Black History Month is celebrated every year in February. In this country, people classified as black have historically been excluded and oppressed, so Black History Month is a time to recognize, celebrate, and honor Americans who are classified as Black and to acknowledge their central role in the history of the United States. 

This celebration began back in the early 1900s when Carter G. Woodson started to celebrate Black History as an event on a week-long basis yearly. However, it wasn't until 1970 that this became a month-long celebration that happened first at Kent State in Ohio. Six years later, it was celebrated all over the country by different institutions, such as community centers, colleges, and universities. Finally, in 1976, Gerald Ford recognized Black History Month at our country's bicentennial celebration. He urged Americans to "seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history."

The Bible is a book of history. God loves history, and he loves the truth. Throughout the Bible, there is an acknowledgment of the oppressed and those treated with injustice, and it calls us to love our neighbors as we love ourselves, do justice, and love mercy. Many resources speak to biblical justice. 

The contributions of Americans who are classified as Black should be celebrated year-round just like we celebrate other Americans, and perhaps the month of February could be considered the anniversary of this celebration. If you are not someone who celebrates Black History, perhaps this is a good time to learn more, love more, honor the less honored, love the historically oppressed, and acknowledge the truth of the history of our country.

Our allegiance to God calls us to love and embrace one another, for we are all brothers and sisters in Christ. As we strive to become more like Jesus, we hope to promote unity and love and celebrate Black History with all of you.

The "SFBF All-Church News" channel was recently launched on WhatsApp.  

This channel was launched to be able to provide announcements and updated information that is relevant at an All-Church level in the SF Bay Fellowship. Things like All-Church Sundays, All-Church Zoom Midweeks, and other All-Church specific events. This should be the same as what our website indicates or what your Fellowship Group communicates. (Let Brock know if there is a discrepancy.)

The member messaging is turned off gorup's messages do not become a source of frustration with lots and lots of information that may not apply to everyone. Feel free to exit this group or ignore it if it is not helpful. 

If you are interested in being added to this WhatsApp group or if you have something you think should be posted, please contact your Fellowship Group Leader. You can also contact Brock through WhatsApp or by email at brock@sfbayfellowship.com.

According to the Sacramento Bee, the Palisades Fire that initially started 10:30 a.m. Jan. 7 in Los Angeles County has burned over 23,700 acres after being active for a month. A crew of 800 firefighters managed to contain the blaze entirely by this past Friday at noon.

In the Lifeway Region, of the Los Angeles International Churches of Christ (ICOC) encompassing Pasadena and its surrounding areas, the Eaton Fire caused widespread displacement. In the Westside Region of the ICOC they experienced loss as well. Dozens of disciples received mandatory evacuation orders and fled their homes in the early hours of the morning. 

Tragically, at least 4 homes and one business belonging to church members have been completely destroyed, including the lifelong home of an elderly sister, the childhood home of one family and the sole source of income for another family.

The disciples in Southern California are deeply grateful for the prayers, messages, and offers of support from other disciples around the world during this challenging time.

Currently, a disaster relief committee has been formed with regions of the L.A. Church of Christ. This committee continues to coordinate with HOPE worldwide to meet the ongoing needs of members of these communities whose property was damaged by the fires.

You can still donate today by clicking on the button below, and please continue to pray for these communities in need.

(Information about our sister churches was retrieved from articles on disciplestoday.org about the fires.)

America's 49th state is a national treasure, and spectacularly showcases God's creativity and love of beauty. You have a limited opportunity to visit this place of wonder with Disciples Today Travel (DT Travel) this July.

They have put together a great package with unmatched pricing, and of course, lessons and fellowship you won't get on any other Alaskan vacation. Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with Holland America's 7-Day Glacier Discovery Cruise aboard the luxurious ms Nieuw Amsterdam.

But you have to book by February 21, 2024, to get these prices. 

Get ready to explore the breathtaking beauty of Alaska's glaciers and witness the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Inside Passage. They will depart from Anchorage to board the ship in Whittier and sail southward as they embark on a journey filled with thrilling wildlife sightings, dazzling fjords, and majestic ice-capped mountains. Indulge in world-class dining, captivating entertainment, and enriching shore excursions that will leave you in awe of the natural wonders.

Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or a first-time adventurer, this unforgettable experience is sure to create memories that will last a lifetime. Join them on this extraordinary voyage and start planning your next great adventure with Disciples Today Travel and Holland America. 

The Spiritual Directors for this trip are Justin and Irene Renton, who will give them "Whispers from the Wilderness".  

Justin and Irene have been disciples for over 32 years and have served as the leaders of the Johannesburg Church of Christ, and Regional Family Chairs of the Southern Africa ICOC for the past 18 years. Both of their children are disciples:  Luke is in the Campus ministry in Johannesburg, and Elena and her new husband are part of the church in Cape Town. They have authored two books together:  Healing of a Wounded Idealist and The Humble Idealist, and Justin serves as the Chief Evangelist of Disciples Today. Irene is an avid cake decorator and a registered Hospice Counselor. Justin used to be a racing car driver and loves mountain biking.

Visit the website for more information by clicking the button below!

We hope you can join us at one or some of our upcoming events this winter!  The Lord is providing much needed rain and we are grateful!

We hope all of you who celebrate Valentine's Day have a wonderful time celebrating with the one you love this upcoming Friday.