It was a truck, rusted red and belching smoke into an already smoggy Portland day, late this summer. The sun was scorching the tip of my already-burned nose. I took a step or two around the side of the truck, and glanced through the cracked window. Inside was a gaunt, scruffy fellow with piercing eyes, obsessively tapping his thumb and little finger against the steering wheel in an alternating, syncopated rhythm, lips in a thin line.
“This guy?” I raised an eyebrow at Tracy, my coworker at PACS.
She nodded. “Mm-hm. I think he wants to talk to a pastor.”
“What makes you think that?”
She shrugged, then smiled, just a little.
I took another step and waved at him through the window, smiling. The man started, momentarily frozen, then all in a rush fumbled his door open, leapt from the car, and thrust his outstretched hand into my stomach.
What followed was a heartbreaking story: a broken childhood, an escape onto the streets and into addiction, and an arduous journey back to stability. He shared how he was for the first time in his life able to hold down a job, how he was in his own apartment paying rent on time, how he was barely making ends meet. Then he told of his mother coming to his doorstep and begging for him to take her in, to do for her what she failed to do for him.
Living with her would strain his tenuous mental health. Providing for her would push him financially to the brink of homelessness again. Caring for her was the last thing on earth he wanted to do.
He took her in.
Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12, ESV).
What is this light of life? Is it knowing the right things? Having the right doctrines? Conforming to a certain set of standards? Or is it something else?
What does light look like in the life of my friend in the rust-red truck?
Pastor Jonathan Stephan
News & Notes
THIS WEEKEND
Welcome to Sunnyside! In compliance with state regulations, please wear a mask over your nose and mouth the entire time you are in the building, both during Sabbath School classes and church service, as well as maintaining physical distancing. We want to do our part in promoting a healthy situation. Again, if you feel sick or have been around anyone that has been sick, we request that you stay home and watch our services on livestream.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Sunnyside Church Elders will meet via Zoom Wednesday, October 20, at 6:15 pm, just prior to the church board meeting. You will receive the same link as is used for the board meeting.
SunnysideChurch Board meeting will meet via Zoom Wednesday, October 20, at 7:00 pm. Board members, watch your email for the Zoom link.
October24, 4:00 pm, Sunnyside Symphony Orchestra will present a concert featuring Debussy’s Clair de Lune, Mozart’s Violin Concerto with Tomas Cotik as soloist, and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2. Save the date and come enjoy the Orchestra’s first concert of the season! Masks will be required along with appropriate social distancing.
Saturday, October 30, 6:00 -7:30 pm, there will be a free “Harvest Family Fun Night” at Sunnyside Church in the fellowship hall. There will be food, games, and prizes. Come for a good time and great fellowship. Everyone is welcome! Masks are required.
The Church Library is open! The library will be open on the 1st and 3rd Sabbaths of the month. Hours will be 10:45-11:15 am, and 12:30-1:00 pm. The church library has a wide selection of books available for our members to borrow, so please stop by.
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. Also, please let us know when you are sick or need other prayers. We want to be a part of your life and pray together with you. 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 posted in the hallway and online. Thank you to those of you who have signed up — we have several dates still available. Take a minute to choose a date and let us know when you would like to share flowers with your church family. (Go to our website, www.SunnysideAdventist.org, click on “Our Ministries.”) 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.
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: Marian Nance; Monday: David Scott, Mark Spiker; Wednesday: Nancy Fahrback; Thursday: Casey Carl, Reghina Lacatus; Friday: Silvia Bokich
PAA SCHOLARSHIP BENEFIT FUNDRAISER LIVESTREAM OCTOBER 31 PAA will hold its annual student scholarship (PAASS) fundraising benefit event via livestream on Sunday, October 31, 6:00-7:00 pm. The “Fall Celebration” will celebrate PAA’s mission and God’s blessings, and feature compelling conversations with students, teachers, and alumni, along with inspiring student music performances. Livestream viewers will be given the opportunity to support the PAA scholarship program with a charitable gift. Watch parties and sponsorships are encouraged. Contact svigil@paasda.org for more information. Or visit www.bit.ly/PAASSbenefit for more information.
PAA / PUA ALUMNI WEEKEND — SAVE THE DATE— May 7, 2022 PAA is planning an in-person alumni reunion morning worship service at Sunnyside Church for Sabbath, May 7, 2022. Honor classes reunions may meet on campus in the afternoon. There will also be a retirement reception for long-time math teacher, Bob Johnson, who retired at the end of last year after a 39-year teaching career and 32 years at PAA. The honor classes are: 1942 (80th Year), 1952, 1962, 1972 (50th Year), 1982, 1992, 1997 (25th Year), 2002, 2012, 2017 (5th Year – Why wait 10 years?)
AMAZON SMILE! 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
The Adventist Book Center (ABC) is currently holding its “Fall Case Foods & Book Sale.” These special prices will be in effect through November 7.
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.
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!
-Covid-19 was caught early and a vaccine prevented the pandemic.
-People’s mistrust in leaders, churches, governments etc., wasn’t at an all-time high.
Now imagine “‘if’ my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their selfish ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
It is like God is saying “You can have all the seminars and books, studies and committee’s, strategies and plans you want, but until you seek Me first with all your hearts, it is in vain.”
We are going to be working in partnership with It Is Written in February. I have to admit my skepticism in a method that seems antiquated. But God can infuse even old methods with life and vitality. God wants to move with his Spirit among us. It goes beyond what any meeting might be, because the Holy Spirit can help someone hear what they should hear and move their heart even with broken vessels and imperfect people.
Let’s ask God to prepare our hearts. May we seek His face, His love, His wisdom, and His compassion for others. We can ask God to take our skepticism, our mistrust, our anxieties over our world, and ask Him to open wide the doors of Sunnyside to reap a harvest for the kingdom of Heaven.
Pastor Wendy Witas
News & Notes
THIS WEEKEND
Tonight, Friday, October 8, 7:00 pm,we will be gathering together in the fellowship hall to watch another episode of “The Chosen.” Come and join in on this time together!
Welcome to Sunnyside! In compliance with state regulations, please wear a mask over your nose and mouth the entire time you are in the building, both during Sabbath School classes and church service, as well as maintaining physical distancing. We want to do our part in promoting a healthy situation. Again, if you feel sick or have been around anyone that has been sick, we request that you stay home and watch our services on livestream.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Finance Committee will meet Tuesday, October 12, at 6:30 pm, via Zoom. Committee members watch your email for your Zoom invitation.
The Church Library is open! The library will be open on the 1st and 3rd Sabbaths of the month. Hours will be 10:45-11:15 am, and 12:30-1:00 pm. The church library has a wide selection of books available for our members to borrow, so please stop by.
The movie “The Chosen”is being featured with a different episode each Friday night, 7:00 pm, in the fellowship hall. Come and join us for this spiritual event along with great fellowship!
October 24, 4:00 pm, Sunnyside Symphony Orchestra will present a concert featuring Debussy’s Clair de Lune, Mozart’s Violin Concerto with Tomas Cotik as soloist, and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2. Save the date and come enjoy the Orchestra’s first concert of the season! Masks will be required along with appropriate social distancing.
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. Also, please let us know when you are sick or need other prayers. We want to be a part of your life and pray together with you. 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 posted in the hallway and online. Thank you to those of you who have signed up — we have several dates still available. Take a minute to choose a date and let us know when you would like to share flowers with your church family. (Go to our website, www.SunnysideAdventist.org, click on “Our Ministries.”) 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.
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: Jan Skau, Sherrie Jo Williamson; Sunday: Annika Geschke, Evelyn Hull, Phyllis Novak; Tuesday: Cash Cotrell; Wednesday: Andrew Boskind, Douglas Chapman; Thursday: Krissy Barber, Lorraine McDonald, Marie O’Ray, Betty Spier; Friday: Jared Lehman, Mitcheline MacKintosh
http://www/paasda.org PAASS Students Need You! The Portland Adventist Academy Development Office is looking for four dependable volunteers who can work independently to assist with the annual PAA Student Scholarship Auction on November 7. There is an immediate need for go-getter volunteers to help procure auction items. Experience is not necessary. Being imaginative and creative is a plus. Volunteers may also assist with setting up the auction. One dependable volunteer is also needed for Development Office clerical assistance. Some flexibility is helpful. Contact Development Director Sam Vigil Jr. for more information at 503-255-8372 x218 or svigil@paasda.org or click HERE. (https://paasda.org/news/paa-auction-needs-volunteers/)
International Student Host Families Needed Many students from France, China, and Korea come to Portland Adventist Academy each school year. Students stay either 2 weeks, 3 months, a school year, and some stay all four years of high school. Each student needs a caring host family to support them as they’re far from home. Your home might be perfect! Host families find the time rewarding — especially as they share family traditions and American culture. Some families find deep value in sharing their love of Jesus. Learn more about hosting a student by contacting the program director, Mrs. Bibb at mbibb@paasda.org. Informational videos and PDFs are on our website HERE. paasda.org/admissions/international/host.
PAA Substitute Teachers Needed! Portland Adventist Academy is looking for responsible substitute teachers for the coming school year. Subs work with friendly and energetic high school students. Teacher’s provide all material so all you have to do is be present and follow instructions. No college degree is necessary but you must be 21 or older. Work would be occasional and only during school hours on weekdays. All candidates must pass a background check (paid for by PAA). To apply or learn more about the job, visit our webpage HERE. https://paasda.org/news/paa-substitutes-needed/
PAA Bus Driver Needed One of the many ways we strive to meet the diverse needs of our families is by providing a way for students on the west side of the city to get to PAA and back home safely each day. If you have a commercial driver’s license and can be available weekday mornings and afternoons, we hope you’ll join our team for the coming school year! The job pays well and is so rewarding. Learn more HERE. https://paasda.org/news/bus-driver-needed/
AMAZON SMILE! 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
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.
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!
Sunnyside has some unique resources that support our many ministries in and from this congregation.One of these is our Music Library where Rosemayne Thompson has spent countless hours over the last number of decades. We are extremely indebted to her for the meticulous, care-filled attention to the development of this resource. There are VERY few churches that are blessed with such a privilege.
