Merry Christmas!

The Christmas Eve services this week are going to be amazing!! The Annie Moses Band brings their joyous spirit and exceptional music talents to CCC. It will be an hour of inspiration that will stay with you into 2011. There are two options to choose from at 4:00 or 6:00 pm.

Then, we continue our celebration on Sunday with more from the Annie Moses Band, an incredible video review of 2010 with some surprise guests, and a message of hope. Let's finish the year strong and with vision for what is ahead.

Luke 2:14 Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.

Merry Christmas,
Pastor Rick

Preparations for Christmas

We are in the midst of preparations for Christmas with friends and family. The big priority the next couple days is making sure our house is ready for our staff and board Christmas party on Friday night. We are looking forward to joyful times with friends and co-workers. Then, getting gifts mailed to Cathy’s family in Colorado to get there on time for Christmas and to Nate and Lisa in New York. Not to forget a special birthday dinner on Tuesday for my Dad’s 77th birthday. Good times with four generations of family. Then, we will be serving on Wednesday night at Port in a Storm as we care for the homeless on these stormy winter nights.

Christmas Eve is going to be incredible as we welcome the Annie Moses Band as our special guests at 4:00 and 6:00 p.m. It will be a musical and spiritual experience that will be remembered all year.

This is going to be the first Christmas that one of our kids will not be with us. Nate and Lisa have a busy work schedule surrounding Christmas and it simply doesn’t work for them to make the trip west. It’s been 29 straight years of having our whole family together. Now we will have to make it happen through Skype. This is when you realize the true joys and meaning of Christmas are all about relationships. Our relationship with Jesus is a miraculous blessing and then the love He gives us for others is a deep well of meaning.

I’m looking forward to Sunday as we focus our attention on the New Beginnings made possible through the gift of Jesus coming to earth. He makes all things new!

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here.

Pastor Rick

ABUNDANCE OF GIVING OPPORTUNITIES

THE SINGING CHRISTMAS TREE. Gift a friend or family member tickets to the Singing Christmas Tree this year. It’s not too late. Two great weekends with the most incredible Christmas experience in town. You can purchase tickets online at www.sct.cc.

PORT IN A STORM. Winter shelter for the homeless who would be left on the streets without our help. We are opening our doors next week, Sunday through Saturday night. If you would like to help, stop by the Outreach kiosk in the Lobby on Sunday or call our office on Monday for more information. The primary responsibility is hosting our guests from 5:00 pm each evening until 10:00 pm.

RUN FOR A REASON. I will be running the California International Marathon on Sunday with our Be Change running team on behalf of the children of Oak Park. I am moved by the innocence of these children and compelled to do what I can to give them hope for their future. If you would like to donate to this cause, you can do so online at www.grouprev.com/rickcole.

YEAR-END GIVING. As we come to the end of 2010, it is good to consider giving a little extra to further the mission of our church in the city and the benefit from the charitable giving tax benefits available. It truly is more blessed to give than to receive. Maximize your joy this Christmas season through giving. We are looking forward to awesome experiences in worship all month long.

LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS. We kick off this Christmas season on Sunday with a fresh look at what Jesus came to bring to our world. Don’t miss this day of inspiration and reflection. Every time we meet together to focus on Jesus, something wonderful is bound to happen.

John 1:4-5 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

Pastor Rick

Feel Overwhelmed?

DIGGING OUT . . . Do you ever feel overwhelmed by what seems like a mountain of stress? You don’t have to continue living that way. It is time to dig out and find the blessings of freedom that comes through following Jesus and His ways. Join me Sunday for a time of refreshing and encouragement.

THANKSGIVING SERVICE . . . Thursday at 10:00 a.m. Get the turkey cooking and find your way to CCC for a time of giving thanks to God for His many blessings.

SINGING CHRISTMAS TREE . . . Take advantage of this incredible presentation of the Christmas story by purchasing tickets for your family and friends. Tickets range in price for $5 to $25. There are no bad seats.

Psalm 115:14-15 May the LORD cause you to flourish, both you and your children. May you be blessed by the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.

Pastor Rick

William Paul Young

THIS SUNDAY: William Paul Young, author of The Shack, will be speaking in all morning services and returning at 6:00 p.m. for an open forum to answer questions about the book. It is estimated that 12 to 15 million copies of The Shack have been sold around the world. Many have been drawn into a closer relationship with Jesus and found healing from the wounds of life. We are anticipating a wonderful experience of growing in our relationship with Jesus and with one another. This is a perfect opportunity to invite a friend to join you at church.

There are a number of opportunities in front of us to serve our community and represent Jesus to others. Consider volunteering for the Oak Park outreach every third Saturday of the month, serving at the VIP dinner where we love the homeless in our community the opening night of the Singing Christmas Tree, or assisting with “Port in the Storm,” our winter shelter program for the homeless December 19 through 25. Also, volunteering to help with guest services during the Singing Christmas Tree performances is another way to touch our community in a positive, life-giving way.

