From the Pastor's Desk

June - July Issue 2004

"Reflecting Back on Nehemiah"
       The book of Nehemiah is the apparently autobiographical account of one man's involvement in the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. Nehemiah shows himself to be an excellent and godly leader by committing all he does to the Lord in prayer. It is clear that it is through Scripture and internal revelation that he guides his people. Without such a personality of integrity and commitment, Nehemiah likely would not have been successful in his attempt to see the walls of Jerusalem rebuilt.
      Overview Nehemiah continues the work begun by the priest and scribe Ezra. While Ezra accomplished the spiritual establishment of the new community, Nehemiah succeeds in giving it physical stability. Having learned, while in the high position of cupbearer to the king, that the community in Judah is "in great trouble and shame" (1:3), Nehemiah succeeds in having himself appointed governor in Judah with authority and resources to rebuild the city walls.
      Nehemiah acts with skill and daring. After surveying the walls at night to avoid detection by those who might oppose the work, he assembles a labor force and, dividing the walls into sections, supervises the building process, which is accomplished in the remarkably short time of 52 days. He faces determined opposition: mockery (2:19; 4:1-3); armed raids (4:7-12); a ruse to draw him outside the city, without doubt to murder him (6:1-4); threatened blackmail (6:5-9); and finally a prophet hired to foretell his death so that he would retreat to the temple in fear of his life (6:12). All of these he meets with courage, wisdom, and an invincible determination to complete the task.
      With the wall completed he then takes measures to increase the population of Jerusalem and to correct social, economic, and religious abuses. His prayers and piety reveal a man of strong religious conviction, as is shown in the final words of his text: "Remember me, O my God, for good" (13:31b).
      Personality Traits Numerous positive traits enable Nehemiah to act as a dynamic and charismatic leader: respect for authority, recognition of God's guidance and blessing, no apparent sacred-secular tension, a commitment to prayer, divine communication skills, an embracing of a wide range of emotions, encouragement, and self-denial. Negative traits, however, are shown later in the text (e.g., anger and egotism). The outcome of his mostly virtuous personality is a blessing upon the city of Jerusalem.
      Respect for Authority Nehemiah shows a healthy respect of authority. He is fearful of angering the king, who could have him killed. Upon being asked what he wants, Nehemiah utters a quick prayer and then respectfully requests materials and a leave of absence. The pagan king graciously grants his request, likely because of God's faithfulness to Nehemiah's prayer and the king's mutual respect for his cupbearer. Nehemiah is also fearful of disobeying God's commands, and encourages others to fear disobeying God. The Jewish nobles and officials had been charging fellow Jews interest, a thing denounced in Deut. 23:20. In order to regain God's blessing, it was necessary to cease this ungodly practice, which they did.
      Recognition for God's Guidance and Blessing God's intercession precedes any productive activity. Nehemiah recognizes this and gives God credit for the king's favor, his success in rebuilding the wall, and God's protection from Jerusalem's enemies. The people of Jerusalem recognize this and give God credit for the joy they feel following the reading of Scripture. Nehemiah's substantiated confidence in God is evident in 2:20 and 4:20. The people of Jerusalem understand that God is the provider of every good gift (James 1:17); "every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God" (Heb. 3:4).
      Absence of a Sacred-Secular Tension Nehemiah rarely executes a temporal decision without framing it in spiritual terms or consulting his God. The text indicates that godliness is not necessarily incompatible with earthly success. His spiritual activity and physical behavior are not in opposition to each other. There is nothing "secular" about Nehemiah. In the second chapter, for example, he interject a quick prayer as he is making a request of the king; in the fourth chapter he is shown to direct the people's thoughts toward God and also to adequately arm themselves. Their Lord is no "God of the gaps," a God who only interacts with people in inexplicable, apparently miraculous ways. Instead, God is active in all things. For Nehemiah it is not "'Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the Lord," but "By my Spirit, which works through your might and power."
      Prayer is Fundamental Nehemiah's work grows out of his praying; it is not a mere addendum to his work. His frequent prayers are an integral part of his life (see 1:4, 6; 2:4; 4:4, 9; 5:19; 6:14; 13:14, 22, 29). Prayer secures the king's favor and cooperation. Through it he obtains the necessary supplies and protection. Through it God endows Nehemiah with courage and wisdom in dealing with adversaries, imparts to him business shrewdness and tact in adjusting problems of labor and wages, equips him to deal with wily and crafty officials, affords him peace in the midst of slander and lies, and renews his faith and optimism. His prayers and tears are a reflection of his own devotional life. His prayer in 1:5-11, for example, is a blending of reverence, confession, contrition, and confidence. He holds God to his covenant and to His plighted Word as a reason to grant him success in his approach to the king for permission to rebuild Jerusalem's walls. Without prayer Nehemiah would likely not be the dynamic leader which Scripture identifies him to be.
      Communication with God Nehemiah's faith is more than a dedication to a religion or a people. His focus is on a tangible relationship with his Creator. His communication is not merely a one-way sending of prayers skyward, but one of intimate interaction. Because of his relying on extra-Scriptural guidance, he is enabled to successfully assess and repair the wall, discern false prophecy, and draw up a genealogical record. Again, in Nehemiah there is no considering that the profound thoughts which spring to mind are his own "secular" creation, but he consistently and rightly credits God. It is likely through practice that he has learned to identify the still, small, friendly voice of God.
      Encouragement Throughout his tenure, Nehemiah encourages those who work with him, welcoming his compatriots to join him in trusting God. The words are encouraging because they are grounded in the truth that God sees his people and his work through their struggles. Nehemiah's faith and zeal are infectious - the people's eager response early in Nehemiah's account is typical: "Let us arise and build" (2:18).
      Self Denial Nehemiah, like Moses before him, chooses "rather to endure ill-treatment with the people of God, than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin" (Heb. 11:25). Throughout the account, he forgoes comfortable options and instead works hard, alongside common workers, to see the wall of Jerusalem rebuilt. He refuses to eat fine foods, for example, like other leaders, and takes no land. This behavior places him in good stead with his fellow Jews. Nehemiah truly is a "servant-leader" - the type of leader whom workers enjoy following.
      Conclusions Much can be learned from Nehemiah's example and godly style of leadership. His commitment to prayer, his recognition of Scriptural principles, and his commitment to the people and work of God, among other things, enable him to lead effectively. Despite his anger and egotism, the outcome of his mostly virtuous personality is a blessing upon the city of Jerusalem.

