Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Abilities’ Buzz – Tuesday, 31 December 2013

Abilities’ Buzz – Tuesday, 31 December 2013
We at Abilities Expo hope that you are having a wonderful holiday season and that you are looking forward to our 2014 line-up of events as much as we are! Our Los Angeles show will take place February 28 – March 2 followed closely by our Atlanta event on March 14 – 16, 2014. It's never too early to pre-register at no charge!
In the meantime, enjoy the buzz and the exciting details of Angela Madsen's Pacific Ocean row and a new form of self-defense. You'll also learn about the ADA Legacy Project, how you can help fix our broken system and more!
At each of our shows, it is our goal to provide as many products and services as possible for ALL disabilities. If there is a particular product or company that is not represented at our events and you feel it should be, please let us know!   
Angela Madsen vs. the Pacific Ocean
By Angela Madsen, Paralympian and Guinness World Record Holder for Rowing
Meet Angela at the Los Angeles Abilities Expo, February 28 – March 2, 2014.
I am often asked, "Aren't you afraid" and "Do you have fears about whether you will be able to make such a journey?" YOU BET! I have fears and doubts every time I set out to row an ocean. The prospect of rowing for months by myself the more than 2,300 miles from Santa Cruz, California to Hawaii was certainly no different. Paul with President Obama
Fear and doubt is a big part of what motivates me to try, and is normal. It helps drive me to succeed and makes me train and prepare to accomplish what most people consider impossible. I fear failure, but am not afraid to do extremely difficult things. I'll make a 110% effort for a chance at either succeeding or failing while being scared s**tless the entire time.
Angela Madsen leaving port.Most people consider what I do crazy. I get it. The concept of one person experiencing the harsh life at sea for so much time is difficult for people to grasp, let alone when that person is a paraplegic with rods in her back. The voyage to Hawaii would be my first solo row which would make it the most difficult physical and mental challenge since my hospitalization and surgeries.
Though I did not reach my destination this time, I haven't failed. This is just a speed bump and there will be a restart. Here is the story…
On the evening of June 9, 2013, I made my way out of the Santa Cruz Channel on my boat, Spirit of Orlando, at 5:45 pm with only mild onshore NW winds and a relatively flat sea. I was escorted out to the 1 mile buoy by the Harbor Patrol and the Coast Guard.
Angela Madsen at sea.  Dolphin in the distance.>
<p>When  experts describe the wind, they use the direction it is blowing from, so NW  winds flow SE. The NOAA weather channel on my VHF radio described this new low  pressure system of Gale-Force 2 wind and issued small craft advisories. As  promised the NW winds had reached 25 knots with 33-39 knot gusts. The seas were  at about 15 feet with an additional 4-5 foot wind swell so sets topped off  about 20-25 feet. I remained on sea anchor all day and another night and  continued to experience challenges in the following days </p>
<p>Hoping  for a change in the weather, I turned on the VHF and listened to the new  forecasts of Gale-Force 4 winds for my location and heavy seas. Twice as big  and bad as what I had been battling for the previous five days for the next  five days. This meant that I would not be able to row on to Hawaii or to make  it safely back to California due to the extreme weather that was coming my way.  Staying on the boat would jeopardize me and anyone who may have to be involved  in a last minute rescue. I called the Coast Guard to apprise them of my  situation and ask for their recommendation, and then we coordinated rescue from  that point forward. I was at sea from 5:45 pm on June 9 until 3:45 am on June  17, when <em>Spirit of Orlando</em> was left adrift. I rowed a total of 172  miles. My boat was recovered by a long range fishing boat named Old Glory off  of San Diego. I remain on standby to try again in May/June of 2014. </p><p><em>Follow my  adventures online and view pictures, video and blogs of past and present  projects at </em><a href=The seas and winds remained calm through the night and the sky was clear enough to see many stars. I rowed all through the night making about 26 miles and rowed through the morning. The winds were increasing so I put out my parachute anchor at 1 pm to take a two hour nap. Some playful sea lions had collapsed my para anchor and were playing ball with the buoy. They saw me come out of the cabin and stopped first looking at each other, then at me and then at each other again like mischievous children. I retrieved my para anchor and continued rowing increasing my distance from land and making the most miles west I would see the entire row.
The weather changed to Gale-Force 2 winds and, when it became un-rowable, I reset the parachute anchor. I thought about the day's events and all of the marine life I had seen in just one day of rowing. It began with the sea lions and a killer whale charging toward my boat a short time later, followed by many dolphins. Then as I was rowing, a blue whale and her calf surfaced right beside my boat. Not too long after that, I was charged by more killer whales. My previous encounters with them did not diminish the fear I felt watching them get closer. The interesting-looking jellyfish I saw floating by made me think of Diane Nyad, who swims oceans and has encounters with jellyfish. To top it all off, I was also visited by many sharks.
http://www.Rowoflife.com or on Facebook.
Product Spotlight: ABR Canada Advanced Biomechanical Rehabilitation
ABR Canada will be exhibiting at all 2014 Abilities Expos.
With ABR Canada Advanced Biomechanical Rehabilitation, we enter a new dimension in the treatment of mild to severe motor dysfunctions.