I asked Rosemayne Thompson to outline this story:
Beginning Need
With an extra push, the door to the one-room Music Library could barely be opened with enough room for a small individual to slide through. Once inside the welcome was by many, many, many boxes covering the entire floor. Lovers of music and Sunnyside had directed this treasure trove to our Church Music Department. Thus began the organizational process of the music literature into what has become a unique Sunnyside resource.
The small alphabetic file of pendaflex folders was enlarged by necessity to organize the contents of those many boxes. Music literature was stamped with the name of Sunnyside, punched, numbered, and then filed in the expanding alphabetic file with a label identifying the title of the anthem, composer, ensemble type, and accompaniment. Additional tabs were prepared identifying the Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal number, another tab for any biblical text mentioned, and tabs for specific appropriate service (Christmas, Easter, Dedication, Farewell, etc.) for which some anthems could contribute.
It was quite a surprise to later learn that for lack of space in the Library file drawers, boxes of music had been stored in the basement of two other choir members. These boxes were retrieved and the music gradually incorporated into the growing Sunnyside Music Library.
Development
An alphabetic file by title serves well for those familiar with the music title. With time it became clear that for others, the composer name would be more helpful. A separate collection of anthems by composer name was developed to meet that need. In addition other groups of anthems as SSAA, SSA, SA, TT, BB, low voice, high voice, and male voice have been developed for the convenience of those interested in any one of those groups.
Development of this resource has been possible by a number of volunteers through the years. Hours have been dedicated to making these materials easily accessible in a number of ways. A newer development will be when the majority of resources available in the Music Library will be listed online for those looking for specific titles.
The Sunnyside Music Library, with more than 3,250 single titles, many hymnals from various denominations and numerous collections for a variety of music ensembles, donated and/or purchased, is a valuable reference and resource of music dedicated for service in the worship of God. The tools and materials are available and have been used by Sunnyside members and friends for corporate worship, for study groups, classes and home or community vespers, weddings, dedications and memorial services, etc.
Expansion
The growing volume of music created a need for more shelves and file drawers. As different departments of the Church decided they needed different storage space than was provided in the original building, they offered the set of shelves from their rooms. The Music Library gladly accepted them. One by one the shelf sets filled in the wall that now holds many anthem collections, various denominational hymnals, and very old items of Adventist historical interest.
A number of individuals have contributed to the Music Library by bringing copies of music they no longer needed or wanted, but felt that others would perhaps be able to use. Individual and choir names on music demonstrates the dozens of contributors. Choral ensemble and vocal solos, organ, piano, handbell and hand chime, brass, woodwind, string and other instrumental music have come from many locations. Music literature purchased as the Sunnyside Church budget provided is also strongly represented in the expansion of the music resources available from the Library.
A number of years ago a generous music supporter and contributor provided the building of nine additional file drawers in the first Library room, which is primarily choral and vocal music; and file drawer, shelf and cupboard space in the second Music Library room, which is dedicated to instrumental music. Music literature contributions, as well as financial contributions have been and will continue to be rich blessings for this Church family.
Along with the paper bags and boxes of music given to Sunnyside through the years, some may be viewed as more useful to others than here at Sunnyside. When there are sufficient numbers of a given anthem, the additional copies have been shared with Portland Adventist Academy, Walla Walla University or CherryWood Retirement Center.
The Music Library has supported the ministry of many pastors, choral choir and instrumental ensemble directors through the years. Visitors express awe and admiration for the breadth of this musical resource. God has provided a rich and bountiful blessing through a variety of musical expressions from many contributions and from so very many music supporters. THANKS be to God.
Pastor Dave Allen
News & Notes
THIS WEEKEND
Tonight, Friday, October 1, at 7:00 pm,we will be gathering together for a message by John Bradshaw from It Is Written.
Welcome to Sunnyside! In compliance with state regulations, please wear a mask over your nose and mouth the entire time you are in the building, both during Sabbath School classes and church service, as well as maintaining physical distancing. We want to do our part in promoting a healthy situation. Again, if you feel sick or have been around anyone that has been sick, we request that you stay home and watch our services on livestream.
The agenda for this weekend with It Is Writtenis as follows: (All meals are served only to those who made advance reservations.) Sabbath: 9:00 am: Breakfast 10:00 am: Sabbath School with Dan Linrud 1:15 am: Worship Service with John Bradshaw 1:00 pm: Lunchvfc 2:30 pm: Wes Preppers 3:30 pm: Breakout Sessions begin 5:30 pm: Dinner 6:30 pm: Evening Session with John Bradshaw Sunday: 9:00 am: Breakfast 10:00 am: Final Session with David Schwinghammer
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The Church Library is open! The library will be open on the 1st and 3rd Sabbaths of the month. Hours will be 10:45-11:15 am, and 12:30-1:00 pm. The church library has a wide selection of books available for our members to borrow, so please stop by.
The movie “The Chosen”is being featured with a different episode each Friday night, 7:00 pm, in the fellowship hall. Come and join us for this spiritual event along with great fellowship!
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. Also, please let us know when you are sick or need other prayers. We want to be a part of your life and pray together with you. 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 posted in the hallway and online. Thank you to those of you who have signed up — we have several dates still available. Take a minute to choose a date and let us know when you would like to share flowers with your church family. (Go to our website, www.SunnysideAdventist.org, click on “Our Ministries.”) 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.
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: Carina Allen, Brian Gosney; Sunday: Earl Bolton — age 107! Monday: Danilo Reyes; Tuesday: Kassy Eichele; Wednesday: Guy Dove, Beau Snyder: Thursday: Rachel Stanton
http://www/paasda.org PAASS Students Need You! The Portland Adventist Academy Development Office is looking for four dependable volunteers who can work independently to assist with the annual PAA Student Scholarship Auction on November 7. There is an immediate need for go-getter volunteers to help procure auction items. Experience is not necessary. Being imaginative and creative is a plus. Volunteers may also assist with setting up the auction. One dependable volunteer is also needed for Development Office clerical assistance. Some flexibility is helpful. Contact Development Director Sam Vigil Jr. for more information at 503-255-8372 x218 or svigil@paasda.org or click HERE. (https://paasda.org/news/paa-auction-needs-volunteers/)
International Student Host Families Needed Many students from France, China, and Korea come to Portland Adventist Academy each school year. Students stay either 2 weeks, 3 months, a school year, and some stay all four years of high school. Each student needs a caring host family to support them as they’re far from home. Your home might be perfect! Host families find the time rewarding — especially as they share family traditions and American culture. Some families find deep value in sharing their love of Jesus. Learn more about hosting a student by contacting the program director, Mrs. Bibb at mbibb@paasda.org. Informational videos and PDFs are on our website HERE. paasda.org/admissions/international/host.
PAA Substitute Teachers Needed! Portland Adventist Academy is looking for responsible substitute teachers for the coming school year. Subs work with friendly and energetic high school students. Teacher’s provide all material so all you have to do is be present and follow instructions. No college degree is necessary but you must be 21 or older. Work would be occasional and only during school hours on weekdays. All candidates must pass a background check (paid for by PAA). To apply or learn more about the job, visit our webpage HERE. https://paasda.org/news/paa-substitutes-needed/
PAA Bus Driver Needed One of the many ways we strive to meet the diverse needs of our families is by providing a way for students on the west side of the city to get to PAA and back home safely each day. If you have a commercial driver’s license and can be available weekday mornings and afternoons, we hope you’ll join our team for the coming school year! The job pays well and is so rewarding. Learn more HERE. https://paasda.org/news/bus-driver-needed/
AMAZON SMILE! 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
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.
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!
Jesus did a lot of teaching and never once did He say, “Whoever has mouths, let them speak!” yet we often spend our time with Jesus as the ones who are talking. We pray and speak to Him, if we spend any significant time alone with Jesus we tend to be the ones talking, or at least thinking in our minds about the day, what has to be done that week, why that person is rude, or how you wish you could just have a break from the kids.
Yet, Jesus cries out often, “He who has ears, let him hear!” (Matthew 13:9). This is fascinating, and also incredibly important, because what Jesus seems to be getting at is that the Kingdom of God comes through whether or not we can hear the word of God. How would you feel if I told you that I would advocate for you to have a prayer life that is comprised mostly of silence? A challenge for the week. Spend a majority of your prayer time in quiet, just listening to Jesus.
Here is why I am challenging you in this. If we can practice the art of hearing, things may change for us. Things don’t change when I talk to God; things change when God talks to me. I have noticed that when I speak, I am mostly just filling the room, or my brain, with hot air. Not much happens. However, we know that when God speaks there is power and creation, innovation, beauty, splendor, and purpose.
What if we were to be people of listening instead of speaking? What if we could practice this outside of our prayer life as well? This is something that I am trying to do a lot of recently. James 1 in The Message paraphrase tells us to “Lead with our ears.” I have been taking that as a challenge, and in many of my relationships, with God as well, I try to listen twice as much as I talk. Wouldn’t it be great to be a listening ear to someone in need. To not talk, but just to listen to intently, that you are waiting on pins and needles for the next word that comes out. Have you ever listened like that? Have you ever had anyone listen to you like that? It is transformational!
Psalm 95:7 tells us, “Today, if you will hear His voice” tells us that it is a matter of our own will if we will hear His voice. We must choose to hear Him. I am challenging every person that reads this to make hearing God’s voice one of the singular journeys in your walk with God. Jesus says, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27). The ability to hear Jesus is there. All you have to do is show up to the secret place of prayer, be quiet, and listen. Who knows what you may hear.
Love you church family!
Pastor Billy Hungate
News & Notes
THIS WEEKEND
Tonight, Friday, September 24, 7:00 pm, we will be gathering together in the fellowship hall to watch another episode of “The Chosen.” Come and join in on this time together!
Welcome to Sunnyside! In compliance with state regulations, please wear a mask over your nose and mouth the entire time you are in the building, both during Sabbath School classes and church service, as well as maintaining physical distancing. We want to do our part in promoting a healthy situation. Again, if you feel sick or have been around anyone that has been sick, we request that you stay home and watch our services on livestream.
A memorial service will be conducted for Ralph Martin Sunday, September 26, 1:00 pm, here at Sunnyside Adventist Church. It will also be livestreamed at www.SunnysideAdventist.org.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Tuesday, September 28, 7:00 pm, there will be a constituency meeting for Portland Adventist Academy. Delegates, please save the date and attend this very important meeting.
