Tonight, I spoke with Amanda Moore concerning her husband, Sgt. John Moore. He is currently in Walter Reed Medical Center in Washington, D.C. Many of you have followed John's story on our blog, and from multiple email prayer chains.
Shortly after a reception was given for John and Amanda at White Bluff, Tennessee, John developed a high fever and was rushed to the Army hospital at Fort Campbell. He was later sent via medical flight back to Walter Reed, where his left leg was amputate below the knee.
John and Amanda are one of the most resilient couples I have ever known. Their spirits have been high even though this has been a long process of recovery. Today I learned that he has developed blood clots in one of the lobes of his lungs, and he is being aggressively treated by the medical staff at Walter Reed.
John is in serious need of prayer now...and his wife is there supportive of him, and she needs our prayers too. This is a VERY special couple to us, and they have many friends across Tennessee and beyond following their story. I am asking you to help me get the word out to everyone you know, and asking for your to agree with me in prayer for this family.
Since being critically wounded by a road-side improvised explosive device (IED) just outside of Baghdad, Iraq. An anti-tank round, enhanced by a propane tank was detonated underneath his Stryker vehicle, and had it not been for a medic who practiced excellent "battlefield" first aid, John would not have survived.
Let us come together as the people of God to pray for John and all of the other valient men and women who bring freedom and liberty to oppressed peoples everywhere. They are NOT politicians, but rather they are soldiers who hold to the values of duty, honor and country, and follow orders. Following those orders put them in harms way, and in so doing, they defend our very freedoms enjoyed in the United States of America.
Remember, freedom is not free, and liberty comes at a great price...in this case John is one of those who has laid his life on the line, and we honor him and all the others who have become casualties of these ideals. Will you please join me in this special prayer?
May God bless you.
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Thank you for visiting the daily blog for events of the Church of God of Prophecy in Tennessee, as well as the ministry of Bishop E.C. McKinley.We trust this will become a daily source of information for you, your family and your church.
I am excited about the future of the Church of God of Prophecy in general, but in Tennessee in particular. Our churches offer ministry for the whole family, as well as the para-church ministries developing around us. Please check back daily and join us in our journey for excellence.
--Dr. E.C. McKinley
Tennessee Presiding Bishop
Bishop Dotson Arrangments
Funeral Arrangements for Bishop L. J. Dotson:
Becker Funeral Home (in charge of arrangements)
806 W. Minneola Avenue
Clermont, FL 34712
352-394-7121
The service will be Saturday, August 1 at 1:00 P.M.
The Wesley Center
950 8th Street
Clermont, FL (directly behind the First United Methodist Church of Clermont on Hwy 50)
There is not visitation prior to the service.
There is not a specific memorial fund being set up. Sister Dotson has expressed just whatever people want to do.
Funeral Arrangements for Bishop L. J. Dotson:
Becker Funeral Home (in charge of arrangements)
806 W. Minneola Avenue
Clermont, FL 34712
352-394-7121
The service will be Saturday, August 1 at 1:00 P.M.
The Wesley Center
950 8th Street
Clermont, FL (directly behind the First United Methodist Church of Clermont on Hwy 50)
There is not visitation prior to the service.
There is not a specific memorial fund being set up. Sister Dotson has expressed just whatever people want to do.
Funeral Arrangements for Bishop L. J. Dotson:
Becker Funeral Home (in charge of arrangements)
806 W. Minneola Avenue
Clermont, FL 34712
352-394-7121
The service will be Saturday, August 1 at 1:00 P.M.
The Wesley Center
950 8th Street
Clermont, FL (directly behind the First United Methodist Church of Clermont on Hwy 50)
There is not visitation prior to the service.
There is not a specific memorial fund being set up. Sister Dotson has expressed just whatever people want to do.
Becker Funeral Home (in charge of arrangements)
806 W. Minneola Avenue
Clermont, FL 34712
352-394-7121
The service will be Saturday, August 1 at 1:00 P.M.
The Wesley Center
950 8th Street
Clermont, FL (directly behind the First United Methodist Church of Clermont on Hwy 50)
There is not visitation prior to the service.
There is not a specific memorial fund being set up. Sister Dotson has expressed just whatever people want to do.
Funeral Arrangements for Bishop L. J. Dotson:
Becker Funeral Home (in charge of arrangements)
806 W. Minneola Avenue
Clermont, FL 34712
352-394-7121
The service will be Saturday, August 1 at 1:00 P.M.
The Wesley Center
950 8th Street
Clermont, FL (directly behind the First United Methodist Church of Clermont on Hwy 50)
There is not visitation prior to the service.
There is not a specific memorial fund being set up. Sister Dotson has expressed just whatever people want to do.
Funeral Arrangements for Bishop L. J. Dotson:
Becker Funeral Home (in charge of arrangements)
806 W. Minneola Avenue
Clermont, FL 34712
352-394-7121
The service will be Saturday, August 1 at 1:00 P.M.
The Wesley Center
950 8th Street
Clermont, FL (directly behind the First United Methodist Church of Clermont on Hwy 50)
There is not visitation prior to the service.
There is not a specific memorial fund being set up. Sister Dotson has expressed just whatever people want to do.
Publish Date: July 31, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
General Assembly Lodging Information
PLEASE DO NOT CALL UNTIL ON OR BEFORE AUGUST 1, 2009
96th International Assembly
July 27 – August 1, 2010
Greensboro Coliseum in Greensboro, NC
2010 Assembly Lodging
Every hotel has its own policy relative to deposits required, cancellation, penalties, parking and etc. For a good understanding, be sure to inquire about the policy of the hotel which you choose. Be sure to identify yourself as being with the Church of God of Prophecy International Assembly – General Delegate.
Hotel websites are given to allow you to look at the property. When making a reservation, please call the phone number listed to get the Assembly rate.
HOTELS WITH WHICH CONTRACTS HAVE BEEN FINALIZED
Sheraton Hotel & Koury Convention Center (Headquarters Hotel)
3121 High Point Road
Greensboro NC 27407
Call (800) 242-6556 or (336) 292-9161 to make a reservation
$125.00 per night – Free Parking – Free Internet
1.58 miles from the Greensboro Coliseum
www.sheratongreensboro.com
Park Lane Hotel at Four Seasons
3005 High Point Road
Greensboro NC 27403
Call (800) 942-6556 or (336) 294-4565 to make a reservation
$97.00 per night – Free Parking – Complimentary Continental Breakfast – Free Internet
1.09 miles from the Greensboro Coliseum
www.park-lane-hotel.com
DoubleTree Hotel
3030 High Point Road
Greensboro NC 27403
Call (800) 222-8733 or (336) 292-4004 to make a reservation
$119.00 per night – Free Parking
1.28 miles from the Greensboro Coliseum
www.doubletree.com
Drury Inn
3220 High Point Road
Greensboro NC 27407
Call (800) 325-0720 to make a reservation
$87.00 per night – Free Parking – Free Hot Quickstart Breakfast – Free Internet
1.67 miles from the Greensboro Coliseum
www.druryhotels.com
Best Western Windsor Suites
2006 Veasley Street
Greensboro NC 27407
Call (336) 294-9100 to make a reservation
$90.00 per night – Free Parking – Complimentary Continental Breakfast – Free Internet
1.95 miles from the Greensboro Coliseum
www.bestwestern.com
Hampton Inn at Four Seasons
2004 Veasley Street
Greensboro NC 27407
Call (336) 854-8600 to make a reservation
$99.00 per night – Free Parking – Complimentary Continental Breakfast – Free Internet
2.02 miles from the Greensboro Coliseum
www.hamptoninn1.hilton.com
Baymont Inn & Suites
2001 Veasley Street
Greensboro NC 27407
Call (336) 294-6220 to make a reservation
$74.00 per night – Free Parking – Complimentary Continental Breakfast – Free Internet
2.06 miles from the Greensboro Coliseum
www.baymontinns.com
The Workshops, Youth Ministries Activities, Food Functions, Ministry Offices and etc. will be at the Sheraton and Koury Convention Center.
www.sheratongreensboro.com
The General Sessions, White Wing Bookstore, Exhibitors, Food Court, Children’s Ministries, Global Outreach Offices, and Operational Offices will be located at the Greensboro Coliseum.
www.greensborocoliseum.com
The Greensboro Coliseum is located at:
1921 W. Lee Street
Greensboro, NC 27403
96th International Assembly
July 27 – August 1, 2010
Greensboro Coliseum in Greensboro, NC
2010 Assembly Lodging
Every hotel has its own policy relative to deposits required, cancellation, penalties, parking and etc. For a good understanding, be sure to inquire about the policy of the hotel which you choose. Be sure to identify yourself as being with the Church of God of Prophecy International Assembly – General Delegate.
Hotel websites are given to allow you to look at the property. When making a reservation, please call the phone number listed to get the Assembly rate.