To date, most of the accepted treatment methodology has been to address the functional training of an individual with, for example, cerebral palsy. ABR takes a different tack. This rehabilitation program first targets the musculoskeletal system, arguing that this must be normalized before optimal function can hope to be achieved.
Though the brain injury may appear to be the culprit, ABR recognizes that a structurally distorted musculoskeletal system will be incapable of proper motor function regardless of the quality of the signals it is receiving from the brain. The ABR technique provides gradual unit-by-unit recovery through the meticulous analysis of the muscular skeletal structure and biomechanics.
One of the keys is in the fascia, the structure of densely woven connective tissue that surrounds and interpenetrates every muscle, bone, nerve, artery, vein, all internal organs, the spinal cord and the brain. The high-density of collagen fibers is what gives the deep fascia its strength and integrity. Recent research shows that what holds our body together is not the skeleton but, rather, this incredibly strong network of collagen fibers. While brain injury weakens this fascia, ABR—using mechanical stimulation—provides a non-invasive way to strengthen it.
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Hands-on compression techniques meticulously and consistently administered by parents or caregivers gradually build the child's strength through the absorption of kinetic energy delivered by the parent's compression movement. Therapy techniques incorporate the use of towels, soft balls, etc. and largely characterized by quasi-static—or extremely slow—movement. A casual observer may not be able to discern any movement at all.
ABR Canada Advanced Biomechanical Rehabilitation
Tijana Foley, mother of Luka who has moderate hemiplegia of the right side, said, "We went to ABR in June 2002 (Luka was 18 months) and after 80 hours of therapy he started crawling (first commando style, then properly) and after 120 hours he started walking! His neck extended visibly, and his body shape changed. When we went to the hospital for a regular yearly check up, the pediatrician could not believe his eyes. He said that from the notes he had, the last thing he expected to see was a child walking, talking, opening the door and saying bye."
"ABR just makes sense for our daughter, Ruby, who has cerebral palsy," commented another mother. "We tried other therapies before we found ABR but we didn't see any positive results. ABR has changed her body so many great ways; we know ABR will continue to normalize her muscle volume and tone, giving her body more strength and function as a result."
The ABR training program is specifically customized to the individual with the disability. The first steps include generating a video of your loved one for pre-evaluation. Parents and caregivers who elect to continue are trained in one of the seven locations in North or South America, and return periodically so that the ABR staff may assess their progress and adjust their treatment.
For more information, visit www.abrcanada.com.
Criptaedo Inspires Confidence and Independence
By Paul Brailer, Criptaedo
Criptaedo will be featured at the Chicago Abilities Expo, June 27-29, 2014.
My name is Paul Brailer. I am a black-belt from the Art of Karate in Barberton, Ohio and the creator of Criptaedo, a new martial art designed to educate the community of people with disabilities on self-defense and fitness.
I haven't always had high self-esteem and confidence. Being born with spina-bifida, growing up was difficult. I had kids picking on me and doctors, teachers and caregivers discouraging me from new experiences or anything that they perceived would hurt me. This led to a low self-esteem and self-image which followed me into adulthood.
Men practicing criptaedo.
As an adult, I looked for the approval of others. When I reached my 30s, I lost a few of my friends from poor health in a short amount of time. Another two of my friends were mugged. This got me thinking…how could I stay active and healthy and be able to defend myself if I had to? Then one day, a chance meeting changed everything.
I was at a local hamburger station and I saw a lady named Heidi wearing an Art of Karate T-shirt. We started talking and she didn't assume that my disability meant I couldn't do karate, which was a BIG self-esteem boost. She invited me to the school to watch a class. I signed up and 4 years later, I am the first person in the school born with a disability that achieved black-belt!
I had to modify what the instructors were teaching the ambulatory students to fit my abilities. For example: for a front kick, I do a palm-heel strike and for a round-house kick, I use an elbow-strike.
Men practicing criptaedo.
My skills have had gone through real-life trials as well. Instead of being a victim of a mugging attack, I was able to defend myself. My assailant, probably realizing I was not the easy target he assumed, fled the scene. But he left me with a desire to teach these skills to others.
In the summer of 2012, two of my friends—Jaret and Tony—and I started talking about self-defense for people with disabilities. I, jokingly, said we should call it Criptaedo. They liked it and so the name stuck. Jaret now runs the technical side of Criptaedo and Tony is one of the instructors.
Since then we have done numerous speaking engagements with demonstrations, have been to subject of multiple articles and have produced instructional You-Tube videos like the following. In October of 2013, Criptaedo became a non-profit 501c3 organization.
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In 2014, we are excited to begin physical self-defense classes and are looking forward to demonstrating at the Chicago Abilities Expo. Martial Arts has improved my self-esteem and self-image. It is not yet where I would like it to be, but it's not where it was. Visit us on the web at www.criptaedo.com, on Facebook and Twitter. Criptaedo is available for your events for an honorable honorarium. To find out more, contact us at Paul@criptaedo.com.
ADA Legacy Project Sets the Stage for the ADA's 25th Birthday
by Kristen Vincent, ADA Legacy Project
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will turn twenty-five in 2015. As with any anniversary, this will cause many of us to reflect on our history, consider the present and think ahead to the future. That is what the ADA Legacy Project is all about.
