GLB Monthly - May 2026

Dear GLB Church Family!

The DeAndas get a break from writing this month’s letter, and Sara and I are honored to write this month’s newsletter. April was especially meaningful for our family as we were overjoyed to see our son, Sam, marry Jade Yen. It was a beautiful celebration, and we are deeply grateful for the love, support, and prayers from our church family that surrounded them during this special time. Moments like these remind us of God’s goodness and His power at work in every detail of our lives, unfolding His purposes over time. As it says in Ephesians 3:20–21, He is “able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine… throughout all generations.”

April was also a rich and full month for our church as we experienced the joy of being together in many meaningful ways. From our Good Friday Worship Night and Easter celebrations, to a powerful regional service with guests from Egypt alongside the Coastal and Westside regions, God brought us together in unity and purpose. We also shared great times of fellowship through our first Open Hands picnic of 2026, our first-ever Marrieds Prom, and the many small group gatherings centered around Practicing the Way. It has been especially encouraging to see continued growth in community, with two new small groups launching led by the Bransons and the Paks. Through each of these moments, God continues to form us as a connected and loving church family.

We have also been encouraged by what God is doing through baptisms across our ministries. In our campus ministry, Viliami Zepeda, a student-athlete at California State University, Long Beach, was invited to an event on April 8 and made the decision to be baptized on April 29. In our Mature Professionals Women’s Ministry, Sonia Eades—daughter of Joe Eades and Sara Eades—was also baptized after years of her parents faithfully sharing their faith. From the campus to the mature disciples ministry, God is moving hearts—whether seeds are planted over just a few days or faithfully sown over many years.

May brings meaningful opportunities to honor and appreciate others. We celebrate mothers on Mother’s Day, recognizing their love, sacrifice, and impact across generations. We also take time to appreciate teachers for their dedication and influence in shaping lives, and we recognize Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, honoring the rich cultures, contributions, and stories within our community. These moments give us a chance to express gratitude and reflect on how God works through people in our lives.

As we step into May, many of our students are preparing for finals, finishing strong after months of hard work, while longer days and warmer weather begin to shift our rhythms toward summer. In the midst of busy schedules, this is an opportunity to stay rooted in what matters most—remaining with Jesus and allowing Him to shape us. As we continue in Practicing the Way, let’s be intentional about making space for God and encouraging one another to grow in being with Jesus, becoming like Him, and living out His love each day. If you want more information, please visit practicingtheway.org, and if you’re looking to connect with a group to go through this curriculum in community, please check our church website (glbchurch.com).

As we move forward together this month, may we continue to trust in God’s goodness and His power at work in us and through us. As it says in Ephesians 3:20–21, He is “able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine… throughout all generations.” Let’s have a great May.

With love,
George and Sara Mathew