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6 Stages of the Journey of Faith and Why You Need to Know Yours
I love following trails. The less traversed the better. The woods of North Idaho, the lake trails of Minnesota, the four-wheeler paths of Alaska, and the jungle routes of Northern Thailand are my happy places. If you tell me there’s a path to follow my feet are almost compulsively drawn there.
This hasn’t always been the same source of joy for those who love me as it has been for me. Take that one time in Israel, for example. I was seventeen (and perfectly capable of taking care of myself, thank-you-very-much) when our tour bus stopped in a quiet parking lot. We were at The Gates of Hell. I’m not kidding. This was the physical location where Jesus stood with His disciples when Peter proclaimed that He was the Son of God and Jesus replied, “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” ( Matthew 16:18 )
It was a wild declaration in a wild place: a place where a pagan temple once stood and children were sacrificed at the gates of hell. Jesus stomped all over that playground of idolatry with the feet of the Living God. The gates of hell will not prevail…
Just sit with that thought for a moment.
After being introduced to the significance of the place, I heard our tour guide say, “We’ll gather back on the bus in thirty minutes. There’s a trail over there that leads to a stream and the bathrooms are by the shop in the parking lot.” Now, this is apparently not what everyone else, including my parents, heard. I heard “go explore” while they heard “head for the bus.”
However, there was that trail, and without a second thought, I was off.
A blonde teenager.
At the GATES OF HELL.
Well, we all have those moments when we’re not so smart, right?
I remember it so clearly: the meandering dirt path, the sunlight through the trees, the dancing brooke, the sweet conversation I had with Jesus. I was in my happy place.
I didn’t stay long, trying to be mindful of the time, and as I emerged from the woods onto the open trail, a man approached me. He was walking briskly and looked amused when he saw me. He said something into his radio, turned around, and motioned for me to follow him quickly.
We jogged back up the path and when the bus came into view he simply pointed.
Everyone was on it. Waiting for me. Praying I hadn’t been kidnapped for ransom. My parents were thrilled that I was fine, and I was mortified.
Who knew a trail could cause so much trouble? I try to be a bit wiser now, but I still maintain that a trail is an invitation that should not be passed up. It’s leading somewhere. Maybe to a waterfall, a mountain top, a camping spot, or a placid lake, but if there’s a trail there it’s usually because people have trod that path before in search of the something that lies beyond the asphalt and concrete.
GROWTH AS A CHRISTIAN
So it is with the Christian life. We are all on a journey to the heart of God. We know it all starts with the exchange of Christ’s life for our own and it ends in the glorious eternity of dwelling with God in heaven, but what of the in-between? This messy, mucky, mixed-up middle ground? Is there sense or order to our development as Christ-followers?
The Bible speaks often of growth and development. As believers we move from milk to meat ( Hebrews 5:13-14 ), maturing from receivers of simple truths to teachers of the Word, and Paul regularly prays for the church to grow in wisdom and understanding so they (we) can bear fruit ( Colossians 1:3-11 ). Even the meta-story across Scripture of God’s plan and process through Creation, Fall, and Redemption paints the idea of movement through stages.
Our great Creator loves order. I think He even loves a good story with a beginning, middle, and end, and all the plot twists in between.
And it just makes so much sense to me as I see countless parallels between our lives lived in the body and our lives lived in the spirit. Parenting would be chaotic at best if we couldn’t foresee the predictable stages our children would progress through: infants to toddlers to children to adolescents to young adults. Can you imagine working on potty training if you had no hope that it was only for a season?
The Christian life would be uncertain at best if we had no hope of future glory and the sanctification process along the way. We need markers of development to assure us that we are making progress and that we are indeed on the same path of faith our spiritual role-models walked. Especially when we hit that really gnarly bump in the middle (more on that in a bit).
THE 6 STAGES OF THE JOURNEY OF FAITH
While what I’m about to present to you isn’t specific biblical truth, I do believe it is spiritual wisdom. Saints throughout the ages have looked for ways to understand the journey of faith, including John of the Cross and Bernard of Clairvaux. More recently The Critical Journey: Stages in the Life of Faith by Janet Hagberg and Robert Guelich has provided helpful commentary on the predictable path we find ourselves on as we walk toward Christ-likeness.
Here is Janet’s comprehensive description and recent podcast if you want to dig deeper.
For our purposes, I’ve simplified their model a bit. And I really felt that it needed a map, of sorts. So here it is, in the best stick-figure glory I could muster:
As with any model, it’s not perfect, and we don’t always fit neatly into the categories, but much like how personality profiles can help us understand ourselves and operate with greater understanding toward others, this spiritual-life profile can help us navigate the work of God in our lives and move forward with greater trust and hope.
STAGE ONE: THE SEARCH FOR GOD
We recognize our need for a savior and accept His invitation to new life. This is the point of belief, of being born-again.
STAGE TWO: THE LIFE OF DISCIPLESHIP
We are hungry to learn everything we can about God and what His truth means for our lives. We want to belong and will search for a community of faith where we are fed from the Word.
STAGE THREE: THE PRODUCTIVE LIFE
We want to give back to the God who gave everything for us. We start looking for ways to share our faith and do good deeds. We ask if we have a personal calling from the Lord and take a step of faith to pursue it (i.e. taking a role in the church, starting a home Bible study, helping a neighbor in need, focusing your craft more on spiritual matters, becoming a pastor or missionary, viewing parenting as discipleship).
STAGE FOUR: THE WALL AND THE WILDERNESS
Often triggered by some form of suffering, we are suddenly made aware that what we are doing for God isn’t working anymore. We might feel burnt out from all our activity in the previous stage or we might be frustrated that we’re not seeing transformation in our own lives or the lives of those we are trying to reach. We often revert to more learning to become better equipped or redouble our efforts of service to hopefully see results. But eventually, we still end up at the wall with the choice to keep on looping backwards in the journey or to surrender to a major work of the Spirit in our lives.