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Founded in August 2012 by a group that included disability rights advocates, scholars, historians, museum curators, documentary filmmakers, government agency representatives, and others, The ADA Legacy Project has three goals:
Preserving our past by partnering with those who work to collect, promote  and exhibit materials from the disability rights movement.
Celebrating our present by partnering with those who work to honor the milestones and accomplishments of the disability rights movement, including the 25th anniversary of passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 2015.
Educating our future by partnering with those who work to raise awareness of the history, contributions, and issues still facing people with disabilities, developing our next generation of advocates.
Civil rights for everyone.  Man carries US flag with wheelchair users behind him.
Preservation, celebration and education: this is how we will honor this historic civil rights legislation and create its legacy—a world in which every citizen is accepted for who they are.
The disability community is a thriving network of individuals and organizations who are actively involved in many of these initiatives. As such, the role of The ADA Legacy Project is simply to connect, coordinate and communicate these efforts. In other words, we will serve as a clearinghouse.
As a clearinghouse our focus is on developing partnerships with those individuals and organizations who are working to preserve, celebrate and educate. For example:
For Preservation, we are partners with:
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights, a 42,000 square foot facility that plans to open May 22, 2014. The Center is dedicated to exploring stories of civil and human rights throughout the world. The ADA Legacy Project has provided content on disability rights, and is working with the Center to develop expanded exhibits on disability rights in 2015 to correspond with the 25th anniversary of passage of the ADA.
For Celebration, we are partners with:
Abilities Expo, which is providing space for a traveling ADA Legacy Tour exhibit that will feature historical materials, workshops and opportunities to get involved at the local level. The Tour will launch during the Expo's July 2014 Houston stop and continue through the Expo's Chicago show in 2015. Between Expo shows, the ADA Legacy Tour will also travel to other cities.
The National Council on Independent Living, who is planning an event to celebrate the ADA25 in 2015 in Washington, DC.
The ADA National Network, which is expanding its online tool kit to offer ways for communities to celebrate ADA25.
Beacon Press and Lennard Davis, who are working to develop a book on the ADA's 25th anniversary.
For Education, we are partners with:
The Society for Disability Studies, which is developing conferences content surrounding the history and future of the ADA.
Disability Studies Quarterly, edited by Richard Scotch, which will develop a special commemorative issue on the past, present, and future of the ADA.
The Smithsonian Institution, which is expanding its online curriculum on the ADA.
The National Disability Leadership Alliance, which is creating a list of policy initiatives for Congress to address by 2015.
Wheelchair users with flag.
To learn more about The ADA Legacy Project, the ADA Legacy Tour, and our partners, we invite you to visit our website: www.adalegacy.com.
The ADA Legacy Project is overseen by a national Coordinating Council. Its work is accomplished by work groups with the assistance of one part-time staff member. If you would like to get involved or become a partner, please contact Coordinator Kristen Vincent at kristen@adalegacy.com.
The ADA Legacy Project also needs your financial support. Let us know if you or your organization would like to be a Sponsor or Champion. You can also make a donation through our 25/25 Legacy Network. You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter.
A Broken System Makes It Hard to Get the Right Wheelchair
by Ann Eubank, UsersFirst
I attend every Abilities Expo because it is the number one expo for people with disabilities and people who love people with disabilities.
They have everything there: accessible vans and cars, the latest styles of wheelchairs, very cool accessories and lots of non-profit organizations offering advice and connection. If you can get there, do it.
What I do: I focus on helping people get the best wheelchair possible to meet medical needs AND lifestyle needs. I fight the system (Medicare, Medicaid and private insurances) to urge them to make policies that allow people to get the equipment that allows them to live the lives they choose.
I work for a disability organization with a strong presence in Washington, D.C. That means our voices have a direct link to the policy makers in D.C.
Paul with President Obama
Of the thousands of people who attend the Abilities Expo each year, I believe 99.9% would want to register with me (UsersFirst) to be counted as someone who believes we should have access to good wheelchairs. With every registration we gain strength.
With a big list we can let insurance companies know there are thousands of people who care that Americans have access to a chair that works in their lives.
When I say a good wheelchair I mean one that can be adjusted to your specific measurements and meets your functional needs. It might be a lightweight manual wheelchair that is easier to push and therefore protects your hands and your shoulders. It might be a power wheelchair that has the ability to tilt so you can get the pressure off your behind independently which dramatically decreases the risk of a pressure wound.
Oh, the insurance company might approve a wheelchair, but it may look like a substandard airport transport chair. A chair that leaves you struggling like a turtle on its back.
It would seem logical that insurance companies would want us to be as independent and healthy as possible. Bottom line: when we are healthy and independent we cost less to the insurance company.
Ki Catalyst shown with access denied stamp
But, that's not the way it works.
It's getting more and more difficult to get a wheelchair that meets our medical and functional needs. This results in too many people trapped at home, unable to pursue employment because the wheelchair does not travel well, or sick because the chair doesn't tilt back, or in bed because they got a substandard cushion and now have a wound.
