PASTOR'S UPDATE MAY 30, 2025
Pastor's Update - May 30, 2025
Hello, Friendship Family!
It’s been a little while since I’ve recorded one of these video updates, and I want to say how good it is to be back with you in this format. Thank you for giving me just a few moments of your time as we step into a new month—together.
Let me start by saying this: May was a full month. A busy month. A blessed month.
We don’t have time today to rehearse all that took place, but I do want to pause and say— to God be the glory for His continued faithfulness.
By His grace, Friendship celebrated 61 years of ministry this month. That’s 61 years of walking by faith, 61 years of preaching Christ, discipling believers, serving the community, and standing on God’s promises. We’ve come this far not by luck, not by chance, not by ease—but by fortitude, resilience, and faith in a God who still leads His people.
The Bible reminds us in Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
Friendship—God’s not done with us yet. We are still advancing and expanding for His glory alone!
Speaking of milestones—I want to thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for the incredible support you have shown to Lady Karima and me as we recently completed our doctoral degrees. Your support has been nothing short of instrumental and monumental.
You have been instrumental—through your prayers that strengthened us, your encouragement that uplifted us, and your love that surrounded us.
You have been monumental—through your generosity in gifts and kind words, and your consistent presence as our church family through this season of stretching, studying, and striving.
We share this moment with you because we could not have done it without you. Thank you!
Now, as we leave May behind, we turn our focus to the end of the school year and all that comes with the start of summer.
It’s been a little while since I’ve recorded one of these video updates, and I want to say how good it is to be back with you in this format. Thank you for giving me just a few moments of your time as we step into a new month—together.
Let me start by saying this: May was a full month. A busy month. A blessed month.
We don’t have time today to rehearse all that took place, but I do want to pause and say— to God be the glory for His continued faithfulness.
By His grace, Friendship celebrated 61 years of ministry this month. That’s 61 years of walking by faith, 61 years of preaching Christ, discipling believers, serving the community, and standing on God’s promises. We’ve come this far not by luck, not by chance, not by ease—but by fortitude, resilience, and faith in a God who still leads His people.
The Bible reminds us in Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
Friendship—God’s not done with us yet. We are still advancing and expanding for His glory alone!
Speaking of milestones—I want to thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for the incredible support you have shown to Lady Karima and me as we recently completed our doctoral degrees. Your support has been nothing short of instrumental and monumental.
You have been instrumental—through your prayers that strengthened us, your encouragement that uplifted us, and your love that surrounded us.
You have been monumental—through your generosity in gifts and kind words, and your consistent presence as our church family through this season of stretching, studying, and striving.
We share this moment with you because we could not have done it without you. Thank you!
Now, as we leave May behind, we turn our focus to the end of the school year and all that comes with the start of summer.
FAMILY PRAYER SERVICE
TONIGHT, Friday, May 30th, I’m inviting you to join us for in-person Prayer & Praise in the Sanctuary at 7:30 p.m. Let’s start this next season together—seeking God in unity.
TONIGHT, Friday, May 30th, I’m inviting you to join us for in-person Prayer & Praise in the Sanctuary at 7:30 p.m. Let’s start this next season together—seeking God in unity.
MINISTERS & TEACHERS CONFERENCE
The 2025 Ministers & Teachers Conference is tomorrow! All Friendship Ministers, Teachers, and LEAD Graduates are invited and encouraged to join us. The theme for this year is “Fortifying the Faithful: Teaching Truth, Leading Well.” We hope to see all of our teachers and ministers tomorrow at 9:00 am.
The 2025 Ministers & Teachers Conference is tomorrow! All Friendship Ministers, Teachers, and LEAD Graduates are invited and encouraged to join us. The theme for this year is “Fortifying the Faithful: Teaching Truth, Leading Well.” We hope to see all of our teachers and ministers tomorrow at 9:00 am.
HIGH CHURCH SERVICE - FIRST SUNDAY
This coming Sunday is the first Sunday in June, which means it’s High Church Sunday here at Friendship. That means we invite our Deacons, Deaconess, and Mothers to serve in their official capacities, Communion will be served in traditional order, and we’ll worship in a spirit of excellence and reverence as we begin the month. We will also celebrate our June birthdays and wedding anniversaries.
For those of you joining us on line, check out the communion instructions so you can observe communion virtually HERE.
And remember: Communion is for believers. If you have not yet placed your trust in Jesus Christ for salvation, we ask that you refrain from partaking—this is a biblical instruction.