HOTELS WITH WHICH CONTRACTS HAVE BEEN FINALIZED
Sheraton Hotel & Koury Convention Center (Headquarters Hotel)
3121 High Point Road
Greensboro NC 27407
Call (800) 242-6556 or (336) 292-9161 to make a reservation
$125.00 per night – Free Parking – Free Internet
1.58 miles from the Greensboro Coliseum
www.sheratongreensboro.com
Park Lane Hotel at Four Seasons
3005 High Point Road
Greensboro NC 27403
Call (800) 942-6556 or (336) 294-4565 to make a reservation
$97.00 per night – Free Parking – Complimentary Continental Breakfast – Free Internet
1.09 miles from the Greensboro Coliseum
www.park-lane-hotel.com
DoubleTree Hotel
3030 High Point Road
Greensboro NC 27403
Call (800) 222-8733 or (336) 292-4004 to make a reservation
$119.00 per night – Free Parking
1.28 miles from the Greensboro Coliseum
www.doubletree.com
Drury Inn
3220 High Point Road
Greensboro NC 27407
Call (800) 325-0720 to make a reservation
$87.00 per night – Free Parking – Free Hot Quickstart Breakfast – Free Internet
1.67 miles from the Greensboro Coliseum
www.druryhotels.com
Best Western Windsor Suites
2006 Veasley Street
Greensboro NC 27407
Call (336) 294-9100 to make a reservation
$90.00 per night – Free Parking – Complimentary Continental Breakfast – Free Internet
1.95 miles from the Greensboro Coliseum
www.bestwestern.com
Hampton Inn at Four Seasons
2004 Veasley Street
Greensboro NC 27407
Call (336) 854-8600 to make a reservation
$99.00 per night – Free Parking – Complimentary Continental Breakfast – Free Internet
2.02 miles from the Greensboro Coliseum
www.hamptoninn1.hilton.com
Baymont Inn & Suites
2001 Veasley Street
Greensboro NC 27407
Call (336) 294-6220 to make a reservation
$74.00 per night – Free Parking – Complimentary Continental Breakfast – Free Internet
2.06 miles from the Greensboro Coliseum
www.baymontinns.com
The Workshops, Youth Ministries Activities, Food Functions, Ministry Offices and etc. will be at the Sheraton and Koury Convention Center.
www.sheratongreensboro.com
The General Sessions, White Wing Bookstore, Exhibitors, Food Court, Children’s Ministries, Global Outreach Offices, and Operational Offices will be located at the Greensboro Coliseum.
www.greensborocoliseum.com
The Greensboro Coliseum is located at:
1921 W. Lee Street
Greensboro, NC 27403
Publish Date: July 27, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E. C. McKinley
Important Notice - State Overseer of Florida
We have just received word of the passing of Bishop Larry Dotson, State Overseer of Florida, due to a brief battle with cancer. Please remember Sister Dotson and the family during this very difficult time. Complete arrangements will be announced when made available.
Publish Date: July 25, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Special Prayer for Cameroon Overseer-Bishop Mayeke James
The following prayer alert was just received from the Global Outreach Ministries Department:
"Our Cameroon overseer, Bishop Mayeke James, needs your prayer support. He and his family were attacked in their home last night. Bishop Levi Clarke spoke with a contact in Cameroon within the past hour and found that Brother Mayeke sustained serious injuries including a dislocated arm. He and other members of his family are being treated for their injuries in the hospital right now. It does not seem that the injuries are life threatening though they are serious. The thieves stole money that was in the house to be used for ministry needs, cell phones, and other electronics. Do not attempt to call Brother James, but please bombard heaven on his behalf."
"Our Cameroon overseer, Bishop Mayeke James, needs your prayer support. He and his family were attacked in their home last night. Bishop Levi Clarke spoke with a contact in Cameroon within the past hour and found that Brother Mayeke sustained serious injuries including a dislocated arm. He and other members of his family are being treated for their injuries in the hospital right now. It does not seem that the injuries are life threatening though they are serious. The thieves stole money that was in the house to be used for ministry needs, cell phones, and other electronics. Do not attempt to call Brother James, but please bombard heaven on his behalf."
Publish Date: July 23, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Special Guest at Harvest
From Ken Dyer
Pastor at Harvest - Knoxville
For any and all who may be interested ... On Friday evening, August 14, A good friend of mine, Amir Tsarfati, from Israel (a tour guide among other things) will be our special guest for a one night only service.
Amir has a long and interesting resume and is very up to date on current events of the middle east. Service time is 7:00 PM. Look forward to seeing you.
Pastor at Harvest - Knoxville
For any and all who may be interested ... On Friday evening, August 14, A good friend of mine, Amir Tsarfati, from Israel (a tour guide among other things) will be our special guest for a one night only service.
Amir has a long and interesting resume and is very up to date on current events of the middle east. Service time is 7:00 PM. Look forward to seeing you.
Publish Date: July 23, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Back to School Bash/Youth Revival
Back to school Bash &
Youth Revival
Guest speaker – bobby peoples
August 7 & 8
Big sandy Rock church
Friday August 7th – 7:00
Pizza will be served following service
Wii games
Saturday August 8th – 4:30
Volley ball and cookout
Service following at 7:00
Please rsvp your youth group for pizza and/or cookout
For more info contact dee parker at 731-584-1333 or
731-694-2860
Youth Revival
Guest speaker – bobby peoples
August 7 & 8
Big sandy Rock church
Friday August 7th – 7:00
Pizza will be served following service
Wii games
Saturday August 8th – 4:30
Volley ball and cookout
Service following at 7:00
Please rsvp your youth group for pizza and/or cookout
For more info contact dee parker at 731-584-1333 or
731-694-2860
Publish Date: July 22, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Family Fun Day - Shelbyville
The Shelbyville Church of God of Prophecy will be having a family fun day, Saturday, July 25 beginning at 11am. It will be held at Never Rest Park, just off the Lewisburg Highway.
Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Nacho's, Drinks and other items will be sold.
The day will end with a country gospel variety show sponsored by our church youth.
Everyone is invited.
For more information or to volunteer your talents, please call, 703-9689. If no answer please leave a message and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.
Gail Claxton
Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Nacho's, Drinks and other items will be sold.
The day will end with a country gospel variety show sponsored by our church youth.
Everyone is invited.
For more information or to volunteer your talents, please call, 703-9689. If no answer please leave a message and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.
Gail Claxton
Publish Date: July 21, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Ladies Retreat Information
The Ladies Retreat Website for registration and information is now up and running. Here is the link to follow: http://cogop.org/287781.ihtml
Please pass the word and let as many women know as you can. We will see you at a Retreat near you.
Please pass the word and let as many women know as you can. We will see you at a Retreat near you.
Publish Date: July 20, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Post-Convention Update
My dear friends,
I know that many of you read this blog on a regular basis, and some have the "RSS" reader feature enabled that informs you of when an update has been made. I want to thank you for your interest in the work of the Church of God of Prophecy in Tennessee, and it's associated ministry endeavors.
This post will serve as an update of events since our convention ended on June 12, 2009.
To say that we were blessed in our convention would be an understatement. There are no words to describe the Presence of the Lord as the saints gathered from all over the state to worship and fellowship.
Friday
As the opening day arrived, the Senior Pastors/State Staff and their companions gathered at the convention center for a special appreciate luncheon. As always, this is a highlight for our pastors who love one another and enjoy spending time together. My wife, Debra did an outstanding job of preparation and the meal was fabulous. We were entertained by several video presentations, most notable a special one from Sister Grace Love (with a cameo appearance of Ima Ginnit) and Brother "I" some Love.
The evening session opened with a tremendous worship team led by Jason Duncan. The anointing continued with Pastor Robert Carpenter worshiping with two songs, "southern gospel" style. A highlight of the convention was when Bishop Felton M. Smith, Prelate of the Tennessee First Jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ, ascended to the pulpit. We were blessed by a selection from his praise team, and also by the presence of so many of the pastors, first ladies and other dignitaries from the Church of God in Christ. His message "brought the house down" so to speak, and his anointed prophetic ministry was evident. Bishop Smith is a friend to the Church of God of Prophecy and we were honored to have him (and his organist) to preach the word of God with power. A large offering was given by his jurisdiction, along with a seed offering taken at the end of his message that greatly helped defray the cost of the convention.
Saturday
In the morning session, the business went smoothly (as always) and we were absolutely blessed by the ministry of the Chickamauga Loop Praise Team from Chattanooga. Minister Novella Miller and her team always do their work with excellence, for which we are grateful. On Saturday morning, I shared my burden for the State along with a challenge to "Awake to the Lord's Return."
In the afternoon, Londa Richardson hosted a ladies luncheon at the convention center that featured Gospel recording artist Ann Downing. As with everything else Londa does, we had a marvelous lunch and the special personal touch that only Londa and Dwight could do.
Later in the main sanctuary, State Youth Director Joshua Lynn put together an outstanding service, and delivered an anointed message to the convention.
