Pastor Russ DeBord's Blog

New Series!

2012-01-07T15:11:00.002-05:00

Everything is coming together as we prepare to kick off our brand new series titled "WURD"! We sent out extra invites to over 170 families whose children attend our Sunset Christian Academy. And today I am praying for an outstanding response to this effort! We've also printed up an extra number of bulletin's as we anticipate an increase in our normal attendance. Who is coming with you this weekend? Many of your family and friends are just one invite away from experiencing a changed life!

I am focusing on this topic first and foremost for myself. I desire a wholesome tongue, one that speaks what is pleasing to the Lord.

Many, like myself, have discovered that making New Year's Resolutions, counting to ten, or implementing dozens of other self-help efforts have been completely unsuccessful at controlling this unruly member. Recently I've overheard so many conversations or read numerous Facebook postings that have simply stunned me. I've heard word's I'd never use in my interactions with others. Some of those word's were quite hurtful, damaging and downright unbecoming of a person who claims to be a follower of Christ.

Is it possible to "clean up" our mouths, or would a person practically have to become a castaway on an island in total isolation from others to accomplish such a feat with his or her tongue? Even then, that person's "self-talk" would probably still remain critical and negative in many ways.

The only real hope for improvement is to allow the Holy spirit to be in total control of our speech.

I want to challenge you to become sensitive to the godly lessons we will learn together in the next several weeks. If you've discovered that this is an area where you've shown little to no verbal wisdom in the past then make the decision today to move toward spiritual maturity in this area by learning to speak the right words at the right moment, in the right way. All of us can transform our words into a wellspring of life! You can determine your future quality of life by the words you speak today!

Let's take this journey together. It will no doubt be adventurous and at times difficult too. But as we arrive at our destination, our connection to God and each other will most definitely be closer and stronger!

PS: IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN BECOMING A MEMBER OF SUNSET CHAPEL OR FINDING OUT MORE ABOUT US ..... THE CLASSES START THIS SUNDAY AS WELL @ 9:30 AM for the NEXT 4 WEEKS.

There are "AWESOME" things ahead as we head into 2012!

Pastor Russ DeBord

Sunday Splash!

2011-12-19T09:41:00.003-05:00

It was another remarkable day at Sunset Chapel! The worship team started our service with an extended set of Christmas caroling! Smiles abounded throughout the sanctuary as the team presented this wonderful array of Christmas favorites! I have to admit there were a few that were unfamiliar to me. Having John Kricker add his voice and levity to this singing Christmas presentation was over the top hilarious! Where he gets his bursts of energy is totally amazing! He was definitely a crowd favorite!

I completed the series "The Gift of Change" on Sunday and received so much positive feedback that our media team is preparing this three set mini-series of messages for future purchase. When they have the set completed, we will inform those who are interested when they will be available. God extends His ability to "change" our "hearts, circumstances and families" if we will surrender control to Him. His plans and purposes for our lives are incredible! When the pain of the same becomes greater than the pain of change it's at that point we are ready to take the necessary steps to see improvement in our life situations! Sunday's message concerning the "Gift of Change for Families" was probably one of the most needed in sometime for several in our Sunset Chapel church family. If you missed it YOU NEED TO GET A SET OF THESE MESSAGES.

We received our first ever Christmas Gift Offering to assist several struggling families to provide holiday cheer to their children. Our offering totalled $1,948.00!! Thank you so much for helping us bring some joy into the hearts of these children who otherwise were going to have a bleak or no Christmas gifts this year. We have 7 families with 15 kid's that we want to bless. It's not to late to help us. If God lays it on your heart to contribute to this effort there's still time. You can drop your donation off at the church this week by Thursday morning before 10:00 AM or you can make an online donation by going to our website SUNSETCHAPEL.COM and clicking on the giving icon and following the prompts. Be sure to mark your donation "Christmas Gift" so that it can be applied to our efforts to bless these families!

Surprise Birthday Party

After the service the entire church stayed over for an early birthday celebration for me! This Tuesday is my actual birthday. I am overwhelmed by everyone's generosity and love. Thank you to all who gave me so many wonderful cards and gifts. I joked with everyone that they couldn't put any candles on the cake because the fire department couldn't be on standby since I had become an official "fire hazard"!

Beautiful New Baby

After our church activities ended, Shari and I made our way up to Baptist Hospital to welcome into the world and to our Sunset Chapel church family little "Evangeline Elise Lander's". Her arrival was about a month early. Congratulations to Pete and Amanda for this precious gift from heaven! My wife was in heaven holding this beautiful baby!

Sunday Splash!

2011-12-12T08:33:00.000-05:00

Sunday was such an extremely encouraging day! It was another fun weekend at Sunset Chapel! I am being blown away at the number of guest's who are showing up week after week. During our "extended" friendship time I made some terrific connections with Maria, Valentina, Edgar, Julie, Chris and Mirta! All these new faces are energizing our church to see ahead to the vision that God has for our church. God is doing something that has everyone sitting up and starting to notice. There is such a great spirit in our church right now. Start inviting people now to next weekend's worship experience. Even if people have turned your invitation down dozens of times...DO NOT GIVE UP ON THEM! God didn't give up on you and it might be your next invitation that God uses to transform someones life forever! When we bring people with us to see first hand what God is doing at Sunset Chapel the chances that they will have their lives changed skyrocket!

I did my best to unwrap the second message in our mini-series "The Gift of Change." Everyone appears to be tracking with these messages. And the feedback that I'm receiving indicates that it is a series that is resonating with several. God wants us to experience His best! And far to many had been settling for less in their lives. As I've been stating for the past two weeks, change is an "inside job." With God, the great physician transplanting a new heart inside us. Not only do we get a new lease on life we also receive new sensory responses, cravings, and habits. Paraphrasing Ezekiel 36:26 (Living Bible) it basically says, "I will give you a new heart and I will put within you a new spirit. I will take out your stony/stubborn heart and I will give you a tender responsive heart." That's why when you and I surrender our hearts and control of our lives to God... something inside us changes! Change is initiated in our hearts. I love seeing the changes that God is doing in the lives of so many!

I love the Christmas season don't you? This is our family's third Christmas in Miami and our first in our new home. Shari has decorated the tree's and we have been involved in numerous holiday activities already. We capped off our day hosting a Christmas gathering for prayer and fellowship. It was a great evening of connecting with many who attend SC on a regular basis. There was so much food! I had to have gained 3-5 pounds just overnight! My wife made Brunswick Stew for the very first time and it was off the charts "Excellent"!

I announced our first ever "Christmas Gift Offering" yesterday in our service! Please help us bring some holiday cheer to some families with children who are really struggling right now. We will be receiving this offering next weekend December 18th. If your unable to attend there are several ways you can contribute to this offering. You can drop off your donation at the church, mail it, or better yet go to sunsetchapel.com and click on the online giving icon and follow the prompts. All donations will be tax deductible. Thank you so much for helping us put smile on some children's faces this year!

Have a blessed week!!

Christmas Gift Offering 2011

2011-12-11T15:08:00.001-05:00

Sunday Splash!

2011-12-06T13:47:00.001-05:00

Wow! What a weekend here at Sunset Chapel! I am still trying to recover from all the exciting stuff that's been taking place here on our campus! Last Tuesday evening a lot of us helped a family get moved into their new house. I really appreciated the strong guy's who showed up to do all the heavy lifting! Special thanks to Andrew, Carlos and Jose! We couldn't have done it without you guy's! Wednesday evening we hosted Sunset Christian Academy's "Family Fun Fest" there were a lot of excited kid's and parents on our campus for a fun-filled evening! Games, inflatables, pony rides and a petting zoo were available for all to participate in! Special highlight was the first ever pre-school fashion show! This added element to the Fun Fest was a solid hit enjoyed by all! Our littlest kid's were radiant in their new outfits!! Thursday I met with Tony Isasi and Yvonne Wiscovitch for their wedding rehearsal as we prepared for Saturday's wedding! Friday my wife Shari and I attended SCA's pre-school Christmas program! So many incredible and talented children showcased their talents for all to enjoy as the Christmas season gets into full swing! Saturday was the wedding I already mentioned, which was my fourth one in recent weeks! It's a real pleasure helping people tie "a forever knot" in their relationships together. And on Sunday I dedicated little baby Salome Victoria Cebey to the Lord! i must mention our worship team was spot on all morning! I noticed how everyone was getting their groove on to the new twist to an old Al Green song that they did a remake of. I saw head's bobbin all over the place!! And did anyone else notice.....we had so many guests. I did my best to get to as many as I possibly could! I met new friend's Issa, Martha, John, Ana, Daniel, Sonja, Patricia, Daniel and Kathy! It was so awesome to hear many of them speak of how well they enjoyed the service and felt the presence of the Lord! They elevated my joy as many of them indicated that we would see them again! Yeah God! Then last evening I was extended the opportunity to speak to our A/G pastor's and ministry workers here in the Miami area. Nearly 100 of them gathered together at Central Bible Church as Pastor David Stocker and his volunteer team did a tremendous job hosting this annual event! I tip my hat to them!! Whew as you can see it's been a very busy schedule! Have a blessed week!! I can hardly wait for this next Sunday to arrive!!

Courage

2011-11-29T09:28:00.001-05:00

This morning in my devotions I found myself reading a familiar passage of scripture once again. My focus became riveted to a verse that I've preached upon many times in my 29 years of full time ministry. Joshua 1:9 (NIV) states, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." I have often reminded those sitting in our church services that God has promised above all else to be with us and that we can depend on him. What is courage? David Ben-Gurion once said this "Courage is a special kind of knowledge; the knowledge of how to fear what ought to be feared and how not to fear what ought not to be feared." A friend recently gave me a book as a gift. In it I came across these sentences. "Courage is the inner drive to make progress regardless of the difficulty... regardless of whether your moment is now or sometime in the future, you must be ready. Courage changes things for the better... With courage, you can stay at something long enough to succeed at it - realizing that it usually takes two, three, or four times as long to succeed as you thought or hoped." We all face things in life that stress us out. And on many occasions we allow those situations to create unnecessary fears to arise within us. Someone once said this, "Fear is the darkroom where negatives develop." When moments of instability and resistance occur, you and I need to embrace the challenge and not buckle under and run. There will always be a headwind facing those who step forward with boldness. The motivation to deal with the challenges and uncertainties of life must come from deep inside. You must believe that God has a specific design and purpose especially designed just for you. As we engage ourselves more and more with Him we become changed. Once our weaknesses are exposed God uses them for his glory. None of us can avoid crises from occurring in our lives completely. Every crisis we encounter demands our best. And we must face them with courage. The more we live the chances of us experiencing failure increases. As we fail, determine to fall forward, into God's arms of grace. All of us must develop a God-grounded level of confidence. He always goes before us and promises to carry us in our darkest moments. As we put our trust in Him there are tremendous gains on the horizon for us to experience!

FAMILY NIGHT FUN FEST! This Wednesday!

2011-11-28T07:13:00.001-05:00

Join us for this fantastic family event this Wednesday! All mid-week service activities are cancelled and will resume the regular schedule next Wednesday, December 7th at 7:00 PM. Both SCA and Sunset Chapel Kids received free admission to this event with a wrist band. Contact Kids Church Director, Shari DeBord or the school office to make sure your child gets theirs. Adults and all other students will be charged a $5.00 admission charge. Hope to see you all there!

Sunday Splash!

2011-11-27T20:02:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone enjoyed the Thanksgiving holiday as much as I did! Waking up to several days of much needed rest and food was just what my body and mind needed. My personal schedule in recent weeks had been in overdrive! I am definitely feeling refreshed and better prepared to finish 2011 well!

Typical weekend service following the long Thanksgiving holiday with many of our regular attenders missing in our service. Several others stepped it up today! I am so grateful to pastor a church filled with passionate people for Christ! Every base was covered as people began to drive onto our church campus! We once again had several guest's this week! Enjoyed meeting Lionel, Jose, Maria, Jenny and Jackie! These first time guests made my day! Three of them even made decisions for Christ! That never gets old! There is nothing like watching sincere tears fall from someones eyes who has just experienced a changed life! Also want to welcome back John, JR, Sophia and Kat back to our services! You have all been missed!

The perfect ending for today's worship experience was meeting with two young adults afterwards who wanted to deepen their study of God's Word! I shared with them about a couple of helpful resources they could each obtain and encouraged them to get involved with our Wednesday Bible study!

I shared with our church today some very important developments... This Wednesday we will host a Family Fun Fest! Admission is free for kid's with a $5.00 charge for adults! This event is being sponsored by our own Sunset Christian Academy! Their event was canceled a week ago due to a rainstorm and we rescheduled so that both our SCA and Sunset Chapel families could gather together! All our regular ministries will be canceled for this Wednesday( Nov. 30 ) and we want to invite everyone to this event! SC families should contact Shari DeBord to obtain free wristbands for their children to participate in all the fun activities!!

We also announced our second upcoming "Prayer and Fellowship" gathering at our home on Sunday December 11 at 7 PM. Everyone is invited to come with their prayer requests and a Christmas dessert to share with those in attendance. Speaking of Christmas, it's my favorite time of the year! I pray that every heart becomes a Bethlehem where Christ can be born!! The whole message of Christmas is that HE is with us!! It's also the perfect season to invite your family and friends to join you for a service at Sunset Chapel! I hope to meet them soon!

Sunday Splash!

2011-11-22T12:33:00.001-05:00

I was supposed to get this update written a whole lot sooner, but it's been just crazy! Since last Thursday I feel like I've been running at full speed non stop!! We experienced a very good weekend of ministry here at Sunset Chapel! Our volunteers worked so hard to pull off our All Church Thanksgiving Dinner! I love our world class volunteers here at SC!!! They did a superb job! Special shout out to both Frances Watkins and Russ Barbour as well as to the many behind the scene workers who assisted them in making this event very memorable!!

Our attendance has been creeping upwards again for the past four weeks! This is very encouraging. I'm sure that the Lord is pleased with seeing us move ahead and not standing still. It was amazing to see that we've had double digit guests in our services for the past two weekends! Getting the chance to mingle and get to know those who attend Sunset Chapel are always opportunities I enjoy! We were blessed to have our son Calvin home for the weekend too! So many of you came up to him and thanked him for singing with the worship team and for singing "Arms that Hold the Universe" written by the group "33 Miles". It was the perfect song to end my message with! God really used to him to sing this song with a great anointing!

Many of you also came prepared to give "One Days Wages" to our "One Day to Feed the World" offering that was received prior to the conclusion of our service. If you forgot to bring your donation there is still time to get it in. Remember for every dollar we donate it gets multiplied by seven and helps to feed hungry people. You can still make a contribution by going to sunsetchapel.com and click on the giving icon and then follow the prompts. Be sure to mark your contribution for "Convoy of Hope". This is the organization that we are partnering with to help feed people in desperate situations throughout the world!

I wrapped up Sunday by conducting the wedding ceremony for Robert and Geoconda Gutierrez! It was an honor to participate in their ceremony! God continues to do incredible things for them and their entire family!

Our ministry team's focus has now shifted towards this Wednesday's "Candlelight/Communion Service! Set a pattern of thankfulness in your home that will last throughout the entire holiday season. I hope that you and your family will join us for this very unique and meaningful service. We will be using real candles in the service and NOT an iphone app!! All of us have much to be thankful for in our lives. Come be encouraged as you listen to some of blessing our SC family have experienced in the past year!! Our service begins at 7 PM and all our ministries will be combined for this very special "God's family" gathering!!

One Day To Feed The World- "Convoy Of Hope"

2011-11-15T09:49:00.001-05:00

Deadly famine ravages East Africa. This summer the worst drought in 50 years has threatened as many as 12 million people in East Africa with malnutrition and starvation. The United Nations reports that an average of 1300 Somali refugees are arriving into Kenya every day.

Convoy of Hope has strived to meet the needs of these refugees by providing food and water in some of the hardest hit areas. In one location it is estimated that there are over 500,000 refugees in need. From Convoy of Hope's warehouse in Nairobi, food and supplies are being transported to these refugee camps. More than 3.3 million meals will be distributed in the coming weeks.

