May 1 Communiqué

Posted on April 30, 2021 by sunnysidechurch

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Greetings church family,

I remember the first time I stepped into an Adventist school. I didn’t know anybody. I was in fourth grade, my mom had started attending church pretty seriously and decided to put my sister and I in our local Adventist school. Mountlake Terrace SDA school. Mrs. Christie was my teacher. She was an older lady that ran a tight ship. If you were out of line, you’d feel regret and get into line as quickly as you stepped out. She also showed her softer side when reading time came. If there was a touching part of a story, Mrs. Christie would tear up and have to take her little handkerchief and wipe her eyes.

It was Mrs. Christie, then, in succession, Mrs. Wommack, Mrs. Chase, and then the big world of Junior High with Mr. Busby, Mrs. Tait, Mr. Roemer, Pastor Dan, and the rest of the gang. We became a family. Life-long friends were made in that little Adventist school.

After 10th grade I went to Auburn Adventist Academy. Again, life-long friendships were forged in those formative years. I’m pretty sure I didn’t learn much in class. But, boy oh boy, did I enjoy the friendships I developed.

There’s something about an Adventist school experience that stands out as special as the years go on.

Little did I know that the Lord would lead me to be the principal of an Adventist school years later in ministry. For five years I was the principal of Cascade Christian Academy, a daycare through 12th grade school in Wenatchee, Washington. During those years I saw in my students the same experience I had. To this day I see on social media these kids, now in their 30’s getting together and hanging out like family. They still call me, message me, and keep the relationship with me and their other teachers alive because that experience meant so much to them.

This Sabbath we get to share our church with Portland Adventist Academy and their alumni. These will be happy times for folks to come together and share loving memories of days gone by. The students that will be performing during the service will see how thick the bond has remained between these old friends.

Let’s welcome our constituent school with open arms and celebrate with them this Sabbath.

Pastors Mark Witas

News & Notes

THIS WEEKEND

Welcome back! Just a reminder, masks are required to cover the mouth and nose for the entire service and while you are in the building, 6′ distancing must be maintained, sit in the unmarked pews, and please no handshaking or hugging. If you have a medical condition or other reasons that will prevent you from wearing a mask properly, or feel you cannot maintain distancing, please take this opportunity to watch livestreaming from the comfort of your home.

Welcome to Portland Adventist Academy students, alumni, and staff as we enjoy the program they have prepared in celebration of PAA alumni weekend. A special welcome, also, to Dr. John McVay, president of Walla Walla University, who will present today’s Bible message.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Mother’s Day is coming soon and we would like pictures of our congregation and their mothers for our May 8 church service. Please put your name with your picture, sending it as a .jpg by May 5 to info@sunnysideadventist.org. Thank you.

Cherry Park Elementary School is having a Suds and Duds event that the Sunnyside Church is invited to participate in. We are looking for new shoes for girls and boys, kids sizes 8-12 and adult sizes 4-8. They are also needing “suds,” which would be soap, shampoo, conditioner, laundry soap, dish soap, and dish washer liquid. We will have receptacles in the church lobby to receive donations. Thank you in advance for blessing the families in our community with your generosity.

We would like to publicly recognize special milestones in your life. Please take a moment to share with us special birthdays, anniversaries, or any other celebrations. We are family and we would like to share with each other. Send an email to info@SunnysideAdventist.org or call the office at 503-252-8080 and let us know the latest with your family!

Our flower calendar is now posted in the hallway and online. (Go to our website, www.SunnysideAdventist.org, click on “Our Ministries.”) Please choose a date to share flowers with your Sunnyside family for worship services and place your name on it. As the date gets closer, we will contact you to see what you would like in the bulletin about the flowers.

Directory photos — just a reminder. We have a photo directory, but we are missing many photos or several need to be updated. Please help us know who you are by picture. Send a snapshot or professional picture and we will upload it to the directory for you. Thank you.

Parents/Grandparents we would love to see pictures of your children/grandchildren working on the crafts from the activity packets. Please send them to jackeeduvall@hotmail.com.

Several of our classes are meeting during this challenging time via Zoom. We want to share these with you — if you see one that you would like to join, send your contact information to info@SunnysideAdventist.org or call 503-252-8080, and we will make sure you receive a Zoom invitation to join. Here is a list of Sabbath School classes: the Santiam class (Gingrich, Fenn, Hill, Martin & Westermeyer); the Reboot Bible study group (Glovatsky, Kielman, Dickerson, and Dragulin); Steffen Moller and his team of teachers, Jim’s Through-the-Bible study class, and a class led by Tom Stafford, Raymond Baker, and Dean Browning; the Faith Time group; and the Romanian group. On Wednesday morning there is Women’s FaithLift prayer ministry group; and a men’s Bible study group. Let us know if you would like to join in!

During this difficult time, if you are in need of financial help for rent, utilities, or other needs, the Family Resource Network stands by to help. Or if you know of a fellow church member that may need help and is hesitant to ask, let us know. Call the church office at 503-252-8080 or send an email to info@SunnysideAdventist.org.

LIFE AT SUNNYSIDE

Today: Daniel Bradley, Eileen Emori, Corinne Sage, Miroslav Sidorenko, Melody Spiker; Monday: Judy Denis, James Johnstone, Judy Kramer, Dekebo Yadeto; Tuesday: Mimi Jones, Janna Lian, Tracy Malone, Gabe Pinto; Wednesday: Taina Allen; Herb Hanson, Tracey Krueger, Alan Mason, Rachel Stout, Allana Westermeyer; Friday: Ron Benfield, Shelly Sanders

Last Week’s Church Service

ADVENTIST EDUCATION

Portland Adventist Elementary School

http://www.paes.com

Portland Adventist Academy

http://www/paasda.org

We have FINALLY returned to full-time and in-person school this week! We ask for your continued prayers as we navigate these fun new challenges. Pray for safety and for stamina for the final weeks ahead. Pray for healing during financial stressing seasons.

PAA/PUA Hybrid Alumni Sabbath is May 1:
Portland Adventist (Union) Academy is thrilled to offer a pandemic-safe Alumni Sabbath on May 1, 2021. In-person spots are available for both morning worship (11:15 am at Sunnyside SDA Church) and honor year reunions (2:45 pm at PAA) but space is limited and must be reserved. Both events can be accessed virtually. Find out more and RSVP HERE or by calling PAA at 503.255.8372.
(https://paasda.org/development/alumni/)

PAA Summer World History Class:
High school students can earn a year’s worth of history credit in just six-weeks at Portland Adventist Academy. This is an ideal course for incoming freshmen or any students hoping to free up room in their schedule for fun elective classes. The course begins June 21 and will meet weekday mornings through July 30. Register online HERE. (https://paasda.org/news/summer-class/)

PAA Staff & Student Week of Worship:

Thanks to the pandemic, Portland Adventist Academy has been streaming its weekly Chapels, Student Week of Worship, and now Staff Week of Worship. You can watch and share them all on YouTube HERE. We hope these messages continue to bless you for years to come! (https://paasda.org/news/watch-share-staff-week-of-worship/)

If you’re an Amazon shopper, you can add Portland Adventist Academy as your AmazonSmile charitable organization. Amazon will donate a percentage of your purchases to PAA. You can feel good knowing that you’re helping our students receive a Christ-centered and character-driven education! Create your account at www.smile.amazon.com. Search charitable organizations for Portland Adventist Academy. Link: https://paasda.org/news/amazon-smiles-at-portland-adventist-academy/.