STAGE FIVE: THE JOURNEY INWARD
We accept that deep change is necessary and we struggle through a season of deconstruction as God works with us to expose idols and egos and His heart in pursuit of our own. We begin to reconstruct our relationship with God based on intimacy, and a new sense of self-realization leads to more profound God-realization.
STAGE SIX: THE JOURNEY UPWARD AND OUTWARD
We learn to live out the greatest commandment: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind; and from that life of God-love the second commandment flows: Love your neighbor as yourself. ( Matthew 22:37-39 ) We may still revisit times of testing and refining in the wilderness, but hope is secure and our hearts are fully surrendered.
WHERE ARE YOU ON THE JOURNEY?
Can you see your spiritual life at one of the points on this map? The first time it was introduced to me at a Spiritual Director’s training, I felt incredibly relieved, perhaps like a puberty-stricken girl who was finally told that armpit hair was normal. I talked about it for days to anyone that would listen. Did you know that we have stages of spiritual development just like physical development? Have you ever heard that hitting the wall is a normal and even necessary part of Christian growth? My own story suddenly makes so much sense now! Oh yeah, I totally geek out over stuff like that.
But even if you don’t get as excited about it as I was, I hope that you find it encouraging to know that we are all on this journey together . It’s a beautiful path, and not as dark or mysterious as you once thought. No, it’s not going to be easy, but the best things rarely are.
So keep pressing on, dear one. Further up. Further in.
Try writing down the bullet points of your own faith journey. Where do they fall on this faith map? What is God saying to you about the stage you are in right now?
My own journey through the wilderness and how I made it over the wall is recorded in my book, Colliding with the Call: When Following God Takes You to the Wilderness .
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Is Deconstruction a Normal Part of the Journey of Faith?
The “map” of the journey of faith is simply profound and I so appreciate the sharing of your own experience to illustrate the concepts. As usual, your creativity and masterful articulation impress the reader, yet you are careful to direct our attention to Jesus as the Center and Focus of our lives and journeys.
Thank you, Debi. I’m humbled by such gracious words. As long as I keep pointing people to Jesus I’m doing okay!
This comment probably won’t add anything of spiritual virtue to your well written article, but it might help your readers to understand the depth of worry for those of us that were on the bus worried sick about that beautiful, young blond girl that had gone missing when we were visiting “The Gates of Hell”. Our visit to Israel was in the fall of 2000 and the Oslo Accord had just been broken. The President of the U.S. put out a travel advisory not to travel to Israel. My parents (Corella’s grandparents) pleaded with us to cancel our plans to go to Israel. Obviously we did not heed their advise and went anyway. So when Corella, who had always been very punctual and methodical about following instructions did not return to the bus on time, it was not much of a leap to jump to the worst conclusion. Praise God that the “lost” was found and “The Gates of Hell” did not prevail!!!
I love you, Mom. Thanks for taking me to Israel and for praying over me then as you still do now!
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10 Stages In A Faith Journey: Plus Examples
Inside: Faith Journey Plus Examples
Have you ever thought about how our faith is like a journey?
It’s a road with ups and downs, questions, and amazing moments where everything just clicks.
Whether you’re just starting out or have been on this road for a while, there’s always something new to see and learn.
In this article, we’ll dive into the different parts of this faith adventure using the Bible and some easy-to-follow tips.
So, come on in, and let’s chat about this faith journey we’re all on!
10 Stages In A Faith Journey
Here’s a detailed breakdown of 10 stages in a faith journey, complete with Scripture and practical advice for each stage:
- Scripture : “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” – Matthew 7:7
- Advice : Stay open-minded. Attend faith-based events, join discussion groups, and ask questions to understand more deeply.
- Scripture : “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” – Luke 19:10
- Advice : Embrace this new awareness. Surround yourself with individuals who can guide and nurture your budding faith.
- Scripture : “Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation.” – 1 Peter 2:2
- Advice : Dive into Scripture. Attend Bible studies, engage in prayer, and seek mentorship from seasoned believers.
- Scripture : “I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
- Advice : Make a conscious decision to commit to your faith . This might mean being baptized or taking another step of public commitment.
- Scripture : “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33
- Advice : Seek support through community and prayer. Remember, every believer faces challenges. They can strengthen and refine your faith.
- Scripture : “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” – 2 Peter 3:18
- Advice : Regularly partake in spiritual disciplines like fasting , deep prayer, and meditative reading of the Scriptures.
- Scripture : “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10
- Advice : Find ways to serve in your community or church. Share your testimony and faith journey with others.
- Scripture : “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” – Deuteronomy 31:8
- Advice : Journal or reflect on the ways you’ve seen God’s hand in your life, celebrating His faithfulness in big and small ways.
- Scripture : “And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.” – 1 John 5:11
- Advice : Foster a heavenly perspective, knowing that this earthly life is temporary and a glorious eternity awaits.
- Continuous Renewal and Transformation :
- Scripture : “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” – 2 Corinthians 4:16
- Advice : Continually seek personal revival. Attend retreats, engage in spiritual self-assessments, study God’s word daily and always aim to draw closer to God.
I hope this list provides a helpful framework for understanding the stages in a faith journey from a Biblical perspective!
May it inspire and guide many on their personal journeys with the Lord.
Examples Of A Faith Journey
Here are some examples of faith journeys:
- The parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11-32 is a poignant example of a faith journey. A young man leaves home, squanders his inheritance, and hits rock bottom. However, he comes to a realization of his mistakes and decides to return to his father. His father, representing God’s unending mercy, welcomes him with open arms. This journey from rebellion to redemption underscores the grace and forgiveness that await those who turn back to God.
- Moses’ life is filled with twists and turns. Born a Hebrew but raised as an Egyptian prince, he flees Egypt after killing a man. In exile, God appears to him in a burning bush and tasks him with leading the Israelites to freedom. Through challenges like confronting Pharaoh and parting the Red Sea, Moses grows in his faith and dependence on God.
