Christmas at the Cathedral---Antoinette R. Banks, Web Team

On December 24th, The Sentinel released an article written by their Religion Editor, Niele Anderson, on the spiritually inspiring events here at West Angeles Church. Big props to our music department, director Jason White, and manager, Jonathan E. Coleman as they put on a momentous musical titled, “The Gift” about a father being reminded of what Christmas really is despite the drawbacks and downfalls of the harsh economic times.

The web team also tips their hats to Mr. Anderson as he writes,

“Technology played a big role in this year’s celebration. With the east coast being snowed in, a lot of pastors and churches tuned into West Angeles’ weekly live broadcast of the 8AM and 11AM services at www.webtv.westa.org/live. The broadcast also gave viewers the opportunity to chat while watching service with believers from all over the world.”

As a member of the web team we strive to bring in the word of God through any and all technological means. If you are not in the Los Angeles area or unable to make it to our amazing and awe inspiring services, please tune into our live stream

Don’t forget to pick up the article as the editorial piece is not available online. Please continue to keep us in your prayers as we strive to make movements in His name for His Kingdom!!

How to Save Money--Antoinette R. Banks, web team

Many of us have completely broken the bank around this Holiday season. But if you are like me and you are looking for a few easy money saving tips for the new year, take a look below!

1. Start Holiday Shopping Now!

Now that the season is coming to an end, look for most of the décor in all of your favorite shops for half the price now! Put all of your new fabulous items in a climate controlled box till next season.

2. Work off Extra Pounds from your grandmother’s Red Velvet Cake off the Smart Way!

Instead of buying a membership, why not enroll into a junior college? While most are paying $20-$35 a month, you’ll be the smartie paying $20-$35 a year for a fitness class and all access to their student gym.

3. Ghost Energy Wasters

Many American’s turn their electronic devices off, however many forget that the flashing lights that come with the radio, or time clock in the dvd player actually use energy. A smart way to cut down on costs for the upcoming year would be to purchase a surge protector for less than $35 at your local hardware store—disabling the flow of power with on switch in the surge protector.

4. Light up the Smart Way

Compact fluorescent lights, (the ones that look all twisted up) can generally save a family $350 on their lighting bill by cutting down on the energy intake. It’s worth a try!

5. Save Water

Regular shower heads can release as much as 6 gallons per minute and some of the showerhead manufacturers have figured out how to let much less water through, but still feel like a lot. We encourage you to shop around at your local hardware stores to find a water saving showerhead. You could wind up reducing your energy costs of heating water and water consumption by 50 percent!

6. Be Smart with Your Wardrobe

Spend less money on the trendy items that won’t be in style long, and instead buy classic items that will last a long time. We encourage you not to buy clothes that only work for one outfit, but plan for several.

7. Clean out the Clutter of 2009

Instead of having a garage sale, try putting your items on eBay. Don’t be afraid, starting an account on eBay is simple! Take a few pictures and upload, you’ll be surprised by how many may think your trash is their treasure.

8. Shop Around for Insurance

Don’t stay in the same car insurance year after year. Do your research and look into what different car companies have to offer. You will be surprised how your insurance company competitor’s would be willing to offer you a less monthly premium.

9. Shop Around in the Winter

Most people who are in the market to buy homes tend to do so when the weather is nice for traveling and taking a look at various properties. Instead, try looking in the dead of winter! More likely you will be able to get a property for even less without too much competition.

Proverbs 21:5 says: The plans of the diligent lead to profit
as surely as haste leads to poverty.

We encourage you to post your easy saving money tips!

What Are Your New Year's Resolutions? Antoinette Banks, Web Team

To most Americans, the beginning of a New Year is equivalent a new hope, a new vision, and a new beginning. From the Jewish perspective, a New Year represents man’s birth. We encourage you to focus on your motivation behind each of your goals.
The top five New Year’s Resolution are:

1. Exercise More
2. Stop Drinking
3. Manage Money Better
4. Spend More Time with the Family
5. Quit Smoking

In conjunction to the top five, many of us as Believers make resolutions to:

1. Pray More
2. Read the Bible More
3. Consecrate
4. Attend Church on a Regular
5. Get Involved in Ministry

These are all fantastic resolutions, but why is it that many resolutions, both spiritual and non-spiritual, fail? The answer is whether or not we have the right motivation and determination behind our goals.

Try setting short term and long term goals. With each short term goal you reach, it becomes easier to achieve your long term goals. And if for some reason your goals are not reached, it is important not to sit in an obscure haze of frustration but to understand that every man falls short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). The vital action that supersedes all forms of self reflecting doubt is whether or not you will dust the cloud of guilt off and continue towards your aspirations. Isaiah 41:10 says So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God, I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Also meditate on this verse, James 1:3 because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.

As this year is coming to an end, we want to know, what are your New Year’s Resolutions?