October 13, 2023
Dear Radiant,
As the tragedy of terrorism and war has struck another corner of our world, friends, let us soften our hearts to pray. I confess, sometimes I don’t know how to pray in times like these. I confess my heart is callous to the all too familiar images of war.
Here is a prayer from Pete Greig that we can pray alongside:
“God of Israel, Lord of all nations, Prince of Peace, we cry out to you today for the frightened, hurting people of Israel and Gaza – these very lands you know so well.
First, we pray with all our hearts for those grieving the sudden loss of loved ones, those who’ve been captured, and those whose homes have suddenly been destroyed. “A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.’ Matt. 2:18
Second, we pray for a miraculous de-escalation of this dangerous conflict. Terrible things have been done, hundreds have died and thousands are in hospital. Many are suddenly grieving, but we pray that reason would reduce retribution and that mercy would somehow prevail over judgement.
Finally, we pray for active and effective peacemaking at an international political level. May the measured voices of diplomacy prevail over warmongering on every side.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
…
This Sunday
The “Simple Way” series continues as we encounter Jesus’ admonition to keep our speech simple: let our “yes” mean “yes” and “no” mean “no.”
In our culture that seems to bounce between cynicism and superficiality, sincerity is like water in the desert (and it happens to work better too!).
What if our simple word was enough? What if our yes really meant yes, and no really meant no?
Join us this Sunday night at 5.
EVENTS CALENDAR (see below for details)
Home Churches are now in session!
Tuesdays – The Alpha Course 6-8PM
10/27 – Women’s Christian yoga gathering
10/29 – Newcomer’s Pizza
11/3-11/5 – Fall Middle School Retreat (contact Ulisses to sign up.)
11/8 – Men’s Ax Throwing Event
11/12 – Second Sunday Chili Cook-off
WOMEN’S CHRISTIAN YOGA – 10/27
Ladies, you are invited to join us for a night of peaceful Christian yoga. Stretch and slow down with us on a Friday night at 7pm as we explore meditating on God’s word and worshipping him through movement. We are planning on socializing afterwards. Bring a yoga mat or a large towel, water bottle and a treat to share. Looking forward to a night of connection!
NEWCOMER PIZZA – 10/29
Hey, let’s grab some pizza together! If you are new or newish to Radiant it would be great to get to know you a bit. We’ll enjoy some pizza and answer any questions you have about Radiant — our vision, our beliefs, and how to get involved. Jill and I are planning for a post church pizza connect at our house on 10/29. RSVP to Zach – 209.497.3710 so we can plan accordingly.
THE ALPHA COURSE – TUESDAYS 6-8PM
What is Alpha? Alpha is a series of conversations about things we all question in life: Why do bad things happen to good people? What’s the purpose of life? What’s next?
It’s for those exploring Jesus, for those who are skeptical, for those who want to be refreshed. It is an 10 week course, but you are welcome to come to the first gathering to check it out, no commitment required. This is a great community to invite friends who are exploring faith — all questions welcomed If you’re looking for a judgment-free space to ask hard questions, share your own opinion, or even just observe, there’s a place for you. Sign up here.
HOME CHURCHES ARE NOW IN SESSION
Radiant Home Churches are communities of discipleship in the way of Jesus and are foundational to our life as a church. If you are not currently in a home church, or would like to try a new Home Church, please fill out this interest form, and we’ll follow up with you as the groups take shape. You can also directly reach out to the leaders listed below and they will get you connected. 
UPCOMING YOUTH EVENTS
MIDDLE SCHOOL FALL RETREAT
Nov. 3-5 2023 at Mission Springs Conference Center, Scotts Valley, CA
These weekends are known for being wonderful places of connection for our students, a space to encounter God, and include ridiculously fun activities like 9 square, crafts/ board games, and even a zipline! Contact Ulisses Vasquez (209.541.8536) for more information and more details.
RE-VISION TRIP TO INDIA
Though we are young church plant, we believe God has called to global partnership and relationship with Jesus movements around the world — particularly among the global poor. As part of the discernment process, we are sending Ellie Gundlach to India to learn about the ministry of the Hindustani Covenant Church. She will be joining other Covenanters on a revision trip from 10/16-10/27. Please pray for Ellie. She will be posting to our band app a few updates while traveling as well as share in service after her return. If you would like to financially support the trip you can do so here (select the “India Re-vision Trip for the drop down menu”).
THE CHILI COOK-OFF IS COMING BACK!
On 11/12 we’re doing a chili cook off contest. We’re pumped. If you would like to bring chili – please let Laura Fowler know – fowlercsr@gmail.com
BAND APP
One way to connect at Radiant is to join our BAND APP group. Think of this as a sort of Radiant message board — our own little social media space. People can extend invites, share a
GIVING UPDATE
Thank you for your generosity and partnership in Radiant’s ministry. Here’s the online link for giving, tithes, and offerings.
Grace and Peace,
Zach
zach@radcov.org
209-497-3710