This Sunday, November 20 we will be partnering with Convoy of Hope's efforts to help save lives. At Sunset Chapel we care for the poor and suffering. Would you prayerfully consider linking together with us in giving "ONE DAYS WAGES"?? We are asking everyone to set aside one day of their life for the poor to share the love and good news of Christ. We are hoping to receive our single largest offering for missions this year this weekend. Your donation will be multiplied 7 times over!! For every dollar we receive Convoy of Hope is able to leverage that into 7 dollars worth of food, water and supplies to those in need. Convoy of Hope partners with hundreds of other resourcing organizations to provide sustainable solutions to unexpected disasters that occur all around the world. Since Convoy of Hope was founded, it has distributed $200 million worth of food, water and supplies throughout the world.

If your not able to be with us for this weekend, would you consider making an online donation? You can go to our church website sunsetchapel.com and click on to our online giving icon then follow the prompts to make your donation! Let's make a global difference this weekend for God! 100% of the offering received will be forwarded to this non-profit organization!!

Sunday Splash!

2011-11-14T14:17:00.001-05:00

I think everyone in attendance in yesterdays service would agree that God showed up in a "BIG TIME" way!!! It was so awesome to see people plug into God's presence without any hesitation or instruction from the platform!! You can sense the hunger right from the start that everyone was ready for the Holy Spirit to move!!

I think we hit on something as we started the service with a chorus and moved right into our water baptisms!! The energy that those baptisms produced was incredible!! I know that that word seems to get overused these days by many people. But there was no doubt that the service was just flat out "INCREDIBLE!! The whole church just latched onto the new song that Douglas Flores taught us "I'm Changed because of You" I think it's going to be a new favorite for all of us!!!

I met several new guests in the service! That's always exciting!! One of our new guest's, Kathia expressed to me of how much she enjoyed the service and that we would be seeing her again next week!! This afternoon we even received a phone call from one of our new families that have just started to attend Sunset Chapel in recent weeks that they are bringing several visitors with them this Wednesday!! WOW!!

After church Shari and I had lunch with a bunch of our young adults at Panera Bread. I get really energized when I hear how God is moving in their lives and the hunger they have to have their own experiences with Him! That kind of passion and desire always gets God's attention!! I need to plan another get together with this group to discuss the possible "Road Trip" to Gatlinburg, TN in January 2012 to attend a national young adult retreat. I told them since some have never seen actual snow that I would gladly introduce them to their first snowball!!

Our day ended with 17 adults and 3 kid's coming over to our house for a very meaningful time of prayer and fellowship! The food was great! The fellowship was greater!! The prayer time was the greatest!!! I found out that our worship teams guitar player is one mean ping pong player!! Wil Tirado has got to have one of the nastiest serves I've seen in sometime!! All in all it was a great day to serve the Lord and be surrounded by some of God's greatest people!!

I can't wait for next weekend's service!!! Don't forget to bring a friend as we celebrate the Thanksgiving Season with our own all-church dinner immediately following the service!! There will be no Sunday School this weekend ( NOV. 20 ) but it will resume the following week!! If you still want to donate a pie to this weekends dinner be sure to call Frances Watkins at the church office at 305-271-4094. We could still use another 10-12 pies!!

This Sunday is also when we will be collecting a special offering for CONVOY OF HOPE. Everyone is being challenged to consider donating ONE DAYS WAGE to assist their efforts in responding to world wide disasters! COH is endeavoring to provide 3.3 million meals to the Somalia refugee crisis in Kenya. This area has continued to see extreme drought conditions on top of all the violence in that region. Every dollar our church gives this Thanksgiving is turned into seven dollars worth of food, clean water and supplies for children in need. $375 dollars can deliver up to ONE TON of food and relief through Convoy of Hope!! We are expecting to receive our single greatest offering this Sunday for world missions!! You can donate online if you like through our online giving option at sunsetchapel.com just follow the prompts to get started!

It's not to late to include in your Thanksgiving Holiday plans to attend this years very unique Candlelight/Communion service! Be sure to join us with your family and friends on Wednesday November 23 from 7:00-8:15 PM. This service features all our ministries meeting together in the main sanctuary with our families! I hope to see you there!

Go Public for Jesus!

2011-11-10T12:27:00.000-05:00

It's going to be an awesome morning this Sunday!! ( Nov. 13 ) If you've ever attended one of our Baptism services, then you know we love to celebrate when people take the next step to tell the world they belong to Christ. We already have individuals ready to go public with their faith. If you haven't done so, it's time for you to take the next step too! Contact the church office at 305-271-4094 to get signed up. Then come prepared for the baptism service which will kick start our 10:30 AM service!! Bring with you a change of clothes and a towel to use after the baptisms are completed!! Don't forget to invite your family and closest friends to come watch this significant moment in your life.... this will be exciting!!

Inner Strength

2011-11-09T18:50:00.003-05:00

In Luke 22:63-65 in The Message Bible it states that "The men who were guarding Jesus began mocking and beating him. They blindfolded him and demanded "Prophesy! Who hit you? And they said many other insulting things to him."

During this stage of Christ's suffering, his disciples had abandoned him and he had been arrested at night and brought before the Jewish council. While blindfolded, he was repeatedly ridiculed, spat upon and struck in the face. I am not so sure that either I or you could handle that stressful moment quite like Christ. He experienced and endured undeserved hardship during that trial. Yet in the midst of this overwhelming situation he was able to keep his emotions and responses under control. His "inner strength" was a result of his "inner connection" with his Father.

All of us have encountered explosive moments in our lives. Littered in our past are regrets piled up everywhere. And almost always our inability to control ourselves has only made things worse. In the heat of the moment our flesh often cries out for vengeance and retribution! It's in those desperate moments when we find ourselves about to cross over the line and add another regret into our lives that we need to seek out God and request that He place His "inner strength" inside us and help assist us to navigate through these unwanted periods of crisis!

Left unchecked, we are all capable of damaging our reputations, character and potential future use for His Kingdom purposes when we unleash our anger in unhealthy and ungodly ways. Let's all learn to cry out towards God for His intervention during those times when we are the targets of unfair treatment, taunts and pain. Let's all keep that "inner connection" consistent!!

Mounting Concerns

2011-11-08T16:21:00.000-05:00

When you and I are face to face with concerns that are overwhelming and too great to bear alone. God invites us to toss our burdens and cares upon Him. He alone is able to sustain us in every situation we encounter. We shouldn't show a lack of faith in His ability or love for us. God can meet all our needs!

Psalms 55:22 ( Message Bible )
"Pile your troubles on God's shoulders, he'll carry your load, he'll help you out!"

1 Peter 5:7 ( NIV )
"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."

Anxieties can be those things or circumstances that cause us to be troubled, agitated, and bothered. They keep us in a state of unsettledness and upset us to no end. For many it even robs them of their sleep! Each of us, myself included, need to learn to cast ( fling, hurl, toss, throw pitch, even sling ) ALL our anxious moments and problems towards God! One thing is for certain... He is available, always!!

My prayer today is that you and I will realize that there is no change of heart with God. His never ending love for us is constant. His concern for our lives and circumstances never just stops. He can be counted upon to always be there and available to meet our needs. Each person who is struggling with the unwanted weight of concerns in their lives needs to release that full weight of their fears, hurts and problems. He is our ever present help in the time of our troubles!

Sunday Splash!

2011-11-07T06:49:00.002-05:00

Sunday was such an excellent day at Sunset Chapel!

Our attendance was encouraging.

It was good to see some familiar faces once again in the crowd  that we've been missing.

And we had two guests from Denmark! Wow! God is really bringing people from far away!

Actually it was one of our son's girlfriend and her mother.

They came to Miami to check out one of our area colleges.

Thanks SC for being such awesome examples of Christ today!

You made a great impression on them!

I really loved the new look in our sanctuary. It was fascinating to watch people 
come in and not see their customary seats available! I think God had a great big 
smile on His face as he observed our reactions!  I really appreciate John Kricker 
for assisting me on Friday to make the changes.  We are preparing to perform 3 
weddings in the next few weeks and our new set up is perfect for these upcoming 
ceremonies!

I felt like the message really hit home today!  I am so stinking tired and 
disgusted by the Devil keeping people gripped in fear, doubt, oppression and 
defeat! We exposed him for who he is!  He really is a liar, fraud, loser and punk!!

He preys on unbelievers and followers of Christ alike. He targets believers with 
relentless attempts to sidetrack and hinder us from fulfilling God's Will in our 
lives! I can't wait to hear how God's Word changes people's lives who heard 
today's message and made the decision to take a stand against the Devils 
influence and schemes! Victory is ours in Christ!!

Can I just say that I am extremely proud of so many of our new attenders who

really get the message about participating in God's Kingdom work.

Their energy and enthusiasm is such a blessing!

Thanks to all our volunteers for stepping it up in recent weeks!

You can sense that the spirit is different. I really love the new vibe 
that I'm sensing in all our services and ministries!!

Has anyone else besides me noticed that we have a new streak going on at Sunset 
Chapel???  We've started our services on time for consecutive weeks now!!  Incredible!!  :)

This will be a very busy and challenging week for me.... so please keep me in your 
prayers as I try to accomplish much for Christ and His church this week!!

Whose side are you on?

2011-11-02T14:40:00.001-04:00

Reading from Luke 11:23 (NIV) today in my devotions it says, "He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters." It is totally impossible to remain neutral and on the sidelines regarding this spiritual conflict. There is simply no safe zone in this spiritual tug of war! The Message Bible says it this way "This is war, and there is no middle ground. If you're not on my side, you're the enemy, if you're not helping, your making things worse."

Let me break this down for you, those who do not join with Christ in opposing Satan and his evil influences... have in reality already set themselves against Christ and God's purposes on earth. Evil is never idle or inactive. It's destructive intent and effects are seen everywhere in our words, actions and attitudes. With no exceptions you are either on God's side and truth OR you are on the side of Satan and his constant lies.

Knowing that half-hearted commitments and partial obedience are unacceptable. By doing nothing and allowing our walk with God to dangerously drift and become lukewarm... we are in reality siding with Satan.

My prayer today is that you and I make right choices that clearly demonstrate to others through our actions, conversations and countenance that we won't allow our relationship with Christ to become compromised in any way.

May our example create open doors for transparent connections with others to take place so that we can become better servants and "gather" rather than "scatter".

College Student Hangout!

2011-11-01T10:51:00.002-04:00

As promised here are a few of the College Student hangout pics! Shari and I really enjoyed hosting this gathering at our house. There were some very interesting moments and conversations around the dinner table! Deep discussion over tattoos... I am just saying that had to hurt! lol Also watched a considerable amount of youtube videos!!

Laughter is always good!!

Sunday Splash!

2011-11-01T09:58:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was a wonderful day filled with some great wins for Sunset Chapel. Here are a few of the highlight's...
*Gathered for pre-service prayer in my office prior to the start of the service with everyone on the music team as well as our church ministry leaders! You could sense the difference that having bathed the service in prayer and going through the order of service made!
*We started our service "ON TIME"!! That is no small miracle!
*During worship we took the opportunity to pray with those who were hurting and burdened. God showed in a BIG TIME way in several hearts! There were some sincere tears flowing around the altar!
*I am extremely grateful to "Yvonne" who stepped out and joined our KID"S INC ministry and provided a much needed boost to our volunteer team! Two of our team members will be stepping away shortly from this key ministry here at Sunset Chapel for a break as they anticipate the new additions arriving in their families! Our nursery is about to welcome a total of five new babies! That's awesome!!
* Our missionaries to Spain Guillermo and Elena Monzon hit a homerun as they connected to our SC crowd with their presentation concerning the opportunities that God is creating and how we as a local church can partner with them in prayer and financial support as "Global Christians"!!
*Had a blast hanging out at our house with all our UM, FIU, and Miami-Dade college students after the service! Good times were had by all!! Shared about an upcoming Single Adult Retreat coming up in Gatlinburg, TN during the first part of January! More details will be coming soon!! Will post a few comments and pics from this gathering later today!!
*I thought the final message in our "Joyful Giving" series went well. I am encouraged by the numerous comments I've received concerning this topic and I am ecstatic over the tremendous jump in giving we've observed take place throughout the entire month of October!
*Stay posted there will be lot's of outstanding ways for you to get connected to what's happening here at Sunset Chapel throughout the coming month of November!

Tailgate Sunday!

2011-11-01T09:58:00.000-04:00

I had intended on posting some of the pictures from our recent Tailgate Sunday (Oct 23) sooner! It was a great time of fellowship and fun after the morning service!! It took me three days to recover from the soreness and pain of playing flag football! We've already heard numerous comments about everyone wanting to get together more often and enjoying more activities like this!! Enjoy the pics!!

TailGate Sunday - The Thrill of the Grill!

2011-10-04T15:44:00.002-04:00

College Hangout!

2011-10-04T15:25:00.002-04:00

Sunday Splash!

2011-10-04T12:36:00.000-04:00

We launched a new message series today entitled "Joyful Giving". It's been over two years since we last addressed the subject of stewardship at Sunset Chapel. Every consistent Bible reader knows that the scriptures have quite a bit to say on the subject of giving. As we glean from this message series the principles of giving and put them into action. It is my firm belief that your life will be forever changed! Following the teaching I really appreciated all the positive comments I received from individuals after the service. As we are all faithful to be open handed towards God's work. He will continue to pour into our lives numerous and great blessings!

There are two ways to make contributions to God's work at Sunset Chapel:

1. Each week you can place your tithe and offering envelope in the offering bag as it is passed down your row of seats!
2. You can go to sunsetchapel.com and follow the instructions to set up a one time or regular weekly or monthly online disbursement!

Believing that God has called me to trust Him more in my own life including the critical area of finances, my wife and I have made the choice to give up our regular salary for the next two weeks and trust that God will provide for our needs. Forgoing our regular salary will help the church with it's current financial needs. Stepping out into faith I've asked the board to receive an extra offering at the end of each service for the next two weeks and we will use whatever the amount that people contribute in this offering to meet our family obligations. We've been up front with everyone that the summer months have placed a real burden on the church budget, so we have decided after much prayer to live out Malachi 3:10 "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the Lord Almighty,"and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it." We are returning our entire regular salary to the church and we are trusting that God will do an incredible and surprising work of provision in our lives. I hope you will all stand with us in faith as we trust him to supply our needs.

Today we kicked off our month long new members class and it's always exciting to me to see people take the next steps towards their personal involvement and spiritual growth. Growth in membership indicates the willingness of others to have a stake in the effectiveness, growth and vitality of a local church. It also affords me the opportunity to develop relationships with the many new people who have started to make Sunset Chapel their home church! God continues to lay the ground work for our future success in ministry!

Also this past Saturday I had the privilege of investing in the lives of three couples whose weddings I will be conducting in the next few months. Together we initiated 5-6 weeks of premarital counseling sessions that will help prepare them for their future as married couples. I am incredibly thrilled that they are making every effort to insure that their upcoming marriages are filled with lots of meaningful moments as they navigate through life together! I highly recommend every couple that is considering marriage to get premarital counseling to help prepare for their marriage! Topics such as communication, problem-solving, finances/budgeting, intimacy, spiritual priorities, etc are critical to the wholesome development of a great marriage!

During the morning service I announced two upcoming activities!

Our Second Annual "Thrill of the Grill-Tailgate Sunday" will be held on Sunday October 23! Immediately after our morning service everyone is invited to stick around and break out their grill for an afternoon of great food, fun and fellowship! (I will personally make my way around our parking lot to sample everyone's cooking expertise!) There will be a huge football game involving both guys and gals!! Other activities and games will be included! You will also have the opportunity to watch our local Dolphins play the Broncos and cheer them on to victory!!

We have also scheduled a College Connection Event for all our UM, FIU and Miami-Dade Community College students to join together for an afternoon hangout at our home on Sunday October 30th from 1:00-4:30 PM!! I am hoping that all our students will take this opportunity to connect together and hear my heart for your generation!!

Hope everyone has a great week!!