- Mary Magdalene, mentioned in the Gospels, is a shining example of a transformative faith journey. Once plagued by seven demons, Jesus heals her. From that moment, she becomes one of His most devoted followers, even being the first to witness and proclaim His resurrection.
- Saul, later known as Paul, starts as a fierce persecutor of early Christians . However, on the road to Damascus, he has a life-changing encounter with the risen Christ. This results in a complete turnaround, and he becomes one of Christianity’s most influential apostles, spreading the Gospel far and wide.
- Imagine someone today who grew up in a Christian household but drifted away during their teenage years, influenced by peers or personal doubts. Later in life, a significant event or realization brings them to a Christian counselor. Through counseling sessions, reading Scripture, and joining a supportive community, they rekindle their relationship with God and commit their life to serving Him.
- Consider a person with no prior knowledge of Christianity. Perhaps a friend invites them to church, or they stumble upon a Bible in a hotel room. Curious, they begin exploring, attending Bible studies, and asking questions. Over time, the teachings resonate with them, leading to a deep, personal relationship with Jesus .
Each of these journeys highlights the diverse paths people can take in their relationship with God.
From Biblical figures to everyday individuals, the common thread is God’s unwavering love and grace, guiding each person closer to Him.
I hope these Faith Journey examples inspire and provide insight into the varied landscapes of faith journeys!
How To Write A Faith Journey
Writing about your faith journey is a deeply personal endeavor, but it can be incredibly rewarding.
Sharing your experiences can inspire others and offer insights into the unique ways God works in individual lives.
Let’s break down how to approach this:
- Before you even pick up a pen, spend some time in prayer. Ask God for clarity, wisdom, and discernment as you recount your journey.
- Think about key moments in your life that have shaped your faith. This could be childhood memories, a challenging period, or an unexpected blessing.
- Start by describing your upbringing. Were you raised in a faith-based home? Or did you encounter God later in life?
- Highlight moments that deeply impacted your relationship with God. This could be positive experiences, like a retreat or a mission trip, or more challenging times when your faith was tested.
- It’s okay to share periods of doubt or times when you had questions about your faith. This makes your journey relatable and authentic.
- Talk about instances where you felt God’s presence or intervention in your life . These personal stories can be powerful testimonies of faith.
- Who has played a pivotal role in your faith journey? Maybe it’s a parent, a pastor, a friend, or even a Christian counselor. Share how they’ve guided or influenced you.
- Weave in relevant Bible verses that have been significant to you. This gives readers a biblical context and shows the foundation of your beliefs.
- Where are you now in your faith journey? Discuss your current practices, beliefs, and hopes for the future.
- End with Reflection and Anticipation :
- Reflect on your growth and the lessons you’ve learned. Share your hopes and aspirations for your continuing journey with God.
- Edit and Review :
- Once you’ve penned down your journey, take some time to review and refine it. Consider sharing it with a trusted friend or Christian counselor for feedback.
Remember, your faith journey is uniquely yours. It doesn’t have to be perfect.
It’s the genuine reflection of your relationship with God that will resonate with readers.
Bible Verses About Faith Being A Journey
The Bible is rich with verses that describe faith as a journey or process, emphasizing growth, perseverance, and God’s guidance.
Here are some verses that beautifully convey this theme:
- “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”
- “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
- “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
- “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
- “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
- “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
- “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
- “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
- “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”
These verses emphasize the continuous journey of faith, marked by trust, perseverance, and guidance from the Lord.
As you reflect on these verses, may you be encouraged and strengthened in your own faith journey!
No two faith journeys are alike, and that’s the beauty of it – each is a unique dance of trust between the soul and its Creator.
Faith Goals Examples
Let’s explore some faith goals and how you can achieve them.
- Goal : Dedicate 10 minutes each morning to Bible reading.
- Advice : Start with Psalms or Proverbs for daily wisdom and encouragement.
- Scripture : “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105
- Goal : Create a nightly prayer routine.
- Advice : Have a dedicated space at home for prayer to build a habit.
- Scripture : “The LORD is near to all who call on him.” – Psalm 145:18
- Goal : Participate in a women’s Bible study or fellowship group.
- Advice : It’s a great way to build deep, faith-centered relationships.
- Scripture : “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:20
- Goal : Memorize a Bible verse each month .
- Advice : Pick verses that speak to challenges you’re currently facing.
- Scripture : “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” – Psalm 119:11
- Goal : Volunteer at least once a month.
- Advice : Local churches often have outreach programs in need of helping hands.
- Scripture : “Do not forget to do good and to share with others.” – Hebrews 13:16
- Goal : Share your faith story with someone new.
- Advice : Your journey can inspire and uplift others in their walk.
- Scripture : “Let the redeemed of the LORD tell their story.” – Psalm 107:2
- Goal : Choose one day a week to disconnect from electronics and reconnect with God.
- Advice : Use this time for reflection, reading, or nature walks.
- Scripture : “Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10
- Goal : Fast from something specific (like social media) for clarity or focus in prayer.
- Advice : Remember to consult with a doctor before any major dietary changes.
- Scripture : “But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face.” – Matthew 6:17
- Goal : Each evening, jot down things you’re grateful for.
- Advice : Over time, you’ll see how much God is working in your life.
- Scripture : “Every good and perfect gift is from above.” – James 1:17
- Build Faithful Friendships :
- Goal : Seek out godly women for friendship and mutual encouragement.
- Advice : Participate in church events or join Christian women’s groups.
- Scripture : “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
I’ve included scriptures for each to give a biblical foundation.
I hope these faith goals inspire and guide you in your walk with God. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection!
Lord, guide and protect me on my faith journey. Strengthen my trust, renew my hope, and let Your love light my path. In every challenge and joy, may I always feel Your presence. Amen.