In the evening service, Battlefront Ministries ministered through drama and the word, and one of the highlights of the convention was when Glynis Varlack Allgood sang "Blessed Assurance" with the convention praise team and musicians providing music and vocals accompaniment. Sister Cathy Payne, our International Women's Ministries Director preached the house down with her candid, heart-felt personal testimony and sermon. In fact, guests at the host hotel were drawn to the services by the power of God, where they were ministered to.
After the evening service, the youth ministries department hosted an afterglow that went well past midnight, with music, worship and the Word. Special thanks to Joshua Lynn and his team for making this happen.
Sunday
On Sunday morning, the convention business committee gave their report and we concluded with an ordination/consecration service and final words by the overseer.
We heard glowing testimonies and reports of the Lord's goodness during the convention and high praise for the facilities and our gifted staff.
This convention is now history and will be forever remembered not only for the great location, worship and Word, but also for the Presence of the Holy Spirit.
Special thanks to everyone who made this event a success.
I know that many of you read this blog on a regular basis, and some have the "RSS" reader feature enabled that informs you of when an update has been made. I want to thank you for your interest in the work of the Church of God of Prophecy in Tennessee, and it's associated ministry endeavors.
This post will serve as an update of events since our convention ended on June 12, 2009.
To say that we were blessed in our convention would be an understatement. There are no words to describe the Presence of the Lord as the saints gathered from all over the state to worship and fellowship.
Friday
As the opening day arrived, the Senior Pastors/State Staff and their companions gathered at the convention center for a special appreciate luncheon. As always, this is a highlight for our pastors who love one another and enjoy spending time together. My wife, Debra did an outstanding job of preparation and the meal was fabulous. We were entertained by several video presentations, most notable a special one from Sister Grace Love (with a cameo appearance of Ima Ginnit) and Brother "I" some Love.
The evening session opened with a tremendous worship team led by Jason Duncan. The anointing continued with Pastor Robert Carpenter worshiping with two songs, "southern gospel" style. A highlight of the convention was when Bishop Felton M. Smith, Prelate of the Tennessee First Jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ, ascended to the pulpit. We were blessed by a selection from his praise team, and also by the presence of so many of the pastors, first ladies and other dignitaries from the Church of God in Christ. His message "brought the house down" so to speak, and his anointed prophetic ministry was evident. Bishop Smith is a friend to the Church of God of Prophecy and we were honored to have him (and his organist) to preach the word of God with power. A large offering was given by his jurisdiction, along with a seed offering taken at the end of his message that greatly helped defray the cost of the convention.
Saturday
In the morning session, the business went smoothly (as always) and we were absolutely blessed by the ministry of the Chickamauga Loop Praise Team from Chattanooga. Minister Novella Miller and her team always do their work with excellence, for which we are grateful. On Saturday morning, I shared my burden for the State along with a challenge to "Awake to the Lord's Return."
In the afternoon, Londa Richardson hosted a ladies luncheon at the convention center that featured Gospel recording artist Ann Downing. As with everything else Londa does, we had a marvelous lunch and the special personal touch that only Londa and Dwight could do.
Later in the main sanctuary, State Youth Director Joshua Lynn put together an outstanding service, and delivered an anointed message to the convention.
In the evening service, Battlefront Ministries ministered through drama and the word, and one of the highlights of the convention was when Glynis Varlack Allgood sang "Blessed Assurance" with the convention praise team and musicians providing music and vocals accompaniment. Sister Cathy Payne, our International Women's Ministries Director preached the house down with her candid, heart-felt personal testimony and sermon. In fact, guests at the host hotel were drawn to the services by the power of God, where they were ministered to.
After the evening service, the youth ministries department hosted an afterglow that went well past midnight, with music, worship and the Word. Special thanks to Joshua Lynn and his team for making this happen.
Sunday
On Sunday morning, the convention business committee gave their report and we concluded with an ordination/consecration service and final words by the overseer.
We heard glowing testimonies and reports of the Lord's goodness during the convention and high praise for the facilities and our gifted staff.
This convention is now history and will be forever remembered not only for the great location, worship and Word, but also for the Presence of the Holy Spirit.
Special thanks to everyone who made this event a success.
Publish Date: July 13, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Deceased Ministers Memorial
To view the Deceased Ministers Video shown at our recent Tennessee State Convention, go to Bishop McKinley's personal blog at www.tncogop.blogspot.com
Publish Date: July 12, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Convention is now history
The Lord showed Himself strong at the Tennessee State Convention. We were blessed with praise and worship sessions, anointed preaching and great crowds.
A special thanks to everyone who made this convention a success. We are looking forward with a new paradigm of finding God's will for our lives and our churches. A paradigm rooted in true worship and pentecostal power.
May God bless you!
A special thanks to everyone who made this convention a success. We are looking forward with a new paradigm of finding God's will for our lives and our churches. A paradigm rooted in true worship and pentecostal power.
May God bless you!
Publish Date: July 9, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Rooms just became available
I just learned that four rooms have come available at the host hotel, the Embassy Suites in Murfreesboro. I know that some were turned away because the hotel had reached capacity, however, you may contact the hotel directly if you are interested.
These are King Bed suites for Friday and Saturday night at the special convention rate. For contact information click here
These are King Bed suites for Friday and Saturday night at the special convention rate. For contact information click here
Publish Date: July 2, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Last Minute Reservations for Convention
The rooms at the main convention center have been booked full for some-time now, however, I am posting alternate information for lodging if you still need a room. I received permission to release this information today. God bless.
Comfort Inn & Suites on Thompson or the HamptonInn on Thompson (they are the closest and newest properties in town ~ and across the street from each other)
The numbers are: Comfort Inn (615) 869 -0950 Hampton Inn (615) 890 -2424
We hope this helps.
We hope this helps.
Publish Date: July 2, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Important Notice Regarding Convention Lodging
Dear Friends,
Today, someone called the office to say that the Embassy Suites reservations department is giving out the wrong information, stating we could increase our block of rooms. I have spoken directly with the director assigned to our convention, and she has informed me that THE HOTEL IS SOLD OUT.
An earlier post listed a couple of other options. Please help me get this information out to those who have NOT secured lodging for the convention. We also learned that the Tennessee Special Olympics is also on the same weekend and other hotels are starting to sell out as well.
Today, someone called the office to say that the Embassy Suites reservations department is giving out the wrong information, stating we could increase our block of rooms. I have spoken directly with the director assigned to our convention, and she has informed me that THE HOTEL IS SOLD OUT.
An earlier post listed a couple of other options. Please help me get this information out to those who have NOT secured lodging for the convention. We also learned that the Tennessee Special Olympics is also on the same weekend and other hotels are starting to sell out as well.
Publish Date: June 30, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Tennessee Convention program available online
The 2009 Tennessee State Convention program is now available online for reading, or download and printing. CLICK HERE to go to our online publishing site.
Publish Date: June 29, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Funeral Service for Ethan Polston
I've just learned the visitation and funeral arrangements for Ethan Polston, the grandson of Pastor(s) Ray and Linda Farley (Monterey, TN).
Cookeville Funeral Home
695 Buffalo Valley Road
Cookeville, Tennessee 38501
Phone: 931-528-1044
Fax: 931-528-1281
Viewing will be Tuesday from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and
Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Funeral services will be Wednesday at 11:00 a.m.
Reverends Bobby Floyd and David Corley will be conducting the funeral service.
Cookeville Funeral Home
695 Buffalo Valley Road
Cookeville, Tennessee 38501
Phone: 931-528-1044
Fax: 931-528-1281
Viewing will be Tuesday from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and
Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Funeral services will be Wednesday at 11:00 a.m.
Reverends Bobby Floyd and David Corley will be conducting the funeral service.
Publish Date: June 28, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Convention Outline
State Convention Program
Tennessee State Convention Highlights
FRIDAY
7:00 P.M.
Opening Service
Music:
Convention Worship Team
Special Musical Guest
Message by: Bishop Felton M. Smith, Prelate, 1st TN East Jurisdiction COGIC
SATURDAY
9:00 A.M.
Business Session
Convention Worship Team
Drama presentation: Chickamauga Loop Praise Team
Message: Bishop E.C. McKinley, Presiding Bishop of Tennessee
12:30 P.M.
Ladies Luncheon (Ticket required)
2:30 P.M.
Youth Session
7:00 P.M.
Music by the Convention Worship Team
Drama Presentation: Battlefront Ministries
Message: Catherine Payne, International Director of Women's Ministries
10:00 P.M.
Youth Afterglow
SUNDAY
9:00 A.M.
Unfinished Business
Honoring our Ministers
Consecration and Ordination
Final Challenge by Bishop E.C. McKinley, Presiding Bishop of Tennessee
NOTE: CONVENTION FOR KIDS WILL BE CONDUCTED DURING CONVENTION: Friday and Saturday nights
Tennessee State Convention Highlights
FRIDAY
7:00 P.M.
Opening Service
Music:
Convention Worship Team
Special Musical Guest
Message by: Bishop Felton M. Smith, Prelate, 1st TN East Jurisdiction COGIC
SATURDAY
9:00 A.M.