Next weekend, beginning Friday, October 1, It Is Writtenwill hold a rally here at Sunnyside Church. If you wish to share in the meals, it is important to make reservations in advance at http://maxharvestchurch.com/iiwrally. Below is the weekend agenda: Friday, 7:00 pm: John Bradshaw Sabbath, 9:00 am: Breakfast (Must make advance reservation—see link above) 10:00 am: Sabbath School with Dan Linrud 11:15 am: Worship Service with John Bradshaw 1:00 pm: Lunch (Must make advance reservation— see link above) 2:30 pm: Wes Preppers 3:30 pm: Breakout Sessions begin 5:30 pm: Dinner (Must make advance reservation—see link above) 6:30 pm: Evening Session with John Bradshaw Sunday, 9:00 am: Breakfast (Must make advance reservation—see link above) 10:00 am: Final Session with David Schwinghammer
The Church Library is open! The library will be open on the 1st and 3rd Sabbaths of the month. Hours will be 10:45-11:15 am, and 12:30-1:00 pm. The church library has a wide selection of books available for our members to borrow, so please stop by.
The movie “The Chosen”is being featured with a different episode each Friday night, 7:00 pm, in the fellowship hall. Come and join us for this spiritual event along with great fellowship!
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. Also, please let us know when you are sick or need other prayers. We want to be a part of your life and pray together with you. 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 posted in the hallway and online. Thank you to those of you who have signed up — we have several dates still available. Take a minute to choose a date and let us know when you would like to share flowers with your church family. (Go to our website, www.SunnysideAdventist.org, click on “Our Ministries.”) 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.
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: Valerie Do; Monday: Janet Flowers, Fred Goodwin; Tuesday: Raymond Betz; Wednesday: Alexander Buchanan, Andrew Buchanan, Stan Christensen, Remy Scott, Shirley Ward; Thursday: Jan Clayton
http://www/paasda.org PAASS Students Need You! The Portland Adventist Academy Development Office is looking for four dependable volunteers who can work independently to assist with the annual PAA Student Scholarship Auction on November 7. There is an immediate need for go-getter volunteers to help procure auction items. Experience is not necessary. Being imaginative and creative is a plus. Volunteers may also assist with setting up the auction. One dependable volunteer is also needed for Development Office clerical assistance. Some flexibility is helpful. Contact Development Director Sam Vigil Jr. for more information at 503-255-8372 x218 or svigil@paasda.org or click HERE. (https://paasda.org/news/paa-auction-needs-volunteers/)
International Student Host Families Needed Many students from France, China, and Korea come to Portland Adventist Academy each school year. Students stay either 2 weeks, 3 months, a school year, and some stay all four years of high school. Each student needs a caring host family to support them as they’re far from home. Your home might be perfect! Host families find the time rewarding — especially as they share family traditions and American culture. Some families find deep value in sharing their love of Jesus. Learn more about hosting a student by contacting the program director, Mrs. Bibb at mbibb@paasda.org. Informational videos and PDFs are on our website HERE. paasda.org/admissions/international/host.
PAA Substitute Teachers Needed! Portland Adventist Academy is looking for responsible substitute teachers for the coming school year. Subs work with friendly and energetic high school students. Teacher’s provide all material so all you have to do is be present and follow instructions. No college degree is necessary but you must be 21 or older. Work would be occasional and only during school hours on weekdays. All candidates must pass a background check (paid for by PAA). To apply or learn more about the job, visit our webpage HERE. https://paasda.org/news/paa-substitutes-needed/
PAA Bus Driver Needed One of the many ways we strive to meet the diverse needs of our families is by providing a way for students on the west side of the city to get to PAA and back home safely each day. If you have a commercial driver’s license and can be available weekday mornings and afternoons, we hope you’ll join our team for the coming school year! The job pays well and is so rewarding. Learn more HERE. https://paasda.org/news/bus-driver-needed/
PAA’s 50-Years of Cougars Celebration Weekend Portland Adventist Academy Cougar Athletics is celebrating 50 years! Everyone is invited to a special weekend of events in honor of Coach Bill Judd and the 1971 inaugural varsity men’s basketball team. It happens September 25 & 26 and includes a Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony with dinner as well as a 3–on–3 basketball tournament. Spread the word to supporters, alumni, and forever cougars! Information, RSVPs and reservation information is HERE. https://paasda.org/news/paa-cougar-athletics-holds-first-hall-of-fame-event/
AMAZON SMILE! 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
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.
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.
PACS is also looking for a housekeeper who can work an average of about 2 days per month providing backup for our custodian when he’s on vacation and for certain holidays. Contact Shari Ferrier, 503-252-8500.
Northwest Grace Moving is hiring. Call 503-869-2050 for more information.
I was on a trip with the high school volleyball team of the school where I was principal when it happened. We were all in a rental house watching a sports movie after a day of tournament games when a song came on.
I grew up in the era the song was first popular and I was singing along with it and then exclaimed, “I love Creedence Clearwater Revival!”
One of the adult sponsors traveling with the team said, “That’s not Creedence Clearwater.”
“Yes it is.”
“No it’s not. You’re wrong.”
“No I’m not. I’ll wager the $10 in my wallet.”
As it turns out, it wasn’t Creedence Clearwater. Not by a long shot. It was The Hollies who sang “Long Cool Woman.” I hate being wrong.
As much as I hate being wrong, I LOVE being right. About anything and everything. This love/hate relationship I struggle with has been heightened and magnified with my participation in social media.
What is a person to do when they see something posted by a friend or church member that is wrong? Especially when it comes to politics, religion or whether people sitting next to me in church should wear a face covering?
This gets more complicated as we look at the political climate in the United States and Canada today. People in red hats are sure they have all the answers to the social, economic, and moral problems our country faces. People who voted for the other guy are 100% sure that the folks in the red hats are 100% wrong about everything that they are 100% right about. And then there’s the folks with the BLM bumper stickers. They see a whole slew of historical and systemic injustices that, in their view, need attention now!
Add to that the divide between liberal and conservative amateur theologians in our church that have strong opinions about music, preaching and whether a woman should be allowed to pastor.
To complicate things further, enter the first pandemic this country has gone through in 100 years and the problems listed above come back to us 100-fold.
People are posting, saying, preaching, and shouting all kinds of facts, opinions, and all kinds of “facts!” Masks do work. Masks don’t work. Get vaccinated! Vaccinated? That’s ridiculous! Take dewormer medicine and be a vegan! God will protect you from the virus if you just have a little faith! I believe Doctor Fauci! What? He and Bill Gates are out to get you!
YouTubes are being passed around like Halloween candy. Churches are hosting “experts” in every field. streaming on computer screens, telling us what to and not to do in regards to mandates, vaccinations, and face coverings.
All of this information has saturated and polarized millions of people.
I recently had a pastor in our denomination (from another conference) tell me that the vaccine I’ve received is going to transmit information through 5G to Bill Gates and his associates so they can track me and find me and persecute me when the time of trouble comes. This isn’t the first person who has shared this information with me.
Assuming I disagreed with what my friend has shared with me, how should I have responded to this? How would you respond to this if it was a fellow church member who shared this with you? What if you saw it on a friend’s social media post?
In an age of information-sharing unparalleled in the history of the world, a YouTube video is truth. If you want it to be. A Facebook meme is truth. If you want it to be.
The Bible is clear on how we should respond to people who are speaking/posting wrong things.
Proverbs 26:4 “Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him.”
There you go! Right from the pen of the wisest man who ever lived. The best thing to do when you hear somebody say something foolish (wrong) is to just let them speak/write/post. Engaging them in a debate will just drag you down to their level. You are foolish to engage.
But wait, there’s more! The very next strokes from the pen of inspiration take a sudden turn!
Proverbs 26:5 “Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.”
So maybe the best thing to do when we see somebody’s posts or say something full of error that could mislead other people, is to correct them so that they can know their wrongness and not be wise in their own eyes. Like Jesus, maybe we should say, “Are you so dull?”
So, which is it? It would seem the writer of Proverbs believes that every situation might warrant a varied and measured reaction. Sometimes it’s good to remain silent. Sometimes it’s better to rebuke and engage in a course correcting discussion.
In this age of slinging information around like everything’s a fact, here’s how I navigate as to whether I should engage in pointing out error/correcting misinformation. These are rules I’ve made for myself. I hope they can give you a starting point for how you want to cope with all the chaos.
1) I don’t argue with people that I’m not vested in. If I see a Facebook post from somebody that is barely an acquaintance and not a friend or relative, I might post something for them to consider, but I won’t argue.
2) I am involved in social media. If I see something posted that is conspiratorial or factually challenged, I sometimes phrase a rebuttal like this, “I know you value good information. Here’s another point of view to consider.” I follow that by a word of affirmation about my relationship with that person. My hope is that what I have posted will be read along with what was originally posted.
3) If a family member or a close friend that I care deeply about is passing along what I would consider to be misinformation or conspiracy theories, I will challenge them on what they are saying/posting. But I will not do this publicly. I will present evidence privately and hash it out where nobody can see it. In the end, these people are deeply loved by me and whatever their views, they may be in my life until I die.
4) Don’t make anything personal. Name calling, insults and mudslinging toward the person who posted/proclaimed what you perceive to be in error, or toward any public official who you may be arguing about, is beneath a person who calls Jesus a friend.
5) I’m a pastor. If someone is passing along conspiracy theories or misinformation in my church, I will put a stop to it pretty quickly. A personal visit and a friendly reminder that we need to keep our eyes on Jesus and off the dark corners of rumors circling the globe is my duty as a shepherd of the flock.
6) Humor. When my pastor friend told me that the inoculations were magnetized so that the government could use 5G to track me, I said, “Boy is some FBI agent going to be bored with my life! They will track me from the church to my home and then back to the church again…over and over and over again!”
They laughed and then got serious and said, “So you think the vaccinations are safe?”
I answered and said, “I have no idea! I just wanted to follow the example of President Trump, President Biden, all the Republican and Democrat Governors! I figured if they all got it, it must be the thing to do!”
Then I broke out laughing. And he followed.
In the end, the most important thing to me is that I treat everyone with love and respect. Folks typically aren’t drawn to Jesus because they lose an argument. Treating humans with love and respect is paramount to my interactions with all people in my sphere of influence. If I can’t rebut a post or a comment with love, then I have no business saying anything at all.
