The River Church Community

Dear River friends,
 
A funny thing happened to me this afternoon.  A recent conflict with a friend set me to pondering why I react the way I do in tense situations.  In a prayerful moment, a childhood memory came to mind.  It wasn’t a deeply-submerged memory; in fact, I’ve thought of this memory on numerous occasions over the years.  So, it caught me very much by surprise when a flood of emotion welled up within me as if I was transported back thirty-five years into my past.  My knee-jerk reaction was to shut down my rising tide of feelings.  But, by grace, I was able to stay present.  And in a quiet moment, I sensed the whispering voice of the Spirit . . . “I tend my flock like a shepherd: I gather my lambs in my arms and carry them close to my heart.” (from Isaiah 40:11)
 
Life in Silicon Valley doesn’t afford us much time to tend to our hearts.  We work hard.  We play hard.  And our hurried pace puts our souls in oxygen debt.  My experience this afternoon reminds me that the Father longs to revive us.  That if we will slow down to tune in and heed the voice of the Spirit, He will be present, ever faithful to speak, to heal, and to lead. 
 
What are you doing to give the Holy Spirit access to your heart?  I was encouraged to hear that more than 30 people have signed up for our first-ever Parents’ Retreat this Saturday.  I don’t think I need to say this, but parents need time with God!  (I can see the desperation on your faces!)  If you can, I urge you to come.  Our Lenten Retreat at the end of the month will also be a rich time to dwell in God’s presence.  There’s information on the front page of the website.  I hope you’ll consider joining us.
 
As always, it is a privilege to serve you.  And I pray God’s richest blessing upon you as you make your way forward on the journey.
 
Peace,
 
Brad Wong,
Lead Pastor

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Hello River,

Krista-Dawn has returned from maternity leave!  She will be leading worship this coming Sunday.

Jill is preparing for the parent contemplative retreat.  More details in the announcements below.

Mark led several staff in a mini-planning retreat this week.  We will be taking our weekly staff dialogue times to develop these plans.

Michelle and Mark led a small group leaders' lunch last Sunday.  Michelle talked about how we are re-upping our hopes and expectations for small group ministry at The River and we spent good time providing feedback about the peacemaking small group curriculum.

Check out the River website for a cool video about a satisfied D.Light customer.

-Dave

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Announcements from Sunday 2/1/09

Parent Retreat

• On Saturday, February 7th at the Ministry Center
• No need to sign-up, you can just come to the center anytime between 9:30 am and 12:30 pm
• Childcare spots are FULL
• Contact Jill at if you desire spiritual direction
  

Lenten Retreat

• Friday, Feb. 27 to Saturday, Feb 28th at the Presentation Center in Los Gatos
• Sign up at the connecting table or on our website.