Pastor Russ

Membership Class

2011-09-30T22:23:00.000-04:00

Day Three! The NEW YOU . . .

2011-09-07T11:22:00.000-04:00

How is day three going for you? ... Let me know .... Leave a comment here, on facebook, or my email. rusdebord@aol.com I am praying that God will meet you right where you are and this is going to be your BEST YEAR EVER! Surrender to Him ~

Day Two ....

2011-09-06T12:29:00.003-04:00

"Awakening" announcing our 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting and Spiritual Development!!

2011-09-06T09:56:00.007-04:00

Join other SC/SCA families for 21 days to revolutionize your relationship with God! To purchase your "Awakening" book by author Stovall Weems contact the church office at 305.271.4094 x 102

Letting Go

2011-08-16T14:25:00.003-04:00

Following Christ means giving up control. The more I exercise faith in my life the more I realize that I have to trust God for EVERYTHING! The longer I live on this earth I've also come to the point that I don't always see things the same way He does... nor do I understand everything thats going on around me. God's sight is much better than mine. He sees well past the horizon my eyes are limited to. Looking backwards to reflect intentionally on my past helps me to also note that during my lifetime I've made some poor choices and had more than my fair share of faulty decisions. But God has never EVER made a mistake. Even when I can't sense His presence... He has been at work upstream in my life. Once you and I make the decision to get out of the way and give up control of our lives.... God gets busy in our life situations. Let me encourage you today to "Let Go And Let God Be In Control!"

Being Rich!

2011-08-15T09:48:00.003-04:00

I am an avid reader of books. One that I have been devouring in recent days is "Leading on Empty" by Wayne Cordeiro. His books have always offered substantial information and help to me as a minister. This particular book is a must read for everyone involved in full time ministry. As he reevaluated his life following a season of burnout he candidly shares that experience so that others can be encouraged who find themselves traveling down that same path.

Reading this morning I came across these words he penned..."You see, my goal in life is not necessarily to get rich. It is to BE RICH---in my faith, my marriage, my family and my ministry. It is a choice that I made when I defined what rich would mean. It is an attitude, a value, a decision, an intention. Choose to live life on purpose, to love intentionally, and to plan accordingly." This is great advice!

I feel very blessed this morning to know that God has supplied everything that I need. Yet I realize that in order for me to remain rich I need to make every effort to ensure that I stay actively involved this intentional growth process. Each day God reveals areas in my life that I need development in. As I follow His guidance I know that I am taking healthy steps forward and avoiding a debilitating season of burnout! May God's presence in your life today sustain you and cause you to live your life with balance.

Sunday Splash!

2011-08-14T20:33:00.004-04:00

Today was another great day in the rebuilding of Sunset Chapel! We are beginning to hit our stride and run the race that God has prepared for us as a church! I love the preferred future He is revealing to all of us! For a number of weeks I've been sharing about God's desire to build a spiritual habitation in our lives and church. As we submit ourselves to Him as the Wise Master Builder, we are seeing Him construct a new direction and blueprint for our church. As "living stones" the Lord is chiseling and chipping away at us so that we will be perfectly fitted together! Don't forget ... you and I are "Human Habitat's" for His Spirit!

I had so many encouraging conversations with people before and after today's service who are being impacted by God's touch and presence in their lives! Our worship team continues to amaze me as they diligently prepare themselves each weekend to connect us all to God! Without a doubt they are reaching deeper within themselves to use their talents for the glory and honor of Him! I love their heart and passion! Seeing several new faces up on the stage is a welcome sight too! All of this reminds me that God is doing a new work in our midst! I hope that many others are sensing the Lord preparing us for a greater outpouring of His Spirit in the coming weeks!!

We highlighted the return to school days as we focused today's message on returning students and teachers. I was delighted to see so many of our outstanding SCA students and teachers present in the service. It's such a blast to see us all come together during special event's and services like today! We welcome our teachers back to their classrooms this coming week as they get prepared and organized for the start of a new school year! Soon the chatter and footsteps of several hundred children will fill the air and hallways of our campus! There is nothing like the excitement and energy that all these children possess!

Today was extra special for my wife, Shari and I, as we had not only our son Randall home visiting this past week, but he also brought home a very special someone named "Claire" who has danced into his heart and life. She hails from Denmark and attends a school in the NYC area! We also celebrated Shari's parents, Rillon and Shirley Anderson's, 49th wedding anniversary!! They are outstanding examples of devotion and faithfulness to us! It has been a very full and fulfilling weekend for us! I am looking forward to all that God has in store in the coming days!

Join Me!!

2011-07-13T11:34:00.006-04:00

I am anticipating another great mid-week service tonight as we look intently upon the life and ministry of the prophet Malachi!

The name Malachi means "my messenger" or " the messenger of the Lord". He was a person of strict integrity and intense devotion to God. His staunch convictions included faithfulness to God's covenant. He consistently spoke against hypocritical and perfunctory worship, idolatry, divorce, and the robbing of God through tithes and offerings.

Malachi addressed the spiritual climate and neglect that was taking place during his lifetime. People had become horribly cynical and had begun to doubt God's love and promises. They had come to the dangerous position of believing that there wasn't any additional profit or gain to be achieved by continuing to obey God's commands. Faith in God was at an all time low and Temple worship had become mechanical and insensitive.

Malachi proceeds to confront the priests and people for their apathy and sins. He calls upon them to return to their previous enthusiasm and sincerity in obedience to God's ways and in genuine worship.

So much of what he dealt with we see still being replicated in our lifetime as well.

Join me tonight at 7:00 PM for another insightful and life re-calibrating message!

Wednesday Service!

2011-07-06T12:01:00.004-04:00

Just when it seems everything good and great is LOST..... God sends ONE...... God always has a CHOSEN ONE!! That ONE could be YOU!! You could become the ONE God uses to encourage someone else. You could become the ONE to start a much needed ministry! You could be the ONE to lead another to Christ! You could be the ONE to spark a great outpouring of the Holy Spirit! Join me tonight at Sunset Chapel as we look at the life of ONE of the Bible's greatest individuals that God used to change a nation! This persons example of prayer is something we can incorporate into our own lives and get answers. God always answers prayer. And He always answers prayers that are made in FAITH, TRUST AND ENTIRE DEPENDENCE UPON HIM!! Bring your Bible, pen and paper and a friend as we dig deep into the Word tonight at 7 PM!!

Are You NEW to Sunset Chapel? This is the Class for YOU!

2011-06-09T10:07:00.001-04:00

Join Us for Water Baptism Service!

2011-06-09T10:03:00.002-04:00

Mark Your Calendars for June 5th!

2011-05-15T22:50:00.000-04:00

Join us this Sunday for Mothers Day!

2011-05-05T12:07:00.000-04:00

We Are Giving Away a FREE Stainless Steel Refrigerator!

2011-05-03T15:55:00.001-04:00

Bring 3!

2011-03-27T21:52:00.003-04:00

Sunday Splash!!

2011-03-27T17:40:00.007-04:00

*We experienced another tremendous day at Sunset Chapel today!!

*It was great seeing Douglas Flores once again leading worship after recovering from an extended illness! He and the entire worship team did a fantastic job of leading us into the presence of God!

*I was humbled at the sight of so many who came around the altar for prayer today. There are so many with deep hurts and wounds in their hearts. I truly believe that God worked a great miracle in many of their circumstances!!

*It was also a pleasure to introduce Missionaries Jim and Meg Thacker to the Sunset Chapel family today. These are two of the Assemblies of God's finest! What a heart for the lost people of Central Africa!! His passion and enthusiasm will linger in our minds for a long time! Meg also spoke to our children for a few minutes in Kid's Inc. and the children were captivated by her stories of what God is doing in Burundi! SEVEN of our children stepped forward and allowed Meg to pray with them about becoming missionaries for God once they grow up into adults! BOOM! Take that devil!!

*We welcomed our new Student Ministries Pastor to SC today! Jose and Shayna Rivera are here to stay and rock our city and students for Jesus Christ!! You will absolutely love the excitement and energy that this young couple brings to Sunset Chapel and our city!! Students don't miss the kick off to their ministry this Wednesday at 7 PM!! IT WILL BE UNFORGETTABLE!!

*We announced that next week we will be hosting an all church missions dinner next Sunday immediately following the worship service! Please bring with you a hearty dish of food representing the country you are from! With so many attenders at Sunset Chapel representing different countries and cultural backgrounds this is going to be a lot of fun!!! Contact the church office and they will make a table sign indicating the name of the food you've prepared and what country it represents!! I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS EVENT!!

*I made a sweet announcement this morning!! I asked everyone to bring THREE guests with them to our Easter Weekend Services!! It was an awesome sight watching people line up and get their tickets for their family and friends! A couple hundred tickets have already been distributed for these two services!! The tickets are great reminders to those you invite that something special is going to take place at Sunset Chapel! No one will be turned away. They (the tickets) will help us decide if we need to add additional chairs for the services!! We will have two opportunities for them and you to enjoy the Easter Worship Musical and ministry that will be taking place! Some of your best friends are just one more invitation away from visiting SC with you! Ask them to join you for this very special weekend!

*Don't forget to join us on Wednesdays for our study into the Book Of James! This book is filled with practical insights that you will find very helpful in your Christian walk! Bring your Bible, a pen and notebook with you!

Talk is cheap!

2011-03-09T14:48:00.006-05:00

Incredible! Breaking News! The Greatest Ever! Everyday we are inundated with a flood of extravagant claims as we flip through the pages of our favorite magazines or surf the zillion channel choices on our flat screen televisions! For a small investment we can own the trendiest and most fashionable clothes, possess whiter teeth, eat the tastiest foods, drink the world's finest beverage and drive the fastest, sleekest, most upgraded vehicle ever!! And all these are "guaranteed" to bring you instant friendships, happiness and success!! BUT TALK IS CHEAP!!

Christians make a lot of claims too! Jesus is the Answer! Believe in God! Follow me to Church! Often we are guilty of living OPPOSITE of our claims. Our ACTIONS and ATTITUDES don't line up with our words. Possessing all the right answers many are contradicting the Gospel with their lives. TALK IS CHEAP!!

"Dear friends, do you think you'll get anywhere in this if you learn all the right words but never do anything? Does merely talking about faith indicate that a person really has it?" James 2:14 (MSG). The truth and reality of our faith... is in a "CHANGED LIFE!!" Genuine faith... SHOULD INEVITABLY PRODUCE GOOD WORKS!

I want to invite you to join us as we kick off our brand new study on the "Book of James" Wednesdays @ 7 PM!! CONFRONTATION, CHALLENGE, and COMMITMENT await you on every single page of this practical letter to Christ followers! Bring your Bible, pen and a journal each week to write down the valuable insights I will be sharing with you! This letter was written to help us UNDERSTAND and ATTAIN spiritual maturity in our lives! This will be good!

2011-02-16T15:58:00.005-05:00

Sunset Chapel is aggressively reaching out to people who want to connect with God and His church. God has placed His hand on Sunset Chapel, and we truly believe the best is yet to come!

Every person who desires to become a member of Sunset Chapel must attend our New Member's Class during the month of March. This four week class will inform you about how we relate to each other, protect the unity of our church, share in the responsibility of our church and discover what our fundamental beliefs and core values are. This class will be taught by Russ Barbour and Pastor Russ De Bord. Participants will meet in classroom 208 every Sunday at 9:30 AM

Sunday Splash!

2011-01-30T21:38:00.003-05:00

*Word's cannot express all that God did today at Sunset Chapel!

*The month of January has been a total blast!!

*Excitement about what the future holds for SC is spreading!!

*Every week during this first month of ministry in 2011 God has brought numerous new people to our church.

*Along with all the new guests there is a fresh and enthusiastic atmosphere in our services.

*Our series "Framing Your Destiny From God's Perspective" has had a huge impact on people's lives! Many have found their lives re-calibrated by God's affirmation and guidance!

*Watching and listening to everyone worship God with passion has thrilled my heart. I believe that God has favored us with His presence and power.

*Our worship team continues to bring their "A" game each week! Did anyone notice that our drummer was so blessed he lost his socks!!

*Again we observed people in our 10:30 AM service raising their hands and accepting Christ into their hearts and lives. THAT REALLY FIRES ME UP!! Here's an early heads up!! Mark your calendars for February 27th for our next Watermark Water Baptism Experience!!

*Did you know that our Kid's Inc. Ministry had 40 children and 7 volunteers this morning representing 25% of our attendance today!! I was informed that even 5 children accepted Christ into their hearts too!! WOW!!

*I can hardly wait to see what God has next for us!! The month of February will be just as exciting!! We will be rolling out a new series beginning Sunday February 13th! I can't wait to share with you what God has been speaking into my heart! I promise you that it will be good!!

*More life groups start up this week. Be sure to contact the church office to find one near you! *Elevate your life and join the journey of life with others!!

Testimony ... Can Somebody Say AMEN!!

2011-01-24T21:53:00.012-05:00

We continue to receive testimonies of miracles and healings! On my way into the office this morning I received another testimony from Marcus Simmonds who has been attending Sunset Chapel for about 7-8 months! And I am re-posting it with his permission . . . Please read the following e-mail and be encouraged to know that God cares for you no matter what! Develop the audacious faith to believe God for whatever it is that you need! Nothing is impossible for Him!!

Many of you many not know but for the last three months I have been having a constant irregularity of the rhythm of my heart beat (I mean constant). I was beginning to have difficulty in focusing on the very basics of life and felt like everyday was a challenge just to make it through the day. My faith began to draw weak and I started feel like I was not worthy to be part of my fathers house . . . . I went to doctors who had no answers, the specialist has hooked me up to an event recorder which I still walk around with as we speak and I am certain it will document my miracle and prove that the real physician stepped in after much prayer of others for me . . .!!! I now realize that anything that causes us to draw closer to the cross is a good cause despite how difficult it is to bear.

Literally in an instant all the symptoms disappeared ... I was taken by such surprise that I had to ask Monique if I was dreaming ... The past 3 days I have been 100% symptom free and feeling like a new human being. As far as what I have felt over the last 3 months and what I felt over the last 3 days this is my miracle that I claim in the name of Jesus!!! There was a hesitation for me to make this claim as I thought I should wait a few weeks to see if it is really gone, but the Lord revealed to me that it is through faith that this claim can even be made.

Well today as I reflect on my miraculous healing, I was drawn to the scripture John 15 vs 1-17 spoken at church on Sunday that teaches us why God allows us to go through what we deem as challenges but he views as pruning our branches to allow us to be more fruitful. If we are obedient to his word it teaches us to love one another as he loves us ... he calls us friends and not servants because a servant does not know his master's business and we know our father's works and business. When we are saved we are branches on the holy vine ... If our branch separates from the vine we whither and die!

I would like to thank my wife Monique whom I know prayed in great faith for my healing and all those in our church community who prayed for me!! The Bible teaches us that where two or more gather in his name he is present . . . . I can't tell you where in the scripture it is but I know it is there!! :-)

I would like to thank God for our Pastor Russ who has been a beacon of strength for me since moving back to South Florida which I am sure he doesn't even know. God uses us as vessels to carry his word to believers and non-believers, but his word lives in certain people, others it flows through them . . . . . his Word lives in Pastor Russ!

All Glory to God! This is my testimony and witness.

Marcus Simmonds

Sunday Splash!

2011-01-23T21:27:00.005-05:00

*Today was one of our greatest days at Sunset Chapel! It's very hard to imagine that we could ever have a better service at SC than we experienced this morning!

*There were a number of new faces in the crowd today. I love getting to meet your guests!! Have you noticed the growth that is taking place here at SC??? God is up to something!!!

*From the very beginning of the service you could sense that God was going to unleash His presence in a very special way!

*Our worship team was better than ever... they just tore it up!! Is it me or can you too sense that God is using them in a profound way?? Loved the addition of Ross Walters to the team today. Even if he was here just for one service, his contribution was outstanding! He blessed us with a short performance prior to my speaking and he literally hit a home run!! I love the saxophone and he is an extremely gifted musician!!

