day I came into the province of Asia. 19I served the Lord with great humility and with tears, although I was severely tested by the plots of the Jews. 20You know that I have not hesitated to preach anything that would be helpful to you but have taught you publicly and from house to house. 21I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus.

22"And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. 23I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. 24However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.

25"Now I know that none of you among whom I have gone about preaching the kingdom will ever see me again. 26Therefore, I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of all men. 27For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God. 28Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers.[a] Be shepherds of the church of God,[b] which he bought with his own blood. 29I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. 30Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. 31So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears.

32"Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified. 33I have not coveted anyone's silver or gold or clothing. 34You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions. 35In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' "

36When he had said this, he knelt down with all of them and prayed. 37They all wept as they embraced him and kissed him.

It is more blessed to give than to receive

written by Ted Thevaos (Children's Pastor)

Family Fall Festival 2008

The Family Fall Festival, which happened on October 31st, was a great success. Families from Destiny as well as the surrounding community came to celebrate the light of Jesus Christ on a day that is usually considered dark. The Bible talks about overcoming good with evil and we believe we did just that by giving our children and young people a place to come and have fun. It was neat to see new families coming from the neighborhood with their Halloween costumes on. We welcomed them just the same. Our hope is that seeing Christians having fun and enjoying relationships will draw them back again and again.

From Callaghan Road passersby could see the Tiki Torches lit and the inflatable bouncers welcoming them in. The walls of the Family Life Center were lined with games from the fishing hole, where kids pulled out cool prizes, to the football toss, where many tried to imitate the Dallas Cowboys, Tony Romo. Several brave souls gave Pastor Dave some challenging games of Ping-Pong, but he prevailed for the glory of God. The puppet shows, "Bobby the Bully Meets Jesus" and "My Sack Lunch" were a hit for the preschoolers. They gave a strong message of the gospel in a kid friendly way. Pastor Terry also put on quite a Christian magic show. He was turning oranges into apples, putting large coins in a wine bottle, and his Bible even caught on fire while he was reading about the day of Pentecost. I think the adults liked it more than the kids. And of course David Colunga and the drama team gathered a crowd as the music and smoke went up. Several people commented how the dramas really impacted them. Another hot spot for the evening was the coin operated motorcycles, train, and truck that Pastor Rick brought in. The preschoolers couldn't get enough. They thought they were at ChuckECheese's.

David Sharkey, Gary Brown, and their team did a fabulous job with the food. We had hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, sodas, popcorn, cotton candy, and snow cones. It was a festival style feast. We appreciate Mike Fernandez who donated the produce.

One story that caught my attention was how a guest donated a few extra dollars when buying his tickets for the food and then went over to play Bingo. We happened to be giving away 5 tickets to the lucky winner and none other than that generous guest was one of our Bingo winners. Who would of thought God could bless someone through Bingo. How cool is that!

I want to thank every volunteer who made this event a success. Thanks to all of you who donated candy. It was really good candy and we had more than enough. Then to all of you who helped setup, run the event, and clean up. We couldn't have done it without you. It's always a real joy seeing God's people partner together and serve for a common purpose. Our purpose was to glorify God during this Thanksgiving season for his blessings and to communicate a sense of celebration to our children and the community. I believe we did that and it's because of the part that each of you played as the body of Christ. PHOTOS

written by Ted Thevaos (Children's Pastor)

Arise2Pray

God has put it on the hearts of the Men's Ministry leadership of Destiny Church to provide a city-wide prayer and praise opportunity called Arise2Pray for all of the men of San Antonio and surrounding area.

With this vision in mind we gathered together Saturday, November 1st for an awesome time of praise, worship, and directed prayer for our nation. Arise2Pray was held on the Saturday before the election.

With everything that has been happening in our nation, and with the elections at hand, we banded together as brothers in the Lord to believe for God's provision, healing, and intervention in every area - our government, military, economy, national leadership, our city, the church, our families, and world missions.

We welcomed all men, regardless of church affiliation. So pastors and men from different areas of the city and from different denominations came together under the banner of Christ. It was a memorable and moving time in the Holy Spirit.

For more information and updates on the next prayer gathering go to Arise2Pray.com.
PICTURES!

written by Dave Bell (Lead Pastor)

New Members - September 2008

Welcome to all the new members of Destiny Church! On the 3rd Sunday of September we presented these precious people to the congregation and prayed a prayer of blessing over them.

They've completed Discover Destiny, our 3 week membership course, and believe this is the church home God has placed them in. We sincerely believe in the biblical teaching that covenant membership in a local church is important for every believer and we are grateful to God for adding these families to Destiny.

