This is Pastor Kennedy. 

With COVID-19 dominating the headlines, may I break in with a special report? Churches all over the country are providing worship services, comforting families, counseling, feeding the hungry, and more. I am encouraged by Mt. Zion’s Helping Hands Ministry giving out over 200 turkey boxes that could feed at least 2,000 people. Each week we continue to give out generous food boxes to feed the hungry. Churches offering safe worship services for God’s people to meet with Him is feeding people’s souls, stabilizing entire communities, and inspiring people to stick with safe practices amid more lockdowns and unemployment. Christians, in everything we do in word, and in deed, let’s do it in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father (Col. 3:17). Tomorrow, I will see you outside at 8:00am, or online to continue our discussion on the Jesus Agenda. God Bless,

God’s Glory And Your Safety Is Our Priority

With extended social isolation and increasing deaths due to COVID-19, the winter months, more job losses, growing food lines, the flu season, and the third round of COVID, we must stay strong in the Lord.
Instead of stressing and living in fear, remember people are surviving COVID, and safe practices work. Wear your mask. Wash your hands frequently, and keep your hands out of your face. Build a strong immune system by drinking plenty of water, drink hot teas, eat healthy, exercise, and get proper rest.
Build a strong spiritual life with plenty of prayer, and heathy intakes of God's Word. Safely fellowship with godly people, and safely witness for Jesus.
This Sunday, at our 8:00 am outdoor worship service, we celebrate the ordination of 7 new deacons, and 3 new deaconesses.
On this Thursday we will also gather outside at 9:00am for a time of thanksgiving to God.
Remember, God's glory and your safety is our priority.

God Bless,

Who Do You Hang Out With?

Who Do You Hang Out With?

 

In Proverbs 13:20, God said: "He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm."

Keep this simple.  You minister to, or help a variety of people through meaningful conversations and assistance.  But you "hang out" with, you spend lots of time with, and you are influenced by people who have wisdom and who contribute to your success, and you contribute to their success.

Are you hanging out with people who do not share your values, who do not want to grow, and who do not share your desire for good success according to Joshua 1:8?  If you are, God said you will suffer harm.

"Hang out" with people who are forward moving and who are for God and for you.

 Who do you hang out with?  The wise or the foolish?

I look forward to worshiping with you this weekend.

 

God Bless,

Happy Veteran’s Day

Hello, this is Pastor Kennedy.

Today, as we pause to celebrate the  men and women who served in the US military, we at Mt. Zion Church of Ontario, thank you for your selfless 

sacrifices and service.  We especially salute our Vietnam Veterans.  You risked everything like any other soldier, but upon your arrival home, there was no heroes welcome for you.  You will always be our heroes.

Our recent election is a reminder of the basic rights our military help to preserve.  Americans get to participate in the selection of our President.

To all active duty and Retired military personnel, despite the numerous challenges you must navigate, we love you and have great respect for you.

Happy Veterans Day.

God Is Still In Control

As the presidential election winds down, remember God is still in control despite the outcome, recounts, lawsuits, and violent reactions.  Be encouraged and focus on living out God's Word.  In  Proverbs 6:20-22, I was reminded afresh that if we remember God's Word, God's Word will guide us as we do life during the day, it will watch over us while we sleep, and it will speak to us when we wake up. 

Today, make God's Word your reliable source for what you think, say, and do.  God's Word will protect you from compromising and blending into today's "everything goes," culture.  You will not be a chameleon, who "goes along just to get along."  With God's Word, you will experience the refreshment of God using His Word to continually transform you (Rom. 12:2). With God's Word, you will consistently make solid choices that line up with God's perfect will for your life.

 

God Bless,

 

Pastor Brian E. Kennedy, Sr.

Overflow

This is Pastor Kennedy:

I am still overflowing with joy from celebrating our 98 years of ministry at Mt. Zion.  Thank you for your contributions to what God is doing at Mt. Zion. 

This weekend, I will start a series of sermons on freedom and faith to help us continue taking bold steps for Jesus.

This Sunday at 3:00 pm, we will install Etienne Lacey, as the Senior Pastor of Holy Missionary Baptist Church in Pomona, at Mt. Zion and outside.

On Monday Night at 7:00 pm, we will continue increasing our prayer power in the church. (Mtzionontario.com, and click on Monday Night prayer).