What we are doing: With our strength in numbers we are able to confront insurance companies and ask why their policies limit access to wheelchairs. With our strength in numbers we can send lots of emails to members of congress asking them to change a policy. With our strength in numbers, our voices are loud enough to be heard.
What we know: If we don't unite our voices and speak out, no change happens.
Insurance companies make arbitrary and discriminatory guidelines that deny us independence.
What you can do:
1. Be counted and register with UsersFirst (we DO NOT Spam).
2. Use the Mobility Map to navigate the process of getting a wheelchair.
3. Follow us on Facebook (that's where the fun stuff happens).
4. Tell your network to register with UsersFirst and follow us on FB.
What we will do: We will only email you to keep you informed of policies that affect the lives of wheelchair users. Every now and again you will receive an email from me giving you the opportunity to tell your congressional representatives your opinion.
Let's see what we can change together.                          
Dancers Wanted!
AXIS Dance Company is auditioning for Apprentices & Company Members with Disabilities
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AXIS Dance Company is seeking highly motivated, open-minded, athletic movers with disabilities interested in joining our team as company dancer and/or dance apprentice. Must have:
• Strong Movement, Improvisation, Partnering Skills
• Stage speaking skills
• Passion for physically integrated dance
• Genuine interest in dance education and teaching
About the Company & Position:
AXIS is a dynamic contemporary dance company comprised of dancers with and without physical disabilities that has been active in the Bay Area, nationally, and internationally since 1987. Our award winning repertory includes works by internationally renowned choreographers Bill T Jones, David Dorfman. Ann Carlson, Sonya Delwaide, Joe Goode, Alex Ketley, Victoria Marks, Stephen Petronio, Margaret Jenkins and AXIS company members.
Axis Dance Performance
Our eclectic dance vocabulary results in a repertory spanning risky and dynamic partnering work; quirky and humorous dance theater pieces; and lush, formal ensemble work. AXIS also maintains an extensive dance education program Dance Access and a youth component Dance Access/KIDS! All AXIS dancers participate in youth performances, assembly programs and teaching youth and adults of all abilities. AXIS dancers also serve as ambassadors for AXIS' mission and work at home and on tour.
Axis Dance Performance
Upcoming projects for 2014 include a new work by UK choreographer Marc Brew as well as understudying roles in other repertory work. AXIS creates, performs and teaches year-round locally and throughout the US. Rehearsals are three to five times a week.
Axis Dance Performance
AXIS provides a competitive salary, healthcare, as well as monthly stipends for professional development and transportation. Contract start date TBD and requires a minimum commitment through 2015.
About the Audition:
In order to be invited to attend audition, you must apply at www.axisdance.org/apply or submit your resume with YouTube or Vimeo links by January 5, 2014 to:
Judith Smith, Artistic Director
AXIS Dance Company
1428 Alice St. Suite 200
Oakland, CA 94612
judy@axisdance.org
510-625-0110
The audition will take place:
Saturday, January 11, 2014, 11-5pm*
1428 Alice St., Oakland, CA
It will be 3-5 hours and consist of a warm up, repertory, improvisation, and partnering. Dancers may be asked back for additional audition or time with Company.
Questions? Contact Artistic Director, Judy Smith: judy@axisdance.org
*AXIS is not responsible for arranging or contributing to any cost related to transportation to audition.
Upcoming Expos
Los Angeles
Feb. 28-Mar. 2, 2014
Los Angeles Convention Center
Atlanta
March 14-16, 2014
Georgia World Congress Center
New York Metro
May 2-4, 2014
New Jersey Convention & Expo Center
Chicago
June 27-29, 2014
Schaumburg Convention Center
Houston
July 25-27, 2014
Reliant Center
Boston
September 5-7, 2014
Boston Convention and Exhibition Center
Bay Area
November 21-23, 2014
San Jose Convention Center
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Copyright (c) 2012 Abilities Expo, Inc. All rights reserved.
Abilities Expo
2601 Ocean Park Blvd., Suite 200
Santa Monica, CA 90405 United States

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Saint Mark’s United Methodist Church in San Diego’s Newsletter – Tuesday, 31 December 2013 – The Messenger

Saint Mark’s United Methodist Church in San Diego’s Newsletter – Tuesday, 31 December 2013 – The Messenger
"You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream."(C.S. Lewis)
In This Messenger:
Membership
Food Collection
Save the Date
January Concert
Join Our Mailing List
The newsletter can also be found on our website.
St. Mark's: Facebook
Find daily meditations, photos, conversations, and more.  Just click on the above link.
Pastors Sunday School
We will study the lectionary texts, which follow the church calendar.  It's an informal study, always open to all, at 8:30 a.m. in the New Room, just behind the church office.
Below are the lectionary reading for this week:
Isaiah The Futility of Reliance on Egypt
30: Oh, rebellious children, says the Lord,
who carry out a plan, but not mine;
who make an alliance, but against my will,
    adding sin to sin;
2 who set out to go down to Egypt
    without asking for my counsel,
to take refuge in the protection of Pharaoh,
    and to seek shelter in the shadow of Egypt;
3 Therefore the protection of Pharaoh shall become your shame,
    and the shelter in the shadow of Egypt your humiliation.
