Hey Church Family,
Welcome to another week filled with blessings and opportunities to grow in faith and fellowship! As we gather together, united in spirit and purpose, we're excited to share the latest news and updates with you. From upcoming events to meaningful reflections, our weekly announcements serve as a beacon of guidance and connection in our journey of faith. Join us as we embark on this enriching adventure together!
In faith and community,
Your Social Media Team
St. Luke Christian Church
www.stlukecchsv.org
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Sunday Sermon - April 12, 2026
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THE OTHER SIDE OF LIFE’S MOUNTAINS
Hebrews 12:1-2 (KJV)
1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
The writer of Hebrews presents life in the analogy of a foot race in an arena where the bleachers are filled with former runners. They have finished the race themselves and are now witnesses cheering those who are still in the race of a faithful life. Read chapter eleven (11) to see a list of some of the names of those who are in the bleachers and the mountains they had to deal with. The Mountain is something that threatens to impede or possibly prohibit the runner’s forward progress, or at the least, make the race so much harder to run. One of the things that we learn is that every believer must be prepared to encounter mountains, so don’t set up camp in 'Pity-Me Park'. Rather, consider people like Abraham who had to deal with Mount Moriah, or Elijah, who had to deal with Mount Carmel. The text instructs us to look to Jesus and the way He endured His Mountain (Mount Calvary, the cross). Jesus did not focus on the mountain; he considered the joy on the other side which must have been encouragement to continue the race.
The letter of Hebrews was written to a young Christian Church made up of Jewish members who had converted from Judaism to become a part of the people of the Way. They were being persecuted by their own people as well as the Grecians, Romans, and the world. Those who study the letter will notice that the Hebrews were trying to turn back to their old Jewish traditions. The writer throughout the first ten chapters does a parallel point-to-point comparison/critique of the doctrine of Jesus and that of Judaism, Mosaic Law, and their traditions to show that the Grace provided by Jesus is so much more superior to the Law and all the traditions. In chapter 11, he reminds them to ‘consider’ their ancestors who had kept the faith; enduring hardship while running the race of a faithful life. In Hebrews 12:2, the writer instructs them to “look unto Jesus” who looked beyond the cross to the joy that was on the other side of the mountain. Jesus looked over the cross to the satisfaction of His Father and the salvation of all who would believe; He looked to victory over death and the grave; He looked to all power being placed in His hands; He looked to ascending back to the Father; He looked to being seated at the right hand of God; He looked to the future coronation and title that would be bestowed, “King of Kings and Lord of Lords.” For the joy of these things, He endured the cross and despised the shame all because of what was on other side of the mountain.
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The St. Luke Christian Church Music Ministry is excited about presenting music that uplifts and blesses everyone. We are growing and looking for new members for all ensembles. If you are interested in joining, please reach out to Reverend Marvis Moore via 256-721-1294.
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Continuing in May 2026, the Women’s Choir will sing in monthly rotation. The next rehearsal will be Tuesday, May 12th at 6:30 p.m. These rehearsals are open to ages 12 and older. For more information, please contact Rev. Boussi Johnson.
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Medical Ministry Moment Risks of Excessive Electronic Device Usage Excessive use of smartphones, tablets, computers, and other electronic devices can have significant physical, mental, and social consequences for people of all ages. Physical Health Effects- Eye strain and vision issues: Prolonged screen exposure can cause dry, tired eyes, headaches, and blurred vision. The American Optometric
Psychological and Mental Health Impacts- Mood and anxiety: Problematic device use is linked to depression, anxiety, and irritability, especially when it becomes compulsive or interferes with daily life
- Children and teens: High screen time can delay language development, reduce real-world interaction, and overstimulate the brain’s visual cortex while under-stimulating the auditory cortex, which is vital for social skills
- Bottom line: While technology offers many benefits, excessive use can harm vision, sleep, brain health, mental well-being, and social skills. Mindful, balanced use is key to avoiding these negative effects.
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Join the St. Luke Media Team
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Hey family! We are actively looking to grow our media team and need your support. If you have any experience with audio engineering, social media management, photography, videography or have an interest in developing your skills in any of these areas, please contact the social media team at socialmedia@stlukecchsv.org or see the church Secretary for more information.
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We kindly request that you remember and include in your prayers those individuals who are part of our SLCC family. Life can sometimes present us with unexpected challenges and it is during these times that our thoughts and prayers can provide comfort and strength. So, please take a moment to send positive thoughts and pray for our SLCC family members. Please submit prayer requests to members@stlukecchsv.org.
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Children's Church Volunteers Needed!
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Church Nursery Volunteers Needed!
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We are seeking assistance in the church nursery. If you have a love for children and want to volunteer your time in this ministry, please stop by the nursey and speak with Sister Monica Gray
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Mid-Week Connect and Noon Day Bible Study are every Wednesday at 12pm Noon & 6pm. Join us in-person and via our YouTube page as we explore the word of God together.
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Children's Church Schedule 2026
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Hey, family. We want to introduce the St. Luke photo Gallery which is available on our new Flickr page. Photos of worship services, baptisms, and other church events will be displayed on this site. From the site you will be able to view, download, and share moments captured by our incredible photographers. Please scan the QR code to be directed to this collection of photos and we hope you enjoy these memories for years to come. There will also be a link to access this photo gallery on the church website.
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The food pantry hours are Monday - Wednesday from 9:30am - 2:00pm to serve our community. Donations to the pantry are always appreciated so if you would like to donate, feel free to bring those donations during pantry hours and one of our volunteers will be happy to receive them.
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St. Luke Business Network
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Calling all St. Luke business owners! Join the St. Luke Business Network to showcase your talents to our community. Submit your business info, headshot and services to socialmedia@stlukecchsv.org (see examples below). Let's connect and uplift each other.
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Love Zone Group - Offering temporary housing solutions through corporate leasing. For additional information, please contact us at 256-384-5085 and/or felicia@lovezoneprop.com
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Bold and Fierce Boutique
11041 Hwy 231-431N, Suite K
Meridianville, AL 35759
Website: www.shopboldandfierce.com
Social Media: @boldandfierceboutique on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok
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Update Your Membership Info!
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Follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming events! Also, check out our NEW flickr page to see photos of previous events and church services!
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If you have any inquiries or wish to have your announcement featured in next week's newsletter, please feel free to reach out to us at socialmedia@stlukecchsv.org
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