Walla Walla University

https://wallawalla.edu

Walla Walla University is hiring both faculty and staff position right now! To see a list of available positions, job descriptions and to apply, please visit: jobs.wallawalla.edu.

Area Events and Announcements

PACS Food Pantry Drive-thru OPEN Mon-Fri from 9:00-11:00 am. We are still operating with social distancing and social responsibility. If you or someone you know needs food please tell them about us. If you cannot make it to PACS please send a note with someone and they can get you food. Any questions please call PACS at 503-252-8500 or email pacsfood2020@gmail.com. Located at 11020 NE Halsey St, Portland OR 97220

PACS Thrift Store is OPEN – we have temporary hours: Mon-Thurs 9:00 am-5:00 pm & Friday 9:00 am-2:30 pm. Our donation drop-off center is open and we value your donations but due to a high volume of donations please call ahead to see if we are accepting, 503-252-8500. Located at 11020 NE Halsey St, Portland OR 97220.

PACS Thrift Store – At Home Shopping: www.facebook.com/groups/pacsthriftstore

Empty Egg Cartons? PACS Needs Them!
If you have any 12-count empty egg cartons we would love to take them off your hands to use in our food pantry! Please drop them off at our Office or Donation Receiving. Thank You In Advance!

Job Opportunity:

PACS is hiring!

Needed! A full-time Donor Experience Specialist.
Includes full benefits including health, vision, dental, PTO, and more.
For more information contact laura.pascoe@pacsonline.org

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April 24 Communiqué

Posted on April 23, 2021 by sunnysidechurch

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Greetings church family,

God, Grant Me Wisdom

One of the most common prayers that I pray is, “God, grant me wisdom.” Many times I feel unwise, unqualified, untrained, or just plain in the wrong place, and that is why I pray this prayer so much. Wisdom is interesting because even the most wise people will have different definitions of what wisdom actually is.

John Calvin wrote, “True wisdom consists principally of two parts: the knowledge of God, and the knowledge of ourselves!”

J.I. Packer says, “Wisdom is the power to see and the inclination to choose the best and highest goal, together with the surest means of attaining it.”

Adrian Rogers said, “Wisdom is the ability to see life from God’s point of view.” (I like this one!)

Vance Havner said, “If you lack knowledge, go to school. If you lack wisdom, get on your knees! Knowledge is not wisdom. Wisdom is proper use of knowledge.”

While these are all great answers, I would like to try and formulate my own working definition on wisdom with you, and many of us may be surprised that we already have everything we need to be as wise as Solomon. Let’s head to Proverbs 18:12-16.

12 Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.
13 To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.
14 The human spirit can endure in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear?
15 The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.
16 A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great.

You may look at these and say, “I know all of this already!” and I would agree with you.

Humility is better than pride. Check.

Best to listen before answering. Check.

A positive attitude can overcome a lot. Check.

It is wise to want to learn. Check.

A gift (implying humility once again, which is probably not a coincidence) can open doors that threats (or pride) won’t budge. Check.

We know all of these things, right? None of these will jump off the page at you and give you, or I, the silver bullet to automatically becoming wise. And that is kind of the point.

Jesus gives us a great example of who is wise in the kingdom of God. As I look around the world, even when justice is rightfully carried out, there are still more problems then I care to think about (because it gives me more anxiety than I care for), and every answer that I can think of on how to solve some of our problems comes from the “Sermon on the Mount.” In this wonderful message, that was 30 years in the making, Jesus “bookends” his message with two phrases that, I believe, gives us a great working definition on wisdom. In Chapter 5:19 Jesus says, “but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven” and in Chapter 7:24 Jesus says, “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.”

So, what does it mean to be wise? We all know that it isn’t knowledge alone, because if it were we would all be a lot more humble, listen better, want to learn more about not only what we like but what other people like, and in all circumstances have a positive attitude (why does it seem like this the hardest one). Wisdom is knowledge in action. According to Jesus, the wise person is the person who hears what God is saying and then puts it into action.

So, here is the good news. You have everything you need to be wise. My question is, how much of it are you actually putting into action? How kind are you being to your neighbor? When your spouse upsets you, or your kids are getting on your nerves, or your dog won’t leave you alone when you are trying to have some quiet time with God, what is your response? How eager are you to actually learn about what the opposite voting side believes? When is the last time you humbled yourself and sacrificed what you want for someone else, even those closest to you?

Hard questions, but someone needs to ask them. My prayer for you this week is that you look at the things that God has already revealed to you, and put them into practice. See what God blesses out of your wisdom!

Love you church family!

Pastor Billy Hungate

News & Notes

THIS WEEKEND

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Parents/Grandparents we would love to see pictures of your children/grandchildren working on the crafts from the activity packets. Please send them to jackeeduvall@hotmail.com.

LIFE AT SUNNYSIDE

Today: Stacy Butler, Susan Chin, Peggy Collin, Dora Johnson; Sunday: Milo Denham, Donald Frood, Allenson Gepford,Charlton Gepford, Genevieve Gepford; Monday: Suzie Harwood, Charley Moore, Margaret Wagner; Tuesday: Judy Bruce, Melissa Lewis; Wednesday: Jane Nelson; Friday: Janene Benfield

Life At Sunnyside

Last Week’s Church Service

Genny Jensen, Kathy Rosenquist, Tom Stafford

Advent Trombone Quartet:: Roger Rosenquist, Jerry Davis, Dennis Springer, Jim Newell,
Lynn Rognsvoog, piano

ADVENTIST EDUCATION

Portland Adventist Elementary School

http://www.paes.com

Portland Adventist Academy

http://www/paasda.org

PAA Staff & Student Week of Worship:

Walla Walla University

https://wallawalla.edu

Walla Walla University is hiring both faculty and staff position right now! To see a list of available positions, job descriptions and to apply, please visit: jobs.wallawalla.edu.

Area Events and Announcements

PACS Thrift Store – At Home Shopping: www.facebook.com/groups/pacsthriftstore

Job Opportunity:

PACS is hiring!