4 For though his officials are at Zoan
    and his envoys reach Hanes,
5 everyone comes to shame
    through a people that cannot profit them,
that brings neither help nor profit,
    but shame and disgrace.
6 An oracle concerning the animals of the Negeb.
Through a land of trouble and distress,
    of lioness and roaring[a] lion,
    of viper and flying serpent,
they carry their riches on the backs of donkeys,
    and their treasures on the humps of camels,
    to a people that cannot profit them.
Footnotes:
a. Isaiah 30:6 Cn: Heb from them
Psalm 72: Prayer for Guidance and Support for the King
Of Solomon.
1 Give the king your justice, O God,
    and your righteousness to a king’s son.
2 May he judge your people with righteousness,
    and your poor with justice.
3 May the mountains yield prosperity for the people,
    and the hills, in righteousness.
4 May he defend the cause of the poor of the people,
    give deliverance to the needy,
    and crush the oppressor.
5 May he live[a] while the sun endures,
    and as long as the moon, throughout all generations.
6 May he be like rain that falls on the mown grass,
    like showers that water the earth.
7 In his days may righteousness flourish
    and peace abound, until the moon is no more.
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 72:5 Gk: Heb may they fear you
10 May the kings of Tarshish and of the isles
    render him tribute,
may the kings of Sheba and Seba
    bring gifts.
11 May all kings fall down before him,
    all nations give him service.
12 For he delivers the needy when they call,
    the poor and those who have no helper.
13 He has pity on the weak and the needy,
    and saves the lives of the needy.
14 From oppression and violence he redeems their life;
    and precious is their blood in his sight.
Ephesians 3: Paul’s Ministry to the Gentiles
1 This is the reason that I Paul am a prisoner for[a] Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles— 2 for surely you have already heard of the commission of God’s grace that was given me for you, 3 and how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I wrote above in a few words, 4 a reading of which will enable you to perceive my understanding of the mystery of Christ. 5 In former generations this mystery[b] was not made known to humankind, as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit: 6 that is, the Gentiles have become fellow heirs, members of the same body, and sharers in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.
7 Of this gospel I have become a servant according to the gift of God’s grace that was given me by the working of his power. 8 Although I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given to me to bring to the Gentiles the news of the boundless riches of Christ, 9 and to make everyone see[c] what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in[d] God who created all things; 10 so that through the church the wisdom of God in its rich variety might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. 11 This was in accordance with the eternal purpose that he has carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have access to God in boldness and confidence through faith in him.[e]
Footnotes:
a. Ephesians 3:1 Or of
b. Ephesians 3:5 Gk it
c. Ephesians 3:9 Other ancient authorities read to bring to light
d. Ephesians 3:9 Or by
e. Ephesians 3:12 Or the faith of him
Matthew The Visit of the Wise Men
2: In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men[a] from the East came to Jerusalem, 2 asking, “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising,[b] and have come to pay him homage.” 3 When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah[c] was to be born. 5 They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet:
6 ‘And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
    are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for from you shall come a ruler
    who is to shepherd[d] my people Israel.’”
7 Then Herod secretly called for the wise men[e] and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared. 8 Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage.” 9 When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising,[f] until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw that the star had stopped,[g] they were overwhelmed with joy. 11 On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.
Footnotes:
a. Matthew 2:1 Or astrologers; Gk magi
b. Matthew 2:2 Or in the East
c. Matthew 2:4 Or the Christ
d. Matthew 2:6 Or rule
e. Matthew 2:7 Or astrologers; Gk magi
f. Matthew 2:9 Or in the East
g. Matthew 2:10 Gk saw the star
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John Wesley’s Notes-Commentary
Isaiah 30:1-6
XXX The prophet threatens the people for their confidence in Egypt, ver. 1-7. And contempt of God's word, ver. 8-11. Wherefore they shall be destroyed, ver. 12-17. God's mercies towards the church, ver. 18-26. God's wrath and the peoples joy in the destruction of Assyria, ver. 27-33.
Verse 1. The rebellious - The Jews. Take counsel - That consult together. Cover - That seek protection. But not - Not such as by my spirit, speaking in my word, I have required them to do. That they may add - That unto all their sins, they may add distrust of my power and mercy, and put confidence in an arm of flesh.
Verse 2. Asked - Either by the priests or prophets.
Verse 4. His princes - The princes of Judah. Hanes - An eminent city of Egypt.
Verse 5. They - Both the messengers, and they who sent them.
Verse 6. The burden - The treasures, which were carried upon asses or camels, into Egypt, which lay southward from Judea. The land of trouble - Egypt, so called prophetically. From whence - This may be understood properly, but withal, seems to design the craft and cruelty of that people. They - The Jews. Their riches - To procure their assistance. Bunches - Upon the backs.