This coming Sunday is the first Sunday in June, which means it’s High Church Sunday here at Friendship. That means we invite our Deacons, Deaconess, and Mothers to serve in their official capacities, Communion will be served in traditional order, and we’ll worship in a spirit of excellence and reverence as we begin the month. We will also celebrate our June birthdays and wedding anniversaries.
For those of you joining us on line, check out the communion instructions so you can observe communion virtually HERE.
And remember: Communion is for believers. If you have not yet placed your trust in Jesus Christ for salvation, we ask that you refrain from partaking—this is a biblical instruction.
NEW PREACHING SERIES - GROW UP
Also, this Sunday, I’ll begin a new preaching series entitled “Grow Up.” This is a discipleship-focused series calling us toward biblical maturity, spiritual growth, and true transformation.
This series is for all of us—no matter where you are on your journey, the Word of God is still calling you to grow deeper, live stronger, and look more like Christ. Don’t miss it!
Also, this Sunday, I’ll begin a new preaching series entitled “Grow Up.” This is a discipleship-focused series calling us toward biblical maturity, spiritual growth, and true transformation.
This series is for all of us—no matter where you are on your journey, the Word of God is still calling you to grow deeper, live stronger, and look more like Christ. Don’t miss it!
YOUNG AUDLT BIBLE STUDY
Attention Young Adults ages 18-35, Tuesday, June 3 our Young Adults will begin a new Bible Study on the Book of Ephesians. Though just 6 chapters, Ephesians offers deep insight into identity, community, unity, and how to face life’s challenges as believers.
Join us on Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. To register, go HERE.
Attention Young Adults ages 18-35, Tuesday, June 3 our Young Adults will begin a new Bible Study on the Book of Ephesians. Though just 6 chapters, Ephesians offers deep insight into identity, community, unity, and how to face life’s challenges as believers.
Join us on Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. To register, go HERE.
NEW MEMBER'S RECEPTION - SUNDAY, JUNE 8
If you joined Friendship in 2025 or completed the New Members Class recently, join us for our New Member's Reception at 10:15 a.m. in the Carrington Building. Come meet me, Lady Karima, members of our church staff, and key leaders. Be sure to RSVP—an invitation email is coming your way.
If you joined Friendship in 2025 or completed the New Members Class recently, join us for our New Member's Reception at 10:15 a.m. in the Carrington Building. Come meet me, Lady Karima, members of our church staff, and key leaders. Be sure to RSVP—an invitation email is coming your way.
MENS MONTHLY GATHERING
Brothers, you were born for more… abundantly more! You were born to be a 10X Better Man. Not just better, but 10X better in every aspect of your life. This month we focus on how we can be 10X better physically.
We look forward to seeing you on Monday, June 9th at 7:00 PM for a fun time of food and fellowship.
Brothers, you were born for more… abundantly more! You were born to be a 10X Better Man. Not just better, but 10X better in every aspect of your life. This month we focus on how we can be 10X better physically.
We look forward to seeing you on Monday, June 9th at 7:00 PM for a fun time of food and fellowship.
SIDE-BY-SIDE COUPLES MINISTRY
Calling all couples! Friday, June 13 our Side by Side Couples Class will begin a new six-session study: “Growing Together in Christ.” This class is for married, engaged, or seriously dating couples who want to deepen their spiritual intimacy. It meets online at 7 p.m. every 2nd Friday. We encourage all couples to join and grow together.
FATHER'S DAY - JUNE 16
Next, on Sunday, June 16 we will celebrate Father’s Day
Join us on Father’s Day to celebrate the fathers of Friendship! We’ll honor dads at each worship service and present them with a special gift. Bring your father or your children—and let’s celebrate together!
Calling all couples! Friday, June 13 our Side by Side Couples Class will begin a new six-session study: “Growing Together in Christ.” This class is for married, engaged, or seriously dating couples who want to deepen their spiritual intimacy. It meets online at 7 p.m. every 2nd Friday. We encourage all couples to join and grow together.
FATHER'S DAY - JUNE 16
Next, on Sunday, June 16 we will celebrate Father’s Day
Join us on Father’s Day to celebrate the fathers of Friendship! We’ll honor dads at each worship service and present them with a special gift. Bring your father or your children—and let’s celebrate together!
CHURCH OFFICE CLOSURE
The church office will be closed on Thursday, June 19th for the Juneteenth holiday.
The church office will be closed on Thursday, June 19th for the Juneteenth holiday.
JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION
The City of Buena Park will host the 2nd annual Juneteenth Celebration of Freedom on Thursday, June 19 from 6:00 - 9:00pm at Boisseranc Park (7520 Dale St.) The FREE event will be filled with community vendors, food trucks, guest speaker, live entertainment and activities for children. Live entertainment will feature local talent and a concert by Biscuits & Gravy Live. The guest speaker will be the Rev. Kenneth Curry, Pastor of the Friendship Baptist Church in Yorba Linda. For information on this year's event or to find out how to get involved, call the Community Services Department at (714) 562-3860. or click HERE.
