J17 Ministries in collaboration with various ministries in Tucson and beyond

6 August 2019

IN THIS ISSUE What's the Buzz at J17? Harmony Hub Collaboration Corner The Donkey-Elephant War Upcoming Events John 17 Weekends 4Tucson Church of the Week

Greetings! If the Church of Tucson (or your city) were going in for a checkup, what kind of questions would be asked? What constitutes a healthy Church? Here's a start to my list - what would you add? What would you highlight? I'd like to publish a healthier (see what I did there?!) list next week with your responses. Congregations praying for one another regularly and substantively. A spirit of humility throughout, with congregations recognizing their individual strengths and weaknesses. Collaboration instead of competition - knowing other's strengths and relying on one another. A clear and activated focus on the Church's primary purpose, which is to make disciples - A clear understanding that unconditional service to meet the needs both of the congregation and the community is both following Jesus, and preparing the ground for the Gospel to be received. Collaboration between common cause (parachurch) ministries and congregations, with an understanding that no part is the whole body, but every part matters. Resources springing up to meet the needs of pastors, foster families, refugees, single parents, the elderly, the unborn, etc. God bringing new workers to our city from other parts of the country. People/congregations regularly going out of their way to join and support things someone else started. I see all kinds of evidence that these things are happening in greater and greater measure. How about you? What would you add to the list?  Dave Drum, Founder J17 Ministries

What's the buzz at J17 MINISTRIES?

John 17 Unity Prayer Gathering Join us at 4 pm today for the first unity prayer gathering at the J17 Ministries office. We are on the campus of the Center of Opportunity, 4550 S. Palo Verde Rd. ( map). When you arrive, stop at the welcome desk to ask for directions to our office. Gatherings are held the first Tuesday of each month, beginning at 4 pm. Double Your Investment Thanks to new donors, the matching grant we received is now 83% met! Maybe God is calling you to be the one to push us over the top! We pray for new partners committed to giving at least $25/month. One-time gifts and monthly commitments for any amount are always welcome. How will you invest in Jesus' John 17 prayer?

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Harmony Hub

Honor Thy Mother and Father: A Kitchen Servant's Perspective Rose Tederous I went through a John 17 Weekend in July 2016. Although I had signed up months prior, you could say I went kicking and screaming, arguing and excuse making with God to get me out of it. As I am writing this piece, the song Break Every Chain comes to mind to describe my experience. However, this is not about my experience as a participant. This article is about my experience returning to a John 17 Weekend one year later as a servant.  READ MORE of how serving in a kitchen honored a mother.

Collaboration Corner

Love and Purpose Dave Strong It happened again! Why was I surprised? God has been faithful in the past, and He was active again reaching out in love to the men in this city. Another group of men were blessed at the Men’s July 18-21 John 17 Weekend, including me.   I doubt I am the Lone Ranger. Many of you involved in ministry know what it is like trying to organize an event and seeing slower progress than you had expected. It wasn’t until the last week or so before the event that participant registration began in earnest. God’s timing is everything. Sometimes I think he is trying to teach me humility, and in fact, I know that to be the case. READ MORE about the Christian community growing in Tucson.

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The Donkey-Elephant War

I first met Taysir (Tass) Abu Saada in February 2019, and only because of a series of divine circumstances somewhat associated with my full-time job of connecting Christians to one another. The story he shared with the 50 or so of us in the room was so riveting that I boldly requested some additional time with him over lunch. We remain connected due to our common life calling, though our life circumstances couldn’t possibly be any different. READ MORE from the latest blog post in preparation for a new book, The Good News of Jesus in a Donkey Elephant War.

Check out the latest opportunities to strengthen your faith and connect with the community.

Highlighted here are events coming up immediately. Click the button below for a complete listing of events.

What's happening for everyone ? John 17 Unity Prayer Gathering Big World: Family Fun & Fellowship Global Leadership Summit Plan to gather at GLS during the lunch break on 8/9 to discuss the breakout sessions with others attending the Summit! Speak for Me Tucson Ministry Alliance Citywide Prayer Gathering What's happening for pastors ? Pastor Partners Pastors' Edge

Complete Calendar of Events

If you are part of an area event promoting unity and collaboration among the citywide Body of Christ and beyond and would like it included in an upcoming newsletter, please click HERE to submit your request.

John 17 Weekends

Victory Reunion August 17, 1-4 pm Pantano Christian Church ( map ) John 17 Weekend alumni and families are invited to a time of fellowship and praise. Bring a dessert to share and encourage each other in our walk. Coffee and drinks provided. Our families played an important role in in our being able to attend the Weekend, and we want to show our appreciation!

4Tucson Church of the Week Week of August 4

Victory Outreach Tucson City Church Pray for the Body!  Leave a note of encouragement . Pray for these specific requests .