Business Session
Convention Worship Team
Drama presentation: Chickamauga Loop Praise Team
Message: Bishop E.C. McKinley, Presiding Bishop of Tennessee
12:30 P.M.
Ladies Luncheon (Ticket required)
2:30 P.M.
Youth Session
7:00 P.M.
Music by the Convention Worship Team
Drama Presentation: Battlefront Ministries
Message: Catherine Payne, International Director of Women's Ministries
10:00 P.M.
Youth Afterglow
SUNDAY
9:00 A.M.
Unfinished Business
Honoring our Ministers
Consecration and Ordination
Final Challenge by Bishop E.C. McKinley, Presiding Bishop of Tennessee
NOTE: CONVENTION FOR KIDS WILL BE CONDUCTED DURING CONVENTION: Friday and Saturday nights
Publish Date: June 28, 2009 :: Author: E. C. McKinley
Pastoral Family Needs Prayer
Ethan Polston, 15 year old grandson of Pastor Ray and Linda Farley (Monterey) was killed this morning in a tragic car accident. Please be in prayer for his family during this very difficult time. In the Body of Christ, we share and grieve together. Arrangements will be announced when completed.
Publish Date: June 28, 2009 :: Author: Londa Richardson
State Convention Ladies Luncheon
Time is running out to secure tickets for the “Women of Grace” Ladies Luncheon scheduled for Saturday, July 11th during the Tennessee State Convention. Please don’t miss the opportunity to join other ladies in two hours of great food, wonderful fellowship, and a delightful guest, Ann Downing, Gaither artist. Due to catering requirements, advanced tickets of $15.00 are required. Numbers must be submitted 72 hours prior to the event and cannot be changed after that time. If you have not already done so, please register TODAY. Click here to register online or go to www.tnwomenofgrace.com and print an order form for mailing. Questions may be directed to londajoy@aol.com. The deadline is July 6th. Time is running out. Don’t miss the luncheon! We hope to see you soon.
Publish Date: June 25, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Convention Updates
My dear friends,
I am so happy that you stop by on a regular basis for updates on the events taking place in Tennessee. Our state is filled with precious, loving people who desire to follow the Lord and find His will for their lives. Of course, there might be one or two "knot-heads" but they probably don't attend our churches.
As we approach the final weeks before the convention, all of us at the State office are working hard to complete preparations to make this a most memorable convention. Today, I am sharing a few needs, hoping you can help us "fill in the gaps" of information needed.
1. Deceased minister/spouse acknowledgments. In an earlier blog post, I asked for you to help me ensure no one is overlooked in this very special moment. You have responded, and many of you sent pictures and short biographies about your loved one. I am putting out the call once more with this simple request:
If you know of a Tennessee Bishop, Deacon, Lay Minister or the spouse who has passed away since August 1, 2007, will you please share that information with me at: ecmckinley@mac.com
During the convention, we will have a video display set up for everyone to see, and then on Sunday morning of the convention, we will honor them during the consecration/ordination service. I want your loved one to be included.
2. Updates
It is my intention to post special information concerning the convention here, and also at our special site set up for the convention. You may view the other site by clicking here.
3. Youth Afterglow
On Saturday evening, after the evening service, there will be a special afterglow service for the youth, which is in addition to their time on the program. I invite you to remind the youth of your church about this.
4. Special Ordination Service
On Sunday morning of the convention, there will be a special ordination service for those who have been licensed in the past two years.
5. Prayer
I am requesting you join me in this very special moment of time as we approach the convention, seeking the Lord to work among us and bless the people of Tennessee.
I am so happy that you stop by on a regular basis for updates on the events taking place in Tennessee. Our state is filled with precious, loving people who desire to follow the Lord and find His will for their lives. Of course, there might be one or two "knot-heads" but they probably don't attend our churches.
As we approach the final weeks before the convention, all of us at the State office are working hard to complete preparations to make this a most memorable convention. Today, I am sharing a few needs, hoping you can help us "fill in the gaps" of information needed.
1. Deceased minister/spouse acknowledgments. In an earlier blog post, I asked for you to help me ensure no one is overlooked in this very special moment. You have responded, and many of you sent pictures and short biographies about your loved one. I am putting out the call once more with this simple request:
If you know of a Tennessee Bishop, Deacon, Lay Minister or the spouse who has passed away since August 1, 2007, will you please share that information with me at: ecmckinley@mac.com
During the convention, we will have a video display set up for everyone to see, and then on Sunday morning of the convention, we will honor them during the consecration/ordination service. I want your loved one to be included.
2. Updates
It is my intention to post special information concerning the convention here, and also at our special site set up for the convention. You may view the other site by clicking here.
3. Youth Afterglow
On Saturday evening, after the evening service, there will be a special afterglow service for the youth, which is in addition to their time on the program. I invite you to remind the youth of your church about this.
4. Special Ordination Service
On Sunday morning of the convention, there will be a special ordination service for those who have been licensed in the past two years.
5. Prayer
I am requesting you join me in this very special moment of time as we approach the convention, seeking the Lord to work among us and bless the people of Tennessee.
Publish Date: June 22, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Very Special Prayer Request
Publish Date: June 21, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Funeral Service - Pastor Arthur Murry
Today, I attended the funeral services for Bishop Arthur Murry, our pastor at Manchester, Tennessee. Pastor Murry had served the churches of Shiloh and Manchester for the Church of God of Prophecy in Tennessee.
Brother Murry was a great man of God, a blessing to everyone he came into contact with, and a excellent pastor. Our loss is heaven's gain. I hope you will all join me in prayer for the Murry family and the transition of the Manchester church to their next pastor.
Brother Murry was a great man of God, a blessing to everyone he came into contact with, and a excellent pastor. Our loss is heaven's gain. I hope you will all join me in prayer for the Murry family and the transition of the Manchester church to their next pastor.
Publish Date: June 19, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Death Notice - Pastor Arthur Murry
I just learned that our pastor at Manchester, Bishop Arthur Murry passed away at about 5:00 a.m. today. I am posting the information here concerning arrangements.
Central Funeral Home
(931) 723-77742812 Hillsboro Hwy
Manchester, TN 37355
Visitation 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
June 20, 2009
Funeral at 2:00 p.m.
June 21, 2009
I am asking you help us in prayer for the Murry family during this difficult time in their lives and for the local church.
Central Funeral Home
(931) 723-77742812 Hillsboro Hwy
Manchester, TN 37355
Visitation 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
June 20, 2009
Funeral at 2:00 p.m.
June 21, 2009
I am asking you help us in prayer for the Murry family during this difficult time in their lives and for the local church.
Publish Date: June 13, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Fields of the Wood Anniverary Service
Today, Debbie, Lindsey and I attended the Heritage Ministries Program at Fields of the Wood in North Carolina. I was privileged to participate in the program and thankful for the great job Bishop Paul Holt and his staff prepared for everyone today.
Publish Date: June 12, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Columbia visit
Debra, Lindsey and I were blessed to visit the Columbia church last Sunday morning, where I filled the pulpit for Pastor Gary Clements who was out-of-state. This was a great time of catching up with old friends, and the opportunity to meet some new ones.We are so thankful for the Lord's mercy, and for having the opportunity to return to a pulpit I filled for eight years. God bless the folks at Columbia.
Publish Date: June 12, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Call for Photos
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I am writing today with a reminder of the convention, but also to enlist your help. Each convention, we honor those who have passed away since the last State Convention, and this year will be no different. I am putting together a special video presentation to honor our ministers and their spouses who may have passed since July 2007.Publish Date: June 12, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Special Prayer Requests
Pastor Arthur Murry (Manchester) is in the ICU after suffering what may have been a ruptured aneurysm. I am requesting you join me in prayer for him.
Also, Sgt John Moore has been returned to Walter Reed Medical Center in special need of our prayers.
Also, Sgt John Moore has been returned to Walter Reed Medical Center in special need of our prayers.
Publish Date: June 11, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Update on Sgt. John Moore
Last Saturday a reception in honor of Sgt. John Moore was held at the Crossroads Church in White Bluff, TN. Many of you will remember that we requested prayer all over the state earlier this year after John was gravely wounded in a roadside bomb attack just outside Baghad, Iraq.John underwent numerous surgeries and extensive physical therapy at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, D.C., and was just recently transferred to Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
There was a large crowd in attendance, as John was honored, along with his family. I was privileged to say a few words about John's commitment to duty, honor and country, and to express that our prayers and love for this family who has sacrificed for the freedoms we all enjoy.
Special thanks to all who have prayed for John, and we reqeust you continue to pray for his healing and recovery. Pictured here with me here are my wife Debra, John and Amanda Moore
Publish Date: June 10, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Clarksville Celebrates 75th Anniversary This Sunday
Click the link below to read about this coming Sunday's services at the Clarksville church. This article was published in the Clarksville Leaf-Chronicle.
Publish Date: June 9, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Updates coming...
