The Power of Forgiveness: A Message from Gethsemane Ministries International

We have entered the month of July—a threshold moment that quietly invites us to reflect, refocus, and realign. At Gethsemane Ministries International, the significance of this season runs deeper than the passing of time. July sits at the center of the year, marking a spiritual midpoint where the first half of the journey meets the promise of what is still to come. For our church family in Columbus, Georgia, this is not just another month—it is an opportunity to pause, listen, and grow. July carries with it a shift in atmosphere. The air is warmer, the days are longer, and the world seems to slow down just enough for us to catch our breath. In this stillness, we are reminded of the garden that gave our ministry its name—Gethsemane. It was there, in the quiet hours before His greatest sacrifice, that Jesus demonstrated what it means to submit fully to the will of God. It was there that He prayed not for comfort, but for strength to carry out His purpose. This moment in scripture echoes through the walls of our church, guiding our mission and shaping our identity. This time of year naturally prompts introspection. What have we accomplished so far? Where have we fallen short? What are we being called to do with the remaining months of the year? At Gethsemane Ministries, we believe these are not just questions for our individual lives, but for us as a community of faith. July is when we recalibrate—not only as believers, but as a body united in the Spirit, committed to the calling to evangelize, equip, and edify. In this season, we find renewed clarity. The noise of the world begins to fade, making room for the voice of God to come through more distinctly. It is in this quieting that our hearts become fertile ground for new revelation. We lean into prayer with deeper intention. We revisit the Word with fresh eyes. We listen more carefully for divine direction, trusting that the same God who has brought us this far will carry us forward. Gethsemane Ministries International is built on the truth that transformation begins in the secret place—in communion with God. July brings us back to that sacred foundation. It invites us to seek His face more earnestly, to pray with humility, and to worship with undistracted devotion. As a church planted in Columbus, GA but rooted in a global vision, we embrace this moment not just for ourselves, but for every soul we are called to reach. This month, we choose to step into the second half of the year with faith, purpose, and expectation. We are reminded that God’s timing is not ours, and that sometimes the most powerful growth happens beneath the surface, before it is ever seen. July is our reminder to trust that even in silence, God is working. Even in waiting, He is preparing. Even in weariness, He is sustaining. As we move through this sacred month, our hearts remain open and our spirits aligned. We carry forward the mission entrusted to us—not out of routine, but out of reverence. And we do so with joy, knowing that every step taken in faith draws us closer to His will. We are in July—and we are exactly where God intends us to be.

The arrival of June invites reflection and spiritual growth. It's a season to deepen one's faith, engage with the community, and embrace the teachings that guide our lives. Participating in ministry activities, attending services, and joining outreach programs can enrich one's spiritual journey. These engagements not only strengthen personal beliefs but also foster unity and compassion within the community. Children's and women's ministries offer tailored programs, nurturing faith from a young age and empowering individuals to live purpose-driven lives. This June, take a step toward spiritual enrichment and communal harmony. Connect with faith-based programs and services at www.gethsemanepm.org

Mothers. The very word conjures images of gentle hands, comforting embraces, and voices that soothe and guide. But beyond the nurturing and caregiving, mothers often stand as the spiritual anchors of their families, quietly weaving a tapestry of faith through their prayers, guidance, and unwavering belief . Their quiet devotion, often unseen and unacknowledged in the hustle and bustle of daily life, lays the groundwork for generations rooted in love and a profound sense of the divine . Think for a moment about the earliest spiritual lessons you learned. Perhaps it was a bedtime prayer whispered with a mother's loving hand on your brow, or the quiet reverence she displayed during moments of worship. Maybe it was the stories of faith she shared, planting seeds of belief that would blossom over time. These seemingly small acts are powerful currents, shaping our moral compass and instilling within us a connection to something larger than ourselves. At Gethsemane Prayer Ministries , we deeply recognize the profound and often underestimated impact of these spiritual matriarchs . We understand that the prayers of a mother are not mere words spoken into the void; they are potent forces, imbued with a love that transcends the earthly realm. This Mother's Day, more than just celebrating with flowers and cards, we want to take a moment to truly honor the women whose prayers have shaped our paths, fortified our spirits, and illuminated our way through life's challenges. Consider the immense responsibility a mother carries in nurturing not only the physical well-being of her children but also their spiritual growth. She is often the first teacher of compassion, forgiveness, and the importance of faith. Through her example, she demonstrates how to navigate the complexities of life with grace and a reliance on a higher power. Her unwavering faith in the face of adversity can be a beacon of hope for her entire family, teaching resilience and the enduring power of belief. This Mother's Day, we encourage you to take a moment of quiet reflection. Consider the specific instances where the spiritual guidance provided by the mothers in your life has made a difference. Perhaps it was a word of encouragement during a moment of doubt, a gentle nudge towards forgiveness, or simply the consistent example of a life lived in faith. Acknowledge their vital role in nurturing both faith and family , recognizing that these two aspects are often inextricably linked. Let us also remember those who have served as spiritual mothers in our lives, even if they are not our biological mothers. These could be grandmothers, aunts, mentors, or friends who have offered spiritual wisdom, unwavering support, and the comfort of their prayers. Their influence is equally significant, contributing to the rich tapestry of faith that surrounds us. This Mother's Day, let's move beyond the superficial and delve into the profound spiritual legacy of motherhood. Let us express our gratitude not only for the tangible acts of love but also for the intangible gifts of faith, prayer, and spiritual guidance that have been so generously bestowed upon us. Let our appreciation be a testament to the enduring power and importance of spiritual mothers in our lives and in the world. #MothersDay2025 #SpiritualMothers #FaithAndFamily #Faith #GethsemaneMinistries #PrayingMothers #SpiritualGuidance #LegacyOfFaith #HonoringMothers #MothersLove