Pastor Mark Witas
News & Notes
THIS WEEKEND
Tonight, Friday, September 10, 7:00 pm, we will be gathering together in the fellowship hall to watch another episode of “The Chosen.” Come and join in on this time together!
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Welcome to Sunnyside! In compliance with state regulations, please wear a maskover your nose and mouth the entire time you are in the building, both during Sabbath School classes and church service, and maintain physical distancing. We want to do our part in promoting a healthy situation. Again, if you feel sick or have been around anyone who has been sick, we request that you stay home and watch our services on livestream.
Sabbath School quarterlies for October-December 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 to info@SunnysideAdvenetist.org. We’ll make sure you get what you need. You may also download a free quarterly at https://absg.adventist.org/.
A memorial service will be conducted for Ralph Martin Sunday, September 26, 1:00 pm, here at Sunnyside Adventist Church.
Tuesday, September 28, 7:00 pm, there will be a constituency meeting for Portland Adventist Academy. Delegates, please save the date and attend this very important meeting. Details will be forwarded closer to the meeting date.
Save the date! The weekend of October 2, there will be an It Is Written rally here at Sunnyside Church. John Bradshaw will be here in person as the speaker.
The Church Library is open! The library will be open on the 1st and 3rd Sabbaths of the month. Hours will be 10:45-11:15 am, and 12:30-1:00 pm. The church library has a wide selection of books available for our members to borrow, so please stop by.
The movie “The Chosen”is being featured with a different episode each Friday night, 7:00 pm, in the fellowship hall. Come and join us for this spiritual event along with great fellowship!
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. Also, please let us know when you are sick or need other prayers. We want to be a part of your life and pray together with you. 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 posted in the hallway and online. Thank you to those of you who have signed up — we have several dates still available. Take a minute to choose a date and let us know when you would like to share flowers with your church family. (Go to our website, www.SunnysideAdventist.org, click on “Our Ministries.”) 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.
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
Sunday: Rhonda Bolton, Nancene Graham, Joelle Lian, Wendell White; Monday: Rita Christensen, Gale Crosby, Kathy Crull, Nicholas Gosney, James Newell, Jerilyn Schosnig; Tuesday: Charlene Hendrickson; Thursday: Richard Gingrich; Friday: Scott LeMert
Portland Adventist Elementary School is seeking a pianist to accompany the school choirs. This would include two weekly rehearsals with each of the 5th-8th grade choirs as well as rehearsals with each of the K-4th grade choirs as needed for performances. The PAES Music Department also includes a piano studio. In the past the choir accompanist taught lessons at the school around rehearsal times. The incoming pianist would be welcome to build a studio of PAES students. We would also welcome the pianist to accompany the school while singing during chapels on Fridays. Total time commitment as an accompanist would average 5 hours per week for the 5th-8th grades and up to an additional 5 hours per week for the K-4th grade choirs. As a school with 300+ students, the addition of studio lesson hours would mean the potential for a full-time schedule. The choir accompanist position is paid hourly by PAES at a rate of $27/hour. The pianist would set their own rate for lessons. If you are interested in this opportunity please contact the PAES Music Director, Megan Schwark, at music@paes.com or 603-391-8928.
Portland Adventist Academy
http://www/paasda.org PAASS Students Need You! The Portland Adventist Academy Development Office is looking for four dependable volunteers who can work independently to assist with the annual PAA Student Scholarship Auction on November 7. There is an immediate need for go-getter volunteers to help procure auction items. Experience is not necessary. Being imaginative and creative is a plus. Volunteers may also assist with setting up the auction. One dependable volunteer is also needed for Development Office clerical assistance. Some flexibility is helpful. Contact Development Director Sam Vigil Jr. for more information at 503-255-8372 x218 or svigil@paasda.org or click HERE. (https://paasda.org/news/paa-auction-needs-volunteers/)
International Student Host Families Needed Many students from France, China, and Korea come to Portland Adventist Academy each school year. Students stay either 2 weeks, 3 months, a school year, and some stay all four years of high school. Each student needs a caring host family to support them as they’re far from home. Your home might be perfect! Host families find the time rewarding — especially as they share family traditions and American culture. Some families find deep value in sharing their love of Jesus. Learn more about hosting a student by contacting the program director, Mrs. Bibb at mbibb@paasda.org. Informational videos and PDFs are on our website HERE. paasda.org/admissions/international/host.
PAA Substitute Teachers Needed! Portland Adventist Academy is looking for responsible substitute teachers for the coming school year. Subs work with friendly and energetic high school students. Teacher’s provide all material so all you have to do is be present and follow instructions. No college degree is necessary but you must be 21 or older. Work would be occasional and only during school hours on weekdays. All candidates must pass a background check (paid for by PAA). To apply or learn more about the job, visit our webpage HERE. https://paasda.org/news/paa-substitutes-needed/
PAA Bus Driver Needed One of the many ways we strive to meet the diverse needs of our families is by providing a way for students on the west side of the city to get to PAA and back home safely each day. If you have a commercial driver’s license and can be available weekday mornings and afternoons, we hope you’ll join our team for the coming school year! The job pays well and is so rewarding. Learn more HERE. https://paasda.org/news/bus-driver-needed/
PAA’s 50-Years of Cougars Celebration Weekend Portland Adventist Academy Cougar Athletics is celebrating 50 years! Everyone is invited to a special weekend of events in honor of Coach Bill Judd and the 1971 inaugural varsity men’s basketball team. It happens September 25 & 26 and includes a Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony with dinner as well as a 3–on–3 basketball tournament. Spread the word to supporters, alumni, and forever cougars! Information, RSVPs and reservation information is HERE. https://paasda.org/news/paa-cougar-athletics-holds-first-hall-of-fame-event/
AMAZON SMILE! 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
Calling all golfers! The 20th annual Big Lake Youth Camp Bj Christensen Memorial Golf Benefit is coming right up! Join us at The Reserve Vineyard and Golf Club in Aloha, OR, on September 12, 2021. All funds raised will go towards the new lodge. For more information including sponsorship opportunities and golfer registration please visit www.biglake.org/golf-benefit>, call 503-878-2782 or email golf@biglake.org. Thank you for your commitment to Big Lake!
We at Big Lake are SO excited to announce a $100,000 matching donation is on the table, until Sunday, September 19th! If you’ve been thinking of donating and haven’t yet, now is the time. Help us pay off the brand new lodge by donating now. PayPal donation link: https://bit.ly/givetobiglake. Checks can be sent to our business office address at: 19800 Oatfield Rd, Gladstone, OR 97027. Thank you for your commitment to Big Lake!
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.
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 are looking for a housekeeper who can work an average of about 2 days per month providing backup for our custodian when he’s on vacation and for certain holidays. Contact Shari Ferrier, 503-252-8500.
Many of you know that my mother has been diagnosed with stage 4 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma which has metastasized to the rest of the body. This has given us a sad prognosis of limited time before she rests in Jesus.
These last few weeks I have been in full caregiving mode in Canada with my precious loving mother. While I was in her room helping to give her meds at the prescribed time, I looked over at her little gold mirrored basket on her dresser that holds her perfume. There was an assortment of fragrances my mom likes and has used over the years. Many were almost gone and ready for a re-fill. Have you noticed that mothers have a particular fragrance that we often associate with them? For my mom, it has been the perfume called “Beautiful” by Este Lauder among a few others. It is a beautiful comforting flowery aroma that lifts your spirits and fills you with comfort like my mom does for me. It isn’t too strong but just a sweet aroma. The advertisers say it is a feminine scent that possesses a blend of blooming fresh cut flowers, rose, jasmine, and carnation along with fruity scents of fresh citrus, melons, peaches, and plums. That is the scent I associate with my mom.
In the Bible there are some verses that talk about fragrances, aroma, and perfume. Look at these:
2 Corinthians 2:15 For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing;
Ephesians 5:1-2 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.
As you share your faith with love and kindness to those around you this week, remember you are like a sweet fragrance against the harsh stench of the world. I pray that you make a difference for many don’t know if this is their last day on earth and you could be the link that hooks them to the fresh clean invigorating scent and life of Jesus who brings eternal life where our senses will experience more and more things of beauty. So, live courageously for Him this week. He is with you no matter what you are going through. He will bring a gracious fragrance to the sick room, to the work place, to the home. Everywhere Jesus is, the aroma is better.
Pastor Wendy Witas
Send your “shout-outs” to info@SunnysideAdventist.org so we can include them in next week’s Communiqué. This is a place you can recognize someone for doing well or going beyond expectations.
Shout out to Tom Kramer for spending time to locate sprinkler heads for us. Thank you, Tom!Shout out to a phenomenal crew for trimming many of our bushes for us, Scott, LeMert, Pastor Dave Allen, and Wilfred Geschke. Thank you! It looks so good!
News & Notes
THIS WEEKEND
Tonight, Friday, September 10, 7:00 pm, we will be gathering together in the fellowship hall to watch another episode of “The Chosen.” Come and join in on this time together!
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Welcome to Sunnyside! In compliance with state regulations, please wear a maskover your nose and mouth the entire time you are in the building, both during Sabbath School classes and church service, and maintain physical distancing. We want to do our part in promoting a healthy situation. Again, if you feel sick or have been around anyone who has been sick, we request that you stay home and watch our services on livestream.
Finance Committee will meet September 14, 6:30 pm, via Zoom. Committee members watch your email for your Zoom invitation.
Wednesday, September 15, 7:00 pm, there will be a Business meeting at Sunnyside Adventist Church in person. Masks are required and we will meet in the sanctuary where we will have more space for appropriate distancing. All church members are encouraged to attend. The agenda is as follows: 1. Devotional, 2. Minutes, 3. Membership Transfers, 4. Financials, 5. Budget Proposal, 6. Administrative Policy attendance adjustment.
Sunnyside Pathfinder Club registration will be Monday, September 13, 6:00 pm. The Pathfinder Club serves kids 5th grade to high school and meets every Monday, 6:00 pm, at Sunnyside Adventist Church. Weekend events will happen as COVID guidelines allow. If you have any questions contact info@SunnysideAdventist.org or call 503-252-8080.
Sabbath School quarterlies for October-December 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 to info@SunnysideAdvenetist.org. We’ll make sure you get what you need. You may also download a free quarterly at https://absg.adventist.org/.