Dear Friends,
As we draw closer to the State Convention, I have been spending more time to prayer and searching for the Lord's will. For that reason, I have not posted here, nor updated my personal blog for the last while. I apologize to those of you who check here on a regular basis.
In the next day or so, I will be updating information, so please check back soon.
As we draw closer to the State Convention, I have been spending more time to prayer and searching for the Lord's will. For that reason, I have not posted here, nor updated my personal blog for the last while. I apologize to those of you who check here on a regular basis.
In the next day or so, I will be updating information, so please check back soon.
Publish Date: May 25, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Memorial Day 2009
Memorial Day. Barbecues, parties, picnics and all government offices and banks closed. Some sleep in, others make the day a lazy one, watching television or movies, and just "kicking back" taking it easy. But for those serving on active duty, or veterans of the military services it is quite another day.
Its a day of remembrance for fallen comrades in arms. A day to remember the insanity and confusion of combat, and the extraordinary silence after a battle when you don't even hear the bugs or birds...because they've all fallen silent in the face of the death and destruction of battle. Our nation earned its independence by fight a string of battles, consequent military actions strengthened the republic, from places in Europe, the Pacific Theater, Korea, Vietnam, Grenada, Somalia, Iraq, Afghanistan, and even the hallowed ground of our own backyards in a violent civil war (though there is nothing "civil" about war) when brother fought brother and a nation was turn upside down with political and military conflict.
While we spend our time at picnics, parties and other social gatherings, we must NEVER forget those who did not come home, their bodies lying in unmarked graves in Southeast Asia and other fields of conflict. We must NEVER forget the awful cost of war...the misery of human lives lost, the disease that follows the battles, the broken families, the children who are orphaned, and spouses who are left to mourn. Of the tears of mothers and the broken hearts of fathers, of the siblings who died on battlefields often difficult to pronounce correctly. We must NEVER forget the sacrifices, since we enjoy the freedom to worship, of speech, and the other freedoms guaranteed by our Constitution and Bill of Rights. You see, freedom is NEVER free...it comes at a great price...the price of blood and misery and sacrifice.
Across the world today, men and women serve us in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard and intelligence-gathering and law enforcement agencies, and as first responders in our own land. They serve in embassies scattered to the four corners of the world. They are not here for the picnics, they are not here for the parties, but rather they choose to serve...to sacrifice, and for this we must forever be grateful. I know I am.
May God bless you and may God grant peace in our time...a peace that secures our existence as a Republic, as one nation under God.
Its a day of remembrance for fallen comrades in arms. A day to remember the insanity and confusion of combat, and the extraordinary silence after a battle when you don't even hear the bugs or birds...because they've all fallen silent in the face of the death and destruction of battle. Our nation earned its independence by fight a string of battles, consequent military actions strengthened the republic, from places in Europe, the Pacific Theater, Korea, Vietnam, Grenada, Somalia, Iraq, Afghanistan, and even the hallowed ground of our own backyards in a violent civil war (though there is nothing "civil" about war) when brother fought brother and a nation was turn upside down with political and military conflict.
While we spend our time at picnics, parties and other social gatherings, we must NEVER forget those who did not come home, their bodies lying in unmarked graves in Southeast Asia and other fields of conflict. We must NEVER forget the awful cost of war...the misery of human lives lost, the disease that follows the battles, the broken families, the children who are orphaned, and spouses who are left to mourn. Of the tears of mothers and the broken hearts of fathers, of the siblings who died on battlefields often difficult to pronounce correctly. We must NEVER forget the sacrifices, since we enjoy the freedom to worship, of speech, and the other freedoms guaranteed by our Constitution and Bill of Rights. You see, freedom is NEVER free...it comes at a great price...the price of blood and misery and sacrifice.
Across the world today, men and women serve us in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard and intelligence-gathering and law enforcement agencies, and as first responders in our own land. They serve in embassies scattered to the four corners of the world. They are not here for the picnics, they are not here for the parties, but rather they choose to serve...to sacrifice, and for this we must forever be grateful. I know I am.
May God bless you and may God grant peace in our time...a peace that secures our existence as a Republic, as one nation under God.
Publish Date: May 23, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Special Prayer Request - Pascha Cathy
Pascha Cathey, the wife of our pastor at Harriman, Tennessee (Tony Cathey) has been hospitalized for several days. I spoke with Brother Tony today and he said that while she is doing some better, she still has a long way to go, and if she is not better by Tuesday, the doctors will be moving her to a hospital in Knoxville.
This is a very sweet and loving couple and I am asking for you to join me in asking the Lord for a miracle as you pray. Will you also please share this prayer request at your church?
May the Lord bless and keep you.
This is a very sweet and loving couple and I am asking for you to join me in asking the Lord for a miracle as you pray. Will you also please share this prayer request at your church?
May the Lord bless and keep you.
Publish Date: May 21, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
106th General Assembly of the Tennessee House of Representatives
Today, I was honored to present the invocation to the 106th General Assembly of the House of Representatives. Presented by Representative Ty Cobb, and honored by the the Speaker of the House as the Chaplain of the Day for the House of Representatives. To view the video clip CLICK HERE
Special thanks to Pastor Steve Boshers for helping bring this about.
Publish Date: May 14, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
The Second Coming of the Lord
In 56 days, members and friends of the Church of God of Prophecy in Tennessee will be converging on the Embassy Suites Convention Center in Murfreesboro, Tennessee for the biennial State Convention.As I've pondered the theme for the convention, there was one thing that continually came to my heart and mind...the return of the Lord Jesus Christ.
While considering this topic, I came to a conclusion that was a bit startling to my heart and mind. In some senses, this topic has become a forgotten doctrine of the church. This topic piqued my interest and caused me to research the topic more than I had in quite a while. Of course, I began to look at my own notes of ministry and found this to be a subject that I had not preached in quite a while. Something I found more intriguing was the following:
1. Jesus Christ's existence is a fact of history.
2. There were more than 100 prophecies of His birth, life and death.
3. There are more than eight times as many prophecies regarding His second
coming than His first coming.
4. Salvation is the only subject spoken of more in the New Testament than the
second coming.
5. His coming is mentioned 318 times in the New Testament alone.
6. Nine authors in the New Testament mention it.
7. The Apostle Paul mentioned baptism 13 times, communion twice, but he
spoke of the second coming of the Lord 50 times.
8. In the first letter he wrote (1 Thessalonians), Paul referred to the second
coming in every chapter.
9. Maranatha a greek word used by Paul means, "The Lord is coming," and was
a common greeting in the early church.
With such emphasis in the New Testament, don't you agree that this is a subject that needs to be studied? Don't you believe it to be something of great importance when New Testament prophecies of the last days read like today's newspapers? I do.
I am hoping you will join us for anointed preaching, teaching and worship as we gather for a whole weekend, focused on and centered around the return of our Lord. Maranatha!
I am hoping you will join us for anointed preaching, teaching and worship as we gather for a whole weekend, focused on and centered around the return of our Lord. Maranatha!
Publish Date: May 10, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Death Notice
I just returned home and learned of the passing of Brother David Malone's mother in Illinois. Brother Malone serves House on the Rock Church in Pulaski, TN. More information will be posted once I receive it. Please join me in prayer.
Publish Date: May 3, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Fields of the Wood work starts!
Marty Benson and his crew have started their work on the pavilion at the Fields of the Wood
Publish Date: May 2, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Tennessee Ladies Day is History
This past couple of days were a great time of SANCTUARY at Camp Hickory Hills, where the Tennessee Ladies Day grabbed our attention. As always, Londa Richardson and her team were the example of excellence in ministry. Thank you!
On Friday night, Karen Wheaton ministered to the ladies in song and in word, and we were so blessed to meet her, and hear her testimony of growing up in the Church of God of Prophecy, and her time as the "Gleaner" leader of her local church. She is doing a great work among young people at her ministry known as "the ramp."
On Saturday morning, Becca Stevens, Episcopal priest and author shared about the love of God in action! I believe we were all amazed to hear the wonderful story of the work she does with women in crisis.
On Saturday afternoon, Sharon Farruggia of Harvest Fellowship Church in Knoxville brought a powerful word to the congregation! It was a well-timed word.
The worship, led by June Gordon of Abundant Grace in Memphis and her team (from different churches in Tennessee) brought the house down with their anointed, spirited worship.
All in all 2009 Ladies Day will go down in the records as one of the best ever. Attendance was super and we actually ran out of room at our spacious campground facilities. Thanks to all who made it a great success.
On Friday night, Karen Wheaton ministered to the ladies in song and in word, and we were so blessed to meet her, and hear her testimony of growing up in the Church of God of Prophecy, and her time as the "Gleaner" leader of her local church. She is doing a great work among young people at her ministry known as "the ramp."
On Saturday morning, Becca Stevens, Episcopal priest and author shared about the love of God in action! I believe we were all amazed to hear the wonderful story of the work she does with women in crisis.
On Saturday afternoon, Sharon Farruggia of Harvest Fellowship Church in Knoxville brought a powerful word to the congregation! It was a well-timed word.