After Prayer Meeting, Dr. Gilbert Holmes will continue an objective explanation of the propositions for the upcoming election (mtzionontario.com, go to Monday night prayer and click on David Wood).  Your vote does count.

Continue to pray for people who need Jesus, troubled marriages, students trying to stay focused online, the sick, those who lost loved ones, our divided country, and for continued spiritual growth.  I look forward to worshipping with you this weekend.

God Bless

Exciting Times

 Hello Everyone:

As we celebrate 98 years of ministry this Sunday at 8:00 am outside, we are encouraged in our efforts to reach people for Jesus in safe yet meaningful ways.
For instance, on Oct. 31, we will host a drive by, and walk through Harvest Festival celebration (please bring your candy donations to the office during the week).
Our Evangelism team is busy distributing door hangers in the neighborhood.
Our Spanish speaking church plant started with 51 people on last Sunday night.
Our Mental Health Ministry is presenting tomorrow at 10:30am (go to mtzionontario.com for Zoom link).
Our Prayer ministry transitioned to Zoom for continued growth. Go to mtzionontario.com and click on Monday night prayer.
We will discuss the 25 ballot propositions this Monday after prayer meeting at 8:00 pm.
Go to Mtzionontario.com and click Monday night prayer, and select David Wood.

These are exciting times.
God Bless,
Pastor Kennedy

Prayer Warriors

 With over 100 prayer warriors praying each Monday Night, we need more prayer warriors to amp up our prayer power at Mt Zion. Pastor, what happened? Our annual Ministry Connection Conference got many of us excited about making more disciples for Christ. Hence, we need more prayer warriors joining us for concentrated prayer as we grow.

Guess what?  This Sunday we will start our second formal Church plant in partnership with the North American Mission Board. 
The church is Spanish speaking and will start the outdoor service at 6:00 pm.  
One last thing, next Sunday we will celebrate 98 years of ministry at our 8:00 am outdoor service. 
Let's keep this ministry in prayer. Join us this Monday at 7:00 pm by going to Mtzionontario.com and click on Monday Night Prayer.

God Bless,
Pastor Kennedy.

Outdoor Worship

 Today, I ask that you join me in thanking God for the Mt. Zion Outdoor Worship Team.  Over the last two months they have worked overtime to provide our members and guests a safe place to physically worship together.  We actually have a couple (both over 80 years old) who attend each week and feel very safe in our outdoor worship setting.

As a result of our team’s work, we have eliminated the Eventbrite signup process.  We will now safely seat you as you arrive.  I pray that as you trust God to provide a safe environment at the grocery store, restaurants, medical facilities, gas stations, at work, and other places, you will also trust God to provide a safe environment for you at church.  I am looking forward to you joining us outside each Sunday at 8:00 am, until we can safely worship inside.

Two more things.  On Saturday October 3, join us for Ministry Connection, which is a leadership training conference for all age groups (go to mtzionontario.com and scroll down to upcoming events).  On Sunday October 18, we will celebrate 98 years of service in Ontario and beyond. We will start our celebration outside at 8:00 am.

 

God Bless,

Pastor Brian E. Kennedy

When The Days Are Long And The Nights Are Short

When the days are long and the nights are Short, II Tim. 4:1-6, is my "go to" passage. I need strength beyond myself (v.1). I am reminded to keep making loyal followers of Jesus (v. 2). I am reminded that suffering is a part of being a soldier (v. 3). I am reminded to focus on pleasing Jesus (v. 4). I am reminded to remain discipline and follow God's rulebook (v. 5). And I am reminded to work hard like a farmer (v. 6). I trust you will find encouragement is these verses.

Here are a couple highlights. Please join the Police Forum this Tuesday 9/22/20, from 5:00 -7:00 pm. In this second forum, our Law Enforcement Leaders will focus on answering questions from the public. Mt. Zion Ontario and the Ontario Police Department are hosting this forum.
Go to: Mtzionontario.com/policefourm to submit your questions and join the forum.

I trust you are prayerfully considering reconnecting safely at our outdoor worship service each Sunday at 8:00 am.

God Bless,
Pastor Kennedy

Worry Weighs A Person Down...

 “Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up” (Prov. 12:25).

In worship service, you can get an encouraging word through the songs, the reading of scripture, prayer, fellowship with others, and the preached word. 