It's our prayer and our goal to see each of these families and individuals find their place at Destiny both relationally and in service to God. The pastors have had an opportunity to meet with these families and discover their unique stories. God has truly blessed us with some remarkable people that we are pleased to call friends. Our new brothers and sisters in Christ!

In the coming months and years we anticipate God using these individuals in miraculous ways. We believe God has given each Christian spiritual gifts and called each member of Destiny to minister. We would like to encourage all the members of Destiny, as well as, ministry department leaders to reach out to these new friends. Let's show ourselves friendly and help them find a place to serve in the church.

You do such a wonderful job of making Destiny a loving, caring, giving place. Let's keep up the great work we're doing to the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom.

Blessings,

Destiny Church Pastoral Team

written by Ted Thevaos (Children's Ministry Pastor)

Back to School Sunday 2008

Ted Thevaos, our Children's Ministry Pastor, spoke a message entitled "The Blessing Exchange: God's Generational Promise" and then we had a time to bless our children and young people as we sent them back to school for the 2008/2009 year. It was a rich time of rediscovering God's generational promise for us and our families!

Children ages 6-12 joined the adults in the Family Life Center for this service as a new change to our children's ministry schedule. Recently several parents expressed a desire for their children to join them occasionally for worship and communion. This became a point of discussion among the pastors and a decision was made to have children ages 6-12 join their parents on the first Sunday (Communion Sunday) of every month. As you can see and hear from the video, the congregation applauded Ted's announcement of this new change. God has spectacular plans for the next generation as we lead them with love and blessing.



written by Ted Thevaos (Children's Pastor)

67th Anniversary Picnic

We had a great turnout at the picnic. People began arriving around noon and stayed until late afternoon. There were hamburgers and hot dogs compliments of Chuck Cantu and his team, and many side dishes and desserts that everyone brought. Of course we had to wait until the 2nd Annual Pie Baking Contest was officially judged and a winner chosen before we could devour the pies, but trust me there were only crumbs left. Speaking of the contest, Robin Gross took home the grand prize for her butter pecan pie. Way to go Robin!

Beyond the food, we had a wonderful time of catching up with friends and enjoying some good fellowship. The children moved between the playground, catching baby frogs and minows, the pinata bash, and the games. There was lots of fun for the whole family. You can see from the pictures all the fun we had. The children and young people even cooled off toward the end as we had water balloon fights. I think even some innocent onlookers may have gotten just a little wet. That's what picnics are for, right?

Thank you Rick and Cynthia Vela for leading out with this event. You did a great job! We thank God for the unique and rewarding history he's given us at Destiny Church. We plan on continuing the celebration until he returns and then we'll have it in heaven. Glory to God! PICTURES!

written by Ted Thevaos (Children's Ministry Pastor)

67th Anniversary Service

Our recent Anniversary Service was memorable as David Hartley, one of Destiny's previous youth pastors, spoke on Living in Overflow, and Not Overload. He took us through excerpts from the book of Acts to remind us of the simplicity of the early church and how we need to return to the simplicity of loving God and loving people. He called it "Simple Church."

We also enjoyed a journey back in time while reviewing the history of Destiny Church by way of video. In addition to that movie we also watched another video of Dave Bell interviewing his father John Bell. John speaks of his call to ministry and tells several compelling stories of how he dicerned the will of God for his life. Check out these videos by selecting the more link below.

It was just an inspiring day and weekend all the way around. God's been good and faithful to this local body of believers and the churches we've been blessed to be in relationship with. Let's stay faithful to the call of God for this church as others who have gone before did. Glory to God! PICTURES!






written by Ted Thevaos (Children's Ministry Pastor)

Simply Beautiful Bible Study

Our current Simply Beautiful Bible Study on Thursday mornings features an in-depth study entitled Stepping Up by Beth Moore. With the study book in hand, a dynamic video of Biblical teaching right before our eyes, and a heart hungry for God's Word, we are taking this journey through the Psalms of Ascent (120-134) one step at a time. Beth encourages us to "say it, work it, and pray it" in regards to the Word in our lives, and that a new level of relationship and intimacy with God will unfold. Each time we meet, we are challenged to journey through life in greater fellowship and greater worship, honoring Him.

As one women stated, "I came to this study because I needed something from God. I recently went through something very devastating in my life. I hadn't planned for this, but it happened. I know Scripture and I know God will never leave me. I have hope! In thinking about all the things I have been facing, I am realizing that all this "stuff" happening in my life just doesn't matter. I am on a pilgrimage...a journey just passing through! I am making progress too, one step at a time. I see that life is short and I am determined to make my life count for something."