Prayer For Your Faith Journey
Heavenly Father, the Author and Perfecter of our faith,
We come before You, acknowledging You as the guiding light on our faith journey.
Every step we take, every challenge we face, we know You are beside us, leading us with Your unfailing love.
Lord, as we navigate the winding paths of our spiritual journey, grant us the grace to trust in You wholeheartedly.
When doubts arise or the road seems uncertain, remind us of Your promises and Your steadfast presence.
Empower us, O God, with the strength to persevere, especially during times of trials and testing.
Let us remember the testimonies of the saints and prophets who have gone before us, drawing inspiration from their unwavering faith.
Provide us with wisdom, Lord, to discern Your will in every circumstance.
May we seek guidance from Your Word, from trusted counselors, and from the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit within.
We pray that our faith journey be marked by growth, transformation, and a deepening relationship with You.
Let our lives be a testament to Your grace, reflecting Your love and compassion to those we encounter.
Above all, Father, we ask for an ever-burning desire to draw closer to You, to know You more intimately, and to serve You faithfully.
Keep our hearts anchored in the truth of the Gospel, and let our steps be firmly rooted in Your ways.
Thank you, Lord, for being our constant companion, our refuge, and our hope.
Guide us, sustain us, and nurture our faith as we journey onward, always seeking Your face.
In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.
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We focus on being discipled in our faith, meeting people’s needs, conducting personal ministry, and participating in great commission activities all while making disciples and planting new simple churches throughout st augustine neighborhoods..
Although non-denominational, Journey of Faith Christian Church is associated with the Independent Christian Churches and Churches of Christ. Our church launched in 2012 as a traditional brick and mortar church, carrying the dream of seeing followers of Jesus actually living out their faith daily in real and practical ways to advance God’s kingdom. After 6 years of working toward that goal, we traded the traditional model for a more simplistic model to better make disciples of Jesus rather than merely attempting to gather a crowd. Redirecting our focus to a simpler model has allowed us to gather in homes and focus more on ministry. We no longer devote spending large amounts of money on staff, facilities, and programs in order to appear like other churches, but now choose, instead, to focus more on people.
Reconnect people far from God with God so they spend eternity next to God.
Create disciples who take Jesus to all people in all places at all times
- Develop new leaders and establish a network of house churches that grow disciples of Jesus
Journey of Faith Fellowship
Denomination: Evangelical Free Church
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3225 e county 14th st yuma arizona united states 85365-9619, journey of faith fellowship photo gallery.
Phone Church Leader (928) 276-3228
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Journey of Faith Christian Church is a Christian Church located in Zip Code 32086.
See your ancestor’s ‘journey of faith’ with new FamilySearch discovery experience
Journey of faith includes records from 9 collections — the first time familysearch has pulled this many church databases into one place.
For the early Saints, gaining a testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ was not a one-time event — it was a journey of faith. And it’s the same for Church members today.
That’s what Kathy Warburton, FamilySearch marketing manager, hopes people see through the new Journey of Faith discovery experience .
“As we grow in the gospel, it is a journey that we take step by step, event by event,” Warburton said. “It’s little actions that we do that eventually will lead us to the temple and to the increased faith and testimony. And there are challenges and obstacles that we overcome in the process. … So it’s a journey of faith that we want to show — this is what our ancestors went through and it can strengthen us for our own journey of faith.”
The Journey of Faith experience — found at familysearch.org/campaign/journeyoffaith — invites Latter-day Saints to discover some of the faith-building milestones of their ancestors that helped shape their family story. It offers a broader view of an ancestor’s spiritual journey from a wide variety of sources.
What is the Journey of Faith experience?
Through collaboration with the Church History Library, Brigham Young University and other organizations, FamilySearch has tied nine collections of early Church records into one discovery experience — the first time FamilySearch has pulled this many Church databases into one place.
Russell Lynch, who works with the FamilySearch engagement division, said the beauty of the Journey of Faith experience is that “the information is not just in one place. So we’re hoping now to be able to highlight different sources or organizations that have information that could be helpful to people.”
Records in Journey of Faith come from the following nine collections:
- Church History Biographical Database — a combination of the Missionary Database (missionaries who served between 1830 and 1940) and the Pioneer Database (pioneers who immigrated to Utah between 1847 and 1868).
- Saints by Sea — a BYU database of first-person accounts of Saints who immigrated to the U.S. and traveled to the Salt Lake Valley from 1840-1932.
- Joseph Smith Papers — images and transcripts of extant Joseph Smith documents from 1828 to 1844 with textual and contextual annotation.
- Saints, Vol. 1 — the first of a four-volume narrative history of the Restoration.
- Nauvoo Community Project — a BYU database of residents of Nauvoo, Illinois, from 1839 to 1846.
- Wilford Woodruff Papers — images and transcripts of Wilford Woodruff’s documents from 1828 to 1898. (The Wilford Woodruff Papers Foundation is an independent, private nonprofit organization not affiliated with the Church. However, the Church History Department supports and encourages the Wilford Woodruff Papers Project.)
- Diaries of Emmeline B. Wells — a collection of Emmeline B. Wells’ journals spanning 1844 to 1920.
- The First Fifty Years of Relief Society — transcripts and annotation for 78 key documents that illustrate the development of Relief Society from 1842 to 1892.
- Baptism and endowment information from FamilySearch Family Tree .
What does the Journey of Faith experience look like?
Upon signing into FamilySearch, the Journey of Faith experience will display up to 20 ancestors tied to early Church records. Each ancestor will have a timeline that shows some faith-building milestones of their life, such as when they were baptized, endowed, served a mission or immigrated to Utah.
If an ancestor is mentioned in the Wilford Woodruff Papers, Joseph Smith Papers, Diaries of Emmeline B. Wells or First Fifty Years of Relief Society, a link in the bottom left will go to the mention of their ancestor in that specific collection.