The City of Buena Park will host the 2nd annual Juneteenth Celebration of Freedom on Thursday, June 19 from 6:00 - 9:00pm at Boisseranc Park (7520 Dale St.) The FREE event will be filled with community vendors, food trucks, guest speaker, live entertainment and activities for children. Live entertainment will feature local talent and a concert by Biscuits & Gravy Live. The guest speaker will be the Rev. Kenneth Curry, Pastor of the Friendship Baptist Church in Yorba Linda. For information on this year's event or to find out how to get involved, call the Community Services Department at (714) 562-3860. or click HERE.
WOMEN'S VIRTUAL FELLOWSHIP
Kingdom Women – Join us for our Virtual Women’s Ministry Monthly Fellowship on Friday, June 20th at 7:00 p.m. Our guest, Sis. Yolanda Duncan, will teach on God’s Callings Are His Enablings based upon the book Now and Not Yet: Pressing in When You’re Waiting, Wanting, and Restless for More by Ruth Chou Simons. Ruth writes,
"Do you find yourself measuring your ability to step into your callings with metrics like popularity, approval, resources, and natural giftedness? Are you tempted to feel called when your strengths are on display and not called when it’s your weaknesses showing through instead? God was accomplishing a specific plan with a specific purpose in his promise to Abraham and his provision for him, and God’s character remains the same as we walk with him today. He is still the God who proves himself trustworthy. He is still the God who calls us to more than we can handle on our own so that we’ll know his faithfulness more fully. He is still the God who provides when we are not sufficient on our own. He is still the God who works all things together for our good, even if it doesn’t look the way we expect it to."
To register, go HERE.
Ladies, let's get together and learn how God’s Callings Are His Enablings!
Don't Delay – Register Today and Invite A Friend...or 2
Kingdom Women – Join us for our Virtual Women’s Ministry Monthly Fellowship on Friday, June 20th at 7:00 p.m. Our guest, Sis. Yolanda Duncan, will teach on God’s Callings Are His Enablings based upon the book Now and Not Yet: Pressing in When You’re Waiting, Wanting, and Restless for More by Ruth Chou Simons. Ruth writes,
"Do you find yourself measuring your ability to step into your callings with metrics like popularity, approval, resources, and natural giftedness? Are you tempted to feel called when your strengths are on display and not called when it’s your weaknesses showing through instead? God was accomplishing a specific plan with a specific purpose in his promise to Abraham and his provision for him, and God’s character remains the same as we walk with him today. He is still the God who proves himself trustworthy. He is still the God who calls us to more than we can handle on our own so that we’ll know his faithfulness more fully. He is still the God who provides when we are not sufficient on our own. He is still the God who works all things together for our good, even if it doesn’t look the way we expect it to."
To register, go HERE.
Ladies, let's get together and learn how God’s Callings Are His Enablings!
Don't Delay – Register Today and Invite A Friend...or 2
BACCALAUREATE SERVICE AND CHILDREN & YOUTH DAY
Our Baccalaureate Service will take place on June 22nd at the 8:00 am service. All graduating High School seniors are encouraged to participate and to wear their caps and gowns. We will read the names and recognize all of those that are present. If you have not submitted your Baccalaureate information yet, you may do so HERE.
All day on June 22nd is Children & Youth Day! Join us throughout the day as our children and youth sing, dance, speak, and celebrate their faith.
Parents, at 10 a.m., come to the ExHour Promotion Celebration in the Multi-Purpose Building to see what your kids have learned. Refreshments will be served.
Our Baccalaureate Service will take place on June 22nd at the 8:00 am service. All graduating High School seniors are encouraged to participate and to wear their caps and gowns. We will read the names and recognize all of those that are present. If you have not submitted your Baccalaureate information yet, you may do so HERE.
All day on June 22nd is Children & Youth Day! Join us throughout the day as our children and youth sing, dance, speak, and celebrate their faith.
Parents, at 10 a.m., come to the ExHour Promotion Celebration in the Multi-Purpose Building to see what your kids have learned. Refreshments will be served.
MEN'S DAY - JUNE 29
Men of Friendship! On Sunday, June 29, our final Sunday of the month, we will have Men’s Day
The theme is: “Men Advancing: Fortified and Equipped to Be All God Has Called Us to Be” from Ephesians 4:11–13 (ESV).
