The foster care community of Oregon benefits greatly from the service of Every Child Oregon, a local organization that cares for children in the foster system and supports foster families. Initiatives under the umbrella of Every Child include Embrace Oregon and Foster Parent Night Out; many DCC members volunteer with these initiatives. As a response to the current... READ MORE >
We are in a day of opportunity to see that our vision to be a growing community for Christ, walking in truth, living out love, building on faith is not completely facilities dependent! Do continue to pray for our future facilities development, but in this season of national emergency, let’s focus on being the community of Christ by serving others in love, wherever... READ MORE >
Over and over, the Scriptures testify to the faithfulness of God. That faithfulness endures in both times of joy & sorrow, strength & weakness, and pleasure & pain.So how has God been faithful to you? Giving testimony to God's hand at work in your life during this time is not only an act of worship, but can greatly encourage the body of Christ as a whole.Share... READ MORE >
Veterinarians all over America report a surge in calls from dogs, cats, and even parakeets, concerned about their humans. A typical report came from a friendly dog we will only call "R", to protect the identity of his human. "There she was, doc, on a Sunday morning standing right in the middle of the living room in front of the TV. Her arms were raised, and she... READ MORE >
My friend and brother Ed reminded me that social distancing is not at all new, but has Biblical precedent. It involved those who were "unclean", by virtue of a physical malady of some sort or some other defined "uncleanness", as seen it in Luke 17:12-13--And as he (Jesus) entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their... READ MORE >
The body of Christ, the Church, has something the rest of the world doesn't have, but can have....hope in Jesus Christ that endures beyond a Pandemic. In light of that, the love that we show to one another, and the care that we offer toward others, especially in dark times when their needs are greatest, gives us an opportunity to shine and share that hope. ... READ MORE >
As a body of Christian believers, we at DCC have the joy and privilege of caring for and supporting one another during times of crisis. This is a challenging, anxious time, and as we trust in the Lord we also have one another to lean on. Individuals that are at high-risk of serious complications from COVID-19 may need support. Currently, the State of Oregon and... READ MORE >
In light of the uncertainty of when Community Group gatherings will be able to resume, we have created a way for Group leaders to communicate with you. Leaders have been invited to post updates, announcements, and lessons to a special web folder, specific to each group. To access your group's latest information, click HERE or www.damascuscc.org, click on "Menu"... READ MORE >
When the earth totters, and all its inhabitants, it is I who keep steady its pillars.Psalm 75:3Both the Psalmist and Samuel's mother Hannah recognized the significant reality that God established and now sustains the earth. It is Hannah who acknowledges God as the Creator, in her prayer dedicating her son Samuel to the service of the LORD in 1 Samuel 2--For the... READ MORE >
“…not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another…” DCC attendees are so faithful in meeting together that to not do so hurts! This is a good time to reflect on the value of meeting together, and of having a place to meet. Thank God for our present facilities and continue to pray for direction in developing... READ MORE >
Uncle Mordecai asked recently ascended Queen Esther to speak up for her threatened people, encouraging her with the famous words, "And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14). Of course, it is what God does! He raises up a Moses, or Deborah, or Elijah, or Daniel, or John--and so many others, for specific times,... READ MORE >
Damascus Community Church & Damascus Christian School update on COVID-19 emergency, March 19, 2020 In the midst of our new, ever-changing reality, the leadership of Damascus Community Church and Damascus Christian School want to encourage everyone to lean into the One who is unchanging. God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. God is our rock in... READ MORE >
One way you can show love for those around you is by protecting them and yourself through what has become known as "social distancing." However, that can feel very isolating. As a church family, we have each other to connect with, but your neighbors may or may not have that option. Here are a few ways to reach out to your immediate community in the midst of... READ MORE >