Tuesday, September 28, 7:00 pm, there will be a constituency meeting for Portland Adventist Academy. Delegates, please save the date and attend this very important meeting. Details will be forwarded closer to the meeting date.
The Church Library is open! The library will be open on the 1st and 3rd Sabbaths of the month. Hours will be 10:45-11:15 am, and 12:30-1:00 pm. The church library has a wide selection of books available for our members to borrow, so please stop by.
The movie “The Chosen”is being featured with a different episode each Friday night, 7:00 pm, in the fellowship hall. Come and join us for this spiritual event along with great fellowship!
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. Also, please let us know when you are sick or need other prayers. We want to be a part of your life and pray together with you. 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 posted in the hallway and online. Thank you to those of you who have signed up — we have several dates still available. Take a minute to choose a date and let us know when you would like to share flowers with your church family. (Go to our website, www.SunnysideAdventist.org, click on “Our Ministries.”) 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.
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.
Portland Adventist Elementary School is seeking a pianist to accompany the school choirs. This would include two weekly rehearsals with each of the 5th-8th grade choirs as well as rehearsals with each of the K-4th grade choirs as needed for performances. The PAES Music Department also includes a piano studio. In the past the choir accompanist taught lessons at the school around rehearsal times. The incoming pianist would be welcome to build a studio of PAES students. We would also welcome the pianist to accompany the school while singing during chapels on Fridays. Total time commitment as an accompanist would average 5 hours per week for the 5th-8th grades and up to an additional 5 hours per week for the K-4th grade choirs. As a school with 300+ students, the addition of studio lesson hours would mean the potential for a full-time schedule. The choir accompanist position is paid hourly by PAES at a rate of $27/hour. The pianist would set their own rate for lessons. If you are interested in this opportunity please contact the PAES Music Director, Megan Schwark, at music@paes.com or 603-391-8928.
Portland Adventist Academy
http://www/paasda.org PAASS Students Need You! The Portland Adventist Academy Development Office is looking for four dependable volunteers who can work independently to assist with the annual PAA Student Scholarship Auction on November 7. There is an immediate need for go-getter volunteers to help procure auction items. Experience is not necessary. Being imaginative and creative is a plus. Volunteers may also assist with setting up the auction. One dependable volunteer is also needed for Development Office clerical assistance. Some flexibility is helpful. Contact Development Director Sam Vigil Jr. for more information at 503-255-8372 x218 or svigil@paasda.org or click HERE. (https://paasda.org/news/paa-auction-needs-volunteers/)
International Student Host Families Needed Many students from France, China, and Korea come to Portland Adventist Academy each school year. Students stay either 2 weeks, 3 months, a school year, and some stay all four years of high school. Each student needs a caring host family to support them as they’re far from home. Your home might be perfect! Host families find the time rewarding — especially as they share family traditions and American culture. Some families find deep value in sharing their love of Jesus. Learn more about hosting a student by contacting the program director, Mrs. Bibb at mbibb@paasda.org. Informational videos and PDFs are on our website HERE. paasda.org/admissions/international/host.
PAA Substitute Teachers Needed! Portland Adventist Academy is looking for responsible substitute teachers for the coming school year. Subs work with friendly and energetic high school students. Teacher’s provide all material so all you have to do is be present and follow instructions. No college degree is necessary but you must be 21 or older. Work would be occasional and only during school hours on weekdays. All candidates must pass a background check (paid for by PAA). To apply or learn more about the job, visit our webpage HERE. https://paasda.org/news/paa-substitutes-needed/
PAA Bus Driver Needed One of the many ways we strive to meet the diverse needs of our families is by providing a way for students on the west side of the city to get to PAA and back home safely each day. If you have a commercial driver’s license and can be available weekday mornings and afternoons, we hope you’ll join our team for the coming school year! The job pays well and is so rewarding. Learn more HERE. https://paasda.org/news/bus-driver-needed/
PAA’s 50-Years of Cougars Celebration Weekend Portland Adventist Academy Cougar Athletics is celebrating 50 years! Everyone is invited to a special weekend of events in honor of Coach Bill Judd and the 1971 inaugural varsity men’s basketball team. It happens September 25 & 26 and includes a Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony with dinner as well as a 3–on–3 basketball tournament. Spread the word to supporters, alumni, and forever cougars! Information, RSVPs and reservation information is HERE. https://paasda.org/news/paa-cougar-athletics-holds-first-hall-of-fame-event/
AMAZON SMILE! 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
Adventist Community Church of Vancouver is pleased to welcome Dr. Neil Nedley on September 10 and 11. He will present on the topic of coping with anxiety and depression in a changing world. Please plan to attend and invite your friends and neighbors. He will present on Friday evening and Sabbath morning, afternoon and evening. A meal can be purchased in advance or bring your own lunch. Admission is free but space is limited so please register at www.adventistcommunity.church or call 360-696-2511.
Calling all golfers! The 20th annual Big Lake Youth Camp Bj Christensen Memorial Golf Benefit is coming right up! Join us at The Reserve Vineyard and Golf Club in Aloha, OR, on September 12, 2021. All funds raised will go towards the new lodge. For more information including sponsorship opportunities and golfer registration please visit www.biglake.org/golf-benefit>, call 503-878-2782 or email golf@biglake.org. Thank you for your commitment to Big Lake!
We at Big Lake are SO excited to announce a $100,000 matching donation is on the table, until Sunday, September 19th! If you’ve been thinking of donating and haven’t yet, now is the time. Help us pay off the brand new lodge by donating now. PayPal donation link: https://bit.ly/givetobiglake. Checks can be sent to our business office address at: 19800 Oatfield Rd, Gladstone, OR 97027. Thank you for your commitment to Big Lake!
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.
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 are looking for a housekeeper who can work an average of about 2 days per month providing backup for our custodian when he’s on vacation and for certain holidays. Contact Shari Ferrier, 503-252-8500.
I have to admit that I had never heard of the word! However, from the ever available Wikipedia, I found the following:
In textual studies, a palimpsest (/ˈpælɪmpsɛst/) is a manuscript page, either from a scroll or a book, from which the text has been scraped or washed off so that the page can be reused for another document. Parchment was made of lamb, calf, or goat kid skin and was expensive and not readily available, so in the interest of economy a page was often re-used by scraping off the previous writing.
In the back hallway of Sunnyside’s facility, near the Choir room and outside the Music Library are two examples of music palimpsest documents, framed and hanging for us to admire. These two documents are kind and generous donations from the late Dr. Dave and Mary-Lou Copeland, given to Sunnyside in April 2004.
Although actually framed for the Copelands in the 1960s, the documents are obviously very old. I am not at all qualified to do the appropriate analysis or estimate their value, but I am sure there is a Sunnysider who might dare to date and interpret the palimpsest exhibits. This much can be said:
The texts are Latin
They seem to relate religious content
They are two music scores, each faintly showing an original tune and (as palimpsests) an overwritten tune.
Thank you to our friends, Dave and Mary-Lou Copeland. We remember you kindly.
It may just be that these exhibits also remind me that God can graciously “overwrite” the record of my story. He does this not to save on writing materials as palimpsest writers did centuries ago. No! His resources are boundless. When He writes or rewrites our heart’s story, He does so from His heart of great love for each Sunnysider. And He may just hang my palimpsest story frame on a wall in a celestial hall for eternity, with a caption: I love this Sunnysider with an everlasting love. Come and read their story, by my Grace!
He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17
Pastor Dave Allen
Send your “shout-outs” to info@SunnysideAdventist.org so we can include them in next week’s Communiqué. This is a place you can recognize someone for doing well or going beyond expectations.
Shout out to Tom Kramer for spending time to locate sprinkler heads for us. Thank you, Tom!
Shout out to Cesar Acosta, Paul Dragulin, Will Cheng, and Gloriel Francis for teaching guitar to our beginning students.
News & Notes
THIS WEEKEND
Tonight, Friday, September 3, 7:00 pm, we will be gathering together in the fellowship hall to watch another episode of “The Chosen.” Come and join in on this time together!
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Welcome to Sunnyside! In compliance with state regulations, please wear a maskover your nose and mouth the entire time you are in the building, both during Sabbath School classes and church service, and maintain physical distancing. We want to do our part in promoting a healthy situation. Again, if you feel sick or have been around anyone who has been sick, we request that you stay home and watch our services on livestream.
A special welcome to Bobby McGhee and his team who are presenting our worship service today.
18th Annual Bobby McGhee and Friends Vespers
Sabbath, September 4, 6:00 pm.
Come enjoy our Sabbath night vesper service with Bobby McGhee and Friends, musical inspiration, and a special guest speaker, Ed Boyatt.
Stark Street pizza follows vespers.
Cherry Park School Drive – Final Date: September 5. Again, this year, we are collecting school supplies for our neighborhood elementary school. Items needed: backpacks, paper (spiral notebooks and notebook paper), pencils, pens, Crayola crayons 24 count, Crayola color pencils, glue sticks, scissors, and pink erasers. There will be a box in the foyer where you may place your donations.
Finance Committee will meet September 14, 6:30 pm, via Zoom. Committee members watch your email for your Zoom invitation.
Wednesday, September 15, 7:00 pm, there will be a Business meeting at Sunnyside Adventist Church in person. Masks are required and we will meet in the sanctuary where we will have more space for appropriate distancing. All church members are encouraged to attend. The agenda is as follows: 1. Devotional, 2. Membership Transfers, 3. Minutes, 4. Financials, 5. Budget Proposal, 6. Administrative Policy attendance adjustment.
Tuesday, September 28, 7:00 pm, there will be a constituency meeting for Portland Adventist Academy. Delegates, please save the date and attend this very important meeting. Details will be forwarded closer to the meeting date.
The Church Library is open! The library will be open on the 1st and 3rd Sabbaths of the month. Hours will be 10:45-11:15 am, and 12:30-1:00 pm. The church library has a wide selection of books available for our members to borrow, so please stop by.
The movie “The Chosen”is being featured with a different episode each Friday night, 7:00 pm, in the fellowship hall. Come and join us for this spiritual event along with great fellowship!
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. Also, please let us know when you are sick or need other prayers. We want to be a part of your life and pray together with you. 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 posted in the hallway and online. Thank you to those of you who have signed up — we have several dates still available. Take a minute to choose a date and let us know when you would like to share flowers with your church family. (Go to our website, www.SunnysideAdventist.org, click on “Our Ministries.”) 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.