Psalm 72:1-7,10-14
PS 72 Divers passages of this psalm, do not agree to Solomon, nor to any other king but the Messiah. It must therefore be acknowledged, that, this is a mixt psalm, belonging to Solomon imperfectly, but to Christ, clearly and fully: diverse expressions being so ordered, that the reader might be led by them to the contemplation of Christ, and of his kingdom. Which was the more necessary for the support of God's true Israel, because the spirit of God foresaw Solomon's dreadful apostacy, and the great miscarriages and calamities of his successors, and of the kingdom under their hands, and therefore was pleased to fortify their hearts with that glorious condition, which they should certainly enjoy under the Messiah. It is probable, David dictated this psalm, a little before he died, when he gave orders to proclaim Solomon king. After a short prayer for his successor, he foretells the glories of his reign, ver. 1-17. And concludes with praise to the God of Israel, ver. 18-20. A psalm for Solomon.
Verse 1. Judgments - He saith judgments in the plural number, because though the office of judging and ruling was but one, yet there were divers parts and branches, of it; in all which he begs that Solomon may be directed to do as God would have him to do.
Verse 2. Thy afflicted ones - For such are thine in a special manner, thou art their judge and patron.
Verse 3. The mountains - Which are so dangerous to passengers, in regard of robbers and wild beasts. Hereby it is implied, that other places should do so too, and that it should be common and universal.
Verse 4. Judge - Vindicate them from their oppressors.
Verse 5. Thee - Thee, O God, this shall be another blessed fruit of this righteous government, that together with peace, true religion shall be established, and that throughout all generations, which was begun in Solomon's days, but not fully accomplished 'till Christ came.
Verse 6. He shall come - Christ did come down from heaven, and brought or sent down from heaven his doctrine, (which is often compared to rain) and the sweet and powerful influences of his spirit.
Verse 10. The sea - Of remote countries, to which they used to go from Canaan by sea; which are frequently called isles in scripture; the kings that rule by sea or by land.
Verse 11. All nations - Which cannot be said of Solomon with any truth or colour, but was unquestionably verified in Christ,
Verse 14. Deceit and violence - The two ways whereby the lives of men are usually destroyed. Precious - He will not be prodigal of the lives of his subjects, but like a true father of his people, will tenderly preserve them, and severely avenge their blood upon those who shall shed it.
Ephesians 3:1-12
Verse 1. For this cause - That ye may be so "built together," I am a prisoner for you gentiles - For your advantage, and for asserting your right to these blessings. This it was which so enraged the Jews against him.
Verse 2. The dispensation of the grace of God given me in your behalf - That is, the commission to dispense the gracious gospel; to you gentiles in particular. This they had heard from his own mouth.
Verse 3. The mystery - Of salvation by Christ alone, and that both to Jews and gentiles. As I wrote before - Namely, chap. i, 9, 10; the very words of which passage he here repeats.
Verse 5. Which in other - In former, ages was not so clearly or fully made known to the sons of men - To any man, no, not to Ezekiel, so often styled, "son of man;" nor to any of the ancient prophets. Those here spoken of are New Testament prophets.
6. That the gentiles are joint-heirs - Of God. And of the same body - Under Christ the head. And joint-partakers of his promise - The communion of the Holy Ghost.
Verse 7. According to the gift of the grace of God - That is, the apostle- ship which he hath graciously given me, and which he hath qualified me for. By the effectual working of his power - In me and by me.
Verse 8. Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given - Here are the noblest strains of eloquence to paint the exceeding low opinion the apostle had of himself, and the fulness of unfathomable blessings which are treasured up in Christ.
Verse 9. What is the fellowship of the mystery - What those mysterious blessings are whereof all believers jointly partake. Which was, in a great measure, hidden from eternity by God, who, to make way for the free exercise of his love, created all things - This is the foundation of all his dispensations.
Verse 10. That the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church - By what is done in the church, which is the theatre of the divine wisdom.
Verse 12. By whom we have free access - Such as those petitioners have, who are introduced to the royal presence by some distinguished favourite. And boldness - Unrestrained liberty of speech, such as children use in addressing an indulgent father, when, without fear of offending, they disclose all their wants, and make known all their requests.
Matthew 2:1-12
Verse 1. Bethlehem of Judea - There was another Bethlehem in the tribe of Zebulon. In the days of Herod - commonly called Herod the Great, born at Ascalon. The scepter was now on the point of departing from Judah. Among his sons were Archelaus, mentioned ver. 22; Herod Antipas, mentioned chap. xiv, and Philip, mentioned Luke iii, 19. Herod Agrippa, mentioned Acts xii, 1; &c., was his grandson. Wise men - The first fruits of the Gentiles. Probably they were Gentile philosophers, who, through the Divine assistance, had improved their knowledge of nature, as a means of leading to the knowledge of the one true God. Nor is it unreasonable to suppose, that God had favoured them with some extraordinary Revelations of himself, as he did Melchisedec, Job, and several others, who were not of the family of Abraham; to which he never intended absolutely to confine his favours. The title given them in the original was anciently given to all philosophers, or men of learning; those particularly who were curious in examining the works of nature, and observing the motions of the heavenly bodies. From the east - So Arabia is frequently called in Scripture. It lay to the east of Judea, and was famous for gold, frankincense, and myrrh. We have seen his star - Undoubtedly they had before heard Balaam's prophecy. And probably when they saw this unusual star, it was revealed to them that this prophecy was fulfilled. In the east - That is, while we were in the east.