A noted believer once asked a brother how he was doing, and when the reply was “doing OK under the circumstances”, he in turn replied: “What are you doing under there?” (Reader, if you can identify the author of that quote, please share with me). Right now, many of us are facing difficult circumstances. David faced difficult circumstances as he describes in... READ MORE >
In our attempts to disinfect our homes and places of work are we really doing a good job? I, for one, figured that wiping a surface one time with a wet wipe such as Kirkland Disinfecting Wipes would kill all the germs. Surprise, surprise! The label on the Kirkland wipes states: "To Disinfect: ...Treated surface must remain visibly wet for a full three (3)... READ MORE >
Before the 10 Commandments, there was Manna. Before the command to rest on the seventh day (Exodus 20:8-11) there was the command to gather twice the manna on the sixth day, and not go out on the seventh (Exodus 16:22-26). When you think about it, this was an exercise in trust, or believing that God would provide as he said. Just as he said, on the sixth day... READ MORE >
Paul devoted his greatest effort to the building that is most important—building believers up in Christ so they become mature as faithful disciples (Colossians 1:28). Pray that our facilities development needs never distract from this primary building project, and that we will always value facilities only as a tool to accomplish this priority work. READ MORE >
Damascus Community Church response to COVID-19 emergency, March 13, 2020 During the course of the last 24 hours a lot has changed for the residents of the state of Oregon. As most of you may know, yesterday morning Governor Brown decreed an executive order regarding the coronavirus that has made a large impact on how people will live and work for the next 30... READ MORE >
Dear DCC and DCS families. In light of Governor Kate Brown’s statement today (03/12/20) regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19), ministry leaders are working on a plan to both comply with what the State has mandated, and to protect those within our communities. Further information on scheduled events is forthcoming. Please pray for wisdom as we seek to be those who... READ MORE >
“…if indeed you continue in the faith…” (Colossians 1:23). Paul is pointing out that perseverance in believing is a characteristic of genuine faith. It is an honorable quality that can be applied to many circumstances. Finding a solution to our facilities needs is one example. Please pray that we will together persevere in finding and doing God’s plan. READ MORE >
With recent news of the spread of the Coronavirus, you or your family members may have concerns and questions. We want to assure you that the safety of everyone on our campus is always of great importance, but in times like these it’s helpful to provide additional assurance. Below you will find information about steps we are taking to protect our campus, as well... READ MORE >
“And (Jesus) is the head of the body, the church” (Colossians 1:18). Let there be no illusion about where authority lies for the church—it is Jesus, and his will as revealed in his word. Undershepherds seek to serve by discerning and then leading in doing the will of the head, Jesus. Whether a facilities solution or any other aspect of DCC community life,... READ MORE >
Damascus Community Church and School Presents Saturday, April 18 (9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.) Sunday, April 19 (8:15 a.m. and 11 a.m.) As part of a renewed focus to make an impact on our unchurched family, friends, and neighbors, we’ve asked Dr. Brent Strawsburg, a recognized expert in defending the Christian faith, to provide practical and motivating tips for... READ MORE >
Kent Wallace will be on campus this week conducting interviews for the Caleb Study. Pray we will gain insight through his work on the level of support “out there” for facilities development, and wisdom to know how this should impact the strategy for a capital campaign, along with the approach to and scope of a facilities project. READ MORE >
The apostle Paul’s prayer in Colossians 1:10 has the desired outcome of pleasing the Lord, through knowing and doing His will. Our focus in Building On Faith must always be that we please God by doing his will, not on a particular outcome in terms of a structure. Pray the Caleb study now underway will provide helpful insight as we pursue God’s will. READ MORE >
This week a limited number of people representing groups with various relationships to DCC received an invitation to participate in the “Caleb Study.” Kent Wallace of IGC will be conducting interviews February 24-27, designed to give us a measure of the support behind facilities development, with potential impact on the scope and timing of a building project. Pray... READ MORE >