For example, Edson Whipple (image above) lived in Nauvoo, was baptized at age 35, served in the Joseph Smith Presidential Campaign Mission, was endowed at age 40, and traveled to the Salt Lake Valley with the Wilford Woodruff Company. He is mentioned in the Wilford Woodruff Papers.
Members can view photos and stories of their ancestor, share their discoveries, and add them to their ancestor’s page on FamilySearch.
What can I learn from the Journey of Faith experience?
Lynch said one benefit of this discovery experience is that members can see that their ancestors’ journey of faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ wasn’t easy.
When members today face spiritual challenges, they can see “it’s not just a 21st century problem,” Lynch said. “Other people in their family have also had challenges that they had to overcome.”
Warburton added: “I think at some point, in some way, we’re all pioneers. And we all have different experiences and different things that we do need to document and share so that family members — both those that are living and those that come after us — can be strengthened by our experiences. ...
“And even if we don’t have ancestors who were early Church members,” she continued, “we can still be strengthened by their examples.”
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The Journey of Faith Church
( united methodist church in waldorf, md ), 2900 smallwood dr w, waldorf, maryland, find a church within 10 20 25 miles of.
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Service times, contact info, about the journey of faith church.
- The Journey of Faith Church welcomes Christians and those who seek to connect to Christianity in the Waldorf area. We aim to make contact with and encourage others to join us in our life-changing Christian journey. We are a friendly Christian community where we welcome others to join us in our worship and service to God. Our vision is to make an impact for God, here in Waldorf, Maryland by helping people understand the enriching messages of eternal hope given to us by Jesus Christ through His words and deeds. Everyone is welcome, no matter your age, beliefs, or background. Come just as you are - we'd love to get to know you better.
- Pastor Robbie R. Morganfield
- Phone: (301) 645-0846
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The Journey of Faith Church Location Map
- Christmas at the Library
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Ruth’s Attic Bookstore
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- What is The Library
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The Billy Graham Library is a 40,000-square-foot experience where you’ll discover the life and legacy of America’s Pastor.
Designed to reflect Billy Graham’s journey from a humble farm boy to an international ambassador of God’s love, the barn-shaped building is situated on 20 landscaped acres, only miles from where Billy Graham grew up in Charlotte, N.C.
The Billy Graham Library will reopen November 28
Open Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed Sundays. Free Admission.
The Journey of Faith tour takes approximately one and a half hours to complete. To make your visit as meaningful as possible, the last complete tour of the day will begin at 3:30 p.m.
We are closed on the following holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Book Your Tour
A Journey of Faith
Retrace Billy Graham’s dynamic journey through stunning multimedia presentations, interactive kiosks, photos, and memorabilia.
The Graham Family Homeplace
Tour the home Billy Graham lived in from age nine until he left for college. Meticulously restored using 80 percent of the original materials, the Graham family homeplace will give you an intimate look at Billy Graham’s roots.
When Billy Graham was nine years old, his family moved into a two-story brick Colonial house on Park Road, which at the time was on the outskirts of Charlotte, N.C. For Billy and his three siblings, the best thing about it was indoor plumbing—they no longer had to bathe in a washtub on the back porch. That home—including many original elements—has been reconstructed on the campus of the Billy Graham Library, just four miles from the old Graham homestead.
Several thousand bricks and all the first-story wood flooring are among many original building materials used in the restoration process. The interior features some original furnishings as well as authentic appliances, furniture and fascinating memorabilia from the Graham family.
Open Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. 704-401-3242 --->
Located inside the Billy Graham Library, browse this unique bookstore for gifts, Bibles, and Christian classics, including books written by Graham family members.
“I love the paint of words,” Ruth Bell Graham once wrote in an early poem. Her affection for literature and her devotion to God often flowed together, and she surrounded herself and her family with books filled with inspiring stories, hard-won life lessons, and deep wells of faith.
In that spirit, Ruth’s Attic is named to honor Ruth Bell Graham’s lifelong love of the printed page. The bookstore offers rare and special editions written by Billy and Ruth Graham as well as an extensive selection of Bibles. Visitors will also find the following:
- Foundational works on evangelism by enduring authors
- Handmade and exclusive gift options
- Inspiring sermons on DVD
- Worship music CDs
- Unique gifts, collectibles, and home décor
- Custom Library apparel
The Graham Brothers Dairy Bar
Open Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. 4330 Westmont Drive, Charlotte, NC 28217--->
Relax over fresh sandwiches, salads, cookies, and ice cream. The Dairy Bar is located inside the Billy Graham Library and seats 140. Lunch is provided for motorcoach drivers and escorts when their group has lunch reservations.
Booths that look like stalls, whimsical cow-print tablecloths, antique milk cans and family photos create the unique ambiance of the Graham Brothers Dairy Bar. Don’t let the name fool you – the milkshakes and ice cream are delicious, but you can also choose from a menu that includes:
- Mother Graham’s chicken salad
- The Billy Frank hot dog
- BBQ, one of Billy’s favorites
- Fresh-baked cookies and pound cake
- Affordable combos and kids’ meals
The Memorial Prayer Garden
Take time to reflect in a peaceful setting beside the burial sites for Billy Graham and Ruth Bell Graham; George Beverly Shea and Cliff Barrows, longtime members of the Billy Graham Crusade Team; and Billie Barrows, early crusade pianist and wife of Cliff Barrows.
Tips for Your Visit
The Billy Graham Library is unlike anything you have ever seen before. Here are some helpful tips to make the most of your visit.
- We are open Monday – Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. We’re closed on Sunday.
- Guests touring the Library, Homeplace, and Memorial Prayer Garden should allow at least 1½ to 2 hours for the visit. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes.
- Free parking is available, including auto, bus, RV, and disabled spaces.
- Service animals are allowed inside the Library. Pets are allowed in the outside pet area, located just beyond the Library’s gatehouse.
