This Sunday, Nov. 19, is the second week of extended advent at Community Church. The message is titled “Hope is in Our Hands.” The season of Advent has long been celebrated in the Christian church as a time of waiting for the second coming of Jesus in the “end times.” That waiting has now gone on for almost 2,000 years, leaving some to wonder if the point has been missed. This Sunday,

Even in the midst of challenging times, there is so much to be thankful for and people can always find ways to express gratitude. It’s been said that whatever people focus on grows, and also, whatever consumes the mind controls the life. God knows these things and gives believers direction for how to focus thoughts: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving,

It is easy to be overwhelmed by the barrage of bad news streaming in from all sources. The disturbing realization that one has so little control over bad things happening in the world can lead to anxiety, depression and fear. However, the Bible has provided an antidote to these feelings for thousands of years. It is possible to fully recognize evil and its effects while maintaining inner peace.

First Christian Church of Leisure World teaches from God’s word, the Holy Bible, most often verse by verse. It is a friendly church that welcomes all visitors to join in worship and explore God’s word together, “That we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine,” Romans 1:12. Pastor’s Message Pastor Gary Whitlatch will finish his messages on the book of