As you approach this weekends corporate worship service (outside or online) remember to celebrate The Lords keeping power throughout the ages.  Moreover, remember, The Lord will continue to keep us through the fires, COVID-19, racism, unemployment, economic concerns, death, sickness, violence, educational challenges, the presidential election, and on and on.  This weekend, let all of us worship God from our hearts so strong in person outside and online, that God is well pleased from start to finish.

 

God Bless,

Pastor Kennedy

Have Faith in God

With our tender wounds from police shootings re-opened by two more black men shot in their backs, over 181,000 people dead from COVID-19, unemployment numbers increasing, dealing with the damage from Hurricane Laura, and plenty to discuss after the democratic and republican conventions, your personal challenges, and more, I encourage you afresh to have faith in God.
God is in control of the fate of America, and not the President. Please do not let political rhetoric, political strategies, tragedy, and uncertainty shake your faith. God is still in control. Have faith in God.
In fact, if you dare to put a little bit of the right kind of faith in God, you will have mountain moving experiences with God (Mark 11:22-24).
As we trust God to heal our hearts, and heal this country, I encourage you to worship with us on Sunday. If go to Mtzionontario.com and worship with us on-line, get out the bed if able, get yourself together, and have some concentrated worship (not multi-task worship). If you able, come to the church and experience afresh, congregational worship during our 8:00 am outside service.
We want you to sign-up for the outdoor service on our website, but if you forget or can't, you can still come. We will find a place for you to worship.
This Sunday and next Sunday, we will have outdoor baptisms during our 8:00 worship services. You are welcome to get baptized (call the office at 909-983-2411 x 104).
Christian's, God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of love, and power, and sound-mindedness. Have faith in God!

God Bless,
Pastor Kennedy

Compassion in Ministry

Jesus modeled showing compassion in ministry. In Matt 15, while in the thick of three days of healing ministry Jesus had compassion on the multitude because they did not have anymore food. Jesus felt for them and refused to send them away hungry.
On last Sunday and on Friday, I observed, and felt how the heat took a toll on our teams and the audience.
Hence, the 10:45 outdoor worship services will be postponed until the temperature cools down.
You can still join our online worship service at 10:30.

Personal question, does God want you to have compassion on someone today?

Going Deeper With Jesus

In Luke 5:4-5, Jesus commanded Peter to launch out into the deep because He wanted to expand His disciple's ministry.  
Our starting ongoing outdoor worship services this Sunday is Jesus' way of commanding us to launch out into the deep so He can expand our ministry.
Please pray and trust Jesus to help us catch more people for Jesus.
As we prepare for Sunday please:
1. Pray for God's guidance and supernatural protection as we work to keep people safe.
2. If you plan to attend, go to Mtzionontario.com and click on the 8:00 or 10:45 service reservation button (read all material).
3. If all seats are taken, we will have an overflow area with pop ups. Just bring your comfortable chair.
4. Please watch online from home if you have a fever, or other symptoms. Be considerate of others.
5. Please, know that I love you all and would love to hug you, but I too must social distance.
6. If you drive up to drop off your offering, drive in front of sanctuary and Deacons will serve you.
7. At the end of service, we will not announce our worship in giving, but you can leave your tithes and offerings in baskets as you leave, or continue to give on-line.
Mt. Zion, we are obeying Jesus and launching out into the deep for a catch.

God Bless,

God's Endless Supply and Our Faith

God's Endless Supply and Our Faith

A prophet died, and the widow of the prophet cried out to Elisha, because the creditor was coming to take her two sons into slavery to pay off the family debt. Elisha asked what she had. She said a small jar of olive oil. Elisha, told her to go and borrow as many containers as she could and take her sons into the house and close the door. Then take the small jar of olive oil and fill all the containers you borrowed with oil. She quickly discovered how God has an endless supply of resources when we trust Him with our limited supply. She sold some of the oil and paid her debts, and lived off the rest.
Mt. Zion, as we plan to start our outdoor services this Sunday at 8:00 am and 10:45 am, we are trusting God for His endless supply of resources. This is a watershed moment as God guides us into "new normal" in ministry. Want to help with the outdoor services? Call Ministry Services at 909-983-2411 x 105.
Prayer warriors keep seeking God's face as we continue to bring light to the community and beyond through evangelism, discipleship, and faithful service.