Ladies, no matter where YOU are in life, this journey through the Psalms of Ascent is for YOU. Whether it be studying at home, memorizing Scripture, or laying face down on the floor in a whole-hearted time of prayer and worship, this journey begins in the center of the heart and will overflow into all that you do as pilgrims traveling though life bringing glory and honor to God.

Come join us as we continue the final three weeks of our Thursday morning study at 9:30 am (Oct. 9 - Oct. 23) or come to the Thursday evening study at 7 pm (Oct. 9 - Nov. 13). Come join us for this 7 week journey of a life time! For more information contact the church office at 349-2295.

written by Cynthia Vela (Women's Ministry Director)

Wipeout Graffiti Day 2008

On Saturday, September 27, volunteers participating in the "Wipeout Graffiti Day 2008" met Councilwoman Diane Cibrian at her District 8 office. She welcomed us and thanked us for volunteering for this effort to eradicate graffiti. "Graffiti is a crime and of major concern for the city of San Antonio," stated Councilwoman Cibrian.

The volunteer team of Destiny Church was ready to get the job done. Enthusiastic, energized, and empowered, we got up early on a breezy Saturday morning to do what we had to do! About fifteen of us were decked out in our work clothes. Some wore their best worn-out work clothes! These clothes were creatively designed (with paint blotches and rips galore) while volunteering to build with Homes for the Homeless in Mexico.

Before we departed to our assigned areas for clean up, we received our tools which included a map, gallons of paint, paint pans, short paint rollers, and paint rollers on extended poles. Those using the extended poles had to make sure no one was poked by their rigorous efforts while painting inside the drainage ditches.

"This was great that Destiny got involved in this community effort," said one of the Destiny volunteers. Someone else mentioned how this effort has caused more awareness of the need to keep our district clean.

Councilwoman Cibrian acknowledged that she was impressed with Destiny's involvement in the community. Cibrian was presented a plaque last year at the Arise2Pray 2007 event which was held at Destiny Church. She mentioned that she had been inspired to see hundreds of men gathered to pray for our community. She also expressed a desire to have Dave Bell pray before one of the upcoming City Council meetings.

Thank you Destiny volunteers for making a difference in our community! You are the greatest! PICTURES!

written by Rick and Cynthia Vela (Community Care Pastor)

New Members - August 2008

Welcome to all the new members of Destiny Church! On the 3rd Sunday of August we presented these precious people to the congregation and prayed a prayer of blessing over them.

They've completed Discover Destiny, our 3 week membership course, and believe this is the church home God has placed them in. We sincerely believe in the biblical teaching that covenant membership in a local church is important for every believer and we are grateful to God for adding these families to Destiny.

It's our prayer and our goal to see each of these families and individuals find their place at Destiny both relationally and in service to God. The pastors have had an opportunity to meet with these families and discover their unique stories. God has truly blessed us with some remarkable people that we are pleased to call friends. Our new brothers and sisters in Christ!

In the coming months and years we anticipate God using these individuals in miraculous ways. We believe God has given each Christian spiritual gifts and called each member of Destiny to minister. We would like to encourage all the members of Destiny, as well as, ministry department leaders to reach out to these new friends. Let's show ourselves friendly and help them find a place to serve in the church.

You do such a wonderful job of making Destiny a loving, caring, giving place. Let's keep up the great work we're doing to the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom.

Blessings,

Destiny Church Pastoral Team

written by Ted Thevaos (Children's Ministry Pastor)

Men's Quarterly Meeting

The Men's Quarterly meeting turned out to be one of the best ever. Nearly 75 men came out for a time of fellowship, dinner, worship, testimonies and preaching. In fact, there were a number of guests that were invited as well as many of the newer men who have recently become members of Destiny.

The Mexican Food made by Mando Alvarez and others on the cooking team was outstanding. I don't believe there was much of anything left on anyone's plate or in the kitchen. Men definitely enjoy a good meal. Don't we guys!

Well the fun had just begun at that point. Roy Salas and his team led us in a powerful spirit-filled time of praise to our God. Several times throughout you could hear the men's voices ring out together and then we offered spontaneous praise as the songs came to a close. There was such a freedom in the spirit that evening. It was so easy to enter in.

As the evening progressed two of our own men, Tom Hernandez and Jeff Stevens, shared some life-changing testimonies of God's grace in their own lives.

Tom shared about his ministry of serving as a Chaplain at the VA Hospital. What stood out about his story was how God has uniquely given him favor to serve in a capacity that he originally thought was beyond his experience or credentials. In addition to that blessing God has been guiding him with wisdom to minister within the strict policies set forth by the VA, but still with a listening ear and compassion share the gospel of Jesus Christ with these hurting patients.