Verse 2. To do him homage - To pay him that honour, by bowing to the earth before him, which the eastern nations used to pay to their monarchs.
Verse 4. The chief priests - That is, not only the high priest and his deputy, with those who formerly had born that office: but also the chief man in each of those twenty-four courses, into which the body of priests were divided, 1 Chron. xxiv, 6-19. The scribes were those whose peculiar business it was to explain the Scriptures to the people. They were the public preachers, or expounders of the law of Moses. Whence the chief of them were called doctors of the law.
Verse 6. Thou art in nowise the least among the princes of Judah - That is, among the cities belonging to the princes or heads of thousands in Judah. When this and several other quotations from the Old Testament are compared with the original, it plainly appears, the apostles did not always think it necessary exactly to transcribe the passages they cited, but contented themselves with giving the general sense, though with some diversity of language. The words of Micah, which we render, Though thou be little, may be rendered, Art thou little? And then the difference which seems to be here between the prophet and the evangelist vanishes away. Micah v, 2.
Verse 8. And if ye find him, bring me word - Probably Herod did not believe he was born; otherwise would not so suspicious a prince have tried to make sure work at once?
Verse 10. Seeing the star - Standing over where the child was.
Verse 11. They presented to him gifts - It was customary to offer some present to any eminent person whom they visited. And so it is, as travelers observe, in the eastern countries to this day. Gold, frankincense, and myrrh - Probably these were the best things their country afforded; and the presents ordinarily made to great persons. This was a most seasonable, providential assistance for a long and expensive journey into Egypt, a country where they were entirely strangers, and were to stay for a considerable time.
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Food Collection Sunday
Please remember to bring non perishable food items and hygiene items to church the first Sunday of the month.  All items donated will be distributed to both the Community Christian Service Agency and the Good Neighbor Center. 
Women's Retreat
Save the Date
April 4-6, 2014, St. Mark's women and their friends will once again gather at Pine Valley Bible Camp to relax, rest, refresh and restore.  Registration will begin on Sunday, February 9.  Cost is $150 and installment payments are accepted.
January Concert
Please mark your calendars for the San Diego Martin Luther King, Jr. Choir Concert on Sunday, January 19, 4:30 p.m. The Youth will serve dinner following the concert.
Wednesday Bible Study
The Wednesday Bible study will not be held on January 1, but will return on January 8 at the usual time of 5:30 p.m. in the New Room.  All are welcome to attend.
Congregational Favorite
Congratulations to Pete Jacovino, whose photo "God's Beams" won the Congregational Favorite in the recent Digital Art Show.  Pete is Audrey Derwin's son-in-law.  He has graciously donated his cash prize back to the church.  We thank him doing so.
2014 Church Calendar 
It is so important to make sure your upcoming events get on the church calendar.  The best way to do so is by coming into the church office and completing a Facility Use Request Form.  Once the completed forms are submitted to me, the events will be added to the church calendar. 
In Our Prayers:
♥  Elizabeth Branscom
♥  Craig McKinnis
♥  Beth Eller Teske
♥   Sandi Johnson
♥  Audrey Derwin
♥  Don Hess 
♥  Joe Ramsey
♥  Sue & John Kerr 
♥  Frank & Carlyn Djie
  Franki Benson 
♥  Marisa, Mitch Boyer's 
♥  Gene Hagar 
♥  Gwynn Cannon
♥  Dana Robinson 
♥  Rod Barrett
♥  Bill Burton
♥  Mitch Boyer
♥  Molly and Mack Barrett
♥  Harry Tweedie
♥  Margaret Westfall
We Remember Our Military Personnel, including
♥  Kris Brendal, Army
♥  Robert S. Chisholm, Navy
♥  Craig Clemans, Marines
♥  Paul Clemans, Air Force
♥  Blake Cross, Navy
♥  Robert Davis, Navy
♥  Brandon Dempster, Navy
♥  Samuel England, Navy
♥  Lenny Hezelett, Navy
♥  Michael Hunter, Navy
♥  Brady Jackson, Army
♥  Jeremy Munson, Navy
♥  Daniel Ness, Army
♥  Milo Riegle, Marines
♥  Casper Stalnaker, Navy
♥  Nathan Streeter, Army
♥  Robert Tarango, Navy
Our presence in worship on Sunday, December 29 was 135.
Links
St. Mark's Website
Youth News
St. Mark's School
St. Mark's UMW News
Upper Room Daily Devotion
The United Methodist Church
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Dear Friends
Happy New Year!  I hope you've had a peaceful season, and that you are looking forward to new experiences and new Craig friends in 2014.
I am very pleased to report that 2013 saw a consistent increase in worship attendance at St. Mark's over 2012.  I am also pleased to let you know that at its December meeting, the St. Mark's Church Council affirmed its desire to find ways to continue and even strengthen this growth.
As a result, we are initiating The Worship Excellence Project.  Over the next several months we will be reviewing and researching worship at St. Mark's.  As we begin, we want to assess where we are, and how we're doing.  There are three initial steps:
      We will video record and review our Sunday-morning service.  This will first be done by our worship leaders meeting as a group.  We will be watching for what works well and what does not, and seeking to be both honest and gracious with each other about every aspect of the worship service.  In a separate meeting, the recording will be viewed by a diverse group selected from the congregation.  To encourage honesty and forthrightness, this session will be led by someone outside of worship leadership, and results will be summarized, not quoted verbatim.