The men of Friendship will serve in various roles—ushers, choir, praise team, and more. Brothers, let’s rise up and represent well!
Men of Friendship! On Sunday, June 29, our final Sunday of the month, we will have Men’s Day
The theme is: “Men Advancing: Fortified and Equipped to Be All God Has Called Us to Be” from Ephesians 4:11–13 (ESV).
The men of Friendship will serve in various roles—ushers, choir, praise team, and more. Brothers, let’s rise up and represent well!
5 WAYS IN 90 DAYS
Looking to jumpstart or reignite your Bible reading habit? Join the 5 Ways in 90 Days Bible Reading Group! They’ll begin reading through The Gospels and the New Testament starting in late June and continuing into July. You’ll learn practical ways to read through large sections of Scripture and grow in community.
Looking to jumpstart or reignite your Bible reading habit? Join the 5 Ways in 90 Days Bible Reading Group! They’ll begin reading through The Gospels and the New Testament starting in late June and continuing into July. You’ll learn practical ways to read through large sections of Scripture and grow in community.
- The New Testament (Reading dates: 6/30-7/19)
- The Gospels (Reading dates (6/30-7/7)
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL - SAVE THE DATES!
Lastly, Save the date! Vacation Bible School is coming.
As we look ahead to July, make sure you save the date for Vacation Bible School 2025 happening Tuesday, July 15th through Thursday, July 17th.
This year’s theme is: “Magnified! Seeing God Bigger, Living for Him Better” based on Psalm 34:3 (ESV) —“Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together!”
We’ll have dinner at 6 p.m. and classes at 7 p.m. nightly for children, youth, and adults. Registration opens soon—so keep an eye out. We’re praying you’ll join us for another exciting week of learning and fun!
Lastly, Save the date! Vacation Bible School is coming.
As we look ahead to July, make sure you save the date for Vacation Bible School 2025 happening Tuesday, July 15th through Thursday, July 17th.
This year’s theme is: “Magnified! Seeing God Bigger, Living for Him Better” based on Psalm 34:3 (ESV) —“Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together!”
We’ll have dinner at 6 p.m. and classes at 7 p.m. nightly for children, youth, and adults. Registration opens soon—so keep an eye out. We’re praying you’ll join us for another exciting week of learning and fun!
Attention, Friendship Family! We hope you had a fantastic time at the 2024 Christmas Gala. Now, it's time to gear up for the 2025 Christmas Gala, and we need your participation to ensure this year's event is just as spectacular. If you are committed to being part of the Christmas Gala Planning Committee, contact Sharon Preston immediately at spreston@wearefriendship.church or 714-579-7060. Join us in making this event extraordinary!
FAITHFUL GIVING
We want to say thank you for your giving and partnership. YOUR GIVING MATTERS! Your faithful giving allows us to increasingly do the work of ministry for our members AND to everyone the Lord sends to us and sends us to.
2 Corinthians 9: 6-7 ESV
6 The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
Malachi 3:10 ESV
Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.
You may give HERE.
Please make your checks payable to: Friendship Baptist Church of Yorba Linda
We want to say thank you for your giving and partnership. YOUR GIVING MATTERS! Your faithful giving allows us to increasingly do the work of ministry for our members AND to everyone the Lord sends to us and sends us to.
2 Corinthians 9: 6-7 ESV
6 The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
Malachi 3:10 ESV
Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.
You may give HERE.
Please make your checks payable to: Friendship Baptist Church of Yorba Linda
So, as you can see, Friendship, June is filled with opportunities to grow, gather, and glorify God. I encourage you to stay engaged, stay connected, and stay prayerful.
Let’s walk in faith, fortitude, and fellowship—pressing forward together.
Romans 12:11 reminds us:
“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”
Let’s do just that—with joy, with purpose, and with one another.
I love you, Friendship. Lady Karima and I are praying for you. Let’s make June a month of momentum for God’s glory alone!
Grace and peace—
Rev. Dr. Kenneth C. Curry, Jr.
Your Pastor
Let’s walk in faith, fortitude, and fellowship—pressing forward together.
Romans 12:11 reminds us:
“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”
Let’s do just that—with joy, with purpose, and with one another.
I love you, Friendship. Lady Karima and I are praying for you. Let’s make June a month of momentum for God’s glory alone!
Grace and peace—
Rev. Dr. Kenneth C. Curry, Jr.
Your Pastor
General Church things to remember:
- 2025 CHURCH THEME:
Fortifying the Faithful - Equipping the Elect
Ephesians 4:11-14 ESV
- JUNE PRAYER FOCUS:
Isaiah 61:1; Ephesians 1:4-6; Isaiah 25:8-9; Jeremiah 32:17; Romans 8:28
WEDNESDAY Prayer Day: Join us each Wednesday for Prayer. We pray at 6:30 a.m., 12 p.m., and 6:30 p.m. To connect with our prayer services, please dial +1 (413) 418-4274 and use the PIN 287683504#.