Needed! A full-time Donor Experience Specialist.
Includes full benefits including health, vision, dental, PTO, and more.
For more information contact laura.pascoe@pacsonline.org

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April 17 Communiqué

Posted on April 16, 2021 by sunnysidechurch

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Greetings church family,

Black Bears and Angels

Do you have stories that you will tell your children and grandchildren of times when you felt God’s protection in a special way? You know these stories are important to share. I imagine we all have stories like that, and I hope you are sharing them with your families.

I want to tell you one that happened to my mom. Most of you already know that I grew up in a small town 300 miles north of Vancouver, B.C. as the crow flies. The town was Bella Coola, which means beautiful valley. We lived on property with 116 acres that was at the foot of one of the mountains. It was my playground growing up.

Roaming on our property we would see moose, deer, and black bear, and hundreds of bald eagles. One time I saw a huge timber wolf looking at my dad while he was burning excess wood that he was clearing for an orchard. Since bear were rather common, most of the time, we were not too concerned about our safety because black bear will usually run the other way. They don’t see well, and they really don’t like having to deal with trouble if they can help it. They normally mind their own business like we do ours. Sometimes we would chase them out of our orchard if they were eating too many apples. Several times, I would be riding our little Honda 70 on the back trails of our property and would run into one on the trail. The bear and I would look at each other curiously, but not with alarm. We would acknowledge each other then go our separate ways.

One day however, my mom was on one of her walks in the back area of our property. It was near the creek that ran down the one side of the mountain. There was one particular spot where a rocky cliff full of huge stones and rugged outcroppings ran on one side. My mom was just passing it when a mother black bear, who happened to have 2 cubs tucked in the rocks, suddenly smelled mom’s human scent as the wind swept passed her. She felt threatened with her cubs so near and so she started charging right towards my mom.

Can you imagine how you would feel if this was happening to you? I know my mom was surprised because black bear rarely do this. As the bear charged, our dogs took up stations right on each side of my mom. They didn’t budge. They didn’t bark. They just stood their ground to protect my mom. As the bear got about 6 feet away, she stood up on her haunches and threw her head from side to side bawling out a roaring warning.

My mom was facing the bear and was backing away with the dogs. She was praying all the while stepping backwards carefully. Telling the bear that she was not going to harm her babies. My mom said her heart was beating so fast and the adrenalin was pumping so hard getting her ready to run, but she instinctively knew that running would not be the right thing to do. So, she kept stepping backwards slowly, staying eye to eye with this mama black bear as she backed away step by step.

Mom said it was so strange. After the bear stood up and roared, she seemed to finally see my mom and the two dogs. Instead of continuing to charge she backed away and then ran down the trail back to her babies.

What a relief! My mom said her legs felt a bit weak at first, but when she felt it was safe, she finally turned around and hurried home. My mom always felt that her guardian angels were on both sides of her along with the dogs to let the mother bear know that she shouldn’t come any further and that my mom was not going to hurt her.

My mom and our whole family thanked God that day so much for his watchful care over that very dangerous situation. Not everyone lives to tell a story like that.

Sometimes we feel like we are coming up to an unexpected challenge that is charging right at us and we feel helpless. Maybe it is a relationship that is toxic. Maybe it is health challenges. Maybe it is this crazy pandemic that has completely toppled our equilibrium. No matter what it is, maybe we can learn a lesson.

#1 Face your challenges, don’t avoid them.

#2 Pray that God will let you know how to deal with the challenge. Is this something you should stand your ground on? Is this something you should back away from? Or is this something that you should stand still and watch God’s timing to deal with the issue.

Whatever you are facing. I know that God will be with you. He promises that He will be with you in your coming and going. He will help you face every challenge no matter what it is. However, I have learned he never forces Himself on anyone who doesn’t want Him around. So ask Him to be a part of your everyday world and when those big challenges come up you will already be so used to trusting Him to get you through that it won’t be as scary as it would be without Him. My prayer for you this week is that you will see His hand of love walking with you to face whatever comes your way.

Pastor Wendy Witas

News & Notes

THIS WEEKEND

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Please pray for the family of Norman Price who passed away Wednesday, April 7, 2021.

LIFE AT SUNNYSIDE

Shonie Scheller celebrates her 91st birthday Monday, April 19! Happy birthday, Shonie!

Today: James Cason; Sunday: Ginaya Drake; Monday: Duane Mitchell, Stephanie Taylor; Tuesday: Ana Siminel; Wednesday: Rosemayne Thompson, Jennifer Colby; Thursday:
Ingrid Schmidt; Friday: Deborah Boskind, Gabriela Hutuleac, T.W. Philip, Kathy Schaffer

ADVENTIST EDUCATION

Portland Adventist Elementary School

http://www.paes.com

Portland Adventist Academy

http://www/paasda.org

ENTER TO WIN $1,000 TUITION!! Whether you are a new or returning student, if you complete your RenWeb registration for next school year, you will be entered into a drawing for $1,000 towards your 2021/2022 tuition. If you are also interested in a scholarship for next year, you will need to complete your FACTS Financial Aid Application as soon as possible. See the ENROLLMENT/REENROLLMENT section on the first page for a link to the FACTS application.

Walla Walla University

https://wallawalla.edu

Walla Walla University is hiring both faculty and staff position right now! To see a list of available positions, job descriptions and to apply, please visit: jobs.wallawalla.edu.

Area Events and Announcements

PACS Thrift Store – At Home Shopping: www.facebook.com/groups/pacsthriftstore

Job Opportunity:

PACS is hiring!

Needed! A full-time Donor Experience Specialist.
Includes full benefits including health, vision, dental, PTO, and more.
For more information contact laura.pascoe@pacsonline.org

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April 10 Communiqué

Posted on April 8, 2021 by sunnysidechurch

Don’t miss other Announcements & Week At a Glance (Click here)
Or visit our website at:

Greetings church family,

Snippets of Sunnyside’s Story

The Story of Sunnyside’s Rieger Organ – Part 5
Rieger Organ Dedication and Inauguration Program
(Excerpts from the printed program 1988)

Blessings,

Pastor Dave Allen

News & Notes

THIS WEEKEND

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Please pray for the family of Marion McGhee who passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Monday, April 5. A memorial service will be conducted in Phoenix on Sabbath, May 8 at 5:00 pm. This will be livestreamed from the Adventist Worship Center. On Sabbath, September 4, 2021, at 5:00 pm, there will be another memorial here at Sunnyside Church.

This year’s Oregon Conference Connect town hall meetings will be in-person events around the conference and throughout the month of April. Sunnyside Adventist Church will host on April 14, 7:00 pm. This event will be livestreamed for those unable to make it in person. We hope you’ll join us. We look forward to seeing you all in person!

LIFE AT SUNNYSIDE

Special Events:

Harold Burden celebrated his 90th birthday yesterday! Happy birthday, Harold!