*Sometimes we make the right decisions and do the right things... only to experience wrong results. I hate when that happens to me. We looked at Joseph's life a little closer today and discovered that although he was obedient and trustworthy things didn't always initially turn out the way he had hoped. It took some time, some testing and some character building moments in his life before he obtained the destiny that God had in mind for him! BUT HE NEVER GAVE UP!! And neither can we.

*At the beginning of my message I shared with everyone that I believed that God had whispered into my heart that He was going to unlock the personal prison that several felt they were entrapped in. And He didn't disappoint! The altar call was incredible!! It was a sight I won't easily forget! I truly believe that God honored His Word today and we will be hearing some great testimonies in the near future!! Some of those set free today have had to persevere through a prolonged period of time... but today was their day of freedom and healing!! Jeremiah 29:11-14a still rings true!!

*At the conclusion of our service I challenged everyone in the service to get their friend's here next weekend as we wrap up our "Framing Your Destiny from God's Perspective" series! God has saved the BEST message for the last! God's House will be ROCKIN next weekend! Don't you dare miss this service!

*Keep in prayer our brand new Life Group ministry! Our home fellowship's kick off all week long! Get connected soon if you haven't joined one yet. Contact the church office this week and "LIVE LIFE ELEVATED"!!

Sunday Splash!

2011-01-16T19:01:00.005-05:00

My heart wants to explode with joy! It's so obvious that God is blessing Sunset Chapel in AMAZING ways!!
Prior to today's service I received some much needed anointed encouragement from a dear brother. I love this godly man! Thanks Maurice!!
I seriously prayed hard over today's message. Not sure I did a good job of presenting it, but I did my best. I do think it hit home with quite a few. God has an awesome destiny in mind for all of us if we will surrender our entire lives to His guidance!
It's great continuing to see the steady stream of guest's showing up at Sunset Chapel week after week! I am so grateful that so many of our SC people have joined their efforts and hearts to God's vision and we are now seeing our church grow!! Keep this in mind, many are just ONE INVITE away from joining you here at SC. Don't give up--try one more time!! The last two messages in our current series will rock their lives!! God wants to change their destiny's!! Phone, email, text, personally go to someone this week and invite them to SC next weekend!!
Never underestimate the power of music in a church service. It can change everything! Our worship team under Douglas Flores direction continues to improve week after week. Anybody walking into our building this morning could sense the tangible presence of the Lord. Our worship team did a great job today spreading the atmosphere of heaven in our service!!

What a thrilling end to our service as we conducted water baptisms!! It never gets old seeing people GO PUBLIC for Jesus!! We need to have more services like today!!
Don't forget that our Life Groups kick off January 24-29th!! Contact the church to see which groups still have openings! Also we are still looking for additional locations and small group leader's. Resources are available at the church office for your consideration. Join a group today and enjoy building life long relationships, study God's Word, spend some time in prayer and have fun at the same time!! (Shari and I still have some slot's available for our home group. Call me.)
Before I close let me share a need with you. We have had several guests attend recently who are enjoying our services and ministries but they need a translator. We have a special booth all set up and personal devices that they can use. But we need someone to step up and help us allow them to connect with what God is saying at doing at SC. Call me at the church if this announcement is speaking to you about getting involved!!

Dufflebag Sunday!! Jan 16th

2011-01-10T14:24:00.007-05:00

Baptism is a very important event in the life of any new Christian. And I know that we go to great lengths to make sure the celebration is done just right!

At the beginning of the service, we will briefly explain the meaning of baptism. each participant will receive a free t-shirt and a baptism certificate!

Water Baptism is one of the most meaningful events in a person's spiritual journey. The Bible clearly teaches that baptism is the next step after giving your life to Jesus. Baptism is your chance to stand up and tell the world about your personal commitment to follow Christ.

What is the meaning of Baptism?

It illustrates Christ's burial and resurrection.
Christ died for our sins...He was buried...and He rose again! (I Corinthians 15:3-4)
For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in Baptism you were also raised with Christ! (Colossians 2:12)
It illustrates your new life as a Christian.
When someone becomes a Christian, he or she becomes a brand new person on the inside. The old life has passed away and a new life has begun!

Baptism doesn't make you a Christian.

Only your faith in Christ does that.
Baptism is like a wedding ring - it's the outward sign of the commitment you have made in your heart.

Who should be Baptized?

All believers as soon as they have accepted Christ
A believer is someone who has realized that their sin separated them from God. They have given up all efforts to reach God through good works or religious activity. They have concluded that Jesus Christ's death on the cross for their sins is the only thing that can bridge the gap between them and God.
A believer is someone who had decided to trust Christ alone for their salvation. If you have come to that point in your spiritual journey, then you are ready to be baptized!
Those who believed...were baptized...that day! (Acts 2:41)
There is no reason to delay!
As soon as you have decided to receive Christ into your life, you can and should be baptized.

Our next Baptism Experience will take place this coming Sunday, Jan 16th.

Can I be baptized with my spouse, child, or their family members?

Yes! If more than one member of your family is being baptized, we will have you come into the baptism tank together to be baptized.

What should I wear?

Plan to wear your bathing suit or shorts with a t-shirt into the pool(we will provide you with a free "Watermark" t-shirt you can keep) once everyone has been baptized you will have access to rooms in the main building to change into your dry clothes. Oh yeah, don't forget to bring in your dufflebag a dry towel,change of clothes, blow dryer and a hairbrush or comb.

Can I invite people to attend the baptism if they don't belong to Sunset Chapel?

Absolutely! We encourage you to invite your friends, family, co-workers, classmates, etc...to be a part of this special day! And don't forget to bring a camera so you can have someone take a photo during your baptism.

I pray that many will take the plunge this Sunday and acknowledge Christ in their lives. It will be one of the most phenomenal experiences of your life!

Is there someone you could invite to church this weekend who could use this experience? Your invitation could initiate one of the most important days of someones life. We will have numerous baptism kits (shirts, shorts, towels) prepared for those who want to spontaneously participate this weekend. This will be a BIG DAY at Sunset Chapel!

Sunday Splash!

2011-01-09T22:03:00.004-05:00

*Another TERRIFIC DAY at Sunset Chapel!!

*I am so proud of our ministry teams! Each one of you are MVP's in my book!! Every weekend it seems like you all keep stepping up your game! We had so many first time guests this weekend and our greeters were the extra eyes for me, helping me to make contact and welcome each one to our service!

*One of the best compliments we received was when one of the couple's visiting for the first time stated that they felt so welcomed and at home! Then they told me they were making Sunset Chapel their new church home!! Welcome Oscar and Anna!!

*So many of you actually took up the challenge I gave the previous weekend and you distributed an invite ticket to someone and asked them to be your guest at SC today! You are all so AWESOME for doing that!! Be sure to follow up on that invitation soon! People are more likely to visit a church from a personal invitation than by any other means of church marketing!

*I truly believe that our best and most productive days are still ahead of us!! 2011 IS OUR YEAR OF OPPORTUNITY AND GROWTH!!

*Today I shared the second message in our current series "Framing Your Destiny From God's Perspective"!! It really seemed like everyone was tracking with everything I was saying. I try my best each weekend to make God's message understandable to all who attend our worship experiences. We learned a little bit more about Joseph and the challenges he faced on his journey towards the destiny God had in mind for him. We were able to discover from the scriptures that THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD was with him. And wherever he was in his life, God's favor rested upon him because he was faithful to keep the Lord as his number one focus! This new series is turning out to be one of the most incredible one's we've done yet!

*I can't even describe to you how excited I am to be baptizing people next weekend in our service! If you haven't taken that NEXT STEP and followed Christ's example, then consider participating with us in this service next Sunday! I will post later some info to help you make that decision! Two people made commitments to ask Christ into their hearts and lives at the conclusion of today's service! That was so AWESOME!!

*Our day of ministry was highlighted by seeing dozen's and dozen's of people joining themselves to our brand new "Life Group's!" We conducted our first "Slice of Life Connection Night" at 6 PM and enjoyed a fantastic evening of getting to know one another better, laughing together and eating some delicious slices of pie! We gave everyone an opportunity to hear about some of the great ministries we have here at SC and described for them the current needs and how they could get plugged in! Afterwards we formed 10 "Life-Group's." I'm very excited to watch these groups develop relationships and share life together! LIVE YOUR LIFE ELEVATED and consider joining one of these current groups, or form your own. Contact the church office for more detail's about this new and exciting way to connect and grow! We still have many resources we can provide to those who want to start their own "Life-Group." The official kick off to our new "Life-Group" ministry will be the week of January 24-29.

*My eyes are getting heavy. Time for bed, have a great week!!

Sunday Splash!

2011-01-02T20:58:00.009-05:00

Today's service was just superb!! It all started for me yesterday when I was on our church campus prepping for the service by looking over my message notes. Prompted by the Holy Spirit, I entered our main sanctuary and began to walk up and down the rows of chairs praying and anointing each one. In my heart and mind I began to sense that God was preparing the room for a spiritual breakthrough!

Our service today wasn't without some minor challenges. But I tip my hat to all our ministry teams for making extraordinary efforts to see that our First Sunday of 2011 was memorable!! Douglas Flores and the worship team were simply outstanding! And what a welcome sight to see and hear John Kricker up on the stage playing his instrument once again! That dude can play!!

Nearly every seat was taken on the main floor this morning! Our ushers and greeters were getting a real workout! I met so many new people.. some of those I greeted this morning were Rose, Jonathan, Jose, and from Australia, Daniel and Ruchi! Welcome to SC!! During the service I requested that each person take one invite card and use it to share with someone in the coming week! I am hopeful and expectant that we will have to open up our balcony area as an overflow area next weekend!! That would be so cool!!

I shared some of the resolutions I am making as we start the new year and challenged everyone to join me in some of these:

Read the Bible completely in 2011. I am using the M'Cheyne Plan from YouVersion.com! Go and pick a plan that will work best for you!
I love to read books but I committed to read intentionally 12 books on developing myself as a better pastor and spiritual leader! I will let everyone know what I'm reading in future updates!
I am beginning a 21 Day Fast to increase my time spent in Bible study and Prayer! I chose to give up coffee during this time period.. that will be a hard sacrifice for me! I almost shed a tear as we drove past a Starbucks on the way home!
I also committed to get more physical activity in my life! I have gained so much weight since moving here to Miami 18 months ago! The food here is soooo good!! Already Shari and I have walked daily at least 2 miles and I've played some golf! Not a bad start.

Today we kicked off a brand new series of messages called "Framing Your Destiny From God's Perspective!" Don't stay locked into your past... it's time to move ahead into the specific design, dream and destiny that God has for you!! His favor is upon His children! He doesn't see you imprisoned to your challenges, difficulties and problems. He sees you overcoming, prosperous and living in victory! We looked closely at the life of Joseph and saw how he overcame the obstacles and struggles to become a second chair leader!! Jeremiah 29:11-14 reminds us that God has "a future and a hope" for each one of us! Be sure you make it each week to hear these messages! You and your family are going to get so much help from the insights I will be sharing!

Want To Grow In 2011??

2011-01-01T18:43:00.003-05:00

Each day in 2011 I've committed myself to read from God's Word! YouVersion.com has some excellent tools to assist anyone who wants to grow spiritually in the New Year. I've chosen the M'Cheyne One Year Reading Plan to track my daily progress. I even utilized the easy reminder feature to help keep me accountable. Every day I will be reading two passages from the Old Testament and one from the New Testament as well as one from either the Psalms or the Gospels. By the time December 31st rolls around I will have read the the Old Testament once and the New Testament and Psalms twice!

There are over 50 different reading plans to choose from, with 41 great translations to use, in 22 translations!! Take the challenge and join me in stretching your mind and spirit in 2011!!

2010-12-31T14:32:00.004-05:00

God has a specific dream, plan and purpose for your life! (Jer. 29:11-14) I don't know anyone who doesn't want the Father's favor upon his or her life.

Join us for the next five weeks as we peer closer at the the life of Joseph who faced numerous tests and trials before he experienced the full blessing of God's favor.

In the course of life we all can expect to encounter some tests and trials of our own. In fact we are going to be tested throughout our entire lives. Who is to blame for these problems and situations? All to often we point our fingers at others without recognizing our own responsibility. It's so easy to blame all our challenges and difficulties on other people.

But when we turn our hearts and lives over to God and He's allowed to get really deep inside of us . . . He exposes and deals with the real roots of our problems. Not only is He capable of performing the necessary heart surgery that needs to take place . . . He reorients our destiny!

You're going to be blessed during these five dynamic life-changing messages. Don't miss a single week!

Bring someone with you! Invite, email, phone, text, or tweet a friend to join you this Sunday at Sunset Chapel!

Get Ready for Dufflebag Sunday - Water Baptisms

2010-12-31T14:00:00.003-05:00

Dufflebag Day...

Sunday, January 16th, is what we are calling “Dufflebag Sunday”. You’re invited to bring your Dufflebag or backpack with a change of clothes, and if your desire is to go public with your faith in Jesus Christ through baptism, we will baptize you in our 10:30 AM service! To participate in our first Water Baptisms of 2011, you can register on Sundays in the foyer, but you don't even have to sign up! You can just show up! We'll be ready for you!

Here's what you need to bring:

• Your faith in Jesus as your Forgiver & Leader.

• A dark T-Shirt and Shorts

• Flip-flops

• Towel

• Extra pair of underclothes!

• ALL your family and friends!

2011 The BIG Slice of Life Connection Nite!

2010-12-31T13:58:00.002-05:00

At SC our first goal is to always lead people to a personal relationship with Christ, but to continue growing in that relationship with God, we believe people need real Christian community. We create this community through what we call home "Life Groups". These groups are a combination of fellowship, fun Bible study and prayer, which we believe creates an atmosphere for real life change! Be sure to join us Sunday Jan 9th @ 6:00 PM to get connected to one!! See ya there!

Newcomers Gathering!

2010-12-31T13:36:00.005-05:00

Recently, if you came to check-out Sunset Chapel during one of our Sunday worship experiences! To say thank you for being our guest, I want to personally invite you to come and have a free coffee drink and pastry of your choice on us!

Thursday night, January 6th, from 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm, my wife Shari and I will be at the Panera Bread 13672 N. Kendall Drive, Miami. We invite you to drop by and say hello and have a cup of coffee on us. If you would like to stay and visit we are available to answer any questions you may have about SC. This is our way of letting you know how much we appreciate you being our guest at Sunset Chapel.

If there is anything that we can do to help you please contact our office at 305-271-4094. I hope to see you this Thursday night!

It's Going to be an Awesome Night!

2010-12-08T12:37:00.001-05:00

Five Things I'm Thankful For!

2010-11-24T14:46:00.009-05:00

Most people across America will be focusing this Thanksgiving on turkey and football. And without a doubt I'll do my fair share of both too! But this year I wanted to stop and create a list of things I'm thankful for.. so here goes!

I'm so thankful for the grace God poured down on my life as an eight year old boy sitting in a Sunday School class taught by Mark Frazer in my hometown of Anderson, Indiana. He introduced me to Christ and my life has been forever changed because he cared enough to get involved and teach kid's about God's love. I am also grateful for godly men like George Tilley, DuWayne Robinette, Larry Frazer, Ken Culp and Gary Allison who also left their imprints on my life and helped God capture my heart at an early age. I wouldn't want to imagine the kind of troublesome person I would have become had these men not poured into my life.

I'm so thankful for my incredible wife! From the first hour we spent together on the campus of Southeastern University (cutting classes) I have loved her. I know every expression on her face, all her gestures, her movements, even the slightest motion of her soul. She is heavens gift to keep me balanced, focused and sane. I'm not sure I could even in a thousand ways begin to tell her what it means to come home to her! Her smile has dazzled me daily for over 28 years now. Her encouragement gives air to my soul! I am a blessed man!!

I'm so thankful for my son's Calvin and Randall. They continue to help me keep pace with life and current with the realities of what young people are facing! At first it was my responsibility to teach and lead them. But for a long time now, that role has been reversed. I am grateful for the many childhood memories, the humorous incidents, and the meaningful moments I have in my heart from watching them grow into the young men they've become. Someone once said that "gratitude is the memory of the heart". My heart is filled today as I reflect on the numerous blessings these two have given their mother and I.