Then Jeff took us on a journey to Austria as he gave us some great word pictures of his ministry in that country recently. It was encouraging to know that God is using Destiny around the world through men like Jeff and Pastors Joe and Gerda Green who he went to encourage. Jeff did a great job enlarging our vision for Austria, the world, and even where we live. As he talked about his team teaching about the song of the Lord, having prophetic dreams, seeing miracles, having divine appointments, experiencing the favor of God and His protection; he was in effect saying if God can do it for us, He can do it for you too. It was a great faith builder!

Finally, our beloved missions pastor, Doug Pitman, wrapped up the evening with a compelling message on Covenant Friendships between men. With his usual sense of humor and passion, he told the story of Jonathan and David. He encouraged all of us to follow the example of Jonathan in covenant friendship. Some excellent encouragement and challenge was brought for us to grow in our commitment, sacrifice, time, and focus toward one another. It was very clear from God's Word that this pleases Him and is absolutely necessary for us to enjoy life and finish strong going into the next life. There was a deep deposit made into every man that evening with this memorable message. Now it's time to make the effort to enjoy God's blessing of friendship. Men be encouraged to pursue this lifestyle with several guys as the Lord leads you. If you desire greater friendships here at Destiny begin praying for friends and follow the biblical encouragement to show yourself friendly. God's promise is that you'll have many friends!

See you next quarter for the next transforming Men's Meeting!

SATURDAY MEN'S PRAYER
Come out men to Men's Prayer on Saturdays from 8:00am - 9:00am in the Family Life Center. It's a rewarding time of meeting with God and other men. God will bless your investment more than you can imagine. We look forward to seeing you there!

written by Armando Basaldua (Men's Ministry Director) and
Ted Thevaos (Children's Ministry Pastor)

Woodway Apartments Outreach - News

The Woodway Outreach was a spectacular event. A large group from Destiny lead out in a great time of ministry to this apartment community through friendship, worship, drama, preaching, free food, and back to school giveaways. Those that came out responded well to the love and gospel message. It was neat to see groups of people gather as someone from Destiny shared, prayed or lead someone to Christ.

Several families we met at the outreach have visited Destiny in the past couple of weeks. In fact, two children committed their lives to Christ this past Sunday in Bible Blitz, one of our children's classes. One gentleman joined us at the recent Men's Quarterly Meeting. Glory to God for how he is caring for these people and adding to His church.

We want to encourage everyone who participated in this outreach to continue to do the good work that you began in befriending these precious people. Our follow-up with phone calls, visits, invitations to church or to our homes will be crucial to see God add these people to his family and maybe even Destiny. For a reminder of our follow-up vision refer to the Woodway Apartments Outreach - Vision post.

PICTURES!

written by Ted Thevaos (Children's Ministry Pastor)

Women's Retreat 2008 - Designed to Bloom

Our recent Destiny Women’s Retreat, held in Kerrville, Texas, was a time of relaxation, refreshing and renewal. The theme “Bloom” was highlighted throughout the life lessons taught by speakers Jodi Bell and Cynthia Vela of Destiny. The hearts of women were prepared to receive the supernatural and practical teachings.

The Garden of Eden was the setting for the life lesson presented by Jodi Bell. The woman uniquely designed by God, the essential nature of the woman, and the new life in fulfilling her God-given call were all biblical principles highlighted on Friday evening.

With such compassion, Jodi reminded the women that they must believe what God says about them. As women, we are life-givers, nurturers, and companions. We must “bloom” in these elements regardless of our age or season. As hearts received these truths, lives were changed.

On Saturday, Cynthia took us back to a familiar setting, the Garden of Eden. She taught that while Eve may have thought that she would gain much by partaking of the forbidden fruit, she actually lost much. She lost her will to agree with the Word of God by focusing on her own will. Eve chose to agree with the will of the devil and disagree with the will of God.

We must be free to agree with God’s Word. It is in that agreement, that we can “bloom” and flourish in the garden of life. It is being rooted and grounded in love that enables us to
be filled with the fullness of God as declared in God’s Word. (Ephesians 3:17-18)

Referring to the garden of our life, those good roots being grounded in love, will produce good fruits. The fruits of the Spirit mentioned in Galatians. Our lives filled with these fruits and their beautiful fragrance will glorify the Lord. The heart of every woman was challenged to live life as a beautiful garden that glorifies the Lord.

SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL
Ladies, you are cordially invited to attend another exciting gathering, "Simply Beautiful" on Thursday, September 11 at 7pm in the Youth Center Fellowship Hall of Destiny Church.