The worship, led by June Gordon of Abundant Grace in Memphis and her team (from different churches in Tennessee) brought the house down with their anointed, spirited worship.
All in all 2009 Ladies Day will go down in the records as one of the best ever. Attendance was super and we actually ran out of room at our spacious campground facilities. Thanks to all who made it a great success.
Publish Date: April 29, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
A busy week in Tennessee
Those of you who follow our daily blog know that travel is the principle thing covered here, but today I thought I would share with you a number of events that have been taking place in the last few weeks in Tennessee.
As you know, the International Offices for the Church of God of Prophecy are located geographically in the here, and at times Cleveland is buzzing with activities as the work of the International church continues. My past two plus years of involvement in the activities of the Administrative Committee have put me in Cleveland at least once each month as we review the ongoing work, and fulfill the role of the corporate board for the General church. Let me what with you some of these events and highlights for your information:
1. White Wing Christian Bookstore. Not long ago, the decision was made to revert the bookstore to the business model of a regular Christian Bookstore instead of a "Resource" Center. This has been a good move and sales continue to increase, and there is rarely a time you can go into the bookstore without seeing shoppers there. A part of this increase has been caused by the closing of a competitor in Cleveland, but as the White Wing Christian Bookstore continues to evolve, we anticipate a future of "the customer comes first" attitude by the staff.
2. The Leadership Development Institute was a great success, with people from all over the United States and many of the nations of the world in attendance. Although Tennessee had the largest registered attendance, I am certain we can have a better representation for future events like this one.
3. International Assembly Committees have been in town (Finance and Stewardship, Bible Doctrine and Polity Committee, Administrative Committee) for meetings, as have the General Presbyters from around the world.
4. Work is still underway on our project at Fields of the Wood to upgrade the pavilion, and we are anticipating completion/and a dedication service of the newly upgraded site, and will invite all of you to join us for a dedication of the pavilion.
5. The new fiscal year is just around the corner (June 1, 2009) and everyone is looking forward to anticipated projections as our church continues to grow, now at over 1.4 million members.
6. We just finished our Men's Retreat which was a great success, and we look forward to Tennessee Ladies Day this coming weekend, followed shortly by summer youth camps, and Tennessee State Convention to be held in Murfreesboro at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Convention Center.
Finally, I want to remind you that you are a part of something much greater than the local area where you serve. You are a part of a great team of ministers and laity dedicated to prayer, leadership development and the harvest, and I am humbled to be a part of such a great leadership team! God bless you!
As you know, the International Offices for the Church of God of Prophecy are located geographically in the here, and at times Cleveland is buzzing with activities as the work of the International church continues. My past two plus years of involvement in the activities of the Administrative Committee have put me in Cleveland at least once each month as we review the ongoing work, and fulfill the role of the corporate board for the General church. Let me what with you some of these events and highlights for your information:
1. White Wing Christian Bookstore. Not long ago, the decision was made to revert the bookstore to the business model of a regular Christian Bookstore instead of a "Resource" Center. This has been a good move and sales continue to increase, and there is rarely a time you can go into the bookstore without seeing shoppers there. A part of this increase has been caused by the closing of a competitor in Cleveland, but as the White Wing Christian Bookstore continues to evolve, we anticipate a future of "the customer comes first" attitude by the staff.
2. The Leadership Development Institute was a great success, with people from all over the United States and many of the nations of the world in attendance. Although Tennessee had the largest registered attendance, I am certain we can have a better representation for future events like this one.
3. International Assembly Committees have been in town (Finance and Stewardship, Bible Doctrine and Polity Committee, Administrative Committee) for meetings, as have the General Presbyters from around the world.
4. Work is still underway on our project at Fields of the Wood to upgrade the pavilion, and we are anticipating completion/and a dedication service of the newly upgraded site, and will invite all of you to join us for a dedication of the pavilion.
5. The new fiscal year is just around the corner (June 1, 2009) and everyone is looking forward to anticipated projections as our church continues to grow, now at over 1.4 million members.
6. We just finished our Men's Retreat which was a great success, and we look forward to Tennessee Ladies Day this coming weekend, followed shortly by summer youth camps, and Tennessee State Convention to be held in Murfreesboro at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Convention Center.
Finally, I want to remind you that you are a part of something much greater than the local area where you serve. You are a part of a great team of ministers and laity dedicated to prayer, leadership development and the harvest, and I am humbled to be a part of such a great leadership team! God bless you!
Publish Date: April 26, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Frances C. Neal
Earlier today, I posted a notice about Pastor Richard Neal’s mother passing away. I have spoken with Brother Neal again today and he has released the following information:
127 N. Main Street
Goodlettsville, TN 27072
(615) 859-5231
Visitation:
Monday, April 27, 2009 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Services:
Tuesday, April 28, 2009 at 2:00 P.M.
I am asking you to join me in prayer for the Neal family at this time, and please help me pass the word on to our church friends and family.
Publish Date: April 26, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Special prayer request
I just learned a few-minutes ago of the passing of Pastor Richard Neal’s mother. I spoke with him at about 8:00 a.m. and he had just arrived to be with her as she passed away.
Please join me in payer for Brother Neal and his family at this difficult time. More information will be posted as I gather it.
Publish Date: April 25, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
The Difficulties We Face
Due to difficulties with this site, please CLICK HERE for today's blog post.
Publish Date: April 24, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
2009 LDI is now History
From this past Monday until today (Friday) the Leadership Development Intensive was hosted at the Peerless Road Church in Cleveland. Dr. H.E. Cardin and his staff did an excellent job of planning, coordinating and directing the event.
Tennessee had the largest representation of registered students, second most was the Nation of the Bahamas. Attendees came from across the United States, Canada, and several other nations of the world. There was a great spirit of worship in the general sessions and enthusiasm ran high.
I had to leave early this morning (unexpectedly) but I know today was a great day of activities, concluded by a message from our North American General Presbyter. For more updates, you may go to the International website at: www.cogop.org
Tennessee had the largest representation of registered students, second most was the Nation of the Bahamas. Attendees came from across the United States, Canada, and several other nations of the world. There was a great spirit of worship in the general sessions and enthusiasm ran high.
I had to leave early this morning (unexpectedly) but I know today was a great day of activities, concluded by a message from our North American General Presbyter. For more updates, you may go to the International website at: www.cogop.org
Publish Date: April 20, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Leadership Development Institute starts tomorrow
Today, I made the trip to Cleveland for the opening of the Leadership Development Institute tomorrow. There is still time if you desire to attend. Contact the Leadership Development Department at 423-559-5100 for more information, or go to www.cogop.org
Publish Date: April 18, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Weekend update...
Dear Friends,
First of all, thank you to all who read our blog on a daily basis. My hope is to help you keep abreast of events taking place in the lives and ministries of the wonderful people of Tennessee. Perhaps, a wrap up of the week's events will help catch us up to Saturday night (April 18, 2009).
Easter
Seven-days-ago, Debra, Lindsey and I made the trip to Cleveland so our family could celebrate Easter services together. On Sunday morning, Pastor Steve Wilson delivered an excellent message, and as always, the choir helped lead the congregation into worship, directed by Jason Duncan.
On Sunday afternoon, Debra and Lindsey returned to Hendersonville, and I stayed behind, dropping in on visitation services for Bishop W.A. Howard a retired pastor and overseer in the Church of God of Prophecy.
Monday
On Monday morning, I assisted in the Funeral Services for Bishop W.A. Howard at the Peerless Road Church, along with Pastor Steve Wilson, Bishop Randall Howard (General Overseer) and the main sermon was delivered by Bishop Howard's son, Dennis. It was such a blessing to hear about the ministry of Bishop W.A. Howard as a pastor and overseer.
In the afternoon, the Administrative Committee gathered and met for most of the rest of the day. I am so privileged to serve with such wonderful, capable leaders in our movement.
Tuesday
Tuesday morning found me up early on the road to Knoxville, where Pastor Ken Dyer, Harvest Fellowship Church was to undergo surgery. I drove to the Arrowhead Church and picked Pastor Terry Barnwell up to drive to the hospital with me.
It was such a blessing to see the wonderful support of Ken's friends, members and ministry colleagues. I was able to visit with, and pray with him him prior to the bypass surgery, which was a success. Ken was back home by Friday. Thanks to all of your help praying.
Wednesday/Thursday
Wednesday and Thursday found us in the office catching up on administrative work, and corresponding with several of our local church who are anticipating a change of pastoral leadership, and working on new minister's licensing.
Thursday
At about 4:30 p.m. on Thursday afternoon, it was back on the road, this time to West Tennessee for visitation services from Stephen Lawson of Bethel Springs. Stephen's grandfather, Pastor James Lawson serves the congregation there. I was able to visit with the family and friends for about an hour before visitation concluded.