      In his unfailing love,

            Pastor Neil

Memorial Sunday
      On May 30th Pentecost and Memorial weekend were celebrated. The church colors were changed to red to reflect the new season. The choir presented their first anthem from their new music subscription which provides the music on CD. Trini Yadao was very pleased to be able to sing again. The first selection was "I Surrender All." Pastor Neil utilized the new projection system and showed a recent Angel's game in which the game was lost because home base was not covered. His meditation focused on "Covering the Base(sics)."

United Methodist Male Chorus
      At 3 pm Holman UMC was host to their twelfth Annual Concert directed by Clavis Ballard. Their theme was "Promoting Peace Through the Universal Language of Music." Our own Les Powell is a member of the chorus.
      Their varied program started with "My Soul is a Witness for My Lord." Musical inspiration was taken from the poem "Invictus" written by William Ernest Henley (1849-1903), and "The Testament of Freedom" taken from the writing of Thomas Jefferson. The last half of the program concentrated on seven spirituals starting with "Good News" and ending with "Nobody Knows De Trouble I've Seen."
      A group of nine string musicians, "The Angeles Players" rendered three separate selections that followed the theme of the day. They also accompanied the chorus on some numbers. Dr. James Hurd played the organ and Dora Ballard was the pianist.
      This concert memorialized the history of the journey of an entire race in this land. The ending selection summarized the focus of the afternoon - "Everything that has Breath Should Praise the Lord!"