It is interesting to compare the introductions of Paul’s letters, some addressed to the church or churches, but others like Colossians “to the saints and faithful brothers” or something similar. This is a great reminder that the church is the people, and a building is a tool owned by God to serve the people. Pray for the growth of the church (people) through new... READ MORE >
A child dedication is a public commitment by a child’s parent(s) to raise him or her to grow to know and love Jesus Christ. A dedication service is planned for Feb. 16. If you are interested in having your child dedicated, please let us know HERE. READ MORE >
In addition to taking Communion, this Sunday we are starting a new sermon series in the book of Colossians. As a way to solidify the truth of the book, we will be memorizing Colossians 1:15-20 (ESV) together as a church body. Check out what it says about Jesus! 15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For by him all things... READ MORE >
Join us for a special night of praise to the LORD, Feb. 8, 2020 at 7pm. We will be worshiping through song and giving testimony to the works that God has displayed in our lives. If you'd like to participate, we'd love to hear what Christ has done to bless you, and to share that with the church body! Tell us your story HERE. READ MORE >
Unity of His followers was a central concern of Jesus’ prayer for His own in John 17. Church building programs are famous for causing division in local churches, which is why they need to be approached with much prayer and openness about concerns. Please make a commitment to pray for our facilities solution planning, and please also share any concerns you may have... READ MORE >
An interesting account of specific prayer, specifically answered, is found in Genesis 24:12-27. Pray that even through God-orchestrated circumstances we will clearly discern His will regarding our facilities development, “Building On Faith.” READ MORE >
“And they devoted themselves to…the prayers” Acts 2:42. Prayer was a definitive aspect of the early church, significant in discerning the Lord’s will and power in ministry. Our facilities are a significant aspect of many of our ministries, join us this year in devotion to prayer for wisdom in knowing how to best address our facility needs. READ MORE >
DCC is grateful to the Lord to announce that last Sunday, January 5th, Brett Smith was ordained/appointed to the role of Executive Pastor (Pastor of Administration) at Damascus Community Church. He officially started on Thursday, January 2nd and will spend some transition weeks working alongside retiring Business Administrator, Jim Vestigo (Jim intends to continue... READ MORE >
Luke 14:28 references the sensible practice of evaluating ahead of a project the necessary resources to complete it. Pray for the Caleb Study to provide accurate insights regarding potential resources for our facilities development, and wisdom in applying the information gained. READ MORE >
“Silent night, holy night, all is calm…” Really? It is actually unknown how calm things were (perhaps you have been around for a birth?), but calm resignation to the will of God does seem true of Joseph and Mary. Let’s prayerfully reaffirm our commitment to God’s will instead of being anxious about building (Philippians 4:4-7). READ MORE >
We are glad to have Brett Smith coming on staff, starting officially this Thursday, January 2nd, 2020. Next Sunday, January 5th, we will have a commissioning in our morning services. READ MORE >
“… because there was no place for them in the inn” (Luke 2:7). Let’s be honest—facilities limitations have never been a big problem to God in fulfilling His purposes. He ordains facilities (think Tabernacle, or Temple), but does not depend on them. All the more reason for us to pray and be certain we are aligned with His will as we consider... READ MORE >
“And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord…” (Luke 1:11). Through the narratives related to the birth of Jesus we see God weaving together an intricate plan to accomplish his purposes. While in retrospect we can see and wonder at his plan, when experiencing life “in time” we may not see it, calling for us to trust him, believing he is at work... READ MORE >
Damascus Community Church and Christian School hosted December's Good Morning Damascus meeting. The program included a performance by the DCS jazz band (fantastic job! - THANKS!), reports from Celestine Ruwethin of the Gresham Corp of the Salvation Army and Phil Blake & Keith Pugh from the American Military Encouragement Network (AMEN), and an interview with two... READ MORE >
“…but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant…” Given the precedent of Jesus for humble servanthood, ministers and even facilities dedicated to following him ought to be characterized not by ostentatious display but by service, or as applied to facilities, functionality. Pray we will specifically understand what is needed in the way of... READ MORE >
