December 31, 2016

Dear LABC,
This last day of the year brings the sad news from Australia that former Oakland First Baptist Pastor, former Pacific Coast Baptist Association Minister, and current LABC Member, Maxwell Vines, died on December 30. Many of us are the better for his caring and able ministry. Prayers for his family and friends as they remember him.
Prayers also for Carol Travis who is in Dallas caring for her brother, Chris, as he recuperates from a heart attack.
I look forward to seeing you at church tomorrow and invite you to join in the Service of the Crosses this afternoon at St. Columba’s Church  on San Pablo Avenue at 3:00 as the people of Oakland remember our sisters and brothers who were victims of homicide in the year gone and lay claim to the hope for the year to come that is ours as children of the living God.
Jim H.

“The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.” (Numbers 6:24-27)