Happy Birthday!|
Today: Lidia Hutuleac, Roger Rosenquist; Sunday: Katia Sanchez; Monday: Larry Bullock, Barbara Niss; Tuesday: Morry Anotta, Edmond Betz, Roy Dahl, Adoniah Simon; Wednesday: Donald Dealy II, Lydia Krueger-Blehm, Tom Stafford; Thursday: Dale Davies, Michael Dufresne,
Lisa Wang; Friday: Alexander Sidorenko, Sr.

Last Sabbath’s Worship Service

Sunnyside Chamber Orchestra
Matt Mandrones, director

ADVENTIST EDUCATION

Portland Adventist Elementary School

http://www.paes.com

Portland Adventist Academy

http://www/paasda.org

Walla Walla University

https://wallawalla.edu

Walla Walla University is hiring both faculty and staff position right now! To see a list of available positions, job descriptions and to apply, please visit: jobs.wallawalla.edu.

Area Events and Announcements

PACS Thrift Store – At Home Shopping: www.facebook.com/groups/pacsthriftstore

Job Opportunity:

PACS is hiring!

Needed! A full-time Donor Experience Specialist.
Includes full benefits including health, vision, dental, PTO, and more.
For more information contact laura.pascoe@pacsonline.org

We also need a Goods Processor, Receiver and Goods Pricer-part time for their thrift store. Contact laura.pascoe@pacsonline.org for information.

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April 3 Communiqué

Posted on April 2, 2021 by sunnysidechurch

Don’t miss other Announcements & Week At a Glance (Click here)
Or visit our website at:

Greetings church family,

The Crucifixion is not a defeat overturned by the Resurrection; the Crucifixion is a victory revealed by the Resurrection.

Seventh-day Adventists have long experienced an awkwardness with Easter Sunday. After all, it is on Sunday.

In one previous church I decided to hold a sunrise service on Easter Sundays to meditate on the resurrection of Jesus. I had more than one church member corner me in my office complaining about the Catholic/pagan influences on the holiday and that we shouldn’t have anything to do with it.

It happened that I was in some of these people’s homes around Christmas time. They had Christmas trees all lit up and lights on the outside of their house. When I asked them about the pagan origins of Christmas, they didn’t seem to be so concerned about those.

A few thoughts on Easter—

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the most seminal moment of this earth’s history. It changed everything. The power of death was defeated. The devil was punched in the nose. Humanity achieved victory in that one powerful act.

The resurrection is symbolic of the Christian life and our baptism. When we gave our lives to Christ our old selves were put to death and we were resurrected with Jesus into a new life that cannot be defeated by death. Not only is this true of the day we were baptized, it’s true every day. Each day we die to self and come to life in Christ!

The Crucifixion is not a defeat overturned by the Resurrection; the Crucifixion is a victory revealed by the Resurrection! Ponder this. Meditate on it. And see what you come up with.

The devil revealed his character in fullness as Jesus was slaughtered on that cross. He used his agencies (the empire and religion) to take his wrath out on the Son of God. This demonstration of demonic wrath vs. the character of Jesus, who took on sin and suffering to save lost humanity, is all the evidence we need to see that love wins the day. The devil demands death. Jesus breathes new life. The devil kills. Jesus resurrects.

I for one, am thrilled that Easter Sunday comes around once a year to remind a dark world that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I’m glad that we take a day from each year (I know it’s likely not the day that Jesus actually came out of the tomb, that that’s okay with me) and celebrate Jesus. Happy Easter my friends!

Pastor Mark Witas

News & Notes

THIS WEEKEND

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Sabbath School quarterlies for April-June are now available. There is a stack on the ledge next to the office window where you may help yourself. If you need one mailed to you contact the office at 503-252-8080 or send an email, info@SunnysideAdventist.org. We’ll make sure you get what you need.

The March/April Children’s Sabbath Packets are available in the church foyer. If you do not have a code to get into the church, contact Rosie at the church office, 503-252-8080. Packets contain lesson stories, memory verses, crafts, and activities for each Sabbath in January and February. We have packets for Beginners, Kindergarten/1st grade, Primary 4th/5th grades, and Junior High.

Praying for Your Grandchildren: The Why’s and How’s of Prayer as a Critical Component of Our Spiritual Legacies This is highly recommended for grandparents who want to help their grandkids stay healthy, happy, and pass on their faith in God to them. This is an incredible resource that will give you great tools when you don’t know what to do but love your grandkids and want to help. Parents will be blessed by registering and tuning in as well. https://us02web.zoom.us/…/WN_7CTH1sBxQAOcinI8vm8vqw…

LIFE AT SUNNYSIDE

Pastor Mark Witas

Pastor Billy Hungate

Donna Mitchell

Raymond Baker

Pastor Wendy Witas

Alan Swope, Alex Geschke, Erik Nielsen

ADVENTIST EDUCATION

Portland Adventist Elementary School

http://www.paes.com

Portland Adventist Academy

http://www/paasda.org

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Once again, you – the PAA / PUA family – have come through strong in response to the H20 Project Matching Gift Campaign.
GOAL: $20,000 – to activate a match of up to $20,000 for gifts received by May 3, 2021
RECEIVED TO DATE: $16,885 !!!
84.43% of goal
REMAINING: $3,115
Your response has been absolutely wonderful!
Thanks to you, PAA is able to address several water-related needs that will keep our campus functioning for our students. Work has already begun on replacing valves on the incoming water main.

And now, also because of your generosity, we have reached our Gym Roof Replacement goal of $95,000!
Gym Roof Replacement
GOAL: $95,000
SUCCESS!!! GOAL MET!!!
Thank you!!!

Walla Walla University

https://wallawalla.edu

Walla Walla University is hiring both faculty and staff position right now! To see a list of available positions, job descriptions and to apply, please visit: jobs.wallawalla.edu.

Area Events and Announcements

PACS Thrift Store – At Home Shopping: www.facebook.com/groups/pacsthriftstore

Job Opportunity:

PACS is hiring!

Needed! A full-time Donor Experience Specialist.
Includes full benefits including health, vision, dental, PTO, and more.
For more information contact laura.pascoe@pacsonline.org

We also need a Goods Processor, Receiver and Goods Pricer-part time for their thrift store. Contact laura.pascoe@pacsonline.org for information.

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March 27 Communiqué

Posted on March 26, 2021 by sunnysidechurch

Don’t miss other Announcements & Week At a Glance (Click here)
Or visit our website at:

Greetings church family,

The Paradox of the Eremos

I have an admission to make. Praying, for me, is the hardest part of the Christian walk. Can anyone relate to that? I would guess that it is my upbringing; however, I have met countless people who have had the same difficulty. Why is that? What do we do? How can we do it? Well there are a few texts in the Bible that can get us started in the right direction.