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: Thom Stanton; Sunday: Jamie Kirkpatrick; Monday: Dean Browning, Maria Duong, Mary Lou Wescott; Wednesday: Betty Farley, Linda Gepford; Thursday: Arlyss Dixon, Karyl Kieper, Wes Rippey
Portland Adventist Elementary School is seeking a pianist to accompany the school choirs. This would include two weekly rehearsals with each of the 5th-8th grade choirs as well as rehearsals with each of the K-4th grade choirs as needed for performances. The PAES Music Department also includes a piano studio. In the past the choir accompanist taught lessons at the school around rehearsal times. The incoming pianist would be welcome to build a studio of PAES students. We would also welcome the pianist to accompany the school while singing during chapels on Fridays. Total time commitment as an accompanist would average 5 hours per week for the 5th-8th grades and up to an additional 5 hours per week for the K-4th grade choirs. As a school with 300+ students, the addition of studio lesson hours would mean the potential for a full-time schedule. The choir accompanist position is paid hourly by PAES at a rate of $27/hour. The pianist would set their own rate for lessons. If you are interested in this opportunity please contact the PAES Music Director, Megan Schwark, at music@paes.com or 603-391-8928.
Portland Adventist Academy
http://www/paasda.org PAASS Students Need You! The Portland Adventist Academy Development Office is looking for four dependable volunteers who can work independently to assist with the annual PAA Student Scholarship Auction on November 7. There is an immediate need for go-getter volunteers to help procure auction items. Experience is not necessary. Being imaginative and creative is a plus. Volunteers may also assist with setting up the auction. One dependable volunteer is also needed for Development Office clerical assistance. Some flexibility is helpful. Contact Development Director Sam Vigil Jr. for more information at 503-255-8372 x218 or svigil@paasda.org or click HERE. (https://paasda.org/news/paa-auction-needs-volunteers/)
International Student Host Families Needed Many students from France, China, and Korea come to Portland Adventist Academy each school year. Students stay either 2 weeks, 3 months, a school year, and some stay all four years of high school. Each student needs a caring host family to support them as they’re far from home. Your home might be perfect! Host families find the time rewarding — especially as they share family traditions and American culture. Some families find deep value in sharing their love of Jesus. Learn more about hosting a student by contacting the program director, Mrs. Bibb at mbibb@paasda.org. Informational videos and PDFs are on our website HERE. paasda.org/admissions/international/host.
PAA Substitute Teachers Needed! Portland Adventist Academy is looking for responsible substitute teachers for the coming school year. Subs work with friendly and energetic high school students. Teacher’s provide all material so all you have to do is be present and follow instructions. No college degree is necessary but you must be 21 or older. Work would be occasional and only during school hours on weekdays. All candidates must pass a background check (paid for by PAA). To apply or learn more about the job, visit our webpage HERE. https://paasda.org/news/paa-substitutes-needed/
PAA Bus Driver Needed One of the many ways we strive to meet the diverse needs of our families is by providing a way for students on the west side of the city to get to PAA and back home safely each day. If you have a commercial driver’s license and can be available weekday mornings and afternoons, we hope you’ll join our team for the coming school year! The job pays well and is so rewarding. Learn more HERE. https://paasda.org/news/bus-driver-needed/
PAA’s 50-Years of Cougars Celebration Weekend Portland Adventist Academy Cougar Athletics is celebrating 50 years! Everyone is invited to a special weekend of events in honor of Coach Bill Judd and the 1971 inaugural varsity men’s basketball team. It happens September 25 & 26 and includes a Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony with dinner as well as a 3–on–3 basketball tournament. Spread the word to supporters, alumni, and forever cougars! Information, RSVPs and reservation information is HERE. https://paasda.org/news/paa-cougar-athletics-holds-first-hall-of-fame-event/
AMAZON SMILE! 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
Adventist Community Church of Vancouver is pleased to welcome Dr. Neil Nedley on September 10 and 11. He will present on the topic of coping with anxiety and depression in a changing world. Please plan to attend and invite your friends and neighbors. He will present on Friday evening and Sabbath morning, afternoon and evening. A meal can be purchased in advance or bring your own lunch. Admission is free but space is limited so please register at www.adventistcommunity.church or call 360-696-2511.
Calling all golfers! The 20th annual Big Lake Youth Camp Bj Christensen Memorial Golf Benefit is coming right up! Join us at The Reserve Vineyard and Golf Club in Aloha, OR, on September 12, 2021. All funds raised will go towards the new lodge. For more information including sponsorship opportunities and golfer registration please visit www.biglake.org/golf-benefit>, call 503-878-2782 or email golf@biglake.org. Thank you for your commitment to Big Lake!
We at Big Lake are SO excited to announce a $100,000 matching donation is on the table, until Sunday, September 19th! If you’ve been thinking of donating and haven’t yet, now is the time. Help us pay off the brand new lodge by donating now. PayPal donation link: https://bit.ly/givetobiglake. Checks can be sent to our business office address at: 19800 Oatfield Rd, Gladstone, OR 97027. Thank you for your commitment to Big Lake!
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.
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 are looking for a housekeeper who can work an average of about 2 days per month providing backup for our custodian when he’s on vacation and for certain holidays. Contact Shari Ferrier, 503-252-8500.
Often we make decisions based on the information we have. We look at our circumstances and frame our decisions on what we know from our past and from the here and now. God’s plans have the distinct advantage of knowing the beginning, the middle and the end! In our case, hindsight is 20/20. God’s foresight is 20/20.
That’s why God does what He does. He chooses people to be kingdom leaders that we would never choose. Be honest, how many of us would have chosen any of the twelve disciples? Uneducated fishermen, a tax collector, a zealot, a doubter? Not me. I would have preferred to choose the cream of the crop, not the bottom of the barrel!
Throughout time, God chose some real winners didn’t He? A stutterer to be His spokes person to pharaoh, a womanizing philanderer to save his people from the Philistines, a drunkard to save the earth from the flood, a liar and deceiver to propagate the family line through Judah (also a real winner—not!). Boy, God knows how to choose them, doesn’t He.
Well, actually, yes He does. His forethought and future knowledge is perfect. God knows where things need to end up. So he chooses imperfect, sometimes downright scandalous human beings to be a part of His grander plan.
Oh, and He chooses you too. And me. It’s almost too much to fathom that you and I play an important part of His master plan to save the world. Now I don’t know about you, but if I were to choose somebody for so great a task, I don’t think I would choose me. I’m really not that great of a catch. Yet, God gave me the ability to stand up and teach people about His grace and goodness. Why? I have no idea. Maybe I’ll get my “why’s” answered in heaven. Until then, use me He does.
God has also chosen to use you to build up the church and save the world. How? Well, I guess that’s between you and God. But you are a piece of the greater puzzle. The question is, are you willing to play the part that God has planned for you? My good word to you today is that participating in God’s plan to bless the church and save the world is way more satisfying than sitting on the sidelines.
Pastor Mark Witas
News & Notes
THIS WEEKEND
Tonight, Friday, August 27, 7:00 pm, we will be gathering together in the fellowship hall to watch another episode of “The Chosen.” Come and join in on this time together!
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Welcome to Sunnyside! In compliance with state regulations, please wear a mask and maintain physical distancing. We want to do our part in promoting a healthy situation. Again, if you feel sick or have been around anyone who has been sick, we request that you stay home and watch our services on livestream.
Cherry Park School Drive – August 21 to September 5. Again, this year, we are collecting school supplies for our neighborhood elementary school. Items needed: backpacks, paper (spiral notebooks and notebook paper), pencils, pens, Crayola crayons 24 count, Crayola color pencils, glue sticks, scissors, and pink erasers. There will be a box in the foyer where you may place your donations.
Sunday, August 29, 5:00 pm, you are invited to a farewell party for Gabe & Laura Pinto (and family) outside on the church patio. We want to thank them for their volunteer work and bless them as they move to Texas. A meal will be served. Join us to celebrate this new chapter in their lives.
Tuesday, September 28, 7:00 pm, there will be a constituency meeting for Portland Adventist Academy. Delegates, please save the date and attend this very important meeting. Details will be forwarded closer to the meeting date.
18th Annual Bobby McGhee and Friends Vespers
Sabbath, September 4, 6:00 pm.
Come enjoy our Sabbath night vesper service with Bobby McGhee and Friends, musical inspiration, and a special guest speaker, Ed Boyatt.
Stark Street pizza follows vespers.
Portland Adventist Elementary School is seeking a pianist to accompany the school choirs. This would include two weekly rehearsals with each of the 5th-8th grade choirs as well as rehearsals with each of the K-4th grade choirs as needed for performances. The PAES Music Department also includes a piano studio. In the past the choir accompanist taught lessons at the school around rehearsal times. The incoming pianist would be welcome to build a studio of PAES students. We would also welcome the pianist to accompany the school while singing during chapels on Fridays. Total time commitment as an accompanist would average 5 hours per week for the 5th-8th grades and up to an additional 5 hours per week for the K-4th grade choirs. As a school with 300+ students, the addition of studio lesson hours would mean the potential for a full-time schedule. The choir accompanist position is paid hourly by PAES at a rate of $27/hour. The pianist would set their own rate for lessons. If you are interested in this opportunity please contact the PAES Music Director, Megan Schwark, at music@paes.com or 603-391-8928.
Church Library — The church library is reopening! The library will be open on the 1st and 3rd Sabbaths of the month until we find some additional help and are able to reopen on a full-time basis. Hours will be 10:45-11:15 am, and 12:30-1:00 pm. The church library has a wide selection of books available for our members to borrow, so please stop by.
The movie “The Chosen”is being featured with a different episode each Friday night, 7:00 pm, in the fellowship hall. Come and join us for this spiritual event along with great fellowship!
The Youth/Earliteen division needs teachers. If you can help, please contact Pastor Billy at 720-951-2016 or Billy.Hungate@SunnysideAdventist.org. The children’s divisions also need help! We are searching for teachers, schedulers/greeters, and helpers for arts and crafts. If you can help us, please contact Pastor Wendy at 503-252-8080 or Wendy.Witas@SunnysideAdventist.org.