Expect a powerful time of teaching by Angie Pitman. She will present an awesome and anointed lesson that will transform your life. The Lord knows exactly what we need to hear. A wonderful evening of fellowship, sincere friendships, and delicious refreshments always make the evening so special. Join us!

PICTURES!

written by Cynthia Vela (Women's Ministry Director)

Woodway Apartments Outreach - Vision

God has graciously given Destiny Church a vision for the city of San Antonio, especially the community around the church campus. This vision falls under City Quest, a ministry that began several years ago to reach our city with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Various group and personal efforts have been made by members of Destiny to fulfill this call and God has blessed these outreaches.

Events/Outreaches that are already happening:

• Arise To Pray - a city-wide men's prayer gathering.
• The Gathering of Pastors - a city-wide pastor's fellowship that meets monthly at Destiny.
• Outreaches to surrounding apartment complexes bringing gifts to children and practical love.
• Cgen Student Ministries partnering with the San Antonio Food Bank to sort food.
• Vacation Bible School attracting children and families from the community for a fun week of ministry.
• The Holy Spirit giving each of us many opportunities to share our faith with our friends, families, and even people we've never met. All of this has been a wondrous work of God's grace.

Well, there are certainly more outreaches to come. In fact, the Men's Ministry of Destiny Church, under the leadership of Armando Basaldua, have planned an outreach called the Woodway Back to School Party. It will take place on August 23rd from 11:00 am - 2:00 pm, at the Woodway Apartments, 8100 Pinebrook Drive and Callaghan Road. This outreach will include worship music, drama, testimonies, preaching, BBQ, back to school supplies for the kids, and relationship building. Mike Ybarra has been appointed as the outreach leader for this event and has been working closely with both Armando and Ted Thevaos to make this outreach a success. Many have already volunteered to serve and God has assembled a spectacular team. If you would like to join the team please contact Mike Ybarra at 689-7255.

For those that will be on the outreach team we want you to consider a key strategy that has been developed to ensure the best follow-up possible. Our goal in doing this outreach is to communicate the gospel of Jesus Christ with love so that people can be added to the family of God. We've found the best way to do that is to build a relationship with the people we are ministering to. The music, drama, preaching and other tools are important to bring people to Jesus, but that's just the beginning. We must continue with relational oriented follow-up. Here are several ideas we want every volunteer to consider joining us in.

Follow-up ideas for those who come to Jesus or you become friends with:
1. Make an effort to befriend at least one person or family.
2. Have each person fill out a response card.
3. Personally deliver a free worship CD.
4. Invite an individual or family out to a restaurant or to your home for a meal and fellowship.
5. Give an encouraging phone call and prayer. Ask them how their new faith is going.
6. Invite them to church or offer to bring them to church if they need a ride.
7. Invite them to the small group you attend. It may not be as threatening as the church building for the first visit. Consider gathering a small group in someone's home at the Woodway Apartments.
8. Any other creative ideas that come to mind. Let the Lord lead you!

Our goal is to equip and empower the volunteers that minister at a particular outreach to be the follow-up team. We believe this is the most natural and effective way to bring people to Jesus. In fact, friendship evangelism is still the most effective way of reaching people for Jesus. Thanks to all that are a part of the team. God's going to bless you for your obedience and sacrifice.

Finally, we want to urge everyone to pray and fast for this important outreach. Let's believe for God to save souls and add people to his loving family.

written by Ted Thevaos (Children's Ministry Pastor)

Back To School Sunday 2008

The entire family is invited to our September 7th Back To School Sunday Celebration starting at 10:30 am. Children ages 6-12 will join the adults in the Family Life Center (FLC). This is a time to bless our children and young people as we send them back to school for the 2008/2009 year. Come expecting to celebrate communion, pray blessing over our children, and receive a message geared toward the family.

Ted Thevaos, our Children's Ministry Pastor, will be speaking a message entitled "The Blessing Exchange: God's Generational Promise." Come discover God's generational promise for you and your family.

Having the children with the adults this first Sunday in September is the beginning of a new change. After prayer and discussion the pastoral team of Destiny has decided to have children between the ages of 6 and 12 join the adults in the FLC the first Sunday of every month. This change was brought about to give our older children an opportunity to worship with their parents, as well as, join them in communion. What a great opportunity for parents and the church to model the Christian faith to our children.

All other children's classes will continue as usual.

• Nursery (Ages 3 months - 2 years, FLC, Room 300/301)
• Destiny Park (Ages 2 1/2 - 3 years, FLC, Room 400)
• Big Kids (Ages 4 - 5, Youth Center (YC), Room 105)
  

written by Ted Thevaos (Children's Pastor)