I am so thankful for the staff and leaders here at Sunset Chapel. You are all awesome and amazing people! Together we are making a difference in Miami!! I acknowledge your many hours of hard work from a heart that overflows with appreciation. Each of you are a gift to my life. I feel so absolutely blessed to work beside such caring, committed and gifted individuals! I owe a debt of gratitude to each of you as you contribute to the spiritual growth and vitality of Sunset Chapel. Few churches are blessed with the rare combination of gifts, character and leadership that you all possess!

I am so thankful for a church that has caught the heart of God and is filled weekly with the atmosphere of celebration, abundant hugs, and bursts of laughter! Sundays are my favorite day of the week!! I am humbled to serve as your pastor. Each week I have the privilege to stand before the greatest people on the planet!!

You're Invited . . .Thanksgiving Candlelight/Communion Service

2010-11-23T14:44:00.003-05:00

Join us for this very intimate and meaningful time of thanksgiving and worship this Wednesday evening November 24th @ 7:00 PM.

One Day To Feed The World Update!

2010-11-23T14:32:00.003-05:00

Just received word that our "ONE DAY TO FEED THE WORLD" offering total continues to grow!! We have now received a total of $6029.00 with additional online amounts not yet posted at our bank still to come!! Sunset Chapel you all continue to AMAZE me! Thank you for partnering with Convoy of Hope in providing disaster relief around the world! We will give an up to the minute update this Sunday as to where our final total stands!! You still have time to be included in this initiative by making your contribution online at www.sunsetchapel and follow the online giving prompts!

My Haiti Trip ONE DAY TO FEED THE WORLD!

2010-11-21T20:05:00.002-05:00

SunsetChapel's ONE DAY TO FEED THE WORLD initiative! from Russell DeBord on Vimeo.

If you would like to join us as we GIVE to make a difference - you can give "online" by going to www.sunsetchapel.com and clicking on our online giving icon and follow the secure steps. Where it says "Other" type "ONE DAY". May God Bless you all!

Sunday Splash!

2010-11-21T19:01:00.004-05:00

*Thanksgiving!!! That describes my heart today!!

*I am so thankful for all that God did today in our service!!

*Two individuals made commitments to Christ in our 10:30 am service!!

*I didn't even get half way through my message notes today, time just zipped by so fast.

*I have to make a confession "The Spirit of Gluttony" hit me today! I ate so much food!!

*Our after service Thanksgiving dinner was a HUGE success!!

*Our volunteers did a fantastic job of setting up for this event. They didn't allow a little South Florida liquid sunshine dampen their spirits or efforts to make this day happen!! Special thanks to Frances Watkins for overseeing this entire event! She makes so many things happen at SC and is a real blessing to us all!!

*Special shout out to both Russ Barbour and Tony Gregis also for preparing the food! The food this year was absolutely AMAZING!!

*It was an awesome sight seeing the tent we rented overflowing with people today!!

*As I crisscrossed throughout the tent I met so many first time guests today!

*And I am especially thrilled to see so many new people to Sunset Chapel beginning to attend regularly and connecting with others too!

*Can't wait to share with you some new ideas God has been giving me to help us all connect better as a church! Stay tuned for future developments!!

*I am especially pleased and humbled as you all responded so well to our partnership with CONVOY OF HOPE and our "ONE DAY TO FEED THE WORLD" initiative!! Together we raised $4675.60!! Thanks SC for your effort to assist this great ministry as they respond to disaster relief projects around the world!!

*I heard that Kid's Inc nearly hit the 50 mark again today with children and volunteers! A new couple (Fabian and Marcia) who have attended a few weeks at SC expressed an interest in getting involved in this outstanding ministry to our children. They were involved in their home church for several years until just relocating to the Miami area! We look forward to adding them to this ministry team!

*Don't forget to make plans to attend our upcoming "CANDLELIGHT COMMUNION SERVICE" this Wednesday at 7:00 pm!! It's always a very special time as we return thanks to the Lord for the many ways He has blessed our lives and homes during the past year. Why not consider bringing a friend or two with you! I guarantee you they will feel the presence of God in the room!

*Have a blessed week!!

Count Down . . . 4 Days to Go!

2010-11-18T14:10:00.002-05:00

I've started today in prayer for each person who attends Sunset Chapel and who is participating in our "ONE DAY TO FEED THE WORLD" initiative! Today we are working for God and donating today's wage to Convoy of Hope, a faith-based organization with a driving passion TO FEED THE WORLD through children's feeding initiatives, community outreaches and disaster responses.

COH has developed partnerships with such corporations as Culligan, Pro Bass Shop, Home Depot and many others to assist them in their efforts to quickly provide resources to victims of disasters worldwide. Convoy of Hope has earned a reputation for responding quickly, efficiently and effectively!

Please bring your offering with you to this weekend's service. Online giving is also available atwww.sunsetchapel.com ;

We are beyond excited about what God is going to do this weekend at Sunset Chapel! Let's celebrate and "Give Thanks" together this Sunday November 21st @ 10:30AM for the combined response to our effort to "FEED THE WORLD" There will be an awesome time of fellowship following the service, as we enjoy an "ALL-CHURCH THANKSGIVING DINNER" on the grounds! Invite a friend to join us!

Count Down! 5 DAYS TILL WE DO OUR PART!

2010-11-17T16:50:00.004-05:00

I was in Haiti some months ago and witnessed first-hand the humanitarian efforts Convoy of Hope was providing to thousands of children whose homes and lives have been decimated by the earthquake.

Convoy of Hope was founded in 1994 with the simple goal of helping people who were impoverished and hurting. Throughout the world there are countless boys and girls who are wondering where their next meal is coming from. These kids deserve a bright future and COH helps them by feeding them and keeping then in school.

I am looking forward to celebrating with you this Sunday November 21st the combined responses of our Sunset Chapel people to our "ONE DAY TO FEED THE WORLD" initiative! Tomorrow when you go to work, let's work for God the whole day! Everyone is asked to donate Thursday's wage and bring it with them to this weekends service! Online giving is also available at www.sunsetchapel.com.

On Sunday I will share with you several of the photo's taken of my trip to Haiti as I observed the needs and the responses that Convoy of Hope is involved with!

Click here for a special video message:

Pastor Russ ONE DAY TO FEED THE WORLD - Haiti2010 from Russell DeBord on Vimeo.

Our Most Important Service Of The Week!

2010-11-16T14:48:00.005-05:00

Every Tuesday it seems that God has me drinking from a fire hydrant! It's the day I try to separate myself from a lot of the activities and white noise that often surrounds me and closet myself with God's Presence and Word.

For several weeks I've been trying to wrap my mind around First Thessalonians. Each verse has had something to say to my heart and spirit. On Wednesday's during our mid-week Prayer and Bible study it's been a ministry highlight moment for me to unpack several of the significant insights I've discovered in my study time.

Something is happening on Wednesday's that is unprecedented! There is an obvious hunger for more of God's Word taking place in our church. Our attendance reflects that surge in interest as people are coming ready to receive a Word from the Lord! Do you believe in God but live your life as if He doesn't exist? You're not alone ... a lot of people do.

Our look into the simple truths found in the scriptures will at times push you, challenge you and quite honestly stretch you. If you want to reflect Christ better in your life and receive fresh gut level insights that will impact your life. Come join us! And let the Word truly help you live a life that pleases God and brings glory to His Son!

6 DAYS TILL WE DO OUR PART!

2010-11-16T11:42:00.004-05:00

Convoy of Hope is a faith-based organization with a driving Passion to FEED THE WORLD through children's feeding initiatives, community outreaches, disaster responses and resourcing.

This past year Convoy of Hope . . .

Served 6.8 million people
Held 217 community outreaches
Mobilized 30,000 volunteers
Provided food for 30,000 children each week in the Philippines
Provided food daily to 25,000 in Haiti
Responded to the earthquake in Italy
Provided food in El Salvador and in Kenya to thousands more children!

This Thursday join others from SC as we donate ONE DAY'S WAGE to Convoy of Hope's "ONE DAY TO FEED THE WORLD" campaign. Then bring your offering with you to this weekend's worship service, Nov. 21st @ 10:30 AM. Online giving is also available at www.sunsetchapel.com. click on link below for a special message . . .

Convoy of Hope - You Can Make a Difference! from Russell DeBord on Vimeo.

In 7 Days Our Sunset Chapel Family Will Do its Part!

2010-11-15T17:18:00.010-05:00

We again announced our partnership with Convoy of Hope (COH) in our service yesterday.

Each day, Convoy of Hope feeds tens of thousands of children throughout the world. For many children, the meal they receive from Convoy of Hope is their only meal of the day.

We've designated this Thursday, 11/18, as our "ONE DAY TO FEED THE WORLD" day to donate that day's wage to this ministry. Your response will be greatly appreciated! Remember to bring your offering with you this Sunday,November 21st! Online giving is also available at www.sunsetchapel.com

Kate's Story from Russell DeBord on Vimeo.

Sunday Splash!

2010-11-14T23:13:00.002-05:00

*I am so grateful for all that God is doing here at Sunset Chapel!

*It was thrilling to see our church so full today!

*Let me give a BIG shout out to both our usher and greeter teams!

*They were both stretched today!

*Special thanks to Frances Watkins, Neyda Teijeiro, Tracey Rowsey and their army of volunteers who conducted our Missionettes "Mad Hatter Tea Party" and sleepover!! Nearly all the girl's and their parents were in the service today! This ministry to girl's Kindergarten through Eighth grade are hitting their stride and growing by leaps and bounds!! Having 42 girls in this age bracket really brought a new energy to our service!!

*Our worship team sounded great today! Cherisse Graham really has some pipes and did an awesome job singing "In Christ Alone"!! The whole team consists of a very special bunch of gifted and talented individuals!! I love what they do for God!!

*I knew that today was going to be a very special day for someone! It was an incredible day for two individuals who crossed the line of faith and accepted Christ into their hearts!!

*I am thinking about scheduling a early December water baptism service! It never gets old seeing people far from God draw near to Him!!

*It was cool to have Sherri Jordan come up and invite everybody to SCA's Fall Festival this Friday November 19th from 4-8 pm!! There will be lot's to do for the whole family to enjoy!! Great food, fun and activities!! I hope to see you there!!

*This will be one of the busiest weeks ever here at SC, please keep our ministry team in your prayers as we prepare for next weekends All Church Thanksgiving Dinner!! Lot's of little details and behind the scene preparations still to be completed!!

*I also announced our upcoming Candlelight/Communion Service to be held on Wednesday Nov. 24 at 7:00 pm. This very special Thanksgiving service is unique and meaningful as people will sharing about how thankful they are for God's blessings in their lives and homes!! I encourage you to make this service a family tradition during this holiday!! You will be blessed!!

*I am really looking forward to the combined response to our partnership with Convoy of Hope and the "One Day To Feed The World" initiative! Everyone is asked to go to their workplaces this Thursday Nov. 18th, work for the Lord and donate that days wage to this special effort!! Please bring your offering with you next Sunday Nov. 21st!! Online giving is available on the church website as well at www.sunsetchapel.com

Our One Day Challenge Count Down!

2010-11-10T17:23:00.016-05:00

In Ten Days We Will Do Our Part!!

This past Sunday we announced Sunset Chapel's partnership with Convoy of Hope (COH) a faith based organization with a driving passion to feed the world. With a global network of churches, COH has helped 32 million people in need in more than 120 countries by mobilizing a rapid response to disasters and hunger-related crises. Through these valued partnerships, millions of suffering people are being fed daily and experiencing the love of Jesus.

The One Day To Feed The World offering is a very simple plan to encourage every Sunset Chapel attendee to give ONE Day's Wage (Nov 18) to help feed the poor worldwide. ONE Day's Wage can make a huge difference. ONE Day invested, changes lives forever. We will be receiving our offering on Sunday Nov. 21st, 2010.

Here's a simple way to calculate one day's pay:

Your Weekly Pay $ _____ divided by 5 = $______ ONE DAY's Wage!

Specially prepared offering envelopes will be mailed and extras made available to give every attendee the opportunity to participate in the "ONE DAY To Feed The World" offering on Sunday, Nov. 21, 2010 @ 10:30 AM. You may also give online by going to www.sunsetchapel.com then click our online giving icon and follow the prompts. Where it indicates "other" write in "ONE DAY".

Sunday Splash!

2010-10-24T21:39:00.004-04:00

Today's service was jam packed with numerous "defining moments"! Webster's Dictionary defines "a moment" as "a point in time". A moment can make a difference. It can move us. It can change us. As life becomes more complicated, more demanding and more hectic. We must become more mindful of the moments God offers us. If we treat them as insignificant, that's exactly what they become. I've observed that many people don't lead their lives... they just accept them. They wait for memorable experiences to happen, never giving a thought to creating an experience that will make a memory. Memories don't find us. We make them.

We welcomed back Douglas Flores to the platform today after having been gone on vacation for the past two weekends. What an exceptional job he and the worship team did today as they created an experience that increased our awareness of God's presence! My heart just swelled as I saw so many of the people I deeply love visibly respond to the Spirit's leading! A young pastor I admire from a distance Steve Furtick recently stated "The greatest moves of God might start with the prayer of one, but their sustained by the prayers of many". As our church absorbed the unmatched presence and power of God you could just sense that many were being replenished in their hearts. I followed my heart and I'm so glad I did and invited people to gather around the altar. What occurred was a"defining moment" for so many.

Families remain front and center in our current series "How To Build A Dream Home". These messages are designed to help you discover God's insights and enhance your marriage and family! Today's focus was upon the "Healthy Ingredients For A Happy Home". I am so appreciative of the positive feedback that I've been receiving as we unpacked these messages. I truly believe that God is working in our most important relationships! I am very excited to share the remaining messages with you in the coming weeks!

Replicating Christ

2010-10-20T22:30:00.004-04:00

I loved watching our people take the necessary steps to draw closer to God. There is no doubt that during our prayer time God's presence showed up BIG TIME! People came forward with multiple needs and presented them to the Lord who has the solution to all our challenges and difficulties! There was a real consciousness that the Holy Spirit's power was being released around the altar! If you missed the service...YOU REALLY MISSED IT!!

Tonight we looked at 1 Thessalonians 1:4-9 and the zeal this new church plant exhibited in serving the Lord! The Apostle Paul was extremely ecstatic over the tremendous growth these young and energetic converts were making! He applauds them and holds them up as an example for others to follow. Everyone was talking about this new church! It was all positive conversation! Nothing negative was being expressed. 1 Timothy 4:12 says "Set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity." This is what the Thessalonians were doing!

Read Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 11:1 "Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ." Paul imitated Christ. The Thessalonians copied him. And all neighboring Christians took notice of them and replicated their lifestyle and works. That's how "EXAMPLE" spreads!

If we will love God completely and others unselfishly, then all our attitudes and actions will end up aligning with all the commands, instructions, guidelines and standards of God's Word.

A church is to bring people in, build them up, train them and send them out. I reminded our attenders tonight that when we leave the service and scatter throughout our city, like the Thessalonians we are to take God, His message, your testimony, your faith and His power with you AND GIVE IT AWAY!!

As long as there remains one person in the world who does not know Christ, the church has a mandate to grow. Growth is not optional. It is commanded by Jesus. We shouldn't seek church growth for our own benefit, but because God wants people saved! It never gets old watching individuals far from God come and surrender their lives to Him!!

Sunday Splash!

2010-10-18T17:07:00.001-04:00

Yesterday at Sunset Chapel I lead the church in praise and worship! I haven't attempted that to often in recent years! Douglas Flores was away on a well deserved vacation, so I stepped up this week as his replacement and with the assistance of all our outstanding musicians and vocalists we saw move deeply in people's lives as the altar area became jam packed! And i hadn't even preached yet!!! By the time we got to the last chorus "I need You More" you could sense that God was working in our service in a tremendous way. I still don't have my mind around all that He accomplished around the altar, but I know that many were feeling His presence and power in their hearts and circumstances!