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. Also, please let us know when you are sick or need other prayers. We want to be a part of your life and pray together with you. 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 posted in the hallway and online. Thank you to those of you who have signed up — we have several dates still available. Take a minute to choose a date and let us know when you would like to share flowers with your church family. (Go to our website, www.SunnysideAdventist.org, click on “Our Ministries.”) 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.
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: Francie Davidson; Sunday: Joanna Stephan; Monday: Josephine Lian; Tuesday: Claire Hull, Ramon MacApinlac; Wednesday: Doug DeBoer, Beverly Fallan, Judi Schmitt, Brian Sellards
http://www/paasda.org PAASS Students Need You! The Portland Adventist Academy Development Office is looking for four dependable volunteers who can work independently to assist with the annual PAA Student Scholarship Auction on November 7. There is an immediate need for go-getter volunteers to help procure auction items. Experience is not necessary. Being imaginative and creative is a plus. Volunteers may also assist with setting up the auction. One dependable volunteer is also needed for Development Office clerical assistance. Some flexibility is helpful. Contact Development Director Sam Vigil Jr. for more information at 503-255-8372 x218 or svigil@paasda.org or click HERE. (https://paasda.org/news/paa-auction-needs-volunteers/)
International Student Host Families Needed Many students from France, China, and Korea come to Portland Adventist Academy each school year. Students stay either 2 weeks, 3 months, a school year, and some stay all four years of high school. Each student needs a caring host family to support them as they’re far from home. Your home might be perfect! Host families find the time rewarding — especially as they share family traditions and American culture. Some families find deep value in sharing their love of Jesus. Learn more about hosting a student by contacting the program director, Mrs. Bibb at mbibb@paasda.org. Informational videos and PDFs are on our website HERE. paasda.org/admissions/international/host.
PAA Substitute Teachers Needed! Portland Adventist Academy is looking for responsible substitute teachers for the coming school year. Subs work with friendly and energetic high school students. Teacher’s provide all material so all you have to do is be present and follow instructions. No college degree is necessary but you must be 21 or older. Work would be occasional and only during school hours on weekdays. All candidates must pass a background check (paid for by PAA). To apply or learn more about the job, visit our webpage HERE. https://paasda.org/news/paa-substitutes-needed/
PAA Bus Driver Needed One of the many ways we strive to meet the diverse needs of our families is by providing a way for students on the west side of the city to get to PAA and back home safely each day. If you have a commercial driver’s license and can be available weekday mornings and afternoons, we hope you’ll join our team for the coming school year! The job pays well and is so rewarding. Learn more HERE. https://paasda.org/news/bus-driver-needed/
PAA’s 50-Years of Cougars Celebration Weekend Portland Adventist Academy Cougar Athletics is celebrating 50 years! Everyone is invited to a special weekend of events in honor of Coach Bill Judd and the 1971 inaugural varsity men’s basketball team. It happens September 25 & 26 and includes a Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony with dinner as well as a 3–on–3 basketball tournament. Spread the word to supporters, alumni, and forever cougars! Information, RSVPs and reservation information is HERE. https://paasda.org/news/paa-cougar-athletics-holds-first-hall-of-fame-event/
AMAZON SMILE! 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
There will be a memorial service for Ruth Jones, wife of Robert Jones, a friend of many, August 28, at 3:00 pm, at Meadow Glade SDA Church.
Adventist Community Church of Vancouver is pleased to welcome Dr. Neil Nedley on September 10 and 11. He will present on the topic of coping with anxiety and depression in a changing world. Please plan to attend and invite your friends and neighbors. He will present on Friday evening and Sabbath morning, afternoon and evening. A meal can be purchased in advance or bring your own lunch. Admission is free but space is limited so please register at www.adventistcommunity.church or call 360-696-2511.
Calling all golfers! The 20th annual Big Lake Youth Camp Bj Christensen Memorial Golf Benefit is coming right up! Join us at The Reserve Vineyard and Golf Club in Aloha, OR, on September 12, 2021. All funds raised will go towards the new lodge. For more information including sponsorship opportunities and golfer registration please visit www.biglake.org/golf-benefit>, call 503-878-2782 or email golf@biglake.org. Thank you for your commitment to Big Lake!
We at Big Lake are SO excited to announce a $100,000 matching donation is on the table, until Sunday, September 19th! If you’ve been thinking of donating and haven’t yet, now is the time. Help us pay off the brand new lodge by donating now. PayPal donation link: https://bit.ly/givetobiglake. Checks can be sent to our business office address at: 19800 Oatfield Rd, Gladstone, OR 97027. Thank you for your commitment to Big Lake!
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.
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 are looking for a housekeeper who can work an average of about 2 days per month providing backup for our custodian when he’s on vacation and for certain holidays. Contact Shari Ferrier, 503-252-8500.
Birthdays are something we have no control over. For instance we have no control over what family we are born into, what country we were born in, or even what economical bracket we were born into. It may not even dawn on us that we were born on the 3rd planet from the sun into this epic redemption story between God and humanity. However, if we do realize it, then it gives us a pause to realize that our story is not the center story but we are woven into the fabric of the BIG GOD story and each of our stories matter as we witness for or against him.
How should we live this relatively short span of years on earth? The Bible puts it this way; Psalms 90:10 “The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty; yet their span is but toil and trouble; they are soon gone, and we fly away.”
The Bible then tells us because of that short life span and the evil in the world we have a choice in how to live our lives. Ephesians 5:16 Amplified Bible “Making the very most of your time [on earth, recognizing and taking advantage of each opportunity and using it with wisdom and diligence], because the days are [filled with] evil.
I’ve hit a mile marker of 60 years young. I jokingly tell people it is the new thirty, but I know it isn’t. Sixty years seems like a short time and also a long time, but my own biological clock is aging like everyone else and it is sobering to realize that I am mortal. Sometimes these decade markers make you think more seriously and you take a little more stock of life than the other birthdays. That is what happened with me this time around.
I had a wonderful birthday with my family with huge highs of eating with family and going for a walk at The Grotto in Portland which was our first visit there ever. I came to the evening of my birthday feeling loved, satisfied, happy, and blessed. Then a sobering challenge hit my family. My mom was admitted to the ER in Abbotsford, BC, while the Delta variant is causing ER patients to soar with the unvaccinated. Every hospital bed was taken. Every ER room in the ER was bustling and my mom, who was in a lot of pain, ended up having to try to sleep in a chair. To make matters worse, during the night her heart went into distress and she almost didn’t make it to see the dawn of the next day. She said it was like a war zone in the emergency room. She was so sick, and in so much pain. She knew she was in trouble. Yet, she had an attitude of gratitude. She was grateful for dedicated hospital staff doing all they could for everyone in the midst of so much pain and suffering. She was grateful to have made it through the night. She was grateful of the goodness of God so that her heart went into distress at the hospital and not at home. Her every word shared her trust in her God no matter what.
My own emotions in contrast to hers was full of stress, and a deep fear of losing my mom like a sober mean kick in the gut. It was strange that on the same day I was soaring with grateful emotions and a feeling of all being well with the world, and the next depression and fear of the what if. My mom is my best friend, my spiritual mentor, and the pillar of strength for my whole family, yet in the face of death she met it with gratitude and clinging to her Savior. I believe she was making the most of the time given to her.
My challenge to myself, and all of us, is to look at our days on earth and this moment right now. How will you live it? May we all make the most of our time. We have a loving gracious God that walks by our side so we have nothing to fear. No matter if it is a Delta variant, an ER visit, a step of being on the edge of death or not. We have nothing to fear in Him. May you have courage to seize the day to live courageously for God right now and every day — celebrating each birthday milestone with gratitude and living it to the best of your ability.
Pastor Wendy Witas
News & Notes
THIS WEEKEND
Tonight, Friday, August 20, 7:00 pm, we will be gathering together in the fellowship hall to watch another episode of “The Chosen.” Come and join in on this time together!
Join us Saturday night, August 21, 7:00 pm, for backyard praise music with Sunnyside’s praise band/worship band and at 8:00 pm, movie night showing “The Sound of Music” at the Dalusong family home in Happy Valley. Bring a lawn chair, blanket, and your favorite movie snacks! Please RSVP and contact Ben for more information: Ben Dalusong, cell/text 818-653-1285, or email ben_d_jr@yahoo.com.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Welcome to Sunnyside! In compliance with state regulations, please wear a mask and maintain physical distancing while you are in the building. We want to do our part in promoting a healthy situation. Again, if you feel sick or have been around anyone that has been sick, we request that you stay home and watch our services on livestream.
Guitar Class:We are in need of two additional adult-size guitars. Your donation will be greatly appreciated. If you have any questions, contact Pastor Wendy Wendy.Witas@SunnysideAdventist.org.
Cherry Park School Drive – August 21 to September 5. Again, this year, we are collecting school supplies for our neighborhood elementary school. Items needed: backpacks, paper (spiral notebooks and notebook paper), pencils, pens, Crayola crayons 24 count, Crayola color pencils, glue sticks, scissors, and pink erasers. There will be a box in the foyer where you may place your donations.
Sunday, August 29, 5:00 pm, you are invited to a farewell party for Gabe & Laura Pinto (and family) outside on the church patio. We want to thank them for their volunteer work and bless them as they move to Texas. A meal will be served. Join us to celebrate this new chapter in their lives.
Portland Adventist Elementary School is seeking a pianist to accompany the school choirs. This would include two weekly rehearsals with each of the 5th-8th grade choirs as well as rehearsals with each of the K-4th grade choirs as needed for performances. The PAES Music Department also includes a piano studio. In the past the choir accompanist taught lessons at the school around rehearsal times. The incoming pianist would be welcome to build a studio of PAES students. We would also welcome the pianist to accompany the school while singing during chapels on Fridays. Total time commitment as an accompanist would average 5 hours per week for the 5th-8th grades and up to an additional 5 hours per week for the K-4th grade choirs. As a school with 300+ students, the addition of studio lesson hours would mean the potential for a full-time schedule. The choir accompanist position is paid hourly by PAES at a rate of $27/hour. The pianist would set their own rate for lessons. If you are interested in this opportunity please contact the PAES Music Director, Megan Schwark, at music@paes.com or 603-391-8928.
The North American Division has informed us that giving to Amazing Facts is no long longer available through the church. If you would like to donate, please donate to them directly.