Matthew 25:40 The King (Jesus) will reply, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

Pastor Rick

Out of Africa

COMING THIS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7: OUT OF AFRICA
Jesus came to reach the entire world and we have the unique privilege of participating in spreading His love and truth as far and wide as we possibly can. We will be sharing our recent experience in Kenya through photos, video, and word. We were there because of you and the incredible investment our CCC family has made in missions through the years. Our involvement in missions and giving to others is one of the pillars that sustains and empowers us as a family of believers. Your personal involvement in missions and giving to others either is or will be one of the pillars that sustains and empowers you and your household in the days ahead. We are going to have a great day growing together!

COMING NEXT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14: WILLIAM PAUL YOUNG
Author of The Shack, Paul Young will be speaking in our morning services and then providing a great opportunity to answer your questions in an evening session beginning at 6:00 p.m. Invite your friends and family to join you for this inspirational day of learning how much God loves you and them.

John 10:27-28 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.

Pastor Rick

Game Plan with Others

The game plan didn’t work out too well for Nebraska last week when they played Texas. The Huskers took their first loss of the season. Hopefully they will get back on track this week.

How are you doing with your game plan for life? We are looking to get on track in our journey as we study our Game Plan with Others this week. We need each other in order to win in life. People will cause our biggest disappointments and they will bring us our greatest joys. We need to learn how to turn our disappointments into victories and how to celebrate the wins in life with others.

Romans 12:10-13 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Pastor Rick

Game Plan with God

How are things between you and God? It seems like there are seasons when He seems close and we are tightly connected. Peace, joy, and a sense of anticipation are running high. Then, there are other seasons when He seems distant and we feel troubled inside. Regardless of the season you are in today, a game plan for where we want to go is essential. We are going to focus on our game plan with God on Sunday. I am anticipating a great experience in His presence!

Three incredible outreach opportunities are coming in a seven day stretch. The Family Fun Fair is the perfect event to invite families with children. They will love the activities available to them in a festive environment. Then, on Friday, November 5, Joel Osteen and the Lakewood worship team will be at Arco Arena for a Night of Hope. We will have a block of 200 tickets Lakewood is making available to us at half price. Or, you can secure tickets online through their website. Many are coming to faith in Jesus through the Night of Hope events around the country. To top off the week, Convoy of Hope is coming to Cal Expo on Saturday, November 6. We will be participating in providing food and other resources for hurting people in our community. Take advantage of this exciting week of expressing God’s love to others!

Romans 15:4-6 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Pastor Rick

Game Plan

Do you have a “game plan” for your future? We are now full-fledged into the 2010 football season. I love it! Nebraska is off to a good start and ranked 6th in the country. I know you must be excited about that fact. One of the realities of a successful football team, or any other team sport, is that they spend quality time developing a game plan before the contest begins. I’m afraid many people embark on the road of life without a game plan. We are going to spend quality time throughout the month of October working on a plan for our future. I sincerely hope you are able to join me for this important study.

Joshua 1:7 Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.

Pastor Rick

Leading Missions Church

Cathy and I will be attending a meeting with pastors from the leading missions churches in America on Monday and Tuesday next week. This past fiscal year we gave over $1,500,000 to missions around the world. I am amazed at your generosity in the midst of challenging economic times. I will always believe that this is one of the significant reasons God’s blessing is on our church family. The meeting is being in held in Maine. It will be our first visit to the state of Maine. We are tacking on a couple extra days on the front of this trip to see Nate and Lisa (our oldest son and daughter-in-law). They recently moved to New York so we will get a chance to see them in their new environment.

In my absence on Sunday, Doug will bring the wrap-up message to our family theme for the month. It is going to be a great day as we continue to experience God’s presence and open our hearts to His Word.

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.

Pastor Rick

Man of Faith, Mission, and Vision

Parade Magazine named Joe Ehrmann the most important coach in America. Sunday, Joe will be our guest for all three morning services. He has had a profound impact on our philosophy of coaching others and the book, Season of Life, tells the story of his life and message. You will be inspired by this man of faith, mission, and vision. Great day to bring all the friends you can round up.

1 Thessalonians 5:14-18 And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else. Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

Pastor Rick

Another Generation

We found out this week that our family name will continue for another generation. Travis and Melisa learned that their baby due in February is a boy! We are excited for them and for us.

Speaking of family, Cathy and I are going to team up this Sunday to teach principles we have learned to keep our relationship strong. Some of life’s greatest pain comes through broken relationships. We want to avoid that kind of pain and seek God’s wisdom for discovering the greatest joy life has to offer.

In case you are looking for something to do Friday night, September 10, I wanted to let you know our high school football team is playing on our home field at 7:30 p.m. Come on out and enjoy a tri-tip sandwich or a hot dog and some exciting football.

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.
Pastor Rick

You & Me

Family will be our focus for the month of September. We are all connected to a family whether single or married. Life is made up of relationship challenges and joys and our hope is to major on the joys of family life. Our family continues to grow. We went with Travis and Melissa this week to the ultrasound appointment to discover the gender of their baby due in February. The rascal was elusive and did not give the technician opportunity to make a definite determination. So, we wait one more week and go back for another visit. It is so incredible to see the baby in the womb and anticipate the gift God is giving to our kids.