As we step into a brand-new year, we at Gethsemane Christian Church warmly welcome you to 2025! This is a time for reflection, gratitude, and anticipation for the blessings and opportunities that lie ahead. Reflecting on God’s Faithfulness in 2024 Looking back, 2024 was a year of growth and grace for our church family. We saw the power of community, the beauty of fellowship, and the strength of faith in action. Through worship, outreach, and prayer, we witnessed God’s hand guiding us through every challenge and triumph. From heartfelt sermons to community events and missions, each moment reminded us of God’s unending love and the importance of coming together as a body of Christ. Embracing 2025 with Faith and Vision As we begin this new year, we are filled with hope for what’s to come. 2025 presents us with opportunities to deepen our faith, expand our ministry, and serve the Columbus community with renewed purpose. This year, we look forward to: Strengthening Worship : Gathering in His name to glorify God and grow in our relationship with Him. Serving the Community : Extending Christ’s love through outreach programs, missions, and acts of kindness. Growing Together : Offering Bible studies, prayer groups, and family-focused events to nurture spiritual growth. Let us make 2025 a year of seeking His will and walking boldly in His purpose for our lives. How You Can Be Part of the Journey Whether you’re a longtime member or someone looking for a church home, we invite you to join us this year. Come and be part of our worship services, ministries, and outreach activities. Let’s grow together in Christ as we share His love with one another and the world. Stay connected with us through our website, gethsemanepm.org , and our social media channels. You’ll find updates on upcoming events, sermon series, and ways to get involved. Gratitude for Our Church Family We are incredibly thankful for each member of our congregation and all who support our mission. Your faith, dedication, and love inspire us daily to live out the Gospel and fulfill God’s purpose. Let’s step into 2025 with hearts full of faith, minds focused on His Word, and hands ready to serve. Together, we will make this year a testament to God’s goodness and grace. May God bless you richly in the year ahead, The Gethsemane Ministries Intl. Family

“For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” - Isaiah 9:6

A New Month, A New Beginning As we step into November, let's embrace the opportunity for renewal and growth. This month offers a chance to reflect on our blessings, set new goals, and deepen our faith. What Can We Expect This November? Thanksgiving: A time to express gratitude for God's countless blessings. Advent: A season of anticipation and preparation for the birth of Christ. How Can We Make the Most of November? Practice Gratitude: Take time each day to acknowledge the things you're thankful for. Serve Others: Volunteer your time or donate to a local charity. Read Your Bible Daily: Spend time in God's Word to nourish your soul. Pray Regularly: Communicate with God throughout the day. Attend Church: Gather with fellow believers for worship and fellowship. Let's Embrace the Hope of November As we navigate the challenges and joys of this month, let's hold onto the hope that Christ brings. May His love fill our hearts and guide our steps. May God bless you abundantly this November!

Love, the Greatest Commandment "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself." - Matthew 22:37-39 As we journey through October, let's delve deeper into the profound concept of love, as exemplified by Christ. Love, as defined by God's Word, is not merely an emotion; it's an action, a choice, and a commitment. What Does Love in Christ Look Like? Agape Love : This divine love surpasses human understanding. It's the unconditional love that God has for us, and it's the love we should strive to extend to others. Selfless Service : Love is expressed through acts of kindness and service. It's about putting the needs of others before our own. Forgiveness : Love compels us to forgive those who have wronged us, just as Christ forgave us. Patience and Endurance : Love enables us to persevere through trials and difficulties, remaining steadfast in our faith. Joy and Peace : Love brings joy and peace to our hearts, even in the midst of challenges. How Can We Cultivate Love in Our Lives? Spend Time with God : Through prayer, meditation, and studying His Word, we can deepen our connection with God and experience His love more fully. Practice Acts of Kindness : Small acts of kindness can have a significant impact. Look for opportunities to help others, whether it's volunteering, donating to charity, or simply offering a listening ear. Forgive Freely : Let go of resentment and bitterness. Forgiveness sets us free and allows us to experience the true joy of love. Build Strong Relationships : Nurture your relationships with family, friends, and your community. Spend quality time together, communicate openly, and offer support. Love Your Enemies : This may seem challenging, but it's a powerful demonstration of God's love. Pray for those who persecute you and seek opportunities to show them compassion. As we embrace the love of Christ, we can transform our lives and the lives of others. Let's strive to live a life characterized by love, grace, and compassion. May God's love shine through you this October and always!

The world can feel like a chaotic place these days. From global events to personal struggles, uncertainty seems to be the only constant. In these times, it's natural to feel lost or wonder what your place is in it all. The Bible offers a powerful message of hope and purpose. At Gethsemane Ministries International, we believe that God has a plan for each of us. Even when the path ahead seems unclear, God's light guides us. How to Find Your Purpose Seek God's guidance : Prayer and scripture study are essential tools for discerning God's will for your life. Spend time in quiet reflection, asking God to reveal your purpose. Discover your passions : What are you naturally drawn to? What activities bring you joy and fulfillment? Your passions may hold clues to your calling. Use your gifts : We are all blessed with unique talents and abilities. Use your gifts to serve others and make a positive impact on the world. Embrace challenges : Difficulties can be opportunities for growth. As you overcome challenges, you may discover hidden strengths and a deeper understanding of your purpose. Connect with your community : Find a church family like Gethsemane Ministries International that supports your spiritual journey. Through fellowship and service, you can connect with others who share your faith and values.  Remember, your purpose is not something to be found alone. At Gethsemane Ministries International, we offer a supportive community where you can explore your faith, grow in your relationship with God, and discover your unique purpose.

Faith is in every matter of life. The big events, and the small ones.