Church Library — The church library is reopening! The library will be open on the 1st and 3rd Sabbaths of the month until we find some additional help and are able to reopen on a full-time basis. Hours will be 10:45-11:15 am, and 12:30-1:00 pm. The church library has a wide selection of books available for our members to borrow, so please stop by.
Join us August 21, 7:00 pm for backyard praise music with Sunnyside’s praise band/worship band and at 8:00 pm, movie night showing “The Sound of Music,” at the Dalusong family home in Happy Valley. Bring a lawn chair, blanket, and your favorite movie snacks! Please RSVP and contact Ben for more information: Ben Dalusong, Cell/Text 818-653-1285, or email ben_d_jr@yhao.com.
The movie “The Chosen” is being featured with a different episode each Friday night, 7:00 pm, in the fellowship hall. Come and join us for this spiritual event along with great fellowship!
The Youth/Earliteen division needs teachers. If you can help, please contact Pastor Billy at 720-951-2016 or Billy.Hungate@SunnysideAdventist.org. The children’s division also needs help! We are searching for teachers, schedulers/greeters, and helpers for arts and crafts. If you can help us, please contact Pastor Wendy at 503-252-8080 or Wendy.Witas@SunnysideAdventist.org.
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 posted in the hallway and online. Thank you to those of you who have signed up — we have several dates still available. Take a minute to choose a date and let us know when you would like to share flowers with your church family. (Go to our website, www.SunnysideAdventist.org, click on “Our Ministries.”) 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.
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
Tuesday: Don Krein, Marilyn Wallace, Juli-Ann Williams; Thursday: Lorrie Wescott; Friday: Vasile Hutuleac, Isaac Nziacharo
Norm and Phyllis Woods! — Happy 62nd Anniversary! Bob and Rhonda Bolton – Happy 50 Anniversary!
http://www/paasda.org PAASS Students Need You! The Portland Adventist Academy Development Office is looking for four dependable volunteers who can work independently to assist with the annual PAA Student Scholarship Auction on November 7. There is an immediate need for go-getter volunteers to help procure auction items. Experience is not necessary. Being imaginative and creative is a plus. Volunteers may also assist with setting up the auction. One dependable volunteer is also needed for Development Office clerical assistance. Some flexibility is helpful. Contact Development Director Sam Vigil Jr. for more information at 503-255-8372 x218 or svigil@paasda.org or click HERE. (https://paasda.org/news/paa-auction-needs-volunteers/)
International Student Host Families Needed Many students from France, China, and Korea come to Portland Adventist Academy each school year. Students stay either 2 weeks, 3 months, a school year, and some stay all four years of high school. Each student needs a caring host family to support them as they’re far from home. Your home might be perfect! Host families find the time rewarding — especially as they share family traditions and American culture. Some families find deep value in sharing their love of Jesus. Learn more about hosting a student by contacting the program director, Mrs. Bibb at mbibb@paasda.org. Informational videos and PDFs are on our website HERE. paasda.org/admissions/international/host.
PAA Substitute Teachers Needed! Portland Adventist Academy is looking for responsible substitute teachers for the coming school year. Subs work with friendly and energetic high school students. Teacher’s provide all material so all you have to do is be present and follow instructions. No college degree is necessary but you must be 21 or older. Work would be occasional and only during school hours on weekdays. All candidates must pass a background check (paid for by PAA). To apply or learn more about the job, visit our webpage HERE. https://paasda.org/news/paa-substitutes-needed/
PAA Bus Driver Needed One of the many ways we strive to meet the diverse needs of our families is by providing a way for students on the west side of the city to get to PAA and back home safely each day. If you have a commercial driver’s license and can be available weekday mornings and afternoons, we hope you’ll join our team for the coming school year! The job pays well and is so rewarding. Learn more HERE. https://paasda.org/news/bus-driver-needed/
PAA’s 50-Years of Cougars Celebration Weekend Portland Adventist Academy Cougar Athletics is celebrating 50 years! Everyone is invited to a special weekend of events in honor of Coach Bill Judd and the 1971 inaugural varsity men’s basketball team. It happens September 25 & 26 and includes a Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony with dinner as well as a 3–on–3 basketball tournament. Spread the word to supporters, alumni, and forever cougars! Information, RSVPs and reservation information is HERE. https://paasda.org/news/paa-cougar-athletics-holds-first-hall-of-fame-event/
AMAZON SMILE! 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
There will be a memorial service for Ruth Jones, wife of Robert Jones, a friend of many, August 28, at 3:00 pm, at Meadow Glade SDA Church.
Adventist Community Church of Vancouver is pleased to welcome Dr. Neil Nedley on September 10 and 11. He will present on the topic of coping with anxiety and depression in a changing world. Please plan to attend and invite your friends and neighbors. He will present on Friday evening and Sabbath morning, afternoon and evening. A meal can be purchased in advance or bring your own lunch. Admission is free but space is limited so please register at www.adventistcommunity.church or call 360-696-2511.
Tabernacle Seventh-day Adventist Church is pleased to announce their Vacation Bible School August 17-20 9:00 am-12:00 pm. This will be geared to ages 0-7. For information on how to register of precautions, email office@tabernaclesda.org.
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.
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 are looking for a housekeeper who can work an average of about 2 days per month providing backup for our custodian when he’s on vacation and for certain holidays. Contact Shari Ferrier, 503-252-8500.
It happens after the Crocus, Hellebore, Daffodil and Tulip flowering seasons are long gone. They arrive when the Iris stems and Day Lilies are done and after the Gladiolus stems have finished proudly piercing the air. Somehow, when the summer heat is turned up they stand sure and show their splendor.
They grow where they are planted. They self-propagate from season to season. One finds them in pots and planters, in unpredictable garden places, corners and crevices, up front and way back, here, there and everywhere.
They light up the little landscape of my life.
Some call them Rudbeckias, or Black-eyed-susans, or even Cone Flowers.
They are Sunnysiders and we are blessed.
Pastor Dave Allen
News & Notes
THIS WEEKEND
Tonight’s showing of “The Chosen” has been canceled. It will resume next week.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Welcome to Sunnyside! In compliance with state regulations, please wear a mask and maintain physical distancing while you are in the building. We want to do our part in promoting a healthy situation. Again, if you feel sick or have been around anyone that has been sick, we request that you stay home and watch our services on livestream.
Guitar Class:We are in need of two additional adult-size guitars. Your donation will be greatly appreciated. If you have any questions, contact Pastor Wendy Wendy.Witas@SunnysideAdventist.org.
Church Library — The church library is reopening! The library will be open on the 1st and 3rd Sabbaths of the month until we find some additional help and are able to reopen on a full-time basis. Hours will be 10:45-11:15 am, and 12:30-1:00 pm. The church library has a wide selection of books available for our members to borrow, so please stop by.
Join us August 21, 7:00 pm for backyard praise music with Sunnyside’s praise band/worship band and at 8:00 pm, movie night showing “The Sound of Music,” at the Dalusong family home in Happy Valley. Bring a lawn chair, blanket, and your favorite movie snacks! Please RSVP and contact Ben for more information: Ben Dalusong, Cell/Text 818-653-1285, or email ben_d_jr@yhao.com.
The movie “The Chosen” is being featured with a different episode each Friday night, 7:00 pm, in the fellowship hall. Come and join us for this spiritual event along with great fellowship!
The Youth/Earliteen division needs teachers. If you can help, please contact Pastor Billy at 720-951-2016 or Billy.Hungate@SunnysideAdventist.org. The children’s division also needs help! We are searching for teachers, schedulers/greeters, and helpers for arts and crafts. If you can help us, please contact Pastor Wendy at 503-252-8080 or Wendy.Witas@SunnysideAdventist.org.
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 posted in the hallway and online. Thank you to those of you who have signed up — we have several dates still available. Take a minute to choose a date and let us know when you would like to share flowers with your church family. (Go to our website, www.SunnysideAdventist.org, click on “Our Ministries.”) 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.
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: Charles Gepford, Karen Krieger; Sunday: Kathryn Christensen, Brandon Katrina, Walter Murray, Lyra Tulipat, Bill Wagner; Monday: Robert Buller, Gregory Spiker; Tuesday: Natalia Gramada, Tommy Larson, Beverly Merino; Wednesday: Teresa Brower, Doris Gutsche, Carol Lecarno, Svetlana Sidorenko; Thursday: Lester Stannard; Friday: Cheryl Allen, Cassandra Van Barriger, Brian Vistaunet
David and Donna Schmidt! — Happy 50th Anniversary!
http://www/paasda.org PAASS Students Need You! The Portland Adventist Academy Development Office is looking for four dependable volunteers who can work independently to assist with the annual PAA Student Scholarship Auction on November 7. There is an immediate need for go-getter volunteers to help procure auction items. Experience is not necessary. Being imaginative and creative is a plus. Volunteers may also assist with setting up the auction. One dependable volunteer is also needed for Development Office clerical assistance. Some flexibility is helpful. Contact Development Director Sam Vigil Jr. for more information at 503-255-8372 x218 or svigil@paasda.org or click HERE. (https://paasda.org/news/paa-auction-needs-volunteers/)
Book Your Personal Tour of PAA (https://paasda.org/news/find-out-more/) If you or someone you know is looking for a Christ-centered and character-driven high school experience, now is the perfect time to book a personal tour of Portland Adventist Academy. Learn about our award-winning teachers certified in Project Based Learning, explore spiritual programs and service options, and find out what kind of scholarships are available to help with tuition. Click HERE to discover the many reasons PAA is the place parents want to send their children and students long to be! Book your tour HERE.
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
Adventist Community Church of Vancouver is pleased to welcome Dr. Neil Nedley on September 10 and 11. He will present on the topic of coping with anxiety and depression in a changing world. Please plan to attend and invite your friends and neighbors. He will present on Friday evening and Sabbath morning, afternoon and evening. A meal can be purchased in advance or bring your own lunch. Admission is free but space is limited so please register at www.adventistcommunity.church or call 360-696-2511.
Tabernacle Seventh-day Adventist Church is pleased to announce their Vacation Bible School August 17-20 9:00 am-12:00 pm. This will be geared to ages 0-7. For information on how to register of precautions, email office@tabernaclesda.org.
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.
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 are looking for a housekeeper who can work an average of about 2 days per month providing backup for our custodian when he’s on vacation and for certain holidays. Contact Shari Ferrier, 503-252-8500.