      We will take a very brief survey during worship, focusing on what makes a meaningful worship experience.  Again, these results will be summarized by someone outside of worship leadership.  We will not see any individual responses.
      With another group selected from the congregation, we will seek to learn, among other things, how they have encountered God in worship.
These steps will guide us as we begin to see worship at St. Mark's "from the outside in"--that is, from the perspective of a first-time visitor.  We will then seek to know as much as we can about those we seek to reach.
If we can remain clear-headed and reasonably objective, I believe the WEP can provide some excellent information that we can use both to improve worship for all of us, and to try some new approaches.
Speaking of new approaches, Bishop Minerva Carcana has asked all churches in the California-Pacific Annual Conference to take a moment for discernment during worship this Sunday, as we celebrate the Epiphany.  We will view a brief video by the bishop, after which we'll complete a three-question survey.  Your participation is important for the future of the United Methodist Church!  I hope you'll be in worship this Sunday.
See you then!
Craig
Holiday Hours
The church office will close on Tuesday, December 31 at noon and remain closed on Wednesday, January 1, 2014.
New Members Class
If you are interested in becoming a member of St. Mark's United Methodist Church an information class will meet in the New Room on Sunday, January 5, 2014 at 10:45 with Rev. Jeri.  New Members will be presented on Sunday, January 12, 2014 during Worship.
Many, Many Thanks! by Malinda Whiteley
Thank you to the many people who assist me in the church office with various duties.  You are truly appreciated and are such a vital part of all that is accomplished on a daily basis.  I am grateful for each and every one of you and thank the Lord for blessing me with such a fine group to work with.  I pray that your holidays are filled with much laughter and joy!  
Next Week at a Glance
Sunday, January 5, 2014 
9:00 A.M.    Youth Fellowship/Rm 10
9:30 A.M.    Worship
10:45 A.M.  Joyful Noise Choir/CR
11:00 A.M.  New Member Info Session/NR                                Blood Pressure Screening/NR
12:00 P.M.  Tongan Fellowship Worship
Monday, January 6, 2014
4:00 P.M.   UMW Dist. Mtg/Lib
5:00 P.M.   Tongan Prayer Week/Sanc
6:00 P.M.   Carillon Bells/SH
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
5:00 P.M.   Tongan Prayer Week/Sanc
6:30 P.M.   Sticky Faith Info Session/NR
                Tinitus Support Group/Rm 10
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
10:00 A.M.  Friendship Circle/NR
5:00 P.M.   Tongan Prayer Week/Sanc
                 Peace Ringers/SH
5:30 P.M.   Bible Study/NR
6:00 P.M.   Glory Ringers/SH
Thursday, January 9, 2014
4:30 P.M.   Hallelujah and Cherub Choirs/CR
5:00 P.M.   Tongan Prayer Week/Sanc
5:20 P.M.   Chimes/SH
7:00 P.M.   Chancel Choir/CR
                 Boy Scouts/SH
Friday, January 10, 2014
4:30 P.M.   Hallelujah and Cherub Choirs/CR
5:00 P.M.   Tongan Prayer Week/San
Saturday, January 11, 2014
5:00 P.M.   Tongan Prayer Week/San
Sunday, January 12, 2014
7:45 A.M.   Pancake Breakfast/SH
9:00 A.M.    Youth Fellowship/Rm 10
9:30 A.M.    Worship
10:45 A.M.  Joyful Noise Choir/CR
12:00 P.M. Tongan Fellowship Worship
*If you have any questions or would like to add an event to the church calendar, please contact Malinda Whiteley, Church Secretary at 858-273-1480 ext.10 or smumcsdoffice@gmail.com.
Staff Office Hours
Rev. Craig Dorval
Senior Minister 
Monday - Thursday   
10:30 A.M. - 6:30 P.M.
Rev. Jeri Newell-Davis
Associate Minister      
Tuesday - Friday  
9 A.M. - 3 P.M.
Spencer Topham
Youth Director
Tuesday 9 A.M. - 5:30 P.M.
Wednesday 9 A.M. - 1 P.M.
Malinda Whiteley, 
Church Secretary
Monday - Friday
8 A.M. - 3 P.M.
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About Us:
St. Mark's United Methodist Church
3502 Clairemont Drive
San Diego, California 92117
(858)273-1480
Rev. Craig Dorval, Senior Minister
Rev. Jeri Newell-Davis, Associate Minister
M'Lu Colbourn, Director of St. Mark's Preschool
Frank Williams, Music Director
Craig McIlwain, Organist
Jo Anne Hammond, Director, Carillon Bells
Robin Haber, Director, Glory Ringers and Peace Ringers
Christina Peer, Director, Chimes
Cheryl Eubanks, Children's Choir Accompanist
Spencer Topham, Youth Director
Marya Chuong, Website
Malinda Whiteley, Church Secretary
Angel Cardenas, Church Custodian

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