We are looking forward to an awesome experience with you in worship this week. Also, mark your calendar for Sunday night, September 19. We will have a special evening of worship with Freeway 50 and the songs from this new CD.

Hebrew 10:23-25 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Pastor Rick

Inspiring & Rewarding

We are having a great time in Kenya. It has been a full week but very inspiring and rewarding. I have been speaking twice a day to the pastors of the Kenya Assembly of God churches. They are very receptive and have impressed us with their humility and passion to serve Jesus in the midst of incredibly difficult environments. The missionaries in Kenya are a great group of people and they have led the church in Kenya with excellence. We have supported the Bible School in Nairobi where most of the pastors that I am speaking to each day received their training. Our investment is reaping an awesome harvest. I am looking forward to telling you more about it.

As the days go by, I am finding myself thinking of you and growing anxious to get back home to see you. The impact of seeing what God is doing in this part of the world will stir in my heart for months to come. But I am also keenly aware that you are my family and feel all the more bonded to you in this time of absence.

Sunday will be another wonderful day at CCC! Doug will bring God’s Word and the worship and fellowship will be life changing. Don’t miss what is happening when we pursue God in truth, growth, and love.

Psalm 5:11-12 “. . . let all who take refuge in you be glad, let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. For surely, O LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.”

Pastor Rick

Global Impact

Cathy and I are in Nairobi, Kenya, Sunday as we begin a full week of ministry to the General Council Conference. There has been incredible growth in the church in Kenya and we are blessed to be able to experience it first hand.

It is going to be an incredible day at CCC!! Mark Bouman, missionary to Cambodia, will be sharing his amazing story of transformation from a very dysfunctional upbringing. Invite a friend to join you for an unforgettable experience.

Don’t forget to pray this week about your participation in our global outreach. At the end of the service Sunday we will be encouraging everyone to consider a monthly gift to missions in order to spread the good news of God’s love around the world. You can be a part of a global impact.

Jeremiah 29:11-13 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

Pastor Rick

Turbulence

One thing in life is sure: trouble. So many challenging things are happening in our world today that affect our daily lives. In the midst of all this turmoil, there is another sure thing: faith in God equips us to be victorious no matter what happens! Sunday we will be focusing on how to stay strong and positive in the midst of turbulence.

A new Wednesday series begins on August 18. Our Chief Operations Officer, Steve Duarte, and his wife Debbie will be teaching a four week series titled “The Makings of a Rich Life.” There will be practical application and relevant insights to help navigate through the economic challenges of the day.

We remain committed to TRUTH (know it), GROWTH (pursue it), and LOVE (give it) which will lead us to a healthy life. We remain committed to you and your future. There are amazing opportunities in front of us to impact our world and fulfill our God-given destiny. I’m excited that you are on this journey with me.

Jesus said, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

Pastor Rick

The Desitnation

Are you ready for an end of summer trip? Flight Plan is our theme for August and we begin this Sunday with a look at our destination. An amazing future is in front of us and God has given us a great glimpse of where we are headed. Make sure you are on board for a great experience with all the other passengers from CCC!

Also, we will be honoring Samuel and Linda Gordon for 15 years of wonderful service to our school and church families. We are blessed to have such a gifted and committed couple on our team. Samuel and Linda are a great strength to our church family and to me personally!

John 14:2-3 In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.

Pastor Rick

Peace and Persecution

HUGE OPPORTUNITY THIS SATURDAY!! We will be meeting at 6:00 p.m. for a time of prayer as we put our faith to work. God is our provider and we are looking to Him for our daily provisions. There are many people in our family of faith who are facing difficult economic situations. Let’s support our family members by standing together in prayer. Breakthroughs are on the way!

We will complete our study of the Beatitudes on Sunday with a look at peace and persecution. These two experiences seem to oppose one another but in reality, they work together. It is going to be a great day as we celebrate God’s love for us and learn about the difference He makes in our lives.

San Francisco City Impact has been serving the Tenderloin Community for the past 24 years. They are one of the mission outreach organizations that we partner with to support them in their efforts. This Sunday we will be receiving an offering to help them provide a Christian education for the children of the Tenderloin. Our gift will be matched by a generous donor of the Mission so it will be exciting to see what we can do to help them reach their goal. If you are able, please consider joining me in making a difference in the City.

Matthew 5:9-10 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Pastor Rick

Growing in Character

If you were unable to be with us last week, I would encourage tuning in to John Lynch’s message. You can access it by clicking on this link: http://ccconline.cc/videos.html?q=view&id=399 Also, you can purchase the books, Truefaced and Bo’s Café, which John co-authored. They are available in our bookstore.

Sunday we continue our study from the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5. As we grow in character we line ourselves up to receive special blessings from the Lord. We are committed to TRUTH (know it), GROWTH (pursue it), and LOVE (give it). These beatitudes from Jesus’ teaching will move us closer to fulfilling our destiny.

BASECAMP begins in two weeks where our history and vision is clearly taught and discussed. If you have not yet accessed this information, plan on joining this four-week study beginning August 1 at 9:30 a.m. in the Parlour.