There is a fascinating rhythm in the gospel of Luke where we can chart Jesus’s life along two axis points: the busier and more in demand and “famous” Jesus became, the more he withdrew to his quiet place to pray and be alone with God. What an interesting and completely unorthodox idea. In our life today, the busier we become the more we feel like we need to do. The more our life creeps up on us with children, job promotions, increased ministry opportunities, the earlier we feel we need to get up and the later we need to stay awake just to be able to accomplish a “normal” day’s work. Jesus takes that notion and turns it upside down with one simple term eremos.

Eremos in Greek is defined as solitary, lonely, desolate, uninhabited. We know this word very well. In Luke 4, we read that when day came, “Jesus left and went to a secluded (eremos) place;” In Luke 5 we read, “But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness (eremos) and pray. Interestingly enough, in Matthew, after Jesus was baptized, he was “led by the Spirit into the wilderness (eremos).” Why was Jesus lead to the eremos by the Spirit? This is a question I have asked so many times in my life.

The eremos is not a place of weakness; it’s actually the place of strength. This is completely contrary to what I was taught and believed growing up. The eremos where Jesus was for 40 days and 40 nights, all the time fasting, and in the most obvious text in all of Scripture Matthew says, “He was hungry.” In this moment, we look at Jesus as someone who was hungry, in the wilderness, and this is where satan attacks Him. I’ve always thought, man Jesus was so strong even when He was so weak, but the eremos is not a place of weakness, it is a place of strength. 40 days, 40 nights in a secluded place, in communion with God, without food, was the exact space that Jesus needed to be to take on the devil himself, walk away unscathed, and defeat satan’s tactics in a place where even satan himself thought Jesus would be weak. If you read the gospels you will see Jesus continually going back to the eremos for strength.

So why don’t we do this? A research team from University of Virginia in Charlottesville did a study of hundreds of students at the undergraduate level. They were told to stay in a room for 15 minutes and be alone with their thoughts. In the initial research they found that whether they were in the room for 6 minutes or 15 they were all miserable being left alone with their thoughts. Then they decided to take the experiment a step further. For 15 minutes, the team left participants alone in a lab room in which they could push a button and shock themselves if they wanted to. The results were startling: Even though all participants had previously stated that they would pay money to avoid being shocked with electricity, 67% of men and 25% of women chose to inflict the painful shock on themselves rather than just sit their quietly and think.

Why is this important? We live in a world where our attention spans are 7 seconds, and we rush through life running from one appointment to another, one Zoom meeting to another, and the stress and 24/7 news cycle preys on our minds for attention. Our entire world, has been created to capture our attention, and it is no wonder why sitting alone with Jesus in the eremos it seems impossible to spend 5 minutes, and we would rather shock ourselves or check our iPhones to see who has posted some new political post on Facebook.

The eremos is a place that we can all get to; however, this is a training practice over a trying practice. We will not get anywhere if we try harder. This is also a practice that is not performance based. We are given great insight into how to start this process. “But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly” (Matthew 6:6). If you want to spend some time in the eremos, in the secret place, with God, Jesus says all you need to do is go into your room and shut your door.

Tangible. Easy to start. Incredibly difficult to do. I have been practicing the eremos myself for a few months now because Jesus tells me to do it (Matthew 5:19 , Matthew 7:24); however, it has not been easy. But Jesus doesn’t want our performance, He wants our presence. Start a little at a time, shut the door behind you, and be in the eremos with Jesus. He is waiting for you!

Love you church family!

Pastor Billy Hungate

News & Notes

THIS WEEKEND

This afternoon at 3:00 pm: Community Prayer Strategy — Please come and join us for a prayer walk through the community. We will be walking throughout the neighborhood praying for our neighbors as we intercede for them to have a stronger relationship with Christ. We are open to as many of you as possible to join us.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

A special thank you from Brenda Siaw to all of you for your prayers, cards, and phone calls during the passing of her mother.

The March/April Children’s Sabbath Packets are available from the information desk in the church foyer. If you do not have a code to get into the church, contact Rosie at the church office, 503-252-8080. Packets contain lesson stories, memory verses, crafts, and activities for each Sabbath in January and February. We have packets for Beginners, Kindergarten/1st grade, Primary 4th/5th grades, and Junior High.

Adventist Education

Portland Adventist Elementary School

http://www.paes.com

Portland Adventist Academy

http://www/paasda.org

And now, also because of your generosity, we have reached our Gym Roof Replacement goal of $95,000!
Gym Roof Replacement
GOAL: $95,000
SUCCESS!!! GOAL MET!!!
Thank you!!!

ENROLLMENT/REENROLLMENT IS OPEN FOR 2021-2022
Save $125 by enrolling online between now and March 31. To get started with online enrollment, current families can go to www.renweb.com and log into ParentsWeb. Contact Mary Sperl for assistance at 503-519-6868 or msperl@paasda.org. To apply for Financial Aid, please complete the 2021-2022 FACTS Financial Aid Application as soon as possible to get the most out of the available funds. Contact Darcie Hordofa for assistance at dhordofa@paasda.org or 971-351-9015.

Walla Walla University

https://wallawalla.edu

Walla Walla University is hiring both faculty and staff position right now! To see a list of available positions, job descriptions and to apply, please visit: jobs.wallawalla.edu.

Area Events and Announcements

PACS Thrift Store is OPEN – we have temporary hours: Mon-Thurs 9:00 am-5:00 pm & Friday 9:00 am-2:30 pm.
Our donation drop-off center is open and we value your donations but due to a high volume of donations please call ahead to see if we are accepting, 503-252-8500. Located at 11020 NE Halsey St, Portland OR 97220.

PACS Thrift Store – At Home Shopping: www.facebook.com/groups/pacsthriftstore

Empty Egg Cartons? PACS Needs Them!

If you have any 12-count empty egg cartons we would love to take them off your hands to use in our food pantry! Please drop them off at our Office or Donation Receiving. Thank You In Advance!

Job Opportunity:

PACS is hiring!

Needed! A full-time Donor Experience Specialist.
Includes full benefits including health, vision, dental, PTO, and more.
For more information contact laura.pascoe@pacsonline.org

We also need a Goods Processor, Receiver and Goods Pricer-part time for their thrift store. Contact laura.pascoe@pacsonline.org for information.

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March 20 Communiqué

Posted on March 19, 2021 by sunnysidechurch

Don’t miss other Announcements & Week At a Glance (Click here )
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Greetings church family,

The SHOFAR

Pastor Mark and I traveled to Israel in 2018. It will always be one of the most epic impactful trips of my life. Most of you know that I love music and musical instruments.