God Bless,

Priorities During This Pandemic

 Priorities During This Pandemic

Loving God with our total person, loving our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:28-31), and seeking God's kingdom interest (Matt. 6:33) sets our priorities even during this pandemic.
God first priorities include:
1. Your love relationship with God.
2. Your God ordained marriage.
3. Your service to God in church related ministries, and in trusted relationships.
4. Your service to God in society (work, business, school, volunteerism, hobbies,etc.).  
As we seek God's kingdom interest, please pray as we began setting up our outdoor worship services which will include outdoor, and in-car seating arrangements.
Face masks and outdoor worship will be our new normal for months to come.

God Bless

Sent from my iPhone

Re-Closure

With California spiking up to over 325,000 positive COVID-19 cases, Governor Newsom has re-closed indoor worship services, along with gyms, movie theaters, museums, bowling alleys, etc. This is tough for all of us, but God is still on the throne. Be encouraged and stay connected through on-line worship, bible studies, and ministry meetings. Continue to call each other, text, face time, zoom, email, and even sending a note through the mail. We need each other more than ever before (Gal. 6:9-10).
Hey, help with this week's sermon? Let me know about the creative ways you are engaging non-Christians with the message about Jesus (leave a voice message at 909-415-4128).
Don't forget to pray for, and tune into the public forum with our law enforcement community tomorrow night (go to http://mtzionontario.com, scroll to the bottom for upcoming events).

God Bless,

Living with Life Change

 Living with Life Change

 

Living and coping with COVID-19, has changed how we function at home, at church, and in society.  The question of when can we change back to physically gathering at church is gnawing at us.  We with much prayer, planning and staff and leader’s working hard to keep everyone safe, did hold a service in the church to celebrate the life of Taylor George, with 100 people in the sanctuary and 237 on-line.   

With lessons learned from that service, and our monitoring the new spike in COVID-19 cases, please continue praying as we use God’s wisdom to keep His glory and your safety our priority. 

Currently, we are considering inviting more small groups to physically meet outside as the Deacons have done for two months collecting offerings on Sundays from 9:30 to 12 noon, and the Youth Ministry has done for three weeks for Bible study. 

As we seek God’s wisdom for Mt. Zion, please continue wearing your facemask in public, regularly wash your hands, and build a strong immune system (drink lots of water, hot teas, eat healthy, exercise, and get 7 to 8 hours of sleep nightly).  Continue to connect via phone calls, face-time, texting, etc.  Connect through zoom bible studies, the call in prayer meetings on Mondays, and on-line worship services (go to Mtzionontario.com for information).

Church, despite all the changes behind COVID-19, be encouraged “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Heb. 13:8).  Therefore, let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful (Heb. 10:23).

 

God Bless,

Pastor Brian E. Kennedy, Sr.

In The Midst

 In the midst of COVID-19, efforts to confront and change Police violence, economic stress, mourning the loss of loved ones, dealing with the sick, and constant confusion, Father's Day is coming. Fathers are the men that God used to bring you into the world. The role of the church is to raise up godly fathers who make our society a better place. If your father was absent, or ungodly, I am very sorry for the pain Father's Day may brings to you. The good news is that all of us can pursue a trusting love relationship with our Heavenly Father, Who loves us, heals us, delivers us, and is faithful to us. Moreover, our Heavenly Father provides timeless standards for us to promote healthy fatherhood before Him, before the children God entrust to us, and other children who need positive examples of masculinity and Fatherhood. (I will address masculinity on Father's Day).

As you reflect on positive examples of fatherhood, please share a shout out to fathers at: AV@mtzionontaro.com.

God Bless

The Power of “Two or Three”

 The Power of "Two or Three"

Mt. Zion, thank you for boosting the priority of prayer during both peaceful and turbulent times. 
Since COVID-19, we are now averaging over 90 people in Monday night prayer, and we had 137 participants in our on-line night of prayer.
In Matthew 18:20, Jesus taught about the "power of two or three" in prayer. Jesus said when two or three of His disciples gather in prayer, He will be in our midst. In other words, Jesus facilitates our access to divine resources each time we come together for prayer. As we work together to slow the spread of COVID-19, treating victims, and to produce a vaccine, we need the "power of two or three." As we organize peaceful protests, make strategic changes, and pass new legislation to prevent abuse in American policing, we need the "power of two or three." Christian's, let's make prayer our priority as we navigate pursuing the Great Commission amid rapid change, and our "new normal."