Also, we are having a special prayer meeting on Saturday, July 24, at 6:00 p.m. with a focus on the financial challenges being faced today. We are believing God for His provision for jobs and business growth. Join us as we seek the Lord for breakthroughs.

2 Timothy 1:7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

Pastor Rick

John Lynch - Co-author of Truefaced & Bo's Cafe

Cathy and I have been attending a meeting of the Bible Alliance this week with about 100 leaders from around America. This is the organization that produces the Fire Bible, a special edition with comprehensive study notes, for many language groups around the world. Last month our offering for the Fire Bible was $32,000 and we were able to be a part of raising an additional $2,000,000 for future editions from all the participants at this year’s event. It is exciting to see what can be accomplished when we all work together and do our part.

I’m excited for you to meet a new friend of mine, John Lynch. He has co-authored two books I have recently read: Truefaced and Bo’s Café. They are both in our bookstore and will be available this Sunday in the Lobby. John will be there to encourage us with a message of God’s grace and how to embrace His love toward us. It is a day you won’t want to miss. It is a day I don’t want you to miss. Moments like this have the potential to be life-changing.

Romans 3:21-24 (Message Version) But in our time something new has been added. What Moses and the prophets witnessed to all those years has happened. The God-setting-things-right that we read about has become Jesus-setting-things-right for us. And not only for us, but for everyone who believes in him. For there is no difference between us and them in this. Since we've compiled this long and sorry record as sinners (both us and them) and proved that we are utterly incapable of living the glorious lives God wills for us, God did it for us. Out of sheer generosity he put us in right standing with himself. A pure gift. He got us out of the mess we're in and restored us to where he always wanted us to be. And he did it by means of Jesus Christ.

Can’t wait to see you on Sunday.

Pastor Rick

God Bless America!!

GOD BLESS AMERICA!! I am so thankful to be placed in this Country to live my life. Having traveled to other nations and experienced other cultures, there is nothing that compares to what we enjoy here. We are going to celebrate our blessings on Sunday, July 4, and focus on how to live in this time of spiritual challenge. Jesus gave us some incredible direction in the Sermon on the Mount from Matthew 5. We are going to look at the attitudes He instructs us to embrace. I’m looking forward to sharing these dynamic truths with you.

July brings a fresh focus for our men’s and women’s Bible studies. You will be blessed by this four week opportunity to learn, grow, and interact with others.

Have a great 4th of July holiday!!

Pastor Rick

Epic Sports Accomplishments

This has been a week of two epic accomplishments in the world of sports. Wednesday, the U.S. soccer game against Algeria had about 15 minutes remaining when it was time for our staff to gather for our weekly staff chapel. We decided to cram in to the boardroom and watch the conclusion of the game. When the U.S. team scored the only goal of the game with two minutes remaining, there was quite a roar in the room. They now advance to the round of 16 teams left in the tournament.

Then, at the Wimbledon tennis tournament, the longest match in history was played between American John Isner and Nicolas Mahut from France. The match was played over three days because of darkness setting in the first two days. It lasted 11 hours and 5 minutes and the deciding fifth set was won by a score of 70 games to 68. In the fifth set, a player has to win by two games and there is no tiebreaker provision. The two players won their service games one after the other until finally Isner broke Mahut’s serve in the 138th game of the set. It has been a historic week in sports.

I love sports but even these remarkable achievements are not as important as what we will be doing on Sunday. There is nothing like worshiping God because of His amazing love and mercy toward us. We will be sharing Holy Communion together, providing study Bibles for believers in third world countries through our donations of $10 per Bible, and learning about our purpose in our community. Life is packed with purpose when we pursue God’s best for our lives.

Here is our memory verse for Sunday: Matthew 5:16 . . . let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

Pastor Rick

Purpose at Home

I am writing today from Munich, Germany, where we are concluding our trip with 100 travelers to Israel and Oberammergau for the Passion Play. It has been a wonderful experience and we are now looking forward to getting home to see everyone. Our flight leaves at 4:00 p.m. in Munich and arrives at 7:00 p.m. in San Francisco. We pick up nine hours on the way back. Feels a little bit like time travel. Can’t wait for Sunday!

“Purpose at Home” is our focus for Father’s Day. When we think clearly about the opportunities we have to represent Jesus to our family members we can really make a difference for them. It’s going to be a great day of worship and encouragement! Life really can be packed with purpose.

Since we last saw our grandson, Judah, two weeks ago, he has started clapping, sitting up on his own from a laying down position, and his first tooth is breaking through. What a trip! A lot can happen in two weeks.

Colossians 3:21 Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.

We are going to have an awesome weekend!!

Pastor Rick

Packed with Purpose

I am communicating with you from the lobby of our hotel in Jerusalem, Israel, having just returned from a day of walking the Via Del A Rosa, praying at the Temple square, visiting the house of Caiphus where Jesus was held as a prisoner overnight during his trial, having communion in the Garden Tomb, and praying at the Wailing Wall. Not a bad day!! I am also multi-tasking as I listen to Jason’s message from last Sunday. What a great start to a month “Packed with Purpose.”