The focus of the Prayer Breakfast for the Muslim World for December is the country of Jordan. Enjoy a typical Jordanian breakfast as you learn how you can be praying for this Muslim country. Sign-up online HERE. Date: December 14, 2019 Time: 8:00am - 9:30am Place: Damascus Community Church, Rm. 104 READ MORE >
Tom & Sandy Basile’s Barnabas Team is assembling a group to serve with them in PUEBLA, JUNE 2020. Service opportunities may include – water filter distribution, work at the BAM center – cleaning/painting/repairs, water cistern construction, cleaning toys and yard maintenance at a nearby orphanage, puppet ministry, etc. Applications are available HERE, or in the... READ MORE >
Damascus Community Church has established a ministry partnership with the Salvation Army- Gresham Corps. Many of the Army's ministries are funded by generous donations that collected each year during their "Red Kettle" campaign. This Christmas season, bell-ringers are needed to volunteer at locations from Damascus to Gresham and beyond. For the last two years,... READ MORE >
One of the challenges the elder council faces is time. We do not have a staff person dedicated to the tasks required to pursue facilities development, so various ones add these tasks to already loaded schedules. Pray for staff time management, diligence, and that needed tasks will be accomplished in God’s perfect time and way. READ MORE >
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Turn any anxiety regarding our buildings into prayer for our “building on faith” facilities development process! Thank you! READ MORE >
“Make plans by seeking advice…” (Proverbs 20:18). The “Caleb Study” will result in a plan to raise funding to build. “Building on faith” does not exclude the need to be wise in stewardship! Pray the entire body of DCC will walk forward with wisdom and faith, trusting God for needed facilities development. READ MORE >
The false prophets of Israel were condemned because they spoke “…visions of their own minds, not from the mouth of the LORD” (Jeremiah 23:16). Having no blueprints sent from God, it is a serious challenge to develop a specific facility plan or solution. Through a corporate effort of prayer and collaboration as we seek God’s guidance, we trust God will... READ MORE >
What’s Next? (In case you missed it…) If you were unable to attend the recent "What's Next?" event, you missed an enjoyable night of worship, dessert, and a report on the Building on Faith process. Here's a summary of the report that was given, including what has happened to this point in the process: Background through 2017- Many ideas considered,... READ MORE >
Coming Events December 6, 2019 - Evening Christmas TeaFebruary 29, 2020 - One Day Retreat at DCCApril 18, 2020 - Honored Widow’s BrunchSeptember 25-27, 2020 - Cannon Beach Retreat Bible Studies Ladies Precept Study with Gay JoachimTuesday mornings in the Friendship Center from 9:30-11:15 amContact Gay Joachim (503) 658-59-seven-seven Fruit of the Spirit... READ MORE >
“A big THANK YOU goes out to all who helped make this year’s DCC/DCS Harvest Festival a success. We can really feel the support of our church through all the volunteers who stepped in to serve as a vessel of God’s love to hundreds of our community members. It truly is refreshing that we can count on all of you who generously give of your time, energy, and money for... READ MORE >
“Plans are established by counsel…” (Proverbs 20:18 ESV). This week the Elder Council will meet with Kent Wallace of IGC, who will conduct the Caleb Study to develop a capital campaign plan. Again, we ask you to pray for wisdom as we counsel with Kent for this next step in the pursuit of building on faith! READ MORE >
October 31 - 5:00-8:00pm. Bring your family and friends. Admission is FREE. Kids, come in costume and bring your parents! Bring a NEW pair of socks to donate to Damascus Student Ministries' Homeless Packs effort. READ MORE >
Our Christmas choir and orchestra services are Sunday, December 15th. Rehearsals start Thursday, November 7th, at 6:30 PM (orchestra), 7:30 PM (choir). Please contact Pastor Kyle if you are interested in joining us. READ MORE >
When we consider the maintenance needs of our buildings, and the opportunities of ministry, and the consensus that “we need to do something” about facilities, our tendency might be to become anxious and impatient. Turn it to prayer! “…do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made... READ MORE >
Next Friday night, October 25th, is our “What’s Next?” event. DCC has sought for many years to develop facilities to pursue ongoing and expanded ministry opportunities. Please attend Friday’s event, and we ask you to take some special time this week to fast and pray. As the Lord knew the plans he had for the restoration of Israel (Jeremiah 29:11), so he knows... READ MORE >