God Is Still Speaking To America

God is still speaking to America.  Consider Prov. 25:4: “Remove the impurities from silver, and the sterling will be ready for the silversmith” (NLT).  American’s want to heal from COVID-19, but the evil that fuels the ongoing killing of unarmed black men, and other injustices are impurities that hinder our healing.  The ongoing violence toward black communities is an old demonic post-slavery strategy to make black people feel inferior, and expendable, to spread fear, and stop progress.  Sadly, many churches overtly, and some unknowingly perpetuate these racist values. Just as Holy Spirit-filled Christians spoke out, and fought against slavery, we too, with Holy Spirit power, must condemn and fight these anti-Christian values, and practice “one body, many members,” Christianity (I Cor. 12).
This weekend, I will discuss how improving our prayer lives will help us.  I will also discuss how good cops must pray and ask God to show them how to expose rogue cops, and stop the violence in American policing (go to Mtzionontario.com, scroll down, and click watch).

God Bless,
Pastor Brian E. Kennedy, Sr.

Continued Prayer / Monday Night

As we in the U.S. rapidly approach 100,000 reported deaths from COVID-19, please pray for grieving families.  Pray for people to respond to God speaking through COVID.  Pray for churches to effectively evangelize and disciple online, and in safe church re-openings.  Pray for church leaders to recognize clear signs from God in moving forward, just as the Children of Israel recognized the cloud over the tabernacle, as a sign to be still, or move forward (Num. 9:15-23). I believe the Lord will use the Monday Night Prayer meeting to reveal the sign for when Mt. Zion reopens, so that on that day, our celebration will not be eclipsed by safety concerns.  Will you join me in prayer meeting this Monday at 7:00 pm and let’s remain alert in prayer (go to mtzionontario.com, and click on Monday night prayer).

8th Week Update

Hello Everyone.

This is the 8th week since we started on-line services.  I know as each week
passes, our desire to see each other increases, but remember God's glory and
your safety is our priority.  Please be patient and pray for wisdom
regarding our re-opening date, and safe, "new normal" practices.  Until then let's stay connected through our online services, and rejoice over what God
is doing.  Monday night we had 87 people in prayer meeting.  All we need is
for you to join a prayer group at Mtzionontario.com for us to exceed 100
prayer warriors in prayer. A man from Cameroon, Africa joined Mt. Zion, and
a Lyft driver I met in Texas a couple years ago is also joining.

Mt. Zion was approved for the Payroll Protection Plan, and on this Saturday at 10:00 am, we will host a free zoom mental health workshop
(https://zoom.us/j/91550270509, Password: 430791).  Yes COVID-19 is strong, but our hope is in God's presence, power, and provision.  Join me in praying for God-sized intervention, during these troubling times (Eph. 3:20-21).

God Bless,

Pastor Brian E. Kennedy, Sr

Beautiful May Flowers

Beautiful May flowers and Mothers Day compliment each other.  We love our mother’s and especially pray for mothers who endure the devastation of having lost a child.  With confirmed cases of COVID-19 moving well past one million in the U.S., we will still celebrate special days, and yet continue safe practices.
This Sunday we will celebrate the Lords Supper online at 8:00 and 10:30 am (MtZionOntario.com, scroll down and click “watch”).  Obtain some bread and grape juice and let’s honor Jesus through our obedience.
I thank you for your ongoing financial support online, via the mail, and dropping off gifts on Sundays from 9:30 to 12:00 noon.
Because of your support our Helping Hands ministry is fully stocked with food and ready to help.
Together as a church, we can expand our online outreach with the gospel by everyone viewing and subscribing to the weekly Mt. Zion worship services on YouTube.

God Bless,
Pastor Brian E. Kennedy, Sr.

Faithful

Despite the political wrangling between the White House and Medical and Science professionals, with over 52,000 Americans dead, COVID-19, has proven to be deadly.
Moreover, with the confirmed cases of COVID-19 approaching one million in the United States, use God's wisdom and continue safe practices.  COVID-19 is still dangerous in the U.S.
As Pastor, I personally thank you for being faithful and generous in your giving during these difficult days.

We don't know when we will physically regather, but your giving is helping us maintain critical services, and constantly improve on keeping our children, youth, and adults connected throughout each week.

How is the drive up and drop off your offering from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm going?  Thanks to our Deacons it is safe, fulfilling for each giver, and a blessing to the church.
Today, prayerfully consider how you can give someone a timely word of encouragement.  It will bring great value to them like apples of Gold in settings of silver (Prov. 25:11).
I look forward to worshipping with you online tomorrow at 8:00 am and 10:30 am (go to MtZionOntario.com and click watch).