This Sunday we will focus on missions with our Global Purpose and hear the testimony of a good friend of my family, David Wigington. David lost his arm in a tragic accident with a meat grinder at 16 years of age. He has learned incredible life lessons through this significant trial. It will be another fulfilling day at CCC.

Even though we are having an incredible time on our spiritual pilgrimage in Israel, my heart is still home in Sacramento. I love what God is doing in our lives as we pursue His plan for our present and future. You are an important person in our family of believers! I’m looking forward to seeing you on Father’s Day after returning from our trip.

John 9:4-5 As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.

Shalom,

Pastor Rick

Personal Purpose

Our theme for June is “Packed with Purpose.” It is going to be a great month beginning with this Sunday’s kick-off regarding our “Personal Purpose.” I’ll be in Israel and Jason Harper will be sharing a study from the Scriptures inspiring us toward God’s best for our lives. It is going to be a great day and an important foundation for the month!

I would like to encourage you to start thinking about one of our annual missions
projects . . . the Fire Bible. The Fire Bible is the name for the international language editions of the Full Life Study Bible, one of the few Pentecostal study Bibles in existence. Often referred to as a one-book Pentecostal library, this study Bible contains 77 theme articles, a concordance, 45 maps and charts, introductions to each book of the Bible, and Pentecostal study notes. It is often the only study resource pastors have in many countries of the world. It is impossible to calculate the value of such a resource.

Our goal is to count the number of Bibles we own and consider contributing $10 per Bible toward the translation and printing of the Fire Bible. This year’s project is the Korean language. We will be receiving a special offering for this incredible mission’s project on Sunday, June 25. It will be the capstone to our month of learning how we are packed with purpose.

Jeremiah 33:2-3 This is what the LORD says, he who made the earth, the LORD who formed it and established it—the LORD is his name: 'Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.'

Pastor Rick

Fruits of the Spirit

We will be honoring those who have fought for our freedom on Sunday. Any military personnel are encouraged to come in uniform. We are a blessed people because of the sacrifice of thousands through the years. We must never forget the high cost of freedom. Our spiritual freedom came at a high cost to Jesus and our national freedom comes with a high cost to those who fight for us.

The month of May wraps up with our final study in the fruits of the Spirit. I am inspired by the picture God paints for us of what we can be when we walk closely in relationship with Him. We are growing in knowledge and we want to put that knowledge into action. It’s going to be a great day!

Galatians 5:1 Christ has set us free to live a free life. So take your stand! Never again let anyone put a harness of slavery on you.

Pastor Rick

Patience, Kindness, Goodness

Cathy and I had a wonderful experience this past weekend visiting Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas. The service we attended was full of God’s presence and it was a joy to worship the Lord with the thousands who gathered. On Monday we joined with about 50 pastors from around the country to dialogue with Joel Osteen about partnering with him to reach the millions of unchurched people who watch their weekly television program. There are about 20 million viewers of which 10 million are not connected to a church family. We were deeply moved by Joel’s heart to introduce people to the hope we find in relationship with Jesus. He is a humble and tender-hearted leader who has surrendered His life to be used by God. We are looking forward to partnering with them as they bring their Night of Hope to Sacramento at Arco Arena on November 5, 2010.

Sunday our focus from Galatians 5 lands on three more fruits of the Spirit: patience, kindness, and goodness. It is so important that we receive the truths of God’s Word into our lives to transform us. I am anticipating growing with you as we open our hearts to God’s love and encouragement.

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

Pastor Rick

Love, Joy, Peace

The rest of May we will be learning how to grow in character so that there is good fruit coming from our lives. People need something good to happen around them, to them, and in them. We have such incredible opportunities to influence our world toward faith in Jesus simply by growing in our ability to live by the power of His Spirit. It’s pruning time! We are going to rid ourselves of the bad fruit and cultivate the good.

Sunday also presents a great experience with the children of Capital. They will be presenting a great message through their gifts, talents, and enthusiasm for the Lord. Please consider supporting our children with your presence on Sunday evening at 6pm.

Galatians 5:25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

Pastor Rick

Go Girl

THANK YOU FOR CARING!! Last year our Capital family gave $1,083,000 to missions work in the United States and in 76 countries around the world. All this in the midst of the worst recession we have seen in several decades. It is a great honor to participate in sharing the hope we have in Jesus with the world. Please consider joining with us in contributing monthly to this world-wide mission.

$10 a month provides a day of radio programming in Indonesia.
$20 a month provides 40 audio Bibles to disciple new believers in their own language.
$25 a month provides diapers and formula for a newborn orphan in Romania.
$30 a month provides a lifetime of clean water for three families in a third world country.
$40 a month provides tuition, room and board for a national pastor to be trained for ministry in their own country.

Sunday is Mother’s Day. I am looking forward to gathering for lunch with my family which will include my mom, my wife, my daughter who is now a mother, and Judah, the seven month old light of our lives. “Go Girl” is the theme of the day. It is going to be a joy-filled day!

Remember . . . God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline (2 Timothy 1:7).

Pastor Rick

Growing Good Fruit

If you missed last Sunday you can access the inspiring message from Sean Touhy at http://ccconline.cc/videos.php?q=view&id=257. It was a day you don’t want to miss.