It is our desire to make sure all members, family and friends are prayed for here at Friendship Baptist Church. We believe in the power of God, who hears and answers prayer. The Bible says… “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.”
-Ephesians 6:18
In order for us to get all prayer requests ready for prayer during Sunday services, we ask that you call or send in your prayer request before Friday morning. Request sent in after Friday will be on the following week’s prayer list. Send requests to Leigha Carrington at leighac@wearefriendship.church or 714-579-7072 or no later than 7:30a.m. on Sunday morning to Sharon Preston at spreston@wearefriendship.church or 714-579-7060.
You may now submit your prayer request on the church website www.wearefriendship.church or the church app.
Please note, on Sundays all prayer request must be in by 7:30 a.m. to make the prayer list. If your request is not added for the 8:00 a.m. service, it will be added to the 11:30 a.m. service prayer list.
- WEEKLY HEALTH WALK
- FRIENDSHIP FOOD BANK OPEN
OUTREACH
Did you Know…
The purpose of: Celebrate Recovery” is to fellowship and celebrate God’s healing power in our lives through the 12 Steps and 8 biblically based Recovery Principles. This experience allows us to “be changed”.
Every Thursday Night dinner begins at 6:00 p.m. The general session begins at 7:00 p.m.
Small Groups at 8:00 p.m.
Where: Friendship Baptist Church - MPB
The purpose of: Celebrate Recovery” is to fellowship and celebrate God’s healing power in our lives through the 12 Steps and 8 biblically based Recovery Principles. This experience allows us to “be changed”.
Every Thursday Night dinner begins at 6:00 p.m. The general session begins at 7:00 p.m.
Small Groups at 8:00 p.m.
Where: Friendship Baptist Church - MPB
GriefShare is a support group to help you move through the grief process.
GriefShare provides a safe place to talk about hard things-and heal from them.
GriefShare is for everyone who is grieving the death of a loved one—whether you’ve experienced the loss of a spouse, parent, child (infant, young child, teen, adult, unborn), friend, sibling, coworker, or other relative. GriefShare support group is a safe, welcoming place where people understand the difficult emotions of grief. Through this 13-week group, you’ll discover what to expect in the days ahead and what’s “normal” in grief. Since there are no neat, orderly stages of grief, you’ll learn helpful ways of coping with grief, in all its unpredictability—and gain solid support each step of the way.
GriefShare provides a safe place to talk about hard things-and heal from them.
GriefShare is for everyone who is grieving the death of a loved one—whether you’ve experienced the loss of a spouse, parent, child (infant, young child, teen, adult, unborn), friend, sibling, coworker, or other relative. GriefShare support group is a safe, welcoming place where people understand the difficult emotions of grief. Through this 13-week group, you’ll discover what to expect in the days ahead and what’s “normal” in grief. Since there are no neat, orderly stages of grief, you’ll learn helpful ways of coping with grief, in all its unpredictability—and gain solid support each step of the way.
Jesus Changes Everything!
Whether you are seeking, doubting, or suffering, the Harvest Crusade is a place to discover God’s love for you in a real, meaningful way. Join us for this one-night special event with musical performances by top Christian artists and a gospel message of hope that could change your life forever.
The Harvest Crusade is FREE for everyone thanks to the faithful support of participating churches and partners, our donors, and Harvest Partners.
Basic information:
2000 E Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, CA 92806
And streaming online at harvest.org
Whether you are seeking, doubting, or suffering, the Harvest Crusade is a place to discover God’s love for you in a real, meaningful way. Join us for this one-night special event with musical performances by top Christian artists and a gospel message of hope that could change your life forever.
The Harvest Crusade is FREE for everyone thanks to the faithful support of participating churches and partners, our donors, and Harvest Partners.
Basic information:
- Admission: Free -- Parking at Angel Stadium is $20.00
- Translations: Spanish, Thai, French, Vietnamese, Mandarin, Tamil, Romanian, Korean, ASL
- Event begins: 7 PM PT
- Venue information
2000 E Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, CA 92806
And streaming online at harvest.org
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Join us for the 4th annual Gospel Voices of Orange County by being a part of the choir! Celebrate Juneteenth and take part in this magnificent showcase of African American artistry. Four rehearsals will take place on Wednesdays from May 28th - June 18th with the event taking place on June 22nd at Chapman University's Musco Center for the Arts.
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