God Bless,
Pastor Brian E. Kennedy, Sr.

Safety In Jesus

As more people in the US are tested, unfortunately the over 687,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases will obviously increase.  Therefore, continue with best practices to stay safe.  Also hydrate (include hot fluids), exercise, rest, enjoy family, avoid isolation, help seniors and the vulnerable, complete your Census 2020 form to bring valuable resources to your area, pray for families in crisis, and for those serving at all levels during this pandemic.  Christian's, God is speaking through C.O.V.I.D-19, especially here in the U.S.  Let's pray, seek God's face, change our wicked ways, and watch our God work (II Chron. 7:14).

Mt. Zion will continue remote prayer, bible studies, worship services, and meetings until further notice. Moreover, in addition to our online giving options, the Sunday "drive-up and drop off" your offering at church from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm, will continue each Sunday.

This Sunday, I look forward to talking to you about safety in Jesus.  Be encouraged.

God Bless,
Pastor Brian E. Kennedy, Sr.

Pray, Pray, Pray

Pray, Pray, Pray 

A dear brother and friend, Pastor Clint Cobbins, died from COVID-19 during the week ending March 28, 2020.
He, among other Pastors, help lead our ministry efforts in Holmes County, Mississippi.
A front line soldier committed to winning people for Jesus, and helping them grow is missing from our ranks, and his wife, family, Life Changing Ministries COGIC, the community, and we in Cali, have hurting hearts (I Cor. 12:26).
As COVID-19 currently makes its way throughout the US, we have more people dying than recovering.
Saints of God, please continue with best practices, and pray for those fighting to recover from COVID-19, and for those who lost loved ones from COVID-19. 
Pray for those dealing with other health challenges.
Pray for our first responders, doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals, as they serve under enormous pressure, and with limited resources.
On Sunday, we will continue our online services at 8:00am, and 10:30 am., as we discuss Coping with COVID.  
You can go to MtZionOntario.com, scroll to bottom, and click watch.

We will also stream Instagram and Facebook live at 8:00 am.

God Bless,
Pastor Brian E. Kennedy, Sr.

Connecting to the Early Church

Connecting to the Early Church.

The early church modeled numerous practices that resulted in growth. One of those practices was connectivity. They met regularly in the temple and in homes (Acts 2:42-47).
As we stay at home this Saturday and Sunday because of COVID-19, join us for worship on our Youtube channel at 8:00 am and 10:30 am for a message on Coping with COVID.
Our physical gatherings are canceled until April 6.
Please keep Veronica Haynes and her family in prayer (her moms service is tomorrow at 3:00 pm at Rose Hills Cemetery, in Whittier).  

God Bless,

Brian E. Kennedy, Sr.
Senior Pastor

What Are Christians Leaders Doing?

What Are Christians Leaders Doing?

Christian leaders responsible for millions of families internationally are committed to the effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. At Mt Zion, we too are committed to these efforts. Hence, as we plan our worship experience this weekend, you can expect the following:

1. Seating space spread out in the sanctuary to a limit of 250, or a healthy distance.

2. Worship services presented on screens in the Mt Zion Cafe, and in classrooms next to the sanctuary.

3. Lysol disinfectants used in our meeting areas.

4. Our continuing emphasis on preventative practices (washing hands, keeping hands out of face, avoiding direct flow of coughs and sneezes, stay hydrated with healthy fluids, get rest, exercise, and stay home if you are sick).

5. Our ongoing love for people who choose to not hug right now.

6. A sermon to help us better understand COVID-19, and how prayer power will make a difference.

7. Services available on YouTube at 10:30 am

8. Our commitment to not operate out of fear, but wisdom, collaboration with credible medical and disease control experts, and increasing faith in our God, all with a view to help others.

God is still in control, and He will guide us through this crisis as He done throughout history (Psalm 91).

God Bless,
Pastor Brian E. Kennedy, Sr.

Let’s Cry out to God?

Let’s Cry out to God?

With COVID-19 running its course, Christians, as we gather in various settings, we too must implement best practices (wash hands frequently, avoid hands in face, hydrate with healthy fluids, get rest, exercise, disinfect our gathering environments, avoid the direct line of coughing and sneezing, stay home if sick, and don’t be offended if some don’t hug during this time).
Clearly God is speaking. The question is what is God saying? Among other things, God is saying to the church: Emulate Jesus and fill our message of hope with His love and honesty (John 1:14). As we deal with COVID-19, which is beyond our control, let’s cry out to God for divine intervention, a closer walk with Him, and boldness to lovingly share Jesus with non-Christians.
God Bless,

Pastor Brian E. Kennedy, Sr.