Our theme for the month of May is “Growing Good Fruit.” We begin this Sunday with a look at our global impact. We have several hundred partners with feet on the ground in countries all around the world. We are contributing to good fruit in ways we don’t even realize. I am looking forward to celebrating God’s love for us and considering what I can do to continue to grow good fruit.

Are you looking for an enjoyable event this weekend? Friday and Saturday present opportunities to take in Beauty and the Beast at our Performing Arts Center. The Fine Arts department of our high school will present this musical and they always do an amazing job. You won’t be disappointed.

Romans 10:11-13 As the Scripture says, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame." For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."

Pastor Rick

Challenging Yet Exciting Days

It would be hard to find someone who has not heard of or seen the movie The Blind Side. With that in mind, this is a great weekend to invite a friend to come with you to Capital. Sean Touhy, the real-life father of The Blind Side story will be speaking in all three morning services. It will be so good to hear the story from the man who lived it.

These are challenging yet exciting days. When we turn to God in tough times we experience His love and grow closer to Him. The closer we grow to Him the more grace we have in us to give to others. Our healing becomes an opportunity to influence others toward their healing. I am grateful you are walking out this journey with me.

2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.

Can’t wait to see you!

Pastor Rick

Space 3

Our theme for this month is all about reaching people who don’t have faith in Jesus. We started with a tremendous Easter weekend of outreach and we will end the month with Sean Touhy, the real-life father who took a homeless teenager into his home and the story was made into the movie Blind Side. This is a great opportunity to invite a friend to hear his story.

If you are involved in coaching any youth sports, Character Combine is another place where you can hear Sean Touhy. The Combine takes place on Saturday, April 24, and you can register or find more information at www.charactercombine.com.

This Sunday we will be focusing on Acts 17 and Paul’s interaction with a crowd of unbelieving philosophers in Athens. There are significant methods we can learn from Paul’s approach. I am looking forward to celebrating our love for Jesus with you and continuing our spiritual journey together.

1 Peter 3:15 But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.

Pastor Rick

Outreach Opportunity

Easter weekend was an incredible experience! The Savior, Healing Hands musical was presented with excellence by our Music and Creative Arts Ministry. A big thanks to Pastor Rob for his vision and leadership. We had 5,000 people attend one of the three presentations. There were about 4,000 at the Easter egg hunt on Saturday which was well organized by Pastor Ed and his team. Then, on Easter Sunday we had 5,262 worship with us. A big thank you to all our volunteers who made this a spectacular weekend!

We continue the theme for April of outreach with a focus on our task. It is more like an opportunity than a task. The word task sounds more like a duty or obligation. I like to think of what we can do to reach those without faith as more of an opportunity. It is a joy. The foundation for Sunday’s message will be Micah 6:8. “He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

I’m looking forward to celebrating with you and strategizing how we can invite our friends to join us on Sunday, April 25, to hear the real life father of the Blind Side story. Sean Touhy will be our guest and he will provide a great conclusion to our focus for the month.

Pastor Rick

Easter Celebration

Cathy and I have been in L.A. taking a short vacation break before a very busy, but exciting, season in the month of April. We have had a great time with Nate and Lisa catching up with them in their life’s journey and engaging in thoughtful conversation. Good times!

Can’t wait for all we will experience this weekend. We begin with the Good Friday communion service at 12:15 pm and then open the doors for three presentations of the musical/drama “Saviour, Healing Hands,” at 7:30 pm and 4:00 and 7:00 pm on Saturday. Easter Sunday we will have music from the choir at 8:00 and 9:30 am and a message of celebration in all three services including 11:15 am. You might want to come to the early service or arrive early for the others as we will most likely have overflow crowds.

Acts 4:33 With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all.

Pastor Rick

Armor Project: Helmet of Salvation & Sword of the Spirit

I am basking in the glow of this past Sunday. Together we contributed $53, 821 for One Day To Prevent Homelessness. It was my privilege to present this check to the community on KCRA 3 news this past Monday evening. The community total is at $230,000 and rising. Most of the churches had not yet reported their response so we feel confident the $400,000 goal will be met. I am so proud of you for your continuing generosity to help hurting people at home and around the world.

Sunday we will complete the Armor Project with a study of the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit. It will be another wonderful day of worship, prayer, fellowship and learning.

Be sure to prepare for the Easter weekend and invite someone to the musical on Friday or Saturday and then to one of our Easter Sunday services. There will also be a great outreach for families on Saturday with the Easter Egg Hunt. These are all wonderful opportunities to make the love of Jesus known to others.

Ephesians 6:17-18 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

Pastor Rick

The Armor Project: Peace and Protection

We have a wonderful opportunity this week to make a difference in our community through One Day To Prevent Homelessness. There are currently over 80 churches cooperating in this effort to raise $400,000 in the next two months that will be matched four times by federal funds for a total of $2,000,000. This will allow several hundred families and individuals to have permanent housing who would otherwise be out on the street. Please consider what you can do to give a special offering this Sunday. One Day To Prevent Homelessness is asking those who are able to donate one day’s worth of our monthly rent or mortgage payment. That one day will result in a lifetime of benefit for someone.