The “house for God” (Temple) was of value because of the presence of God and fulfillment of promises He made to His people. But these were contingent: “…if you will walk in My statutes and obey My rules and keep all My commandments and walk in them…” (1 Kings 6:12-13). We have no interest in a building that lacks God’s presence and promise—pray... READ MORE >
Discipleship fulfills the “great commission”, and the DCC mission as we have stated it “to call people to follow Jesus and become like Him.” Many of the ministries we have engaged in for discipleship—Sunday School and Community Groups, Bible Studies, DCS, and so on—are “facilities-dependent.” Persuaded by maintenance and space needs, we believe it is... READ MORE >
In case you do not receive the weekly DCC electronic Newsletter, you can sign up for it at the following link: DCC NEWSLETTER SIGN UP READ MORE >
In Luke 19 Jesus told a parable to the crowds who were thinking “the kingdom of God was to appear immediately.” The master said to his servants, “Engage in business until I come” (19:13). As our Lord instructed, we pray for the kingdom of God to come to earth (Matthew 6:10), but while we wait we are to be faithful “engaging” in business for our Master and... READ MORE >
What’s Next? Damascus Community Church is a wide array of ministries, from worship services to Sunday and daily Christian education (Damascus Christian School), from local to international outreach, all with the common mission to call people to follow Jesus and become like Him. The organization Influencing Generations For Christ has gathered input from our... READ MORE >
What’s Next? Damascus Community Church is actually a wide array of ministries, from worship to Sunday and daily Christian education (Damascus Christian School), from local to international outreach, all with the common mission to call people to follow Jesus and become like him. Recently we connected with the organization Influencing Generations For Christ to... READ MORE >
“Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you” (1 Chronicles 28:20). We might anticipate as David did these “project killers”—fear and discouragement. Like Solomon we need guidance as well as courage from the Lord in pursuing growth in ministry, with the development of necessary tools to facilitate it. Pray the Lord will grant us... READ MORE >
“David summoned all the officials of Israel to assemble at Jerusalem…” (1 Chronicles 28:1). He had made preparations, appointed leaders, and called them together for an update on the process toward building the temple--sort of a “What’s Next?” You are hereby summoned for the DCC “What’s Next”, October 25, 7-8:30 in the gym. More details to come but... READ MORE >
In 1 Chronicles 28:8 David charges the appointed leaders, in anticipation of building the temple, “…observe and seek out all the commands of the LORD your God…”. That is, they (and we) need to commit to obedience beyond building, as we plan for building beyond our apparent ability, acknowledging our need for God’s help! READ MORE >
Due to technical difficulties streaming of the services on August 25th was unavailable. However the first service was recorded and uploaded to the DCC YouTube site. Also part of this uploaded video is the installation of new Elders. Andy's message begins at about the 22:00 minute mark.Click below to view the sermon video: READ MORE >
It is very interesting that after David recounts what he has done to ready resources for the building of the Temple (1 Chronicles 22), the next thing he does (chapters 23-27) is organize the leadership that will build and continue service to the Lord! We are officially appointing new elders today and seek others to step into the roles of ministry leadership... READ MORE >
Stephen Ministers help people in times of need. If you want to learn how to be a Stephen Minister, a new Stephen Ministry Training Class will begin Wednesday, September 18 and conclude on February 26th. All classes will be held at DCC. A ministry description for DCC Stephen Ministers is available HERE. Applications to become a Stephen Minister can be found HERE... READ MORE >
“I have taken great pains to provide for the temple of the LORD…” (1 Chronicles 22:14). Once again, we see David sacrificially doing what he can to make sure all the resources are supplied to build a temple he will never personally worship in! Why give for a building yet to be, one I will never see? To facilitate ministry after me, continuing until... READ MORE >
“I will not…sacrifice a burnt offering that costs me nothing” (1 Chronicles 21:24). As God brought David to build an altar at the future site of the temple (2 Chron. 3:1), David was offered provision for land and sacrificial animals for free! He refused, insisting on participation in the cost involved. What a challenge to the hearts of all who would worship! READ MORE >