Israel has unique instruments that are spiritually and prophetically symbolic. It was with anticipation that I walked through one shop in the town of Bethlehem, searching for a unique instrument for purchase. Soon my eyes fell upon a long horn curled and curved in a unique way. The light hit it in such a way that I was captivated instantly. It was about three feet long. It was hollow inside. When you blow on it, depending on how you purse your lips more firmly or less firmly, you can produce a variety of tones from low to high. I knew instantly that this was the one I wanted to have.

This horn is called a Shofar. A Shofar is made from a ram’s horn or other kosher animal. It is used for Jewish religious purposes such as announcing the New Year, new moon, or to bring in the Sabbath. Shofars were also sounded at the start of a war, like when the walls of Jericho fell. It would also pronounce the anointing of a new King.

Probably, the most prominent spiritual reason for the use of the ram’s horn was when a ram was found that had its horns caught in a bush on Mount Moriah long ago. You know the story of Abraham and his obedience to offer his son as a sacrifice. According to Leo Rosten, a Jewish author, “The bend in the shofar is supposed to represent how a human heart, in true repentance, bends before the Lord. The ram’s horn serves to remind the pious how Abraham, offering his son Isaac in sacrifice, was reprieved when God decided that Abraham could sacrifice a ram instead.”

This last Sabbath, I felt like it would have been a great time to blow the horn of the shofar for the Sunnyside Church because we were able to meet again in person for the first time in a year since Covid-19 hit. We are now embarking on a new expanding way to share the good news about who God is which combines online and in-person ministry. The horn is blasting through zoom meetings, rising in pitch through live-stream services that have had an even greater reach than normal. Now we are beginning the privilege of our in-person meetings. Together we want to declare who the King truly is; this One who gave the ultimate sacrifice for us. The shofar is also blown because the King is coming soon.

As we begin this new transitional season of being able to meet in person again think of your role in how you will share Jesus. May you be like a shofar that sounds out a call to wake up, live, and love to the fullest, like Jesus, in the way we treat others and love our God. Rise to the challenge to face whatever comes with courage because our King is coming soon. He is worthy of our worship to sound the trumpet and horn so the world will hear and be transformed by our loving God. So sound out the horn loudly this week.

Pastor Wendy Witas

News & Notes

THIS WEEKEND

This afternoon from 2:00-3:30 pm, there will be a North American Division Religious Liberty webinar titled “Christian Witness in an Era of Covid-19, Christian Nationalism, Racial Injustice and the Equality Act. Our own Andre Wang will be on the panel. View on the Liberty Magazine SDA YouTube channel.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

The March/April Children’s Sabbath Packets are available from the information desk in the church foyer. If you do not have a code to get into the church, contact Rosie at the church office,
503-252-8080. Packets contain lesson stories, memory verses, crafts, and activities for each Sabbath in January and February. We have packets for Beginners, Kindergarten/1st grade, Primary 4th/5th grades, and Junior High.

Directory Update — We are missing many photos! We would love to have your photo in our directory. If you haven’t given us one, please upload a photo through your Elexio app or send a snapshot to info@SunnysideAdventist.org. If you can’t email it, mail it, we’ll scan it, and return it to you. It does not have to be one that is professionally taken. We just want to be able to identify you with a photo! Thank you for your help with this.

Adventist Education

Portland Adventist Elementary School

http://www.paes.com

Portland Adventist Academy

http://www/paasda.org

Walla Walla University

https://wallawalla.edu

Walla Walla University is hiring both faculty and staff position right now! To see a list of available positions, job descriptions and to apply, please visit: jobs.wallawalla.edu.

Area Events and Announcements

PACS Thrift Store is OPEN – we have temporary hours: Mon-Thurs 9:00 am-5:00 pm & Friday 9:00 am-2:30 pm.
Our donation drop-off center is open and we value your donations but due to a high volume of donations please call ahead to see if we are accepting, 503-252-8500. Located at 11020 NE Halsey St, Portland OR 97220.

PACS Thrift Store – At Home Shopping: www.facebook.com/groups/pacsthriftstore

Empty Egg Cartons? PACS Needs Them!

If you have any 12-count empty egg cartons we would love to take them off your hands to use in our food pantry! Please drop them off at our Office or Donation Receiving. Thank You In Advance!

Job Opportunity:

PACS is now hiring for Goods Processor, Receiver and Goods Pricer-part time for their thrift store. Contact laura.pascoe@pacsonline.org for information.

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March 13 Communiqué

Posted on March 12, 2021 by sunnysidechurch

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Or visit our website at:

Greetings church family,

Snippets of Sunnyside’s Story
The Story of Sunnyside’s Rieger Organ – Part 4
Seeing Red!

Looking at the façade of the installed Sunnyside Rieger organ, you will notice panels of burgundy. When these were originally painted at the Austria factory, no-one had informed the manufacturers what Sunnyside’s preference of color would be or what color choice might best match the newly decorated sanctuary. And so it was quite startling for many when the installed organ had these bright pillar-box red panels!

As usually happens under these circumstances, there was a division of opinion at Sunnyside. Some liked the bright red panels that emphasized the uniqueness of the Rieger organ, others did not.

Gene Lysinger remembers the late Frank Reynolds observing, The bright red has the effect of drawing together the lighter French (European) Oak of the organ’s cabinetry and the redder American Oak of the platform areas around the organ. BUT, Frank quickly added, I STILL DON’T LIKE IT!

Needless to say, the panels were repainted with the current burgundy to match the sanctuary décor of the day.

I so appreciate the talented people who risk being at the forefront of decision-making on matters relating to choice of color, fabric, tile, and textures in our fine facility and especially in the church sanctuary. They must find a consensus of preference and style amongst strong and good opinions. And when their deed is done, their work draws the family to a beautiful facility and in the sanctuary, we glorify God together. Thank you!

Blessings

Pastor Dave Allen

News & Notes

This Weekend

Welcome back! This is the first week we have been able to worship together in-person in a year. Just a reminder, masks are required to cover the mouth and nose for the entire service and while you are in the building, 6′ distancing must be maintained, sit in the unmarked pews, and please no handshaking or hugging.

This afternoon at 3:00 pm: Community Prayer Strategy — Please come and join us for a prayer walk through the community. We will be walking throughout the neighborhood praying for our neighbors as we intercede for them to have a stronger relationship with Christ. We are open to as many of you as possible to join us.

Announcements

Sunnyside Church Board meeting will be Wednesday, March 17, 7:00 pm via Zoom. Board members, watch your email for your Zoom invitation.

Our new flower calendar is now posted in the hallway. Please choose a date to share flowers with our Sunnyside family for our worship services and place your name on it. As the date gets closer, we will contact you to see what you would like to place in the bulletin about the flowers.