We will continue our Armor Project theme on Sunday. This week the focus is about preparing ourselves with the right shoes and the shield that will protect us. We will be strong as we equip ourselves with all that God provides.

Don’t forget this week’s memory verse: 2 Corinthians 5:21 - God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.

These are exciting times. I can’t wait to see you again on Sunday!

Pastor Rick

Moving Forward in Victory

Great things are happening at CCC this Sunday and it’s always better when you are there! We continue our Armor Project focus with a look at two pieces of the armor we are instructed to put on. There is a real enemy out there trying to bring us to defeat. But there is a real Savior out there who will not let that happen if we ask for His help. We are moving forward in victory!

We have a great opportunity in front of us to make a difference in our community. The homeless population is growing and Mayor Kevin Johnson has organized a broad coalition of community leaders to bring help to those in need. On Sunday, March 21, we will participate in an offering that has the potential to provide housing for hundreds. If the Sacramento community can raise $400,000 in the next four months, the federal government will match these funds four times to a total of $2 million. One Day to Prevent Homelessness is an initiative asking for those who are able to contribute the equivalent of one day’s rent or mortgage payment. Would you consider joining Cathy and me in this effort? One week from Sunday we will receive this special gift for hurting people in our own community.

KCRA 3 news has agreed to help get the word out for others to join the faith community in responding to this need. The week of March 22, they will be making a strong appeal. They will have a phone bank set up to take pledges as people respond. If you would like to volunteer to help with the phone bank at channel 3, you can call (916) 442-3691 on Monday, March 15, and ask for Kim Castaneda. She will be coordinating volunteers for five hour shifts: 4 a.m. to 9 a.m., 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., or 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. beginning Monday, March 22.

James 4:7 is our memory verse for this week. “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
Pastor Rick

The Armor Project

We had an exciting conclusion to BASECAMP last Sunday with the Katinas. We also experienced our largest attendance for a regular Sunday in our history with 4,182. If you completed BASECAMP and would like to meet with one of our leaders to explore what’s next in your spiritual journey, simply fill out the What’s Next form at the Information Counter in the lobby and return it to us. You will then be contacted for a personal meeting that I am confident you will enjoy. For anyone who missed BASECAMP, the next opportunity to access this information will be in April. The class will begin the week after Easter on April 11 in the Parlour.

This Sunday we begin a month-long series called THE ARMOR PROJECT. God has given us what we need to succeed in a troubled world. He provides us with armor for safety and victory over the enemy. We can walk in confidence in the midst of a battlefield. I’m looking forward to studying God’s Word with you and finding insights that will make a difference in our daily lives.

Ephesians 6:10-12
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Pastor Rick

BASECAMP: Love

CELEBRATION planned for Sunday!! We finish our month of BASECAMP with the Katinas helping us celebrate. They will be leading worship in all services and sharing some of their awesome music with us. The week’s study is all about LOVE: receiving it and giving it away to others.

BASECAMP is a four week study that will now be the entry point for everyone coming to our church. It covers our HISTORY and VISION, our commitment to TRUTH (know it), GROWTH (pursue it), and LOVE (give it). We will all have a common understanding that will help us stay unified and focused on our spiritual journey. Once completing BASECAMP, if you would like any assistance in how to get involved at Capital or discover what is available to you for continued growth, simply fill out the WHAT’S NEXT? form that will available at the information counters. We will then provide a personal meeting with one of our leaders to assist you in where to go from here. Membership can also be pursued if desired. The leader you meet with can answer any membership questions you might have.

The month of March we will be studying the ARMOR PROJECT. It is critical that we are equipped today to deal with the challenges we are facing in the world. God gives us what we need to thrive and succeed. I am looking forward to a great month of growth with you.

Isaiah 54:10 “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed," says the LORD, who has compassion on you.”

Pastor Rick

BASECAMP: Growth

Week three of BASECAMP is coming on Sunday. We will be looking at some of the disciplines that help us GROW in our spiritual journey. It is quite exciting to discover the joy and fulfillment that comes with making steady progress in our relationship with Jesus and with our family and friends.

We must refuse to be defined by our past. As we take responsibility for our actions and turn to God for help, we find forgiveness, restoration, and a new picture of what our future holds. We will not quit in our pursuit of growth.

Ephesians 4:14-16
Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

Pastor Rick

Basecamp: Truth

BASECAMP is underway! We are studying the foundations of our spiritual life this month and clearly defining the vision that inspires and guides us. If you missed last Sunday, you can access the message online at: http://ccconline.cc/video_detail.html?id=620. It would also be possible to open up another tab on your computer and follow along in our magazine. There are graphics and copy that will help to make everything clear as you listen. The message content begins on page 8 in the magazine which can be located at: http://ccconline.cc/c5mag/index.htm.

This week we will study the commitment we have to TRUTH and how we can know the truth. The study will encompass the truth about the Bible, salvation, water baptism, communion, and the Holy Spirit. This would be a great week to invite a friend to join you. The truth will be presented in a very compelling manor.