“But they soon forgot his works; they did not wait for his counsel” (Psalm 106:13). See the error of God’s people in two directions: Neglecting the evidence of his past provision and failing to wait for his direction regarding the future. Pray we will learn from the mistakes of the past, not to repeat them. READ MORE >
Have you experienced the loss of a loved one? Please, know that you are not alone. There is healing power through Christ, and the support of others. We are so sorry for your loss. Join us in a journey from mourning to joy. Day: Sundays Dates: September 8th to December 8th Time: 5:15 PM to 6:45... READ MORE >
SUNDAY 8:15 & 11:00 am • Worship Services/Nursery/ Children’s Church 9:45-10:45 am • Sunday School for Pre-K & K; 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th Grades meet in the Auditorium; Jr High & High School; Adult Community Groups 10:45 am-12:00 pm—Library Hours 12:30 pm—Sports & Art Camp Debrief... READ MORE >
“Then you will have success if you are careful to observe the decrees and laws that the LORD gave Moses for Israel” (1 Chronicles 22:13, NIV). As David charged Solomon with the building of the Temple, he linked success to obedience. The first priority in thinking about facilities development continues to be our priority love for Jesus, evident in willing... READ MORE >
Hello DCC Family! After three months of being away, I will be back in the saddle this Sunday and introducing this song, Great I Am. Give it a listen and we'll see you on Sunday. - Pastor KyleClick here - Great I Am READ MORE >
Sports and Art Camp was a great success. There were about 180 campers there each day. The gospel was shared and some responded. The volunteers did a great job making things run smoothly! Continue to pray the Word will be sink into the hearts of all of the campers and their lives will be changed so they will live for Jesus. Thank you for your prayers and support. READ MORE >
"Abigail Appeals to an Avenger to Save a Fool". Ladies study on 1 Samuel 25, Wednesday, July 31st, from 9:30-11:15 AM! DSM MOVE, July 29th-August 2nd, Incoming 9th-12th graders, $269DSM MIX, August 7th-11th, Incoming 7th-8th graders, $269M.O.M.S. Clothing Swap, August 10thCruise the Road to Damascus Car Show, August 17th, 10 AM - 3 PMMEN’S ROUNDUP at Camp Tadmor,... READ MORE >
“(David) gave (Solomon) the plans of all that the Spirit had put in his mind for the courts of the temple of the LORD…” (1 Chronicles 28:12 NIV). David had the desire to build the Temple for the LORD God, and though he was not the one to do it, he was led by the Spirit of God in preparing the way. We may not know the timing for facilities development,... READ MORE >
SUNDAY 8:15 & 11:00 am • Worship Services/Nursery/ Children’s Church 9:45-10:45 am • Sunday School for Pre-K & K; 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th Grades meet in the Auditorium today and next Sunday; Jr High & High School; Adult Community Groups (see list on back for room location) 10:45 am-12:00... READ MORE >
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). The Elder Council has decided to continue with the next step toward facilities development utilizing the help of Influencing Generations For Christ. This will involve developing a strategy and approach to communicate the vision of leadership to accomplish the capital campaign.... READ MORE >
ATTENTION LADIES: Save the Date—Wednesday, July 31, from 9:30-11:15 am! Join us for a morning study on 1 Samuel 25, “Abigail Appeals to an Avenger to Save a Fool.” Childcare available!Please text Ashley Briggs to RSVP for childcare 503.867.5 two-three-three. READ MORE >
SUNDAY 8:15 & 11:00 am • Worship Services/Nursery/Children’s Church 9:45-10:45 am • Sunday School for Pre-K & K; 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th Grades will meet in the Auditorium every Sunday in July; Jr High & High School; Adult Community Groups 10:45 am-12:30 pm—Library Hours 5:00 pm—Sports & Art Camp Training w/ dinner (Rms... READ MORE >
SUNDAY 7:30-8:00 am—Prayer: Building on Faith (Prayer Room) 8:15 & 11:00 am • Worship Services/Nursery/Children’s Church 9:45-10:45 am • Sunday School for Pre-K & K, 1st-6th Grades Jr High, High School & Adult Community Groups 10:45 am-12:30 pm—Library Hours TUESDAY 7:00 pm—Elder Council (Friendship Center) WEDNESDAY 6:00-7:30... READ MORE >
Damascus Community Church and Damascus Christian School are working on a new website. We hope to have it fully launched by the end of June. READ MORE >
THIS SATURDAY!!! August 17, 2019 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Come enjoy the 13th Annual “Cruise the Road to Damascus” Car Show at Damascus Community Church. Fun for the whole family. BBQ. Donuts & Coffee. Ice Cream & Soda READ MORE >