I am still amazed at how many first time guests we are seeing week after week! Can you believe what is taking place!! We are beginning to see God cause a new momentum take place in our weekend services! I am so thankful for what our Lord is allowing to happen here at SC!! Keep inviting and investing in the lives of those around you!!

Our current series "How to Build Your Dream Home" focused our attention on the topic of "Communication". I was delighted to see how many of you were tracking with the message! We discussed together the "Introductory Levels and the Deeper Levels of geniune communication! Thanks Luis and Neyda Teijeiro for coming forward and role playing at a crucial point of my message! So many have been coming up to me and expressing how much they've appreciated these messages! For the past several weeks I've become aware of how critical these really are to our church family. If you have missed any of them you can listen online by going to the church website.

My personal times with God this past week have been just phenomenal! God has been sharing a number of things in my heart that I can't wait to share with you in His timing!

God deserves our very best! Each person who attends SC is important to His plans for our church! In his book "Doing Church as a Team" author Wayne Cordeiro writes "As Christians, we absorb teaching, instruction, God's Word and His promises; but at some point along the way, we stop growing. We get saturated and our capacity to absorb is diminished. No matter how many more messages we hear, we are unable to absorb any more until we wring out our sponges. Then, and only then, will our absorbency return. Wring out your sponge and serve! Don't hang on to the water. Give it freely away. There's plenty more where that came from!" As we continue to grow we need more people to volunteer their time and talents! Nearly every ministry here at SC needs additional workers. God is stretching us! This is one of the most opportunistic times we've experienced in recent years here at Sunset Chapel! This is all so very exciting!

I am really looking forward to this Wednesday's Prayer and Bible study time together! If you own a Bible bring it with you. Last Wednesday, I shared a lot about what's been going on inside me spiritually and what God is doing in my life. Together we looked at 1 Thessalonians Chapter One. God has some incredible plans for us all and I can't wait till He reveals more of that specific plan to us this Wednesday! I hope to see you then!

What Should The Church Look Like?

2010-10-14T14:35:00.005-04:00

Last night we looked at 1 Thessalonians 1:1-3 and the description the Apostle Paul gives of a church that functions well. Their example still proves instructive today. While many individuals are choosing to live isolated lives and put great distances between themselves and the needs of the world. God's Word challenges us to engage the world and penetrate it with the light of God's love.

In a world that lacks for faith, love and hope...we can point to Christ who offers all three! The Message Bible closes verse 3 of this passage with the following words..."it is very clear to us friends that God not only loves you very much but also has his hand on you for something special." This very young church demonstrated remarkable vigor, moral courage and activity! Highlighted in these verses are 3 distinguishing features...their work of faith, their labor of love and their patience of hope! All of which caused Paul to rejoice! Paul carried these people in his heart! His prayers for them were constant. His prayer of thanksgiving was genuine.

Who are you praying for? Do you have a prayer list? Do you mention others by name in your conversations with God? At the end of our prayer and study time I requested each person to come forward and sign my notebook. I made the commitment that for the next seven days I would personally "make mention of them" in my prayer times with God! This so simple and something we all can do.

A church that desires to function well, will follow this churches model.

*They loved their brothers and sisters in Christ

*Their love was real and tangible

*They demonstrated it in various ways and in speech

*They considered each others needs

*They were genuinely concerned about each others well being

*They worked together

*They encouraged each other in the faith

*They demonstrated remarkable unity and harmony

*They excelled in serving, honoring, preferring, and praying for one another

*They carried these values and traits outside the walls of their church

*They touched the lives of people all around them

*They had a fearless testimony for Christ before the world

*They weren't intimidated or embarrassed to share Christ

*Their compassion, concern and servants heart towards others in their city was well known

While we have a huge task in front of us in reaching Miami for Christ, I am so grateful to see the positive strides forward we are making! God is giving us the opportunity of a lifetime to grow as a church! I so appreciate the commitment and support that I sense from so many!! Sunset Chapel is undergoing a number of changes and I am pleased to see so many adapting and following His vision for our church! I really love where God has us right now as a church. Our best and brightest days are ahead of us!!

In recent weeks, I've benefited greatly from the extra hours that have been spent in prayer and study with God. His leading and wisdom has been regularly sought and valued in my heart. The fact that our church ministry teams are all on the same page now that we completed our recent leadership retreat is of tremendous help and encouragement! They are truly a gift from God to me! While there are constant reminders that we have made the devil mad, the resolve to remain steadfast to the vision hasn't changed! God is leading Sunset Chapel to new levels for His glory!

Sunday Splash!

2010-10-10T17:11:00.003-04:00

*Today was such an uplifting day here at Sunset Chapel!

*Our worship was one of the most anointed atmospheres we've experienced in some time! You could sense that people were really pressing in!

*Thanks Calvin De Bord for stepping in this week and leading us deeper into God's presence. A special shout out also to Michelle Mlacker for playing the keyboard for us this weekend! It was great to welcome back home Frederico Gosalvez and his gifted talents on the bass guitar..we missed you dude!

*Today I preached the second message in our new series "Building Your Dream Home". We discussed that it's our job as men to provide the right covering for our families! God gave this divine assignment specifically to us. Over and over we looked at several scripture passages that demonstrated the role and responsibilities we have as the head of our households. We are the ones who set the spiritual temperature in our homes. A better home requires us to become better men! We need to take our leadership to a new level and become men of faith, prayer and integrity! Guy's we can do this!!

*I was definitely caught off guard today while speaking when someone shouted out from the crowd "What was that verse you just gave?" I love the fact that people are tracking closely to the message!

*I am really looking forward to next week and sharing some insightful principles with everyone as we look to download our third message together in our new series "The Living Room-learning how to communicate"!! All of us could use some refinement in this critical area!

*I announced today that we are looking forward to participating in the Pen. Florida District's Men's Gathering to be held at Masterpiece Gardens in mid November. Cost is $40.00 per man and includes registration, lodging and meals. A sign up sheet is located in our foyer area or you can call the church to get your name on the list. I am looking forward to hanging out with the guy's from SC and receiving some great encouragement from some of our district's leading pastors!

*Ladies don't forget that a new Bible study just started for you on Thursday mornings at 10 am for fellowship, prayer and an in depth look into God's Word! Call the church office for additional details and directions!

*Today was the kick off to a new membership class taught by Russ Barbour. If you would like to know more about our beliefs, how to better your relationship with Christ, meet and make some new friends, then this class is for you! Once you've completed it you can apply for membership here at Sunset Chapel. I am really loving the growth that is taking place here at SC right now! Every week there is a constant stream of new faces in the crowd!

*Right now there are a lot of new opportunities available for people to connect together here at SC.

*Hey everybody have a blessed week!

2010-10-06T08:55:00.004-04:00

Our next New Member's Class begins this Sunday October 10th at 9:30 am in the cafeteria. If you are confident that God has brought you to Sunset Chapel to be part of this church family...then we're confident that God has a purpose here for you to fulfill! We want everyone who considers SC to be their church home to become a participating member!

Russ Barbour, our facilitator for this class will share the importance of becoming a part of the SC church family and committing ourselves to the Body of Christ. During this informative class every participant will learn about our 16 distinctive beliefs, our denominational affiliation and will be given the opportunity to apply for church membership. It is our vision to partner with you on your spiritual journey by helping you establish healthy spiritual habits and connecting you with other maturing Christ followers!

Sunset Chapel is quickly becoming a blessing to many! It's a new day and we are very excited about the many possibilities that are ahead of us! As God continues to accomplish incredible things throughout our church and in our ministries, we are elated that he is adding new people to our church family!!

Leading like Jesus

2010-10-05T09:50:00.009-04:00

Recently all of our ministry leadership teams (pastors, deacon board, support staff, SCA school administrators and their spouses) met for a combined weekend to develop and sharpening our leadership abilities, clarify our roles and responsibilities, conduct some strategic planning and cast vision! I see each one of them as a gift from God to help me fulfill God's revealed vision for Sunset Chapel!! Our time together was both meaningful and significant in blending our hearts as we allowed God to form us into a spiritual team.

I shared with them that a core value of our church needs to be "excellence"...which does not mean perfection...but it does mean giving your best effort! I truly believe that God works through people who are willing to go all out for Him!!

We spoke about leading at the highest levels require us all to be willing to serve at the lowest levels first. A leader must touch the heart of others before it can ever ask them for a hand. Using the example in scripture of Christ washing his disciples feet each of us made the commitment to join "The Order of the Towel" and lead and serve like Jesus.

I am looking forward to seeing the results of this time spent together impacting our efforts and causing SC to become the church God fully intends for us to become. Please continue to keep all our leaders in prayer!

Sunday Splash!

2010-10-03T20:38:00.006-04:00

Thank you Sunset Chapel for another standout weekend! Let me try to recap briefly a few of the highlights from Sunday. We experienced a tremendous kick off to our new teaching series! Our attendance was better than anticipated! I was able to meet so many new guests...Daphine, Bengee, Agnes, Andre, Antoinette and many others! What really encouraged me was the many people who are beginning to make SC their church home! God is allowing something really special to take place here each weekend! I love our church!!

Our ministry to children "Kid's Inc." achieved a new 2010 fall attendance mark of "42"!!! Caught somewhat by surprise at this turnout they responded quickly and turned it up a notch and from the feedback we've been receiving it has become one of the best ministry weekend's they've experienced in sometime! Our kid's experienced a real move of God in their own service!! Our volunteers are doing a great job in this area! "Kerwin the Krazy Kat" made his entrance into the Kid's Inc. ministry and the kid's were really excited about their new mascot and all wanted to hang out with him!! I'm told that he's going to be popping up all over the place! You can keep posted on his adventures by checking out the Kid's Inc. blog!!

Are You Ready For Some Football?

2010-09-16T17:20:00.007-04:00

We're making plans for a dynamic first-ever event here at Sunset Chapel and you're invited! Join us this weekend (Sept.19th - 10am) for "TAILGATE SUNDAY"! This will be a perfect opportunity to bring football, fun and fellowship together around the grill.

We will "huddle-up" @ 10:00 am in our main campus building for a terrific pre-game praise experience! And then get our game on as we introduce you to the very talented Christian recording artist, Leanette Lopez, who will dazzle you her vocal talents! Our second-half continues as I call out God's "Game Plan" for our lives. Our "end zone" celebration will be epic and fun!

After service will be time to stir up your appetites and fire up the grill and enjoy some extreme outdoor food! All you "Grill Masters" out there are invited to bring your grills, cooking utensils, and favorite recipes. Everyone is requested to make enough food for your family and others to share. Guests who are unable to bring their grills will find that our Royal Rangers will be preparing barbecue chicken, hamburgers and hot dogs that can be purchased at a reasonable price, proceeds to benefit the RR ministry.

Afternoon activities will include a punt-pass-kick contest for kids and co-ed flag football games for the older teens and adults.

Our schedule is rounded out by watching the "Dolphins vs. Vikings" game on the Big Screen, for those who want to cheer our home team on to victory!

Find your friends and bring them to our first-ever "TAILGATE" event, they'll be blown away by the reception they receive and the great experience they are guaranteed to encounter @ SC this weekend!

See You Tonight @ 7

2010-09-14T12:37:00.001-04:00

Looking forward to connecting with some of our new guests and attenders!!

Tailgate Sunday - September 19th

2010-08-23T22:30:00.007-04:00

We're making dynamic plans for a first ever event hosted on our church campus. Make plans to join us for "Tailgate Sunday" September 19th @ 10:00AM. Activities include: co-ed flag football, our very own "thrill of the grill" cooking contest, and watch the pro game: Dolphins vs Vikings! You don't want to miss this one-of-a-kind Sunset Chapel event!

We have also invited Christian recording artist, Leanette Lopez to be with us. Singing since she was 7 and public speaking at 16, Leanette Lopez is no stranger to the platform. After years of serving on pastoral staff in Ohio, Leanette herself experienced leadership in a ministerial capacity. Ministering alongside her parents who were pastors all her life she ventured out with her ministry as a pastor and ultimately traveling world wide with her own family.

The real call of God in her life allows her capabilities to encourage any age, gender, and culture. She is fluent in both English and Spanish. Leanette has 4 recordings to date.

In the past she has worked with producer Jerroll Lehman who is connected to artists like John Mellancamp, Sandi Patti, Gaither Studio etc. With her latest album www.leanettelopezmusic.com she worked with Tim Miner www.timminermusic.comwho has worked with artists such as Steve Perry, Winans, Whitney Houston, Kirk Franklin etc.

Seasoned with experience, Bible education and a talent for singing and songwriting, this inspirational force added "author" to her repertoire. With a book already published worldwide she is currently working on more material.

Although modest about her abilities she recognizes the call of God in her life isn't coincidental but purposeful. Her life mission is to encourage people to reach their potential and destiny through her music or speaking and sometimes both.

Its going to be an epic day at Sunset Chapel, start inviting everybody you know! Click below to view Leanette Lopez video clip.

Tailgate Sunday Concert from Russell DeBord on Vimeo.

Sunday Splash!

2010-08-23T09:23:00.004-04:00

I know it's Monday and I usually write this update on Sunday but after the service yesterday I just kind of crashed! I took the longest nap ever after I got home!

We experienced another superb day at Sunset Chapel!

The atmosphere was electric yesterday..I can't wait to see all the God reveals during this week!

Let me just say something right now about our volunteers here at SC. We have the best volunteers anywhere!! Their involvement and investment into SC continues to bring refreshment and rejuvenation into my soul each weekend!! Our usher's were absolutely AMAZING yesterday! We had so many first time guests and they were all going the extra mile to make sure everyone was able to find a seat! It was such a fantastic sight seeing the building so full! We even had people sitting up in the balcony as nearly all the seats on the main floor were taken!

I want to thank "Dorothy" a new guest yesterday who attended with her two daughters Kathy and Alanna! After she took her sun glasses off she stated "How cute I was"!! She just made my day! I love the senior adults who attend SC! I completely disregarded her daughters remark that mom had just had eye surgery! Her vision was just perfect to me!!! lol

It was also great having so many of our Sunset Christian Academy teachers, support staff, students and families in the service for our "Back To School service"!!

It was hands down my favorite services of the year thus far! Yesterday was such a fun day at Sunset Chapel!!

Our BGMC offering was insane!! Me thinks that my wife Shari and Bethany (Pastor Adam's wife) conspired to steal the victory from the boy's!! Not sure who won the contest yet, the winner's will be announced next week in Kid's Inc.

The "SHARK SONG" was a HUGE HIT yesterday!! Thanks to all the Kid's Inc. leaders, children and our "volunteered" SCA teachers (Maylen Velazquez, Lourdes Echazabal, Florelia Lengua, and our Pre School Director Pilar Martin) for introducing it to the entire church!!!

The message "God's Plans" seemed to be received well by everyone.

It was fun taking everyone back to school as I gave my "oral report". Let me give a shout out to Mrs. Terry Pimienta one of our Sunset Christian Academy teacher's for helping me with the opening skit! Man she busted my chops for chewing gum in class!

I laid out a BIBLE CHALLENGE to everyone. I encouraged them to take their Bible with them everyday to work, school, etc. for the next 30 days! Steve Pulis gave this challenge out to thousands of students at this years National Fine Arts Festival! It's a great idea!! God has given His textbook for us to learn more about Him and to apply His Word everyday in our lives! I would love to hear where you've taken and read your Bibles! Keep me posted! Add me as your facebook friend and share with me how you've taken God's Word with you!!

I made a BIG ANNOUNCEMENT yesterday at the end of the service! ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL!!! SC will be hosting our FIRST EVER "TAILGATE SUNDAY" September 19th! We will be moving our service time up to 10:00 am on that date. Some of that days activities include a concert with Leannette Lopez! She is a very talented vocalist that everyone is sure to enjoy!! Also we'll host a "THRILL OF THE GRILL" contest!! More details about that will be forthcoming! After service activities will include a co-ed flag football game and later the opportunity to come into the building and watch our hometown Dolphins whip up on the Vikings! This will be a great opportunity to invite friends to come check out Sunset Chapel and introduce them to our great church!!