Don’t forget to express your love to the important people in your life. Valentine’s Day is a wonderful reminder that expressing our love is an important virtue. Let’s strive to show the fruits of love all year long.

I am also pleased to inform you that the final Sunday of this month will bring the Katina’s our way. They are going to provide a special feature to the concluding week of BASECAMP. Lot’s of exciting things going on these days. Don’t miss it!

John 8:32 “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

Pastor Rick

Basecamp

An exciting month is before us! We are concluding a week of fasting and prayer with a prayer meeting on Saturday at 6:00 p.m. It would be great if you could join us for prayer. Then, Sunday begins a series of four weeks called “BASECAMP”. Last year I received clear direction from the Lord in refining our vision for our church family and clarifying the process for how those new to our church can become a part of our family and grow to spiritual maturity. BASECAMP will be the entry point for everyone so I wanted to expose our entire church to this teaching. This will be done in the four Sunday’s of February. This week we begin with an interesting view of our 94 year history and provide an introduction to the vision. Here is the vision simply stated: A commitment to TRUTH (know it), GROWTH (pursue it), and LOVE (give it) leads to a healthy life. You are going to receive a lot of information in these four weeks that you will want to hang on to as the foundation for becoming all God has designed you to be. I can’t wait to share it with you.

Wednesday nights provide another opportunity for growth. The Men’s and Women’s Bible Studies are gaining momentum and we would love to have you there if it works in your schedule. There is a place for every member of the family with great children’s and youth meetings at the same time.

Looking forward to growing with you this month.

John 8:32 “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

Pastor Rick

Pressing In

We had a wonderful time last Sunday believing God for miracles. It was not meant to be a one day focus. Let’s keep pressing in for all God has for us and make faith a daily exercise as we trust God for His supernatural supply. We begin a week of fasting and prayer on Monday that will culminate in a special prayer meeting at 6pm on Saturday. Join me in this Transformation Challenge. Choose from the following options:
• Fast all meals
• Fast two meals a day
• Fast one meal a day
• Fast an entertainment convenience – i.e. television, internet, magazines

When fasting, replace the time being fasted with the spiritual pursuit of Bible reading, prayer, meditation, and journaling. Humbling ourselves by fasting releases the Holy Spirit to do His special work of transformation in us. Fasting renews spiritual vision and reduces the power of self so that the Holy Spirit can do a more lasting work.

During our fast, let’s focus our prayers on these things:
• Reaching Sacramento with the good news of God’s love
• Receiving clear vision for our church from the Holy Spirit
• Physical healing
• Personal finances
• Corporate finances to advance God’s work
• Local, State, National, and world leaders
• Family life – marriage and children
• Personal spiritual transformation

Don’t forget to join us for the concluding prayer gathering on Saturday, February 6, at 6pm.

I am looking forward to Sunday with much anticipation. We will make a new friend with our musical guest, Steve Bell. Steve will be sharing his life and music in the morning services and then a full concert Sunday evening at 6pm. I’ll be speaking on the subject: Hungry for Greatness. It is going to be a great day in God’s presence!

Matthew 23:11-12
The greatest among you will be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.

Pastor Rick

Miracles

We had another great experience on Wednesday night with the women’s Bible study meeting in the Activities Center and the men’s Bible study meeting in the upper concourse. There is an excitement in the air as we pursue growth in our lives and find fresh connections with others that are on the same path. It’s not too late to join in. Check it out this next Wednesday at 7:00 pm. You can bring the whole family as the children and youth have gatherings happening at the same time.

Miracles are the theme for Sunday. We could all benefit from a few miracles in our journey with God. There will be special prayer for anyone needing the miracle of forgiveness, the miracle of deliverance, the miracle of provision, and the miracle of healing. God is willing and waiting to touch us in supernatural ways.

Matthew 4:23-25
Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed, and he healed them. Large crowds from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea and the region across the Jordan followed him.

Pastor Rick

Reconciliation

Monday is the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday and it provides us a wonderful opportunity to express God’s heart for the equality of all mankind. Sunday morning our focus will be “Reconciliation.” Through faith in God we can find healing and restoration for past offenses. We are going to celebrate the unity we have because of His love and grace.

Sunday evening we are joined by Christ followers from many other churches in our annual Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration service. It is going to be a wonderful day as we come together in the name of Christ.

2 Corinthians 5:18-19 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.

Coming in February: CCC’s Vision and Values. It is going to be an exciting month of
inspiration and vision for the future. I can’t wait to share these truths with you!

Pastor Rick

Do Something

Faith is worthless if we do not act upon it. We pursue knowledge and faith in God’s grace and power so that we can live a life that is marked by His presence. “Do Something” is the theme for Sunday’s services. It could be a life changing weekend!

Wednesday, January 13, begins a new study for women and men in separate settings. We are going to grow in our love for God and how to walk out His will for our lives. Something special happens when we encourage one another in our spiritual journey. Come expecting great things from this pursuit of truth and power.

James 2:18 But someone will say, "You have faith; I have deeds." Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do.

Coming in February: CCC’s Vision and Values. It is going to be an exciting month of inspiration and vision for the future. I can’t wait to share these truths with you!

Pastor Rick