Adventist Education

Portland Adventist Elementary School
http://www.pae s.com

Portland Adventist Academy
http://paasda.org

If you’re an Amazon shopper, you can add Portland Adventist Academy as your AmazonSmile charitable organization. Amazon will donate a percentage of your purchases to PAA. You can feel good knowing that you’re helping our students receive a Christ-centered and character-driven education! Create your account at www.smile.amazon.com. Search charitable organizations for Portland Adventist Academy. Link: https://paasda.org/news/amazon-smiles-at-portland-adventist-academy/

*Area Events and Announcements***

ABC Sale: The Adventist Book Center’s Case Food Sale is February 28 to March 14. Deliveries are available. For all the details, download the sale flyer at www.abcflyer.com .

POSTPONED TO March 13, 6:00 to 7:00 Sabbath evening. Please use a red Crayon to circle this date on your calendar. Bright red! Giving For Our Kids will be a one-hour celebration of Oregon Conference education – the students, teachers, and staff who are living God’s miracles every day. We’ll take you inside classrooms so you can see how students are learning during Covid. You’ll hear from students, teachers, administrators, staff, and alumni – and you’ll be the first to hear an incredibly beautiful musical piece sung by our kids! Online at www.facebook.com/OregonAdventists/ and www.youtube.com/oregonadventists.

Oregon Conference Planned Giving and Trust Services. One of the benefits offered through the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department of the Oregon Conference is tax savings. Did you know that you can give all, or a portion of your required minimum distribution (RMD) from your IRA for your tithe and offerings, and not have to pay taxes on those funds? In the same way, you can give stocks directly through the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department as a donation, and avoid capital gains tax. Find out how it works by contacting Leslie Caims at the Planned Giving and Trust Services Department at 503-850-3570 or see us online at oregonadventist.org. We are here to help you provide for those you love, and also support God’s cause in the Oregon Conference.

PACS Thrift Store – At Home Shopping: www.facebook.com/groups/pacsthriftstore

Empty Egg Cartons? PACS Needs Them! If you have any 12-count empty egg cartons we would love to take them off your hands to use in our food pantry! Please drop them off at our Office or Donation Receiving. Thank You In Advance!

Job Opportunity:
PACS is now hiring for Goods Processor, Receiver and Goods Pricer-part time for their thrift store. Contact laura.pascoe@pacsonline.org for information.

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March 6 Communiqué

Posted on March 5, 2021 by sunnysidechurch

Don’t miss other Announcements & Week At a Glance (Click here)
Or visit our website at:

Greetings church family,

The old saying is, “Absence makes the heart grow fonder.” I’m not sure that this is true in all cases, but it has been true for me in my past. I grew up in a little neighborhood in Bothell, Washington. That’s just north of Bellevue (Bill Gates territory). The neighborhood I grew up in was lined with 960 square foot houses built by a developer that sold us our house for $16,700 in 1967. For the next 18 years, this would be where I grew roots. I knew all of my neighbors. I knew every trail between neighborhoods. There was a neighborhood very close to us that had a trail that led down to a creek that I and my friends would spend hours playing around. The memories are endless.

Not long ago, I was driving up I-5 for an appointment in Mount Vernon, Washington. As I drove past the exit that would have led me to my childhood home my mind started to wander. As it did, I was flooded with memories of the past. So, I decided on my way back south, to get off that exit and visit my old neighborhood.

During my visit, I visited my old home. Even knocked on the door and spoke with the current resident. Evidently, some of the graffiti I had written in the rafters of the carport was still there. I visited some of the neighbors that were still there from my childhood. I even walked down to fish creek and climbed out on the tree that stretched halfway across the water. Sure enough, the initials that my friends and I had carved in that tree were still faintly there.

Absence makes the heart grow fonder.

In one week, we will be opening the church again for corporate worship. The Sunnyside Church holds scads of memories for so many people. It’s been a year since we last worshiped together and that absence has taken a toll on many of our church members. As we gather again in a limited fashion, I’m looking forward to seeing long-time members come back into their sanctuary to rejoice and reminisce. To worship and to remember how special Sunnyside is to so many people.

Even though we are having to limit the number of people who gather, I’m guessing those who choose to come out are going to feel the fondness they have for their church and its people.

Pastor Mark Witas

News & Notes

We are excited to announce that Sunnyside Church will begin opening for in-person worship services beginning March 13, 11:15 am. State regulations for Covid will be followed: Masks are required to cover the mouth and nose for the entire service and while you are in the building, 6′ distancing must be maintained, and please observe markings on the pews so you may know where to sit. Only families living together may sit together. Again, the 6′ distancing rule must be maintained. We are limited to 170 people in the Sanctuary. Please remember if you are not feeling well, or, if you have been around anyone that has had Covid, please stay home. If you need drinking water, bring it with you. Our drinking fountains are turned off. While we are excited to worship together, it is imperative that we help each other stay well.

This Weekend

A special welcome to our Pathfinders today as they lead out in our worship service.

Welcome to our worship service via streaming video at 11:15 am. Our Pathfinders will be leading out and Pastor Billy Hungate will present our worship service with a sermon titled “A Servant of God and a Friend to Man.”

Announcements

The Church Treasurer position is now available. Due to a pending resignation, we are seeking applicants for the position of Church Treasurer. Send your résumé to the church office, Attn: Personnel Committee. If this is not a role for you, please share with someone you may know who may be qualified.

March 13, 3:00 pm: Community Prayer Strategy — Please come and join us for a prayer walk through the community. We will be walking throughout the neighborhood praying for our neighbors as we intercede for them to have a stronger relationship with Christ. We are open to as many of you as possible to join us.

If you would like a Sabbath School quarterly contact the church office and we will make sure you get what you need: 503-252-8080, text 971-238-9680, or email info@SunnysideAdventist.org. Or you may get it online at https://absg.adventist.org/nextquarter#lessons.

Adventist Education

Portland Adventist Elementary School
http://www.pae s.com

Portland Adventist Academy
http://paasda.org

PAA In-Person Tours
In-person tours of Portland Adventist Academy are available. These appointments are only available during non-school hours. Be sure to bring a mask. We follow all pandemic protocols very faithfully so we can continue meeting for in-person learning. To schedule your in-person tour, contact Mary Sperl at 503-255-8372 ext. 244 or msperl@paasda.org.

*Area Events and Announcements***

ABC Sale: The Adventist Book Center’s Case Food Sale is February 28 to March 14. Deliveries are available. For all the details, download the sale flyer at www.abcflyer.com .

PACS Thrift Store – At Home Shopping: www.facebook.com/groups/pacsthriftstore

Empty Egg Cartons? PACS Needs Them! If you have any 12-count empty egg cartons we would love to take them off your hands to use in our food pantry! Please drop them off at our Office or Donation Receiving. Thank You In Advance!

Job Opportunity:
PACS is now hiring for Goods Processor, Receiver and Goods Pricer-part time for their thrift store. Contact laura.pascoe@pacsonline.org for information.