Revival Services August 15-18

2010-08-10T12:29:00.006-04:00

I am eagerly anticipating all that God has in store for us during these upcoming four incredible days with Evangelist's Rudi and Sharon Swanepoel! Sunset Chapel will come alive with God's presence! I am believing for an awakening and expecting great things to occur! Get ready friends it's about to break loose in here!!

Nothing tops the satisfaction of seeing God bless His people in a tangible ways, changing lives, shaping destinies and rescuing souls from the clutches of a defeated foe!

I am so pumped up that we get to partner this weekend with Rudi and Sharon. They are two authentic individuals whom God uses to push people towards new heights in their relationship with Him. Both demonstrate an unwavering dedication to the Lord. And they will impact your lives with their anointed and insightful messages! The revelations the Lord gives them from His Word will resonate in your heart! Each message ends with an opportunity for people to be prayed for. These WILL BECOME powerful moments in your life!

Rudi and Sharon are passionate about..

God's Word!
Lifting the name of Jesus higher and making His name famous!
Reaching people who are living far from God!
Seeing people grow in their journey with God!
Reaching the next generation!
Authentic praise and worship!

I know people who don't know Christ and so do you. Let's pray and ask God for help, then boldly invite everyone we know to join us so that HIS HOUSE WILL BE FULL!! Service times are as follows Sunday 10:30 am and 7:00 pm, Monday - Wednesday 7 pm nightly! Kid's Church and Nursery will be available on Sunday morning. NURSERY ONLY DURING THE EVENING SERVICES.

"WaterMark" Experience August 2010

2010-08-08T21:23:00.008-04:00

Sunday Splash!

2010-08-08T20:03:00.003-04:00

*Today was one of those days you never want to EVER forget!

*So much was happening behind the scenes to make this a great day of celebration!

*Let me give a HUGE shout out to the people who came early to set everything up for our "Watermark" baptism experience! You guys rock!!

*Our worship seems to have switched into high gear during the last couple of weeks! I was watching our newest band member Timothy Cromer today on the drums. Folks this dude has some mad skills!!

*Douglas Flores really brought us into the presence of God today. Most people didn't know this but he lead us in praise and worship with a heavy heart. He and his family lost a very dear Aunt and he will be with his extended family as they gather to honor this precious relative. Please keep his family in prayer this week.

*Unbelievable attendance today!! Today's total may have been our best of 2010!! I will check the final count tomorrow!

*Our 10:30 service is really starting to fill out a bit! That's an exciting step forward for us!

*Numerous guests were with us today from our summer park outreaches!

*Started the service today doing something I've never done at SC before! Jaime Diaz worked with me to create our own SC Waterboy personality! Great skit and great way to introduce today's topic! Love the creativity that Jamie brought to the message!

*One guest asked a person "Does he always speak like that"? They liked what they heard today and indicated that they would return! Cool Beans!!

*I scheduled another appointment with a different guest who wants to meet and learn more about the church! I love the connections that God is bringing to Sunset Chapel!!

*There are some awesome things ahead for Sunset Chapel on the horizon! Stay tuned!!

*I preached the second message in our current series "Extreme Thirst".

*God designed all of us with the ability to thirst.

*Today's message "Hydrate or Die" highlights Christ's offer to extend living water to everyone who will accept.

*Dehydrated hearts display symptoms such as snarling tempers, overwhelming insecurities, crushing guilt, irritability, and hopelessness to name a few. These are clear signals that something is seriously wrong in a persons life.

*What H2o can do for your physical body, Christ can do for your spiritual heart!

*Christ says in John 7:37-38 "If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. He who believes in me, as the scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water."

*The question so many living here in Miami want answered is this..Will the taste of this living water take away the taste of the living hell they are presently in?

*The answer to that is a resounding YES!!

*Three individuals accepted that offer and made Christ Lord of their lives! That was so cool!

*After the service we all went outdoors and watched as 14 people participated in our "Watermark" baptism experience!

*Just as we were getting started heaven opened up and showered us with blessings!! Literally!! I mentioned to all the participants that they we're being kissed from heaven itself!!

*We will post some pics for you to enjoy after this post!

*Can't wait for next weekend!! Evangelists Rudi and Sharon Swanepoel from South Africa will be with us! Get ready to be blessed beyond imagination!! These are some of my favorite people to hang around with. They are the kind of people who sharpen and uplift everyone who comes into contact with them!

*I've asked everyone to keep me in prayer as I travel to Haiti this week to check out the recovery efforts that are still taking place. I will be scouting out some opportunities for SC to continue partnering with our missionaries to help this desperate country.

*In my absence Lee and Nilda Givens are going to lead our Wednesday Prayer Service. This continues to be our most important service of the week! They will be leading us in prayer for our nation, upcoming elections and next weekend's revival services! I will be looking to hear great reports from this service!!

*Have a blessed week!

Your Invited! Don't Miss Out!

2010-08-07T00:41:00.005-04:00

This Sunday (August 8th @ 10:30 am) will be absolutely amazing! We’re inviting all our summer park event participants to visit us at Sunset Chapel for a great weekend! The summer park events were a huge success, and it was an awesome experience getting the opportunity to introduce SC to so many wonderful families in the South Miami area.

Our Kid’s Inc. ministry is all set up to host kid’s of all ages (preschool - 5th grade) for a day of thrilling excitement, prize giveaways, games and lot’s of laughter! The ultimate prize is for one child’s name to be drawn and awarded a free Nintendo Wii. We at Sunset Chapel have a deep passion to UP the level in which we’re impacting kid’s through our church.

We believe that each of the past five free events are setting in motion some things we have been dreaming about in regards to the future of Kid’s Inc. All the children will be having their own service located on our campus in the 300 building. And all adults are invited to come over to the main building and join the morning worship experience as Pastor Russ DeBord will be speaking.

At the end of the services, approximately noon, everyone will join together outside for an unforgettable Watermark baptism experience! Each participant will receive a free Watermark t-shirt!! Cotton candy, popcorn, snow cones, plus our inflatables will be available for the kids to enjoy!

Summer "Watermark" Experience!

2010-08-06T21:36:00.007-04:00

Baptism is a very important event in the life of any new Christian. And I know that we go to great lengths to make sure the celebration is done just right!

At the beginning of the service, one of our pastors will briefly explain the meaning of baptism. each "Watermark" participant will receive a free t-shirt and a baptism certificate!

Water Baptism is one of the most meaningful events in a person's spiritual journey.The Bible clearly teaches that baptism is the next step after giving your life to Jesus. Baptism is your chance to stand up and tell the world about your personal commitment to follow Christ.

What is the meaning of Baptism?

It illustrates Christ's burial and resurrection.
Christ died for our sins...He was buried...and He rose again! (I Corinthians 15:3-4)
For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in Baptism you were also raised with Christ! (Colossians 2:12)
It illustrates your new life as a Christian.
When someone becomes a Christian, he or she becomes a brand new person on the inside. The old life has passed away and a new life has begun!

Baptism doesn't make you a Christian.

Only your faith in Christ does that.
Baptism is like a wedding ring - it's the outward sign of the commitment you have made in your heart.

Who should be Baptized?

All believers as soon as they have accepted Christ
A believer is someone who has realized that their sin separated them from God. They have given up all efforts to reach God through good works or religious activity. They have concluded that Jesus Christ's death on the cross for their sins is the only thing that can bridge the gap between them and God.
A believer is someone who had decided to trust Christ alone for their salvation. If you have come to that point in your spiritual journey, then you are ready to be baptized!
Those who believed...were baptized...that day! (Acts 2:41)
There is no reason to delay!
As soon as you have decided to receive Christ into your life, you can and should be baptized.

Our next "Watermark" Baptism Experience will take place this coming Sunday, August 8th.

Can I be baptized with my spouse, child, or their family members?

Yes! If more than one member of your family is being baptized, we will have you come into the pool together to be baptized.

What should I wear?

Plan to wear your bathing suit or shorts with a t-shirt into the pool(we will provide you with a free "Watermark" t-shirt you can keep) once everyone has been baptized you will have access to the restrooms in the main building to change into your dry clothes. Oh yeah, don't forget to bring a dry towel!

Who will baptize me?

In addition to being baptized by one of our Pastors and Leaders, we also welcome you to invite someone who has played a significant role in your decision to accept Christ and be baptized (friend, family member, parent, teacher, etc.) into the water to help baptize you!

Can I invite people to attend the baptism if they don't belong to Sunset Chapel?

Absolutely! We encourage you to invite your friends, family, co-workers, classmates, etc...to be a part of this special day! And don't forget to bring a camera so you can have someone take a photo during your baptism.

Epic Worship

2010-08-04T10:55:00.008-04:00

It's early and already the sun is warm. There is something sublime about fresh morning air, a new sunrise and the way the shafts of light are beginning to hit the branches on the palm trees lined just beyond our apartment balcony. Absorbing all this and taking it in makes me think about propelling my worship with God towards a new level. As I savor my first sips of morning coffee I am thinking about the recent invitation I accepted to speak at Florida City First Assembly's "Midnight Cry" event scheduled for August 27. I was asked specifically to speak about "Praise and Worship".

The opportunity we have as Christians to meet together and connect with God is nothing less than extraordinary. Yet sadly, many take both individual and corporate worship for granted. I'm really starting to zero my thoughts in on this subject. Far to often the worship service itself is crafted around agendas and human talents that have absolutely nothing to do with the activity of connecting with and honoring God. It has simply become an anemic packaged production masquerading as the "real thing".

I've been asking myself a lot of questions. When the unchurched arrive at Sunset Chapel (those who are living far from God) are they able to detect the presence of God among us? Can they see that life-change is occurring? And are they able to experience something in our mid-week and weekend gatherings that they've never seen before?

I'm afraid that far to often we are producing a new generation of church attenders who are lacking any experience or memory of an encounter with God. The result is that an emptiness exists within the "worship experience" itself. It's because of that emptiness people drift into the service at various times, rather than being prompt, filled with anticipation and expectation that God is going to show up in a HUGE way in that gathering and in the circumstances and lives of individuals. People make time for what's really important. And they just aren't capturing the importance of the worship experience to their own spiritual development.

Worship is all about seeking the tangible presence of God. It's all about discovering God's character and His expectations. It's about Him interacting with us!!

A lot of us have visited other churches. And to often in numerous ones the worship experience did little to help people meet God. If your a pastor that follows my blog posts please get this...

I believe that people are longing for a genuine relationship, one that only our God can and does offer!

When personal interaction with God is absent, you will see people drift and uncommit to attending church. People expect to find God in our gatherings. If they can't find Him here...then where can they find Him?

George Barna a noted church research expert once surveyed church attenders about how often did the church worship experience bring them into God's presence?

*27% = Always

*12% = Usually

*34% = Never

*27% = Sometimes, Rarely, or Didn't Know

Snap! This stinks! Is it possible that we are out of touch with what God desires to take place in our worship experiences for our people? It should be a simple truth. And I'm all about keeping things simple! People can come to meet with God in our gatherings. Our worship is intended to produce moments when God's presence illuminates the darkness in which we are all walking in every single day! Maybe this is an area we all need to refocus some attention to? Just a random thought.

Sunday Splash!

2010-08-01T23:45:00.002-04:00

*Thanks Sunset Chapel for another unforgettable day!

*We had another outstanding summer crowd here at SC!!

*We reordered our service today to allow more time for praise and worship so that we could respond to the Spirit's leading! Our worship team kicked things off with lot's of great energy and a couple of new songs! The entire worship team did a fantastic job in leading us into God's presence! There was just a great response today from everyone! It was awesome watching even a few come forward during worship just to connect closer with God! I love shaking things up at times!

*During today's missions moment we introduced missionaries to Togo Africa Bernie and Brenda Smith! These are two of our fellowships best!! Don't forget to keep them in your prayers! Thanks for also investing in their efforts to raise up and train leaders in their region of ministry! If you were unable to give in the offering today you can make an online donation and they will still receive it prior to their departure back to Africa! I am always blown away by the generosity of our people here at Sunset Chapel!

*I was really excited about today's message! I really wished more people in Miami could have heard it!! The big moment was when several raised their hands and crossed the line of faith! That never ever gets old!!

*I don't know about you but I've been "thirsty" all day long!!

*I am wishing it was next Sunday already!! I really love what God is doing and I'm enjoying the momentum we are experiencing at Sunset Chapel right now! Did I mention to you that SC is my favorite place to preach!!

*Next Sunday is going to be over the top exciting! It's going to be an incredible experience as we baptize numerous people during our next "Watermark Experience"!! If you haven't been baptized yet it's time to go all in!! Each participant will receive a free "Watermark" t-shirt!!

*I heard a rumor that a fire truck of sorts will be showing up next Sunday!!

*If you know of someone who is struggling through a desert experience, be sure to invite them to attend SC with you next Sunday!

*And bring your cell phone camera with you next week. I promise that something is going to happen that you've never seen in a church service before!

*Have a blessed week!!

Winston Park This Saturday!

2010-07-30T13:03:00.004-04:00

Join us Saturday at Winston Park 8100 SW 132nd Ave. 11:00AM to 2:00PM This is the final "Park Party" of the summer and it takes place in Wayne and Frances Watkins neighborhood! We have enjoyed meeting new kids and parents each week as we've canvassed homes and participated in our fun-filled outreach events. Volunteers, please arrive at the church and meet in the kids chapel at 9:00AM. Come on out and help us reach our neighborhoods for Christ!

NewComers Coffee Tomorrow @ 7:00 PM

2010-07-26T14:52:00.011-04:00

Tuesday night, July 27, from 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm the Staff of Sunset Chapel will be at the Starbucks on 7708 N. Kendall Drive. We invite you to drop by and say hello and have Starbucks on us. If you would like to stay and meet the Staff, we are available to answer any questions you may have about SC, or if you just want to stop in to get your free drink, we would love for you to stop by. This is our way of letting you know how much we appreciate you being our guest at Sunset Chapel.

If there is anything that we can do to help you please contact our office at 305-271-4094. I hope to see you Tuesday night!

Sunday Splash!

2010-07-25T17:27:00.011-04:00

God continues to rock more lives here in Miami! It's been an incredible weekend. Our fourth neighborhood summer outreach was a huge success. We were able to make numerous connections with lots of great people! Expectancy is on the rise as we finish out the final weeks of summer!

We saw several new guests again today in our service. Best of all, one of them crossed the line of faith at the conclusion of my message. We are in the midst of seeing that occur in every weekend service and I never tire of seeing it happen! I believe heaven erupts in celebration each time that happens!

Our worship team really rocked the house today! Welcome Tim and Bryan - your added musical talents were an answer to prayer-literally! Everyone did a great job and allowed us to enter into a new realm in praise and worship!!

This next weekend July 31st we will host our final summer outreach at Winston Park (8100 SW 132nd Ave). Let me give a huge shout out to all our dedicated and hard working volunteers. We've knocked on over 1000 homes thus far in four neighborhoods, distributed some excellent materials about SC and invited families to join us for an afternoon of excitement and fun in their neighborhood park. Pastor Kevin has presented a very engaging message that has had every ones attention. And the results of these outreaches we believe will continue on for many weeks to come! Our volunteers have stepped up in huge ways as we've canvassed these neighborhoods and conducted each outreach. I'm extremely proud of each one of you for your contributions!

We wrap up our summer outreaches with huge plans for Sunday, August 8th. Pastor Kevin, our children's pastor, will be conducting a great children's service with lots of games, giveaways, and another outstanding message that kids can relate to. At the end of our service time we will gather outside for a summer "WaterMark" experience as we anticipate numerous participants to follow Christ's example to become baptized in water. We'll be distributing free "WaterMark" t-shirts to each participant. After all that, the kids can play on the inflatables and we will be serving up snow cones, popcorn and cotton candy to all! Join us as we celebrate God's goodness to Sunset Chapel!!