Rosewood UMC's 100th Anniversary
      This year Rosewood UMC has an anniversary theme of "Keep the Flame on Fire, a Century of Faithful Service through Changing Times." Rosewood has plans for a "Revival Weekend" on July 30th and 31st at 7 pm. Rosewood is one of our partners with Christmas Institute and our church youth have visited Rosewood.

Pictorial Committee Organized
      On May 2nd the first meeting of the 90th Anniversary Picture Directory was held. Lawry Yadao offered to take pictures of church groups that will have to be ready by October. A cover picture of the church and all members will be scheduled during this time.
      Olan Mills has said they will take pictures of anyone; they do not have to be members of the church. They will receive their free picture, just like all members, but will not be included in the membership directory.
      Another meeting was held July 6th to make design decisions and organize free pages. Pictures will be taken of all available groups in the congregation to put in the directory. A banner will be ordered for the north side of the church building to be the background for a congregational picture that will be used for our directory cover.
      Volunteers will be solicited for calling and hospitality responsibilities.
      SAVE OCTOBER 8TH AND 9TH FOR OLAN MILLS PICTURE TAKING!

United Methodist Women
      The next meeting will be held on September 25th at El Segundo UMC. Hopefully a large number of Wilmington women can attend.

Lucero's 50th Anniversary Celebration
      On June 5th Samuel and Leonarda Lucero gave thanks to God for their Golden Anniversary.

Graduation Recognition
      On June 6th and 13th high school and college graduates were recognized with gifts of a book and a small financial scholarship from the UMM for their achievements. Congratulations to all who achieved their goal and also to those who achieved honors in their quest.

Tiffany Molina Graduated from Long Beach Polytechnic with high honors and will be attending Cal State University, Long Beach.	Jessica Molina Graduated from Long Beach Polytechnic with high honors and will be attending Cal State University, Long Beach.	Pam DeVivar Graduated from Artesia High School and will be attending UC Irvine.
Jennifer DeVivar Graduated from California State University of Fullerton	Melvin Fajardo Graduated from Carson High School and will be attending Cal State University, Long Beach	Maridette Rasing Graduated from Carson High School and will be attending Marymount College in Rancho Palos Verdes.
Jason Cabamongan Graduated from Long Beach Polytechnic High School with honors and will be attending Cal State University, Long Beach.	Jizelle Sta. Ana Graduated from Long Beach Polytechnic High School.	Julexes Delos Santos Graduated from Cerritos High School and received Sports Letters for Varsity Track and Field (Pole Vault). He plans to attend Cal State University, Fullerton.

Hymn Singing at Rivera UMC
      On June 6th Rivera UMC in Redondo Beach hosted an old-fashioned hymn sing. About 20 gathered to enjoy old and new hymns and praise God with their voices. Cheryl Anne Roach provided music and leadership. She has her own web site and her next concert is September 11th at 4 pm at Belmont Heights UMC. Her web address is www.cherylanneroach.com.

Women's Conference Projects
      The women want to thank all who supported their conference projects for Methodist Volunteers in Action. On Sunday June 6th ladies sorted and packed 11 health kits. Monetary contributions were separated and two jars of pennies will be donated to "Pennies from Heaven" for the Loma Linda Ronald McDonald House. A few children's books were also donated. Some items needed to be purchased from the funds contributed to finish all the health kits for UMCOR. The remains of the donation jar is $45.87 which will be used for the next women's mission project. Pastor Neil delivered our donations during Conference.
      Conference donations totaled more than 2,000 health kits for UMCOR. Some are already earmarked for Haiti where recent storms and mudslides have caused such havoc.

Connectional Advantages
      During Conference all churches together donated over 2,000 health kits for UMCOR, 14 boxes of books and over $10,000 in pennies for the Loma Linda Ronald McDonald House!

Pastor Neil Transferred to Cal-Pac
      On June 15th Rev. Neil Platon was formally transferred to Cal-Pac Annual Conference. Iowa can't take him back now, he's all ours!

