Dear Church Family,
Depression can feel incredibly overwhelming, often leaving us with a sense of hopelessness. In Psalm 42, we see the psalmist experiencing this, his soul longing for the Lord. He speaks to himself, asking, “Why am I so down?” Yet even in his desperate state, he acknowledges God as his Savior. While this isn’t a quick fix, it highlights the struggle of depression, which can feel like a yo-yo or a mental wrestling match. One moment, we remember our hope in God; the next, we fall back into despair. By keeping God’s Word in our minds, reflecting on the hope we have, and meditating on His promises, we can find strength and encouragement. One other important way God wants to lift us up is by gathering with fellow believers in worship. So join me this Sunday at 9:30 as we dig into the Scriptures and find encouragement being in God’s presence together!
ICYMI – Here’s a link to the sermon from last Sunday preached by Juan David Escobar on Anxiety: Our Heavenly Father Gives Us Peace. To see what’s coming up in our Taboo series, visit our website here. Scroll down to see the series plan. The Saturday bilingual service follows a different series plan.
START Class This Sunday – What does the Bible teach? Participate in Pastor Ben’s START Class to learn the foundational teachings of our Lutheran Christian faith. Prepares you to receive the sacrament of Holy Communion at Divine Savior Church when you’re ready. Helps you know with certainty how Jesus has changed your life! Complete this brief form to let Pastor Ben you’d like to participate. All are welcome to jump in this Sunday from 11:00-12:30. Childcare available if needed. Please email Pastor Ben to arrange.
College Ministry Bible Study – Are you or do you know a college student in the Miami area? Our DSC College Ministry group encourages college students to learn, live, and lead for Christ. Join us for our next Bible study this Sunday, February 16 at 5:00 PM at Divine Savior Church. Meet in the Ministry Center Lounge. Questions? Contact Musumeno for more info.
Connect Group Interest – We have a goal to launch 10 new Connect Groups this year! Please share your input on this brief form to help us get started. What is a Connect Group? It’s a gathering of about 7-12 people that provides a place to connect with others, share life, and grow in faith together.
Faith and Family Night – Wednesdays 7:00-8:30 pm. Come for Bible Study led by Pastor Ben from 7:00-8:10, stay for Worship from 8:15-8:30 pm, or just come for Worship. Join us again this Wednesday! We’re studying Jesus’ “I AM” statements found in the gospel of John.
Serving on the DSC Ambassador Team – We have an opportunity to represent Divine Savior Church at the upcoming school event, Touch-a-Truck on Saturday, February 22. You can help us connect with families from our local community! We offer a coloring station for kids at our DSC tent and have great conversations with parents to share info about our church family. We’re looking for more ambassadors on our team – how about you? Please contact Staff Minister Becky for more details.
Family Soccer Day – Join us on the athletic field on Sunday, February 23 for an afternoon of fun! Enjoy the fresh air with your DSC family. Meet after the Spanish worship service – about 1:00 pm. Plan on a pick up game of soccer or play with the kids on the playground and or just visit with others. All ages can participate. Bring a snack to share if you like, we will have water.
Ash Wednesday – Ash Wednesday is March 5 and marks the beginning of Lent, a time when we walk with Jesus to the cross to see the extent of his love that paid for every imperfect thought, word, and action. You and your family are invited to join us for a special Ash Wednesday bilingual worship service at 5:00 pm or 7:00 pm.
Our Giving to the Lord: Click here to give an offering. You can make a one-time special gift or set up recurring gifts as well. Please note also that the opportunity to pledge and give toward “$2,025 for 3 Years” is for offerings over and above regular, recurring giving.
Sunday Playlist – When Trials Come, Christ The Sure And Steady Anchor CWH #812, Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me
Sunday Scriptures – 1 Kings 19:1-18, Matthew 11:28-30, Psalm 42
DSC on YouTube and Spotify: Watch past messages and worship services on-demand on our church YouTube channel. Listen to the sermon podcast on Spotify or wherever find your podcasts.
Daily Devotions – Stay connected to God’s Word with the WELS daily devotions. Subscribe and have a devotion sent directly to your email each day. Grace Moments are daily devotions provided by Time of Grace. Download their app for easy access to all their gospel content.
Download Our Church App – The communication hub for everything DSC! Search “Divine Savior Church” in your app store. Select “Doral English” as your campus. Use it to worship online, watch archived messages, and register for events and classes that are coming up.
DSC Gear – Check out online apparel store.
Every Year It’s a New Story. Click here to join our DSC daily Bible reading group using the Bible App.
Changing Lives with Jesus,
Pastor Ben