What Does Jesus See When You Give?

What Does Jesus See When You Give?

One day Jesus watched people give their offerings in the temple. When He saw a widow give two small copper coins, he commented that she gave more than everyone else because they give out of their surplus, but she gave all she owned, and all she had to live on (Mark 12:42–44).
What does Jesus see when you give in church, and to kingdom causes? Does He see you giving a tip, or giving generously.
Christian’s, pray before you give in person, online, or through the mail. Ask God to help you be obedient, joyful, and generous in your giving (II Corinthians 9:6-8).

God Bless,
Pastor Brian E. Kennedy, Sr.

Are you Voting?

Are you Voting?

February 3, 2020, marked 150 years since the 15th amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1870, which allowed Black men to vote. After that, three other voting related amendments were made to the constitution, and the Voting Rights Act was passed in 1965, so that all Americans, 18 and above can vote without discriminatory practices.
This Sunday 2/23/2020, at 3:00 pm, Mt. Zion Church of Ontario, is celebrating the enormous progress made in our country, with a view to pursuing future opportunities. Our speaker is Dr. Gilbert Holmes, Dean Emeritus at the University of La Verne College of Law.‬
‪Christians, let’s pause to praise God for progress, and trust Him to guide us forward today, and into the future (Prov. 3:5-6).‬

‪God Bless,‬
Pastor Brian Kennedy Sr.

Well Done!

Well Done!

The parable of the talents in Matt. 25:14-30, describe how Jesus entrust His resources to us to grow His kingdom interest.  Jesus charges us to share the gospel to increase the number of people with a love relationship with God (His kingdom interest). Hence, the “talents” can represent something valuable like the gospel and not just money.  Jesus gives each of us some of His resources (“talents”) according to our ability (not more and not less than we are capable).
We need not compare our resources from Jesus with what others have or don’t have.  We simply need to take what He gives us and grow His kingdom interest.
Here is the challenge.  Jesus will personally meet with us regarding His expectations because He wants to reward us for our faithfulness (Matt. 25:19-23).
Don’t be lazy and unfaithful like the servant who buried his opportunities.

Christian’s, be productive today with the Lord’s resources, grow His kingdom interest, and listen for those soothing words: “well done, My good and faithful servant.”

God Bless,
Pastor Brian E. Kennedy, Sr.

The Corona Virus:

The Corona Virus:

Hello Everyone:
The Corona Virus, like any other virus is serious and we should take precautions to reduce our risk of getting sick.

After speaking to a couple medical professionals, I learned that you can reduce your risk by washing your hands several times throughout the day (especially after being in public places, touching handrails, shopping carts, door knobs, etc).
Avoid putting your hands in your eyes, or in your mouth.
Avoid being in the direct path of someone sneezing or coughing.
Drink plenty of water, eat healthy, exercise, reduce your stress, and get plenty of rest.
Use God’s wisdom.

God Bless,

Pastor Brian E Kennedy, Sr

Connectivity

Connectivity

We spend a lot of time and energy  connecting with “key players” for landing that dream job, or big client, getting an offensive or defensive advantage, etc.
Some are connecting to the material things in the universe.
Some are wondering through life trying to find purpose in a variety of connections.
Connectivity was created by God.  God created us, to connect with Him, each other, and His creation (Gen. 1:26-31).
Today, Jesus, the risen Christ stands ready to connect us to a meaningful, and eternal relationship with God, The Creator (John 10:10; 14:6).
By putting your faith in Jesus (Rom. 10:9-10), you will begin the ultimate connection.
Get to a bible teaching church to get guidance on your journey.  Connect!

God Bless,

Pastor Brian E. Kennedy, Sr.