Conference Statistics
      Membership in the Cal-Pac Conference stands at 93,128, down 1.7% from the previous year. Average weekly worship attendance stands at 55,101, down 2.2% from this time last year.

Apportionment Budget for 2005
      The 2005 budget will be lower than 2004 by 11.18%. However, local churches will be billed directly for pastor's Comprehensive Protection Plan premiums that previously were paid by apportioned funds. This plan provides death and disability coverage for clergy. The premiums are expected to run between $100-$350 per person per month.
      At the end of 2003, 58.3% of churches made full apportionment payments.

San Diego Faith United Methodist Church
      On June 30th another Cal-Pac church closed its doors. A Letter to the Editor asked the question, "What really went wrong? What caused Faith UMC's early demise?" Guesses abound but the writer thinks that the answer can be summed up in seven very costly words: "But We've Always Done It That Way." Circuit West, July 2, 2004

Run For Missions
      On June 19th the annual mission run was held at Harbor Park. It was a nice cool morning, just right for running. Participants accomplished 115.5 laps. The Young & Adult group have designated proceeds to be split between Alcala UMC and the Youth Hawaii Mission Trip. Donations through July 18th totaled $671.70: that is $335.85 each to Alcala UMC and the Youth Mission Trip.

Father's Day Youth Sunday
      On June 20th while Pastor Neil was busy at Conference the youth group led the service in which all fathers were recognized. A skit "The Pearl Necklace" demonstrated our Father's love and the multiple awards given were warmly received.
      Chef Rudy Carlos prepared a delicious lunch of short ribs, stir fry and rice. Only 22 reservations were made and he ran out of food again. Proceeds of $148.00 went to the Youth Hawaiian Mission Trip.

Philippine Heritage Sunday
      June 27th reflected beauty in every gown and barone that graced the sanctuary. Priscilla Dayrit supplied special decorations. Two of the youth performed the "Dance of Lights." The UMM sang part in English and part in language. The choir adapted the refrain of "To God Be the Glory" to a Tagalog translation. Pastor Neil spoke on the strengths of the Philippine Heritage: 1) Love of God; 2) Love of People and 3) Love of Country.
      Mar Tacadena reported on his conference experiences.

Conference Report - Art Abella
      Bishop Swenson announced the election of Rev. Grant Hagiya, LA. District DS as Cal-Pac's candidate for the Episcopacy. Election of new bishops will take place at the Western Jurisdictional Conference in San Jose.
      He participated in the election of JoAnn Yoon Fukumoto to the Conference Laity Leadership Team.
      On June 18th the retirement ceremony was held for 18 Clergy and one Diaconal Minister. The longest serving retiree was Rev. Lloyd Saatjian with 47 years. The shortest serving retiree was Rev. Dorothy Worley with 15 years. The Diaconal Minister was Sonja Park who served 10 years. Award ceremonies, youth program, missionary recognition and a concert followed.
      The retirees repeatedly stressed two important factors that sustained them during their years of service:
      1) The unconditional blessings, guidance and love of the Lord Jesus Christ.
      2) The unstinted support of the lay people of the churches to which they were assigned.
      Rick Warren of "The Purpose Driven Life" wrote on page 165: "There are no perfect leaders, ministers included, but God gives these leaders the responsibilities and the authority to maintain the unity of the church."
      Art closed with a personal story of a 40-year member he met in the Philippines. He said "Six different pastors have ministered to me. I never listened to find faults in their messages or to find shortcomings in their administration. I am cognizant of their limitations and imperfections because each was a human being, just like me."

New Nursery!
      On July 4th the nursery opened for business. Harold Cowan put on the first coat of paint and Christopher Johnson did the second coat and all the finish work. Pasamonte donated a playpen, walker and mobiles. Cabamongan donated a crib that Quiming delivered, Platon donated a table and chair set and Yadao donated a rocker.
      After the service a special dedication service was held to formally set aside this room to care for the babies of our church.