Friday
On Friday morning, I conducted the funeral services for Stephen Lawson to a large crowd gathered at Shackleford Funeral Home in Selmer, Tennessee. It was evident that Stephen was loved by one and all, and after the graveside services, I joined the family and friends for a lunch prapared by the ladies of the Beth Springs church.
Later in the day, I made the trip to Camp Hickory Hills, near Dickson for our Men's Retreat organized by our State Men's Director, Pastor Mike Jennette. His leadership team at Empowered Ministries did an outstanding job of preparation, as we followed the theme, "Band of Brothers."
We were privileged to have our North American General Presbyer, Bishop Sam Clements with us, and he minsitered a powerful word from the Lord on Friday night On Saturday morning, Pastor Enoch Lankford, a pastor in Dickson and former Tennessee State Trooper ministered to the men on the subject of humility. Everyone was blessed by his ministry and prayer time.
To conluded the services, I ministered on the subject "Men of Honor." It was a great time in the Lord and the very large crowd at the retreat responsed well on both Friday night and on Saturday morning. One of the highlights of the retreat was the steak dinner on Friday night, with "huge" ribeye steaks, baked potatoes, salad, and deserts cooked over fire! Also breakfast and lunch were extraordinary, and our thanks go out to the ladies of Empowered ministries for outdoing themselves!
Final word...
As I look back over the week, I realize that it has been a rollercoaster of emotion with triumphs and tragedies, but one thing has remained...Jesus is the Lord of all we do, and he has a plan for all of our lives. On Monday, I will return to Cleveland for Administrative Committee Meetings and for the Leadership Development Intensive sponsored by the International Offices. I would invite you to join us for this week-long intensive, and if you cannot join us, to please be in prayer for us.
We have some of the finest ministers you will find anywhere in the State of Tennessee and I am honored to serve alongside them, and the wonderful people of Tennessee. May God bless and keep every one or you!
First of all, thank you to all who read our blog on a daily basis. My hope is to help you keep abreast of events taking place in the lives and ministries of the wonderful people of Tennessee. Perhaps, a wrap up of the week's events will help catch us up to Saturday night (April 18, 2009).
Easter
Seven-days-ago, Debra, Lindsey and I made the trip to Cleveland so our family could celebrate Easter services together. On Sunday morning, Pastor Steve Wilson delivered an excellent message, and as always, the choir helped lead the congregation into worship, directed by Jason Duncan.
On Sunday afternoon, Debra and Lindsey returned to Hendersonville, and I stayed behind, dropping in on visitation services for Bishop W.A. Howard a retired pastor and overseer in the Church of God of Prophecy.
Monday
On Monday morning, I assisted in the Funeral Services for Bishop W.A. Howard at the Peerless Road Church, along with Pastor Steve Wilson, Bishop Randall Howard (General Overseer) and the main sermon was delivered by Bishop Howard's son, Dennis. It was such a blessing to hear about the ministry of Bishop W.A. Howard as a pastor and overseer.
In the afternoon, the Administrative Committee gathered and met for most of the rest of the day. I am so privileged to serve with such wonderful, capable leaders in our movement.
Tuesday
Tuesday morning found me up early on the road to Knoxville, where Pastor Ken Dyer, Harvest Fellowship Church was to undergo surgery. I drove to the Arrowhead Church and picked Pastor Terry Barnwell up to drive to the hospital with me.
It was such a blessing to see the wonderful support of Ken's friends, members and ministry colleagues. I was able to visit with, and pray with him him prior to the bypass surgery, which was a success. Ken was back home by Friday. Thanks to all of your help praying.
Wednesday/Thursday
Wednesday and Thursday found us in the office catching up on administrative work, and corresponding with several of our local church who are anticipating a change of pastoral leadership, and working on new minister's licensing.
Thursday
At about 4:30 p.m. on Thursday afternoon, it was back on the road, this time to West Tennessee for visitation services from Stephen Lawson of Bethel Springs. Stephen's grandfather, Pastor James Lawson serves the congregation there. I was able to visit with the family and friends for about an hour before visitation concluded.
Friday
On Friday morning, I conducted the funeral services for Stephen Lawson to a large crowd gathered at Shackleford Funeral Home in Selmer, Tennessee. It was evident that Stephen was loved by one and all, and after the graveside services, I joined the family and friends for a lunch prapared by the ladies of the Beth Springs church.
Later in the day, I made the trip to Camp Hickory Hills, near Dickson for our Men's Retreat organized by our State Men's Director, Pastor Mike Jennette. His leadership team at Empowered Ministries did an outstanding job of preparation, as we followed the theme, "Band of Brothers."
We were privileged to have our North American General Presbyer, Bishop Sam Clements with us, and he minsitered a powerful word from the Lord on Friday night On Saturday morning, Pastor Enoch Lankford, a pastor in Dickson and former Tennessee State Trooper ministered to the men on the subject of humility. Everyone was blessed by his ministry and prayer time.
To conluded the services, I ministered on the subject "Men of Honor." It was a great time in the Lord and the very large crowd at the retreat responsed well on both Friday night and on Saturday morning. One of the highlights of the retreat was the steak dinner on Friday night, with "huge" ribeye steaks, baked potatoes, salad, and deserts cooked over fire! Also breakfast and lunch were extraordinary, and our thanks go out to the ladies of Empowered ministries for outdoing themselves!
Final word...
As I look back over the week, I realize that it has been a rollercoaster of emotion with triumphs and tragedies, but one thing has remained...Jesus is the Lord of all we do, and he has a plan for all of our lives. On Monday, I will return to Cleveland for Administrative Committee Meetings and for the Leadership Development Intensive sponsored by the International Offices. I would invite you to join us for this week-long intensive, and if you cannot join us, to please be in prayer for us.
We have some of the finest ministers you will find anywhere in the State of Tennessee and I am honored to serve alongside them, and the wonderful people of Tennessee. May God bless and keep every one or you!
Publish Date: April 15, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Stephen Lawson Funeral Arrangements
(Visitation)
Thursday, April 16th, 2009 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Shackelford Funeral Directors of Selmer - Ph. (731) 645-3481
160 West Cypress Ave.
Selmer, Tennessee
(Service)
Friday, April 17th, 2009 11:00 AM
Shackelford Funeral Home
(Burial)
Lake Hill Memorial Gardens
Bethel Springs, Tennessee
(Obituary)
Stephen Michael Keith Lawson was born April 26, 1990 in Oak Ridge, Tennessee the son of Michael and Angela Basler Lawson.
Stephen was a delivery man for Domino's Pizza and worked in constuction. He was a member of the Church of God of Prophecy in Bethel Springs, Tennessee where his grandfather James is the pastor. He was also very active in the FFA.
Stephen departed this life on April 13, 2009 in Selmer, Tennessee at the age of 18 Years, 11 Months, 18 Days. He is survived by his parents Michael and Angela Lawson of Dyersburg, TN; sister, Brittany Nicole Lawson of Dyersburg, TN; paternal grandparents, James and Brenda Lawson of Bethel Springs, TN; maternal grandmother, Elma Cladine (Dean) Basler of Harriaman, TN; aunt Cynthia Richards and uncles Tony Lawson, Perry Allen Basler, Michael Basler and Rusty Basler and a special friend, Mary Curren Viar of Dyersburg, TN.
Thursday, April 16th, 2009 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Shackelford Funeral Directors of Selmer - Ph. (731) 645-3481
160 West Cypress Ave.
Selmer, Tennessee
(Service)
Friday, April 17th, 2009 11:00 AM
Shackelford Funeral Home
(Burial)
Lake Hill Memorial Gardens
Bethel Springs, Tennessee
(Obituary)
Stephen Michael Keith Lawson was born April 26, 1990 in Oak Ridge, Tennessee the son of Michael and Angela Basler Lawson.
Stephen was a delivery man for Domino's Pizza and worked in constuction. He was a member of the Church of God of Prophecy in Bethel Springs, Tennessee where his grandfather James is the pastor. He was also very active in the FFA.
Stephen departed this life on April 13, 2009 in Selmer, Tennessee at the age of 18 Years, 11 Months, 18 Days. He is survived by his parents Michael and Angela Lawson of Dyersburg, TN; sister, Brittany Nicole Lawson of Dyersburg, TN; paternal grandparents, James and Brenda Lawson of Bethel Springs, TN; maternal grandmother, Elma Cladine (Dean) Basler of Harriaman, TN; aunt Cynthia Richards and uncles Tony Lawson, Perry Allen Basler, Michael Basler and Rusty Basler and a special friend, Mary Curren Viar of Dyersburg, TN.
Publish Date: April 14, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Special Prayer Request - Pastor James Lawson Family
I learned early this morning that Steven Lawson, grandson of Pastor James Lawson of the Bethel Springs church was tragically killed last night. Steven was 18-years-old at the time of his passing.
I have spoken with brother Lawson, and as you can imagine, this is very difficult for the the whole family. Details are sketchy right now, but I will post more information as I receive it.
I have spoken with brother Lawson, and as you can imagine, this is very difficult for the the whole family. Details are sketchy right now, but I will post more information as I receive it.