A Tribute to Kobe:

At the end of our 1/26/2020, worship service, we were preparing to dedicate baby Ratliff, to the Lord, then we received news that Kobe Bryant died in a helicopter crash.
We later learned, that Kobe and his 13 year old daughter, Gianna, along with the baseball coach at Orange Coast College, John Altobelli, his wife Keri, and daughter Alyssa, and Gianna’ teammate, Payton, and her mother Sara Chester, and the pilot, Ara Zobayan, and the girls’ assistant coach, Christina Mauser, died in that crash (9 people).
All five families, and endless members of the community connected to them, are devastated and feeling the huge void from this tragedy.  From this tragedy we all stand in the need of prayer.
In regards to Kobe, his wife and other children, the entire nation, and supporters in other countries, are mourning the loss of this quiet, yet gigantic national leader.
Kobe, taught us how to let our work ethic in our preparation, and our performance speak louder than our words.
Today, as we leave our family members, and friends, let’s leave loving impressions in their hearts (a kiss, a hug, a kind note, a good deed, words that express our care for them, etc.) just in case today is our last day with them here on earth.

God Bless,
Pastor Brian E. Kennedy, Sr.

Our Dirt in the Church

Ministry is not always a bed of roses.  We are people, and people happen to people wherever people are, because we are people.  We come to God broken and in need, and He does not give us an holy beat down, but gives us His unconditional mercy and grace (Eph. 2:1-9).  Then God expects us to do good (Eph. 2:10; Matt. 28:18-20).  God knows we are people and gives us Jesus as our Constant Cleansing Agent (I John 1:8-2:2).  God also gives us great examples and principles regarding dealing with our dirt in the church.  Yes, some Christians bring heathen practices into church.  When that happens we use God’s redemptive methods designed to restore them.  Let’s talk about it over the next two weeks during our weekend worship services.  You can also catch us on YouTube.  Mt Zion Church of Ontario.

God Bless,
Pastor Brian E. Kennedy Sr.

The Kingdom People

The Beatitudes in Matt. 5:5-12, are clear practices that mark us as “the kingdom people,” irrespective of our skin color, birthplace, economic status, or the people we know, or don’t know.
This powerful eternal status, starts with the right heart before God.  God, my heart condition cast me into utter spiritual poverty before You. I am “poor in spirit,” I am starving for You, and I need Your divine supply (v 5). God, I feel bad about what my heart led me to do.  I am “mourning,” I am crying about it (v. 6).
It is this feeling of remorse, this contrite heart, that gets God’s attention and moves Him to turn our sorrow into joy and happiness.
Each beatitude is prefaced by:  Oh how happy! Oh how fulfilling!  Oh how well off.  Oh how excited are you: then you read the verse and practice what Jesus said.

Christians, Jesus is really telling us to enjoy our lives as “The Kingdom People.”

God Bless,
Pastor Brian E. Kennedy, Sr.

Just Do Right!

God said: “He who walks in integrity walks securely, But he who perverts his ways will be found out” (Prov. 10:9).
At the annual World Vision Pastor’s Gathering, I heard an insightful panel discussion about justice and racial reconciliation in the church.  Chi Chi Okwu, Jenny Potter, and Austin Brown, powerfully articulated how we don’t need more of the “let’s be friend’s” approach to racial reconciliation, but we need to acknowledge our systemic racist practices, and do things that reflect anti-racism in the church by pursuing justice.  Help the underfunded school, show mercy and loving acts in communities living with fear, poverty, and under-representation.  We need to practice what Jesus said in Matt. 25:34-40, regarding the hungry, thirsty, strangers, naked, sick, and prisoners.
May I add, this type of ministry naturally opens the door for the gospel to go forth with power.
Christians, this is a matter of integrity; it is just doing what is right before God.

God Bless,
Pastor Brian E. Kennedy, Sr.

Replace the Old with the New!

Replace the Old with the New!

Once you become a Christian you get to experience new things.  The old things are past away (the old bad habits, negative beliefs, leaving God out and doing your own thing, etc), and new things have come (II Corinthians. 5:17).
Are you “sick and tired of being sick and tired” of the same old stuff dragging you down, depressing you, and leaving a trail of disappointment?
This is a new year, replace your “old life“ practices with “new life” practices, one at a time.
For instance: ask God to remove the taste of drugs and or alcohol out of your mouth, and every time you get an urge, drink water and pray.
Ask God to clean up your language, and before you cuss, quote your favorite bible verse and pray.
Instead of making excuses for not attending church, start worshipping God and praying at home, and then get ready for church, and bring worship and prayer with you.
You will have to fight for your “new life” practices, but if you eliminate one “old life” practice at a time, by the end of this year, you will rejoice over numerous victories vs. being depressed again over the agony of defeat.
Christians, replace the old with the new!

God Bless,
Pastor Brian E. Kennedy, Sr.