Finance Meeting
      On July 11th the financial records of the church were reviewed. The 2003 audit was presented and a copy of the entire report is posted on the bulletin board in the fellowship hall.
      Pete Cabalse and Rolando Mangaoang presented financial expenses and revenues thru June 2004. Neva Johnson prepared an analysis of budget to actual. All of the above reports will be presented to the Council and then posted for all to see.
      It is the intent of the Finance Committee to demonstrate integrity by publicly displaying all financial documents and by performing an annual audit on all treasuries of the church. For 2003 the Women's and Men's Groups were audited. Next year it is hoped that the remaining groups will participate.

Islander Cultural Nights
      On July 16th and 17th our youth and adult supporters staged two memorable nights of entertainment bringing back memories of our long ago "Luau Days." The festive decorations and exhilarating atmosphere created the desired ambience for the evening.
      At 6:30 the audience gathered and in no time all were being enthralled with the historical intricate dances that were performed. The costumes were professional and the dancers had been practicing non-stop for over a month. Grace, beauty, balancing and athletic abilities were displayed many times through out the evening. Our gifted announcer took us from one dance to the next and kept us aware of the meaning and context of what we were experiencing.
      About 45 minutes into the program there was an intermission so the evening meal could be served. Our chefs had been very busy and as usual the food was first rate. Optional drinks and pecan bars were available.
      The show continued after the dinner intermission and we were treated to more agility delights. Each performer used their acting abilities, honed by performing skits, to transport us to another time and place. The Spanish Suite showed us formality, the Muslim Suite reflected regal splendor, the Igorot Suite had a native flavor, the Rural Suite brought back many memories of previous dances with the lighted cups and glasses, coconut dance and Tinikling, the national dance of the Philippines. Added to this was a new dance "Bangko" which was performed on a 6" wide bench. Midway we were treated to a demonstration of Filipino Martial Arts. The Yadao's sang what used to be the national anthem of Hawaii before statehood. The program closed with the graceful, rhythmic Hawaiian Suite.
      Proceeds will go to pay for airfare for 22 youth. so they can do mission work in Waipahu, Hawaii. Pastor Neil and family, the Yadaos and several parents will also accompany them. They will be gone from August 3rd to August 13th.
      As with every event of this magnitude a lot of people were needed to contribute their part. Thank you to all who donated food, time and sweat to create this spectacular "ICN." Special acknowledgement is given to those who lent their costumes so this event could have a professional appearance: Cerritos High School Club "Mag Kaisa" and "The Sampaguita Dance Troupe." The Hawaiian costume donor has not yet been disclosed.
      Proceeds of ICN netted $3,331.36 after expenses of $449.07. Sunday donations totaled $1,007.51 and the half share of Run for Missions was $335.85. This gives our youth a grand total of $4,674.72 to finance their trip. Thank you to all who made this dream a reality.
      View several picture galleries from the ICN performances by clicking here.

Birthday Celebration
      Lawry Yadao shared his 74th birthday with the entire congregation on July 18th by bringing a cake for all. His birthday was July 22nd. On his trip to Hawaii he will attend his 55th high school reunion.

Travel to the Philippines
      On July 18th Benjamin Jacusalem left to travel to the Philippines for over a month.

Pastor's Birthday/L.A. Cathedral
      On July 21st Pastor Neil celebrated his birthday by taking the confirmation class and some parents to visit the Los Angeles Cathedral.

90th Birthday Celebration
      On July 22nd Viola Mills celebrated her 90th birthday surrounded by her family.