- Visitors should bring their own strollers and wheelchairs.
- Sandwiches, salads, soups, and beverages are available for purchase in the Graham Brothers Dairy Bar. Personal food and beverages are not allowed on the property.
- Food and bookstore merchandise are available at posted prices, which do not include N.C. state sales tax. Cash, personal checks, American Express, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa are accepted.
- Cameras are permitted in the exhibit areas, but please refrain from flash photography.
- Smoking, alcoholic beverages, and firearms are not permitted on the property.
- Admission is free, but if you’d like to make a contribution, donation boxes are available in the lobby.
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How to Trust God, Even in Difficult Times
- God is Faithful , Trust
Life is not predictable. There are ups and downs along the way. Many of us want to trust God. When times are good, it can feel easier. But when times feel difficult, it is even more important to trust God. God’s unchanging character can give us a firm foundation when things feel unsteady and uncertain.
Life can be going along smoothly for a season. Your job is satisfying. Your friends and family are enjoyable. Your goals, finances, health and outlook seem bright. Then, all of a sudden, life throws a curveball. Someone you know gets sick. You lose your job. A friend or family member betrays you. The things you felt secure in all of a sudden feel shaky and uncertain.
How do you trust that God is good in these circumstances? How do you trust Him when you do not understand what is happening? When you cannot see a resolution? These are valid questions, and God wants to help you navigate them.
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What Does It Mean to Trust God?
To trust is to believe in the reliability, truth, ability or strength of something. So, when it comes to trusting God, that means believing in His reliability, His Word, His ability and His strength. The Bible says that God cannot lie. That He always keeps His promises. That He loves you and has good in store for you. Trusting in Him means believing what He says about Himself, about the world and about you is true.
Trusting God is more than a feeling; it’s a choice to have faith in what He says even when your feelings or circumstances would have you believe something different. Your feelings and circumstances matter and are very much worth paying attention to. God cares about them both. But those things alone are not reliable enough to base your life on. They can change at any moment, even in an instant. God, on the other hand, does not change. He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow and therefore is worthy of your trust.
Trusting God is not about ignoring your feelings or reality. It is not pretending that everything is OK when it isn’t. Trusting God is living a life of belief in and obedience to God even when it’s difficult.
How to Trust God
Now that you know what it means to trust God, how exactly can you do that in your everyday life?
If you trust someone, you feel comfortable being honest with them about anything. God is much more reliable than even your most trustworthy friend. When things feel difficult, He doesn’t ask you to keep those feelings to yourself.
Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7, New International Version)
You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in Your book. (Psalm 56:8, New Living Translation)
Because God loves you, you can show your trust in Him by talking about all your feelings and circumstances with Him — the good and hard — through prayer . Don’t let your emotions rule your life; bring them to God so He can help you address them. He is not disappointed or frustrated by your struggles, doubts or pain. He cares about you, and you can trust Him with those things.
When you trust, you go to God and His word when life is hard. You also act on obedience (doing what God says in His Word) and trust that He will ultimately take care of the rest. In trust, you do not look for security in other things; you look to God to hold you securely in difficult circumstances. You won’t do this perfectly, but God is kind and patient with you while you learn to trust Him.
“My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,” He said to them. “Stay here and keep watch.”
Going a little farther, He fell to the ground and prayed that if possible the hour might pass from Him. “Abba, Father,” He said, “everything is possible for You. Take this cup from Me. Yet not what I will, but what You will.” (Mark 14:34-36, NIV)
Jesus Himself felt overwhelmed by what was before Him, and He went straight to His Father.
He cares for your hurts. He pays attention. How comforting it is to know that the God of the universe is also paying attention to you. Knowing that God is for you will strengthen your trust in Him during times of hardship and the unknown.
Here are seven practical ways to trust God in your everyday life:
1. Seek Truth in Scripture
Scripture, or the Bible, is God’s Word. God knows you need somewhere to go when you feel unsure. That place is His Word. It is unchanging and completely trustworthy.
The Bible records ways God has responded in difficult times in the past. It reminds you that He is trustworthy whatever your circumstances. Many people in Scripture even reference other parts of Scripture to encourage themselves and those around them.
The truth of Scripture frees you from the expectations of earning your salvation (John 8:32). It also frees you from the unrealistic scenarios that you run to in worry. If you don’t run to the Word to remind you of truth in difficult times, it is easier for you to be led into lies about your life and who God is.
You need a strong foundation of Scripture to stand on, especially when you feel uncertain. The Bible is God’s unfailing, unchanging Word. You can cling to its truth when life throws you a curveball.
2. Confess Unbelief
Be honest. Allow God to remind you who He is and what He promises, and then be honest with Him. You can tell God how you feel and in what areas of your life you are struggling to trust Him.
First, it is good to acknowledge that His character is good and trustworthy. You can agree with Him that all He says is true. You can also tell Him when it’s difficult for you to believe.
According to Mark 9, a man brought his son to Jesus for healing from being possessed by a demon. He asked Jesus to heal him “if you can.” Jesus asked the man if he did not believe that Jesus could heal, and this was his reply.
Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24, NIV)
He believed, but it was a difficult thing to believe. So He asked for help.
It is one thing to know the truth. But it is sometimes hard to believe it when life takes unexpected turns. You’re human. You’re able to confess to God when your feelings and beliefs are not lining up with His Truth. You can ask Him to help you believe what He says is true.
This helps you accept that God is bigger than you could ever understand. Confession helps you to humble yourself and allows you to grow in trust. He hears your requests and answers them. He wants to help you grow your faith.
3. Share Your Concerns With Your Community
You are not facing these difficult times alone. The Lord is walking with you every step of the way. He also gives you other believers to walk with.
Paul was a follower of Jesus and a leader in the early church. He shared this with a fellow believer as encouragement.