This morning we took up an offering to assist us in defraying the expenses of these outreaches. Let me thank you for supporting our efforts into our city. Our goal is always to introduce our community to Christ and to what He is doing here at SC. If you missed the service and were unable to make a contribution, you can do so with an online donation! Thank you for helping Sunset Chapel grow and fulfill God's Great Commission!!

Get your friends to Sunset Chapel next weekend! Who do you need to invite and bring with you? I cant wait to meet your guests and I cant wait to introduce them to Jesus! We'll start together a new series called, "Thirst". Many people are parched in their heart and souls and I'm excited to offer "living water" to each person in attendance!!

This morning I made a Great Big Announcement . . . that on August 15th - 18th we will host revival services with evangelists Rudi and Sharon Swanepoel, from South Africa. They will literally bless your socks off! You don't want to miss a single one of these powerful services! Mark it on your calendars right now. DO IT RIGHT NOW! Spread the Word lets pack out our church with people ready for God to show up and move in their lives!! Hope you all have a great week! And this Tuesday night @ 7:00 PM I am looking forward to hanging out with all our "new-comers" at STARBUCKS located at 7708 N. Kendall Drive!

Introducing Our New Preschool Director! Pilar Altare-Martin

2010-07-22T09:34:00.006-04:00

I am excited to introduce to you our newest team member here at Sunset Chapel/Sunset Christian Academy!

Pilar Altare-Martin has been in business management since 1991, through the years she gained experience in managing personnel, negotiating vendor contracts, supervising engineering staff as well as providing oversight to support staff, planning budgets, creating financial reports, and overseeing client relations. Mrs. Altare-Martin began her involvement in the educational field in early 2004. As a result of her volunteer work and a passion for both of her children, her career goals have changed.

Prior to joining Sunset Christian Academy, Mrs. Altare-Martin worked at the UBC Child Development Center in Coral Gables, Florida. Mrs. Altare-Martin will be joining Sunset Christian Academy in August 2010. Her responsibilities include the administration and oversight of our Preschool. She looks forward to working closely with families and their children to ensure academic success.

“I HAVE A VERY LOVING AND SUPPORTING HUSBAND, ALEXANDER. WE HAVE TWO WONDERFUL CHILDREN, GABRIELLA AND GIULIAN. MY PASSION FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION BEGAN WITH THE START OF MY FAMILY. I FEEL BLESSED FOR HAVING BEEN ALLOWED THE OPPORTUNITY TO JOIN THE SUNSET CHRISTIAN ACADEMY FAMILY AND I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO AN EXCITING SCHOOL YEAR.” Pilar A. Martin

Welcome to the Team Pilar!

Bring Me a Musician!

2010-07-06T15:00:00.005-04:00

I follow a number of pastor's who keep blogs. I glean from them creative ideas and valuable insights. Not long ago Mark Batterson, lead pastor of National Community Church located in Washington, D.C. area posted on his blog the above statement. Here's some of what he wrote:

"I love 2 Kings 3:15 for lots of reasons, first of all, we're praying that God brings us more musicians as we prepare to launch our sixth location. So we're literally praying:"now bring me a musician".

But I also love what it models. Music creates an environment where the prophetic can take place. Here's the context. The king of Israel comes to Elisha asking for revelation and Elisha asks for musicians. Somehow the music stimulated his spirit in a way that unleashed his gift. And it says: "when the musicians played, the hand of the Lord came upon him."

I think we need to create environments that foster revelation. We need to put ourselves in places where God can speak to us. We need to feed our spirits in ways that unleash the gifts of God in us."

While Sunset Chapel isn't growing at the identical pace of National Community Church we too are seeing numerical and spiritual growth take place! I have watched with total amazement the exciting stream of guests and newcomers that have connected to SC in recent weeks! With that growth comes additional challenges and opportunities. We are continuing to seek for ways to improve our weekend worship services. We have identified several key areas that need to develop and expand as we endeavor to minister to the needs of our growing church. One of the most critical areas is in our music ministry. We currently need musicians who play keyboard, wind instruments, drums and guitars. As we continue to follow God's vision for Sunset Chapel we want to position ourselves to be prepared to respond to His guidance! With that in mind I am praying 2 Kings 3:15!!! If you're presently attending Sunset Chapel or your looking for a place to use your talents for God please contact me at the church office (305-271-4094).

Heating up in Miami!

2010-07-01T14:01:00.010-04:00

While many churches decide to slow down during the summer months. Here at Sunset Chapel we are attempting the unexpected! First we are kicking off a new summer series called "Breaking Free"! I am stepping outside the box a little bit to share some thought provoking messages from God's perspective concerning some troubling areas within our lives! The goal is to provide some creative solutions to these struggles that everyone can benefit from. God's Word is our blueprint for living a changed life!

Secondly, we are establishing traction towards growth with a half dozen children's outreaches into Miami neighborhoods. We are trying to reach out to new families and to expose them to our fantastic children's ministry.

I have a great expectancy in my heart that God is going to accomplish some incredible things during the summer of 2010! I believe that people will show up during the summer months because we're being intentional in trying to reach them!

Each weekend during the next two months could be a life changer for someone!! I hope that God will place someone on your heart to invite to Sunset Chapel. Don't just tell them about SC. That's informing them. Text them, facebook them, even call them! Say "Listen, I will be by to pick you up. We'll go to Starbucks, Panera Bread, Chipotle or wherever after the service!" There are countless restaurants within a 5-10 mile radius of our church campus to choose from.

You are the best marketing strategy we have and I pray that you are investing in the lives of others. I also pray that all our Sunset Chapel attendees become more bold and step out in faith in inviting others to join them for a weekend worship experience.

Join Us for Prayer Tonight @ 7PM

2010-06-23T12:03:00.001-04:00

New Series . . . .

2010-06-22T11:47:00.006-04:00

We will be kicking off a new summer series at Sunset Chapel beginning on Sunday July 4th! Join us for an incredible time of learning, connection and worship! Each weekend throughout the month we will weigh in on one of four critical topics ranging from... anger, regret, complacency and a diseased tongue.

As humans, we are wired to make snap decisions, often in as little as three seconds. It's not surprising that we also allow ourselves to download negative responses to these circumstances. Thankfully God provides much needed answers and instruction! After closer examination we will see how the smallest adjustments in our behavior can often produce the greatest results in our lives.

Each weekend we will unpack one of these four troubling areas and look closely at how we can handle them rather than allowing them to control us. Our goal is to provide creative solutions to our struggles and to provide God-centered perspectives that will have a lasting impact on everyone who walks through the doors here at SC.

". . . In Remembrance of Me . . ."

2010-06-22T11:28:00.003-04:00

Pre-School Director Position Open

2010-06-16T16:28:00.001-04:00

About the Position: We are looking for an energetic and take-charge person to lead and direct the operation of a Christian early care and education facility. If you are a person who has a passion for the education and development of children, and enjoys working with parents and staff; while effectively running all aspects of a preschool operation, then we are looking for you!

Position Summary: The director is responsible for all aspects of the management of the preschool, including educational program implementation, human resources, marketing, customer service, budgeting, licensing and community involvement.
Qualifications:

• Must have Florida's Director Credentials
• Must have VPK Director's Endorsement
• At least 1 year of management experience in a licensed child care facility
• Additional skills, abilities and experiences preferred:
• Experience working with toddlers, preschool and school age children
• Knowledge of obtaining or maintaining national center accreditation
• Proven track record of increasing and maintaining enrollment
• Ability to hire, train, develop and retain staff
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written
• Professional in manner and dress
• Skillful in building strong relationships with children and parents
• Ability to handle administrative duties and provide leadership with minimal supervision

If you possess the qualifications and experiences we need, we would love to hear from you! Please send your resume today! Interviews are being scheduled now for qualified applicants.

email all inquiries to my Administrative Assistant,Frances Watkins at: office@sunsetchapel.com

Are You New to Sunset Chapel? Join Me for Coffee!

2010-06-16T16:02:00.001-04:00

Summer Outreach!

2010-06-16T09:34:00.003-04:00

Summer signals the beginning of family outings & vacations, grilling season, excursions to Disney World, and for many churches, a dip~not in the ocean here in South Florida, but in our weekly attendance numbers.

Instead of fighting the reality that a great many of our current attendees will often be missing. We are scheduling six solid chunks of time to reach out to the numerous unchurched families that are in the vicinity of our church during this extended summer season.

These creative summer outreaches will allow us to step away from our regular day to day routines and give us new perspectives and the opportunity to build new relationships as we take God's message outside the confines of our local church straight into the neighborhoods of Miami!

As the summer of 2010 begins, we are looking at this as an opportunity to pull out all the stops and create an interest in Sunset Chapel as well as convey real hope to families.

Because SC is still transitioning towards our new vision we don't have all the resources we need to accomplish our goals completely. We are eager to create six unforgettable experiences for kids that will heighten their interest in our fantastic kids ministry here at SC!!

So I've am taking advantage of using all my social networking opportunities to inform as many of my friends as possible about our efforts to reach the unchurched and to extend to them an opportunity to invest in the great ministry here at Sunset Chapel and to provide a boost of encouragement to our outreach volunteers as we endeavor to make a dent into the 92% of people living in Miami who don't attend church anywhere!

Would you prayerfully consider making a one-time gift to support this Kingdom building effort to reach children and adults who are far from God? Your partnership would be greatly appreciated. I can't thank you enough for considering praying and financially assisting us. Please go to the homepage of sunsetchapel.com and click on the "Online Giving" icon. Just follow the easy steps to make a contribution in the "other" box, then print "Summer Outreach" in the second box beside your indicated donation amount. All donations are tax deductible and will be used exclusively for our summer outreach efforts. If you have any additional questions please contact my Administrative Assistant Frances Watkins @ 305-271-4094 Ext. 103. Please know that there is no pressure. We believe this will be a great blessing to families with children in Miami, but also an incredible investment for the Kingdom of God.

We look forward to the summer months and witnessing God at work in people's lives, leading them through breakthroughs and blessings! We will continue throughout the sizzling summer months to keep everyone updated on what God is accomplishing in our city!

Sunday Splash!

2010-06-13T19:09:00.012-04:00

*We had another amazing day at Sunset Chapel today! I just love it when we step out and try new things and we see God's imprint all over it!!
*The worship was excellent! The worship team was leading with such joy and enthusiasm today! You could just feel the excitement in the air!!
*Our guest speaker, Dr. Gary Kellner shared with us a challenging and terrific message as we hosted a first time event at SC, "Barefoot Sunday"!!
*We rejoiced together as we saw our people bring over 100 pairs of shoes and place them on the platform for distribution by "Samaritan's Feet".
*My heart was bursting with pride as most of you entered into the sanctuary today barefoot... for bare feet!!
*What a special moment it was at the conclusion of the service to have our ministry team each seat a child and kneel before them and wash their feet!
*Christ gives us the example of coming to serve with love and compassion.
*Our partnership with "Samaritan's Feet" was our opportunity to be like Him!
*We were able to visually picture how children around the world are going to receive their new pair of shoes from this Christian organization.
*It was a profound moment for me and I hope for you as well.
*Thank you for your generous donation of shoes and finances during our service today. All of it will be used to purchase additional pairs of shoes and assist us in shipping them to "Samaritan's Feet".
* Dr. Kellner reminded us also that it is our moment here at SC to make a difference for Christ right here in our city!
*What a huge sign of encouragement it was for me to see at the end of the service the numerous names listed that signed up to participate with us as we prepare to enter 6 different neighborhoods this summer and take God's message into the streets.
* I am very excited about the summer of 2010 and I'm looking forward to sharing with you future developments and updates concerning these outreaches!
*Without a doubt we are overflowing with potential here in Miami!! It's still possible to sign up and get involved!! Just contact us at the church office and we will get you connected!!
* I daily thank the Lord for Sunset Chapel! And for the opportunity to pastor such a great church (which is full of my new best friends for life!). I pray that God continues to draw us closer to Him and each other. It is such a privilege to serve a church that wants to make a dent for God in reaching the unchurched! I believe that He has so much more for us! Every week He sends new people our way! That continues to just blow my mind away! We worship and serve an awesome God!!
*Have a blessed week and watch for future updates to come as we share with you all the summer happenings here at Sunset Chapel!!

Sunday June 13th - Go Barefoot 4 Bare Feet"

2010-06-10T21:53:00.005-04:00

Samaritan's Feet is a non-profit organization dedicated to changing lives through Shoes of Hope distributions around the world. 300 Million people wake up each morning without a pair of shoes to protect their feet from injury and disease.

The goal of Samaritan's Feet is to provide shoes to 10 million people in the next 10 years by teaching them a biblical story of faith, hope and love, demonstrating those truths in touching them by washing their feet, and treating them to a new pair of shoes and socks!

SUNSET CHAPEL is partnering with this outstanding organization by hosting a "BAREFOOT SUNDAY" this weekend JUNE 13th! We are asking all of our attenders to "Go Barefoot 4 Bare Feet" and to bring with them pairs of shoes to donate. Your gift of shoes will be a simple yet profound way to demonstrate compassion!

SC, I am so proud of you and your heart to support missions worldwide. We will also receive an offering on Sunday to support this worthwhile missions ministry, you can donate online by going to sunsetchapel.com and click on the "Online Giving" icon. (Then indicate the amount beside "Other". Be sure to also print "Samaritan's Feet" in the box beside your amount and all funds donated will be tax deductible.) If this is your first "online" contribution just follow the easy instructions that are provided. If you have further questions please contact our Frances Watkins, Financial Administrator at 305.271.4094 ext 103.

Men's Work Day!! Getting Dirty for God and His Kids!

2010-06-09T22:15:00.005-04:00

We are looking for several able-bodied men to join us Saturday, June 19th @ 8:00 AM to spread mulch in the playground areas used by both SC/SCA children. Please help us complete this important summer project! You'll enjoy fellowshipping and working with others for a worth-while cause. Lunch will be provided for all of our volunteers!! Contact the church office @ 305-271-4094 or our school office @ 305-595-7558 to sign up!
See Ya There 8 AM Sharp!

First Year Anniversary!

2010-06-05T08:05:00.003-04:00

I am really looking forward to tomorrows service at Sunset Chapel! I am looking forward to sharing with you some new vision ideas that God has given me for our church!

I can hardly believe that a whole year has flown by so quickly! This first year is just the beginning! Let's continue to maximize our efforts and strive to reach our potential every single week during this second year of ministry together! I am so glad that Sunset Chapel believes in the vision God has given to us to reach our city! Thank you all for eagerly supporting His vision for reaching those living far from Him!

It is an incredible privilege and honor to serve as the Lead Pastor here at Sunset Chapel! I feel like I am in the center of God's will, and I wouldn't want to trade places with anyone, anywhere, for any reason! We have the BEST people coming to SC every week! I just love the people we have in our church! We've all heard stories of people who have given up on the church for various reasons...then someone invited them or they heard about our church and they came to check us out...and now they keep coming week after week!

Each week we have the opportunity to see people accept Christ into their lives and become completely changed. I never tire of seeing that!! Following Christ is the best decision anyone could ever make and I am determined to give a clear presentation of Him in all our services and give people the opportunity to cross the line of faith!

I see people each Sunday smiling at each other, laughing together, crying together, even praying together! I just love our church!!!

I am so blessed to be surrounded by such caring, gifted leaders on our church board! i am so thankful for Tammy, Frances. Luis, Terry, and Sterling! This group consistently provide me with encouragement, inspiration and wisdom! They help me in so many ways to carry out the vision that God has given me for Sunset Chapel!

Our ministry team is fantastic! I wish you all had the opportunity to spend the time behind the scenes to really see them in action when they are not serving on Sundays and Wednesdays. Adam, Douglas, Kevin are three of the best you will find for using their gifts for God's Kingdom purposes! I so appreciate their contributions for helping SC become a great place to encounter God's presence!

I am tremendously blessed to be married to my wife Shari! She is incredibly talented, compassionate, steady and...beautiful!! (I absolutely LOVE being her husband!!). She is my best friend, we can go for walks and talk about anything. If my world were to fall apart today, next week, month or year..she would be there for me. She is also a terrific mom to our sons! She is the best ministry companion God could have ever given to me!!