Publish Date: April 13, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Prayer Request - Pastor Ken Dyer
Tomorrow, Pastor Ken Dyer of Harvest Fellowship in Knoxville will be undergoing bypass surgery at St. Mary's Hospital in Knoxville, Tennessee. I am requesting that you join me in prayer for Pastor Dyer. God bless.
Publish Date: April 10, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Murfreesboro Tornado
Many of you have heard by now that a tornadoes raced across middle Tennessee this afternoon, leaving death and destruction in their wake. As of this post, at least two have died, and near 35 have been wounded.
I have spoken with our Pastor, Verlin Thornton, who has informed me that he was forced to take shelter in the midst of the storm, but he is safe, along with his wife Jean. I have tried to make contact with former overseer, Bishop Eugene Weakley but because of the loss of services, have failed to this point. Pastor Thornton informed me that he has check on them and they are okay, and other members of the church have suffered some damage, but no loss of life or injury.
Please join me in prayer for the people of Murfreesboro and the surrounding areas during this difficult time. I will update the blog as I hear of more information from there, or our church folks in the surrounding communities.
I have spoken with our Pastor, Verlin Thornton, who has informed me that he was forced to take shelter in the midst of the storm, but he is safe, along with his wife Jean. I have tried to make contact with former overseer, Bishop Eugene Weakley but because of the loss of services, have failed to this point. Pastor Thornton informed me that he has check on them and they are okay, and other members of the church have suffered some damage, but no loss of life or injury.
Please join me in prayer for the people of Murfreesboro and the surrounding areas during this difficult time. I will update the blog as I hear of more information from there, or our church folks in the surrounding communities.
Publish Date: April 9, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Joann Winchester Update
Dearest Bishop McKinley,
Kindest Christian greetings.
First a note of appreciation to you and the many Brothers and Sisters in Tennessee for the prayers and concerns expressed during the recent time of illness for my wife, Joann, (48 years and counting).
She entered the hospital February 16 for a total knee replacement surgery, which was completely successful. However, a blood clot soon formed (3 days later) in same leg and a filter was surgically implanted in the stomach area to keep blood clot from moving to the heart, lungs or brain. This was successful.
The blood thinner (cumadin) then was given her. Unfortunately this caused another blood clot (because of a substance in it). Actually the substance is the same as in rat poison that can find a bruise of some type of abnormality and attach itself to it. This created over a week time the forming of an immense size blood clot in the other leg. I have never seen anyone at any time suffer as Joann did. The doctors could not determine what this was. Finally after several days they determined...blood clots. They surgically removed two clots from her the size of two softballs, or a cantaloupe, their description. This was not the end however, she continued on the cumadin, and the same thing occurred. Go figure. this was removed, as well, and their description was, the size of a softball.
Now,no longer is there any blood thinner. She has had for about 4 weeks and possible 3 more weeks a wound-vac which is attached to her leg and fastened to her body. We are in hopes in 2-3 weeks the "Vac" will be removed.
She was in the hospital/rehab/hospital/rehab for 47 days. We are greatly encouraged as progress is being made. In fact we are to go to Kansas in May for a grandson graduation and she hopes to spend as least 2 weeks in Wentzville, MO to see a grandson that has been born during this time.
Thanks again for prayer and concerns from your and your staff and many people around the nation as well as the world.
Sincerely,
Cliff
Publish Date: April 9, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Funeral Arrangements for W.A. Howard
Viewing:
Sunday: April 12
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Jim Rush Funeral Home (North Chapel)
2603 North Ocoee Street
Cleveland, TN 37312
423-476-6558
Service:
Monday: April 13 - Peerless Rd. Church
Viewing: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Service: 11:00 a.m.
Sunday: April 12
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Jim Rush Funeral Home (North Chapel)
2603 North Ocoee Street
Cleveland, TN 37312
423-476-6558
Service:
Monday: April 13 - Peerless Rd. Church
Viewing: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Service: 11:00 a.m.
Publish Date: April 8, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Death Notice - Bishop W.A. Howard
Today I learned of the passing of Bishop W.A. Howard, former State Overseer. I will post more information as I receive it, please join me in prayer for the family.
Publish Date: April 6, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Address update - Sgt John Moore
Yesterday, I posted information concerning My visit to Sgt John and Amanda Moore in Washington, DC. I inadvertently put a partial address for those of you who would like to send a card or a litter to him. Here is the correct address:
Sgt. John P. Moore
Abrams Hall
Box 4316
6900 Georgia Ave. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20307
I apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.
Publish Date: April 6, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
N.E. Regional Ladies Retreat - Newark, N.J.
Over the weekend, Debra and I attended the N.E. Regional Ladies Retreat in Newark, N.J., where Debra taught one class and was the primary speaker in the morning session on Saturday. The Lord blessed the entire weekend, and we were blessed to be a part of a successful retreat.
I am posting this small video clip of a portion of one of the worship services on my personal blog page (click here)...as you can see, the Ladies enjoyed the retreat, as we did. We arrived home early Monday morning after a day filled with travel challenges...but our hearts are still warm from the weekend of fellowship.
Publish Date: April 4, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Special Pastoral Visit - Sgt John & Amanda Moore
On Thursday, Debra and I left Nashville enroute to Newark, N.J. where Debra was scheduled to teach one class, and deliver the main General Session on Saturday for the Regional Ladies Retreat in the N.E. United States.
It was my intention to take the Amtrak train from Newark, N.J. to Washington, D.C. to visit with Sgt. John Moore, who has been there since January recovery from an improvized explosive device (I.E.D.) just outside of Bagdhad, Iraq. Many of you became acquainted with Sgt. Moore as we visited the districts and shared his story.
I was able to find a train to Washington, D.C., but the return trip to Newark, N.J. was almost impossible (getting at train out of D.C. on a Friday is a mess), and I wasn't sure if I would be able to make the visit.
On Thursday evening, while at dinner, Debra and I dined with Bishop J. Croyle and his wife Bess (Overseer of Pennsylvania) and I mentioned my attempts to get to D.C. on Friday. Bishop Croyle said, "I drove my car here, why don't you just take it?" I hesitated and said I would like to try one more time to find a returning train, not really wanting to drive down the New Jersey Turnpike to D.C. Later that night, I asked Bishop Croyle if he was sure it would be okay to take his car...his response was priceless..."It's a Chrysler 300 just like yours and you should be able to drive it."
I called Sgt. Moore and asked if I could come visit him and he seemed excited at the thought...he told me, "Amanda is here, and its her birthday tomorrow." I then asked if I could come take them to dinner to celebrate and we agreed to meet. After offering anything at all, they chose Red Lobster in Silver Springs, Maryland, and I told them I know right where that's at!
We met there and spent a wonderful time together, and we shared a meal, conversation and I was so blessed. The drive was almost four hours each way (mostly due to terrible weather) but the time seemed to fly by.
I was also happy to learn that John will be transferred to Fort Campbell, KY (it actually straddles the KY & TN state line) just outside of Clarksville, TN in a couple of months. That would make it so much easier for the family.
While at the restaurant, John and Amanda shared how the people of Tennessee and beyond have been such a blessing, sending cards, care packages and more. If you would like to send a card, here is the address:
Sgt. John Moore
Malone House
6900 Georgia Ave, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20307
Also, please join me in prayer for John, Amanda and their children. God is good!
Oh, by the way, when I returned Bishop Croyle's car keys, he said, "I would have been offended had you not taken my car." Thank you Bishop
Publish Date: April 2, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Assembly Minutes Available
For the first time, the Minutes are available in book form and on CD. The CD is searchable by keyword and includes the following:
- Minutes
- Ministry Policy Manual (including Biblical Principles, Beliefs, and Practices of the Church of God of Prophecy; The Governance of the Presbytery; The Biblical Institution of Marriage, Divorce, And Remarriage)
- Report Forms
-
North American Church - Bishop’s list
- Minister’s list
- Facing Forward
- International Assembly Photo Gallery
The Minutes in book form includes:
- Minutes
- Report Forms
Minutes $11.99
Minutes CD 11.99
Combo pack (includes both book and CD) 17.99
You may order by calling:
White Wing Publishing House: 1-800-221-5027 English, 1-888-828-4433 Spanish.
You may also order by email at orders@cogop.org.
Publish Date: April 1, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
The Perrys in Concert
In concert Wednesday April 8th, 2009 @ 7PMThe Church of God of Prophecy
1001 West Spring Street, Lebanon, TN
**Only a love offering will be taken.
For more information call: 390-5550 or 426-0957
1001 West Spring Street, Lebanon, TN
**Only a love offering will be taken.
For more information call: 390-5550 or 426-0957
Publish Date: April 1, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Arrowhead Marriage Retreat
This past weekend, Debra and I were the guest speakers for the Marriage Retreat sponsored by the Arrowhead Church located in Knoxville.
Pastor Terry and Sharon Barnwell and their team did an excellent job of preparing and presenting materials, and overall organization of the retreat, and we were