I pray that your partnership with us in the faith may be effective in deepening your understanding of every good thing we share for the sake of Christ. (Philemon 1:6, NIV)
Paul reminded his friend that partnership is important and helps us have a greater understanding of God and His plan.
When you are struggling, share those concerns with another follower of Jesus whom you trust — someone you know is pursuing a relationship with God regularly and who knows God’s Word. You do not have to share struggles with everyone, but find those people who will encourage you and share the truth with you — not just tell you what you want to hear.
Fellow believers can remind you of God’s character through encouragement and accountability. They can pray for and support you. They can remind you of the truth when you’re struggling. Community reminds you that you are never alone, even in hard times.
4. Remember God and Spend Time With Him
God is bigger than your circumstances. Difficult times may feel like they last forever, but they are temporary. God is present amid the bad times as well as the good. He is always faithful.
God wants you to go to Him with your circumstances. He also wants you to come to Him simply to spend time with Him. You should not let your circumstances shape your relationship with God. God can shape your view of your circumstances.
Spend regular time with God. Establishing a consistent time with the Lord when things feel good will help you to continue to go to Him when things feel rough. If you have not established that, it is never too late to start.
Read His Word. Spend time in prayer acknowledging who He is. Meet with other believers and set your eyes on things that are bigger than your circumstances. Serve those around you. These simple practices will help you see God outside of difficult things, which will establish trust in your heart that He will move in your circumstances.
5. Look for Things to Be Grateful For
Difficult circumstances feel all-consuming at times. It is really hard to see past them to other good things going on. But God’s grace is in all things. In your waking up. In a sunny day. In a call from a friend. He is in all of it.
But those good times often get overshadowed by other more complicated things going on. In the face of those difficulties, God shares His will for you and how you should respond to them.
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, NIV)
God calls you to give thanks. He is always working in your life and in the world. In the moments when everything appears to be falling apart, it can be hard to see how the Good Father is at work, but know His mercy is consistent.
Giving thanks fights the lie that everything is horrible. Even in tragic circumstances, there will be light and grace. God is present and is making Himself known. You need only to look. Trust grows as you look for God’s presence in what feels dark and heavy. He never leaves.
6. Walk in the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit lives in anyone who trusts in Jesus. The Holy Spirit is your constant helper, pointing you to Jesus.
When Jesus was telling His followers that He was going to be killed, He knew that they would be worried. They would feel scared about being left alone. So He shared this with them to give them comfort.
But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. (John 14:26, NIV)
The Spirit comforts and reminds you of the truth. The Spirit will also lead you in obedience. He will bring direction to you.
A common struggle in difficult times is feelings of helplessness and worry about an unknown future. The leading of the Spirit can ease struggles by guiding you to acts of obedience. He does not always give you the big picture, but He will show you the next step.
Walking closely with the Spirit will not only give you direction but will remind you that you are not alone. God is not distant. He is with you in difficulty. He is making a way for you.
Go to “How Do I Hear God’s Voice?” to learn more about how to follow the Spirit’s leading.
7. Wait on the Lord
The Holy Spirit will lead you to what you should do. Sometimes what you need to do is wait. Faithfully continue to seek the Lord, but wait on His timing. Wait on Him to act on your behalf. Wait on Him to do what you cannot do yourself.
In the book of Isaiah, God responds to the Israelites who thought that God had turned away from them. He reminds them that He does not sleep or take a break. He always sees them and is always working for their good.
They who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31, English Standard Version)
He will help you wait with endurance. Waiting on the Lord reminds you that you are not in control. Thank goodness! He is bigger than any of your circumstances. He will sustain you and grow your faith in the waiting.
God is never neglecting your life. If He seems to be silent , remember His promise that He is always hearing your prayers and responding.
When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. (Psalm 34:17, ESV)
When Trust Falters
God is trustworthy even when you don’t see your prayers answered or problems solved right away. Life is unpredictable and difficult at times, and that difficulty may persist for longer than you had hoped. It may even bring you to the end of your strength. So, what do you do then?
Wait, trust and remember that God loves you. You can trust Him to sustain you, provide for you and be with you even in the midst of your hardship. Jesus guaranteed His followers that they would face hard times (John 16:33), but He promised that He would always be with them (Matthew 28:20).
God is completely trustworthy, but He does not ask you to trust Him blindly. He wants you to learn to trust Him as you get to know Him. You can get to know God through personal time with Him and through His Word. Spend time exploring aspects of His trustworthiness in verses of Scripture.
In the book of Romans, one of the early followers of Jesus, Paul, writes to believers about the present life. He reminds them that this life will have hardship and that our bodies will fail, but God is still working for our good.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28, NIV)
In times of doubt, remember His promises. Remember who He has always been. Even in doubt and uncertainty, if you keep going to Him, He will continually show Himself to be trustworthy.
If you struggle with why God allows difficulty, read the article “Why Does God Allow Suffering?”
For more resources on trusting God, check out:
- “Trusting God in the Unknown”
- “21 Bible Verses on Trusting God”
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Embracing the Journey of Faith
Scripture: Ruth 1:16 Topic: Faith , Relationship with Christ
This sermon draws inspiration from the book of Ruth, encouraging believers to boldly step forward in their faith and deepen their relationship with Christ.
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Introduction
Today, we sang a familiar invitation hymn called "Wherever He Leads I’ll Go." But I wonder, do we truly mean those words? Are we willing to follow Jesus wherever He may lead us?
Imagine this scenario: you go to work tomorrow and your boss gestures for you to follow them. They lead you through the office, the factory, or even a field. In that situation, you would naturally follow.
I once heard a story about a preacher who was praying early one morning. As he prayed with his head bowed and eyes closed, his wife walked into the room and overheard his prayer. He said, "Father, I want to be perfectly in Your will. I am willing to do anything You ask of me, even if it means going into the heart of a deep, thick jungle or a faraway country." At that moment, his wife couldn't contain herself any longer and knelt down beside him. She placed her hand on his back and said, "Lord, if You lead him to one of those places, please give him a buddy, a friend who will go with him."