Georgia News from Sal Sarmiento
      Even though I left California a retired person I have been very busy working every day and most evenings. My labor of love includes both my daughter's medical practice and my grand daughter plus my vegetable garden.
      Ruth opened her own private practice "Premier Hematology and Cancer Care, PC." She hired her minimum medical staff plus a Billing Specialist. I filled the positions of accountant, banking, human resources and any other job that arises. Whatever office work is not done during the day is for the evening or gets carried over to the next day.
      I get to pick up our grand daughter from school every afternoon and take her to ballet, karate and wherever she needs to go. My vegetable garden is doing well because it rains almost every day. I spend my time keeping the weeds away from the plants but have to let the rest of the yard survive.
      We have missed Wilmington First and all our friends. However, we knew we could no longer travel back and forth as we had been doing. The Church Newsletter has kept us aware of everything that you have been doing. Ana has had some problems but is doing better now. She does not make phone calls anymore because she does not hear well enough to talk. Our address is now 111 Old Virginia Circle, Jonesboro, GA 30236, and phone number is 770-210-8512. My cell phone is 404-936-5698. Our plan to build a primary house in Florida is nearing its final stages. Our life here with Ruth and Hannah Grace is good for us. However, we hope to make a trip in October during your picture taking to visit you all.

New Visitation Outreach
      On July 4th a new program of targeted visitation was initiated. On the first Monday of the month communion will be served to members who can no longer come to church. On the third Monday of each month visitation will be made to members that requests have been received. If you would like a visit, or know of anyone that needs visiting, please give Pastor Neil a call.
      Those who have assisted in this ministry are Art Abella, Rueben Pascua and Augie Rojas. If others are interested in this ministry please contact Pastor Neil.

Online UMC Course       Check out www.training.uncom.org for a course in UM101 to learn about the church.

Member Prayer Listing
      Fil Tabios returned to church on July 18th with only a cane after brain surgery and a stroke. Praise the Lord!
      Jake Pascua has suffered a second major stroke and is now confined in ICU at Torrance Memorial. Hermie and family are in need of prayers at this major crossroad of their lives.

Meditation for "Distraught"
      Proverbs 16:25 - There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death.
      Proverbs 16:27 - Scoundrels hunt for scandal; their words are a destructive blaze.
      Proverbs 16:28 - A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends.
      Proverbs 21:23 - He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity.
      Proverbs 18:2 - Fools have no interest in understanding; they only want to air their own opinions.
      Proverbs 18:17 - Any story sounds true until someone sets the record straight.
      Proverbs 18:21 - Those who love to talk will experience the consequences, for the tongue can kill or nourish life.

Setting the Record Straight on Laughlin
      "Distraught" has many unique opinions that do not hold up to actual facts. We know that he is not a member of Council or Finance or he would know that the Laughlin Trip was taken to the Council of this church for authorization by Pastor Neil and that NO money was obtained from any casino. All funds came directly from the members and friends that participated in this fundraiser. The fee of $20 was paid directly to the church and our Treasurer paid half to the driver for bus rental. The church portion remains in our account and was designated for the Fence Fund. This activity paid our fence debt in full and started a roof fund.

New Web Site!
      Pastor Neil has discovered a free web site and created our second web site. The new address is http://wilmington-first.tripod.com/. The advantage of this site is that input is pre-formatted and updates are extremely easy. The disadvantage is that advertising will pop up. However, Pastor Neil was able to limit it to areas of interest to our members. He has established a link to this, our original web site so both can be viewed.

United Methodist Heritage - Sanctification and Perfection
      We hold that the wonder of God's acceptance and pardon does not end God's saving work, which continues to nurture our growth in grace. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we are enabled to increase in the knowledge and love of God and in love for our neighbor.
      New birth is the first step in this process of sanctification. Sanctifying grace draws us toward the gift of Christian perfection, which Wesley described as a heart "habitually filled with the love of God and neighbor" and as "having the mind of Christ and walking as he walked."
      This gracious gift of God's power and love, the hope and expectation of the faithful, is neither warranted by our efforts nor limited by our failures. (2000 Book of Discipline p.47)

Special Thanks!
      The UMM donated a large brand new rice cooker to the church kitchen.
      Rudy Carlos is removing the organ blower from our new storage room.
      Christopher Johnson painted the hallway.