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February 27 Communiqué

Posted on February 26, 2021 by sunnysidechurch

Don’t miss other Announcements & Week At a Glance (Click here)
Or visit our website at:

Changing Our Community
Three Miles-Per-Hour at a Time

Hey Church Family!

If I told you that you could change someone’s life at a pace of three miles-per-hour you, like me, would say that this isn’t fast enough. In our Western world today three miles-per-hour seems like torture. If you don’t agree, try getting in your vehicle and driving three miles-per-hour, I can guarantee it is almost impossible. So, how can we change someone’s life that slowly? Why can’t we do it more quickly? There is a story in the gospel of Mark, in the fifth chapter, that gives us remarkable insight into how this is possible.

In Mark 5 beginning in verse 21 we read of a synagogue leader, named Jairus, that came and fell at the feet of Jesus. He pleaded earnestly with Him, “My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hand on her so that she will be healed and live.” So Jesus went with him. (Verses 23-24). As Jesus walks with Jairus a large crowd was following him and “pressed around Him.” (v. 25). Then there was a woman who was there that was subject to bleeding for twelve years, not getting better with doctors’ visits but actually getting worse. “When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, because she thought “If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.” Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering. At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, “Who touched my clothes?” (Verses 27-30)

This is a fascinating story because here you have two individuals who are reaching out to Jesus in faith: a respected synagogue ruler and an unknown woman who was ritually unclean and disregarded in her community. One named, the other unnamed. Both risking reputation and potential shame by reaching out to Jesus. What is so interesting here is the disciples’ reaction to Jesus asking, “Who touched my clothes?” I believe one of the reasons they did this because just like us most of our lives are just a bunch of accidental contacts. We will push and shove our way through life trying to get what we want and whoever we bump into we end up accidentally either blessing someone, or being blessed by them. However, Jesus was the most sensitive and intentional man that ever lived. When someone reached out in faith to Jesus, He knew.

The disciples had a singular mission, get Jesus to Jairus’ house, and they didn’t want any interruptions. However, Jesus was the King of being interrupted, as well as being the Interrupter; however, the question is, “Are we allowing Jesus to interrupt our lives?” Jesus didn’t run to Jairus’ house because He had so much to do (He did) that He couldn’t spare another second but felt guilty because He promised Jairus He would help him. He walked. At three miles-per-hour Jesus walked and was interrupted.

“While Jesus was still speaking, some people came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” (v. 35) Can you imagine Jairus’ feelings when Jesus stopped to help someone else? Not only that but after He helped this unnamed woman He then began to preach and talk, and while this was going on Jairus’ daughter dies. Can you imagine that? Jesus then tells Jairus to not be afraid and “just believe.” (v. 36). Jesus heals Jairus’ daughter (who, just as an FYI, was 12 years old, the same amount of time as the woman who was bleeding) and then tells them not to tell anyone and to give the little girl something to eat.

This story is absolutely fascinating! Here is what I would like to focus on. Jesus heals at three miles-per-hour. Jesus was not in a hurry to get to Jairus’ daughter because He knew that God would provide. When He was interrupted by the unnamed woman He felt her reaching out to Him because He was allowing Himself to be interruptible. This leads me to ask the question, “If people in our nearest proximity were reaching out to us, would we know?”

Just like Jesus did in Mark 5 we are planning to reach the neighborhood surrounding Sunnyside church at three miles-per-hour. Starting March 13 we are going to walk around our neighborhood at three miles-per-hour and pray to God for healing for the community, as well as to allow ourselves to be interrupted by whoever we may run into and to allow them to reach out to us if they are in need. We will also be handing out a prayer card at each house to allow them to digitally reach out to the church for those who may be in need.

Also, at the beginning of the story, we read that the woman had “heard about Jesus”. She only heard about Him because someone told her. We cannot spread the love of God without telling others about Jesus. We will be having a non-traditional evangelistic series at the end of May and it will be a great opportunity to tell others all about Jesus. There may be individuals in our community, living literally right across the street from our church that have been “bleeding” for twelve years, some may be longer.

Here are three things I am asking and praying you would join in with us at the Sunnyside church:

Fill out the L.I.K.E. card (included in this communiqué) and begin to pray for each name on the list.

Come join us in our Community Prayer Strategy starting March 13 (the other dates are attached to this communiqué).

If you are wanting to help volunteer at our non-traditional evangelistic series please feel free to sign up to our volunteer list on our website: Use this link: Sign Up Sheet. (or go to www.SunnysideAdventist.org, click on “Our Ministries,” then click on “Evangelistic Series Sign Up.”)

We need table hosts, online hosts, greeters, food support, etc.

Join us in telling others about the love of Jesus! Please reach out to Rosie or me if you need help with dates or signing up to volunteer.

God bless each of you and your families!

Pastor Billy Hungate

News & Notes

We are excited to announce that Sunnyside Church will begin opening for in-person worship services beginning March 13, 11:15 am. State regulations for Covid will be followed: Masks are required to cover the mouth and nose for the entire service and while you are in the building, 6′ distancing must be maintained, and please observe markings on the pews so you may know where to sit. Only families living together may sit together. Again, the 6′ distancing rule must be maintained. We are limited to 170 people in the Sanctuary. Please remember if you are not feeling well, or, if you have been around anyone that has had Covid, please stay home. If you need drinking water, bring it with you. Our drinking fountains are turned off. While we are excited to worship together, it is imperative that we help each other stay well.

*This Weekend***

Welcome to our worship service via streaming video at 11:15 am. Pastor Mark Witas will present our worship service with a sermon titled ”Cry Out.”

Sunday, February 28, 4:00 pm, there will be a Sunnyside Symphony Orchestra concert via live stream — use this link to view: http://www.sunnysidesymphony.org.

Announcements

Adventist Education

Portland Adventist Elementary School
http://www.pae s.com

Portland Adventist Academy
http://paasda.org

*Area Events and Announcements***

PACS Thrift Store – At Home Shopping: www.facebook.com/groups/pacsthriftstore

Empty Egg Cartons? PACS Needs Them! If you have any 12-count empty egg cartons we would love to take them off your hands to use in our food pantry! Please drop them off at our Office or Donation Receiving. Thank You In Advance!

Job Opportunity:
PACS is now hiring for Goods Processor, Receiver and Goods Pricer-part time for their thrift store. Contact laura.pascoe@pacsonline.org for information.

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THIS WEEKEND

ANNOUNCEMENTS

LIFE AT SUNNYSIDE

Last Week’s Church Service

ADVENTIST EDUCATION

Area Events and Announcements

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THIS WEEKEND

ANNOUNCEMENTS

LIFE AT SUNNYSIDE

Life At Sunnyside

Last Week’s Church Service

ADVENTIST EDUCATION

Area Events and Announcements

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THIS WEEKEND

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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