This story highlights the wife's lack of conviction in truly following God's leading. It makes me wonder how committed we are to following God ourselves.
Section 1: Decision of Faith
When we look at the phrase "I will go" in the scripture tonight, we can learn many things about these three simple words.
Firstly, saying "I will go" is a decision of faith. It takes a believer's faith to say those words and truly mean them. In the book of Ruth, we see Ruth's faith in action. Despite being a Moabite woman, she chose to stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi, and embrace the God of Israel. Ruth's faith led her to say, "Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God" (Ruth 1:16). She realized that her previous beliefs were not aligned with the truth and chose to follow God wholeheartedly.
Section 2: Declaration of a Victor
Secondly, saying "I will go" is the declaration of a victor. Victors are those who find victory. In the book of Judges, we see the story of Deborah, a woman leader who called on Barak to lead God's people to victory. Barak initially hesitated, but Deborah assured him that God would give him victory. Barak's response was, "If you will go with me, then I will go; but if you will not go with me, I will not go" (Judges 4:8-9). Barak recognized the importance of having God's presence and guidance in his journey towards victory.
Section 3: Negative Aspect of 'I Will Go'
However, there is also a negative aspect to the phrase "I will go." We see this in the story of Samson in the book of Judges. Samson had been blessed with great strength by God but allowed his pride and self-sufficiency to lead him astray. He disregarded the Nazarite vow and ultimately lost God's favor. When faced with his enemies, Samson arrogantly declared, "I will go out as at other times and shake myself free" (Judges 16:20). Little did he know that God had departed from him. This serves as a reminder that we should never rely on our own strength and self-sufficiency but always depend on God.
Section 4: Fellowship and Togetherness
On a more positive note, saying "I will go" can also refer to the fellowship we experience as believers. We often gather for fellowship events and celebrations, and there is joy in being together. However, fellowship is not the same if we choose to isolate ourselves. It is in the togetherness that we find true joy and blessings. Just as in 2 Kings 6:1-3, where the sons of the prophets came together to build a larger dwelling, we too find strength and encouragement in fellowship.
Section 5: Act of Repentance
Lastly, saying "I will go" can also represent the act of repentance. No matter how far we have strayed or how sinful our lives have become, God's love for us remains steadfast. The opportunity to repent and return to Him is always available. We need to humbly say, "I will go back to my Father" and seek His forgiveness and guidance.
In conclusion, the phrase "I will go" holds great significance in our faith journey. It requires a decision of faith, a victor's mindset, humility, fellowship, and repentance. Let us be willing to step forward in our faith and relationship with Christ, saying with conviction, "I will go."
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The Sunday service is approximately an hour long and includes a few worship songs and a Bible-based message. ... JOIN US THIS SUNDAY. Journey of Faith is one church in multiple locations. Manhattan Beach. 1243 Artesia Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Sunday Services 9am and 11am. Torrance. 2917 Lomita Blvd. ... crafts and small group time. To see what ...
JOURNEY OF FAITH. Inviting you to follow Jesus to make a difference in your world! JOIN US. ... 8AM | 9:30AM | 11AM | 12:30PM GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE Friday, March 29 | 6PM. MORE INFORMATION. LAST WEEKS MESSAGE. Click VIEW MESSAGES below to watch last weeks message and to access the message discussion guide. March 17, 2024. Series: Be Well.
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2900 Smallwood Drive West Waldorf, MD 20603 | Office Phone: (301) 645-0846. The Journey of Faith is a vibrant and inclusive community dedicated to deepening our faith, fostering spiritual growth, and spreading God's love. - 2024.
Over 100 years later, there are now thousands of people at two campus locations and an online community who call Journey of Faith their home. ... Supper (communion) and baptism of believers by immersion, encouraging spiritual growth, accountability, evangelism, and service. Matthew 28:19, 1 Corinthians 11:23-29.
The Journey of Faith Church welcomes Christians and those who seek to understand Christianity in the Waldorf area. Our aim is to make contact with and encourage others to join us in our life-enhancing Christian journey. The Journey of Faith Church at Waldorf, Maryland is a friendly Christian community where we welcome others to join us in our worship and service to God.
Check the Sunday School page to join a Sunday School class Sunday mornings. Sunday, March 24, 2024. Palm Sunday. 8:45 am Sunday School. 10:00 am Palm Sunday Service. Fellowship Following Service. 11:15 am Fill Easter Bags.
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Order the book, "The Apostles' Creed" by Ben Meyers for Canvas Groups. Please check the Worship page for virtual Sunday Service options. Check the Sunday School page to join a Sunday School class Sunday mornings. Sunday, March 10, 2024. 8:45 am Sunday School. 10:00 am Service. Fellowship Following Service/Candy Donations accepted through the 17th.
Journey of Faith, Manhattan Beach, California. 6,126 likes · 57 talking about this · 9,251 were here. Join us for our worship services at 9am + 11am at our Manhattan beach campus!
Although non-denominational, Journey of Faith Christian Church is associated with the Independent Christian Churches and Churches of Christ. Our church launched in 2012 as a traditional brick and mortar church, carrying the dream of seeing followers of Jesus actually living out their faith daily in real and practical ways to advance God's kingdom.
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Service Times. Sunday 10 am Wednesday 7pm (904) 827-7996. Lead Pastor Alex Hill . Our Mission. Seeking God. Serving Others. Loving Both. ... Journey of Faith Christian Church has been a wonderful church for me and my husband. We both are very active, participating as volunteers, in the small group, and in the prayer meeting. ...
A screenshot of Ira V Ames in the Journey of Faith discovery experience on FamilySearch. Journey of Faith pulls records from nine collections, including the Joseph Smith Papers and Wilford Woodruff Papers. Russell Lynch. For the early Saints, gaining a testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ was not a one-time event — it was a journey of faith.
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