October 18, 2024
Hey Radiant,
Just 17 days until the election!
For most, this isn’t an exciting countdown like one of those red and green paper Christmas chains kids make. People are anxious!
Check out these recent survey results from a recent LifeStance survey:
- The vast majority (79%) of respondents said the upcoming presidential election has caused them some degree of anxiety this year, with 21% saying it has caused them significant anxiety.
- Nearly half (44%) of respondents said political or election-related discussions have led to conflicts in their personal lives.
- Over two-thirds (72%) of respondents said social media and news coverage contribute to their anxiety about the election, and more than half (54%) limit their exposure to news and social media to manage election-related stress.
At Radiant this October, we are taking a deep breath, zooming out, and considering what it means to be politically engaged as disciples of Jesus. I believe we are in desperate need of this.
The grounding, good news is that whatever may happen electorally — locally, nationally, etc. — Jesus will still be king.
Our hope is not in this or any other election cycle.
But governments do serve (or at least are meant to serve) a good, God-ordained purpose. This Sunday we’ll look at what scripture says about human government and what it means to engage in and with them with integrity and perspective.
Friends, I know this is a tough topic and because of the church’s sometimes reckless involvement with politics. This can be an emotionally-laden subject for many.
But wince as we might, this is all the more reason for us to seek with fresh eyes and a humble spirit a path forward as we look to Jesus and scriptures.
EVENTS CALENDAR
Ongoing — Home Churches — plug in now!
10/18-10/20 – Middle School Rad YTH retreat at Mission Springs
10/20 – Newcomer’s Pizza at the Riley’s 6:30PM
10/23 – Men’s Gathering 6-7AM at ELC
10/24 – The Alpha Course 6:00-8:00PM
11/3 – Chili Cook-off and Kids Crafts
11/27 – Thanksgiving Eve Service w/ Emanuel Lutheran 7PM
NEWCOMER’S PIZZA 10/20
If you are newer or newish to Radiant and would like to learn more about our story, what we believe and how we practice it — Jill and I would love to have you over for some pizza. Not only are we excited to share about the church — but we’d like to get to know you too. RSVP here. Kiddos welcome too!
MEN’S GATHERING – THIS WEDNESDAY – 6-7AM
6am, this Wednesday. Brothers! See you there! ELC FELLOWSHIP HALL.
3rd ANNUAL CHILI COOK-OFF – 11/3
Start prepping the beans. Radiant’s 3rd Annual Chili Cookoff will be on November 3rd at ELC following the 5PM service. Bring the kids for some fun fall crafts. Let Laura know if you plan on bringing a Chili to compete! Sign up in at welcome table.
UPDATE ON CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
At the moment we are hosting full children’s ministry (nursery through 5th grade) at our 10AM service. At our 5PM we are offering nursery care through age 4. Kids of all ages are always welcomed to stay in service! Of course, we are always looking for more kids ministry volunteers — once a month at one of the services would be fantastic! Contact our children’s ministry director, Crystal Martinez at 408.802.7061
HOME CHURCHES!
Home churches are just beginning this fall. Radiant Home Churches are communities of discipleship in the way of Jesus and are foundational to our life as a church. Here’s a list of home churches. Each leader would be glad to connect with you. 
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 about needs and opportunities.
GIVING
Thank you for your generosity and partnership in Radiant’s ministry! Here’s the link to online giving.
Grace and Peace!
Zach
zach@radcov.org
209-497-3710
www.radcov.org