Volunteers Sought
      Nehemiah 13:11 says "Why is the house of God neglected."
      The Bible also says "Ask and ye shall receive." Your church is in need of volunteers to spend time during the week to improve our appearance and perform the little tasks that always come up.
      For example: weeds are waist high in the back of the church; a shelf needs to be constructed for the nursery to set a fan on so it's out of the children's way; cleaning and painting is needed in the men's bathroom, custodian room, and the old organ room which is now a storage room. The custodian room needs sorting, organizing and installation of a pegboard for tools. The handicapped space needs to be repainted. All the doors need to be painted so they all look as good as the nursery door. Trees and bushes need trimming. I'm sure many of you have other things that you have noted and would like to add.
      To those who have the gifts to do these tasks and have available time the church is open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10 to noon. Come and find out how much fun it is to be a "doorkeeper in the House of the Lord," and lay up treasure for yourself in heaven.

Events at Neighboring Churches
      On July 25th from 5:30 - 7:30 Dominguez UMC will sponsor a "Gospel Concert".
      On August 8th from 3:00 - 5:00 pm. A concert featuring "Anna Ford Classical Ensemble" will be available.
      Light refreshments will be available and a free will offering will be taken. Location: 21503 S. Prospect Ave., Carson, CA, (310) 835-0137.

Important Future Dates
      District United Methodist Women meeting on September 25th at El Segundo UMC.
      Olan Mills picture taking October 8th and 9th for our Anniversary Edition picture directory.

Birthdays are good for you; the more you have, the longer you live!
Birthdays

July 22	-	Lawry Yadao
23	-	Stanley Pasamonte
August 2	-	Josefina David
3	-	Ryan A. Ancheta
3	-	Abby Carlos
3	-	Fred Slover
9	-	Sarah Sormillon
12	-	Lolita D. DeVera
15	-	Gene Vilano
18	-	Jasmine C. Tanguilig
20	-	Expedito Rasing
20	-	Eden Valdez
21	-	Lori Vilano
25	-	Ryan Sagun
27	-	Fe Sia
September 1	-	Rudy Carlos
1	-	Lucia Ancheta
3	-	Dennis Cabamongan
6	-	Larissa Nefulda
12	-	Barbara Paulson
14	-	Brian Credo
17	-	Salvador Sarmiento
19	-	Don Pascua
21	-	Olivia Hulett
24	-	Kristina Viloria
28	-	Jasmine Platon

Anniversaries

August 1	-	Bert and Dolly Ashe (50th!!!)
15	-	Jesse and Doris Kendrick
15	-	Arturo and Pura Abella
23	-	Samir and Christine Koirala
September 5	-	Rudy and Abby Carlos
18	-	Vic and Lita Pasamonte

Special Event Calendar

July 2004	26 - 30 Vacation Bible School
August 2004	1 - Usher Committee/Workshop Committee
	8 - Council Meeting
	15 - Laity Day Committee Meeting
	22 - Confirmation Class
	29 - SPPRC Meeting
September 2004	5 - Confirmation Class
	6 - Labor Day
	12 - Sunday School Rally
	12 - Christian Education Offering
	19 - Fall Sunday School and Choir Begins
	19 - Confirmation Class
	26 - Board of Trustees Meeting
October 2004	3 - World Communion Special Offering
	3 - Confirmation Class
	8 - Olan Mills Directory Pictures
	9 - Olan Mills Directory Pictures
	10 - Finance Meeting
	17 - Laity Sunday
	17 - Confirmation Class
	23 - Country Store
	30 - Planning Retreat
	30 - Daylight Savings Ends
	31 - Council Meeting

Wilmington Breeze is the newsletter of the FUMC of Wilmington of the Long Beach District of the Cal-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church.

Rev. Neil Platon, Consultant Email: pastor@wilmingtonfumc.org

Neva Johnson, Editor Email:secretary@wilmingtonfumc.org

Website: http://wilmingtonfumc.org

Material for consideration must be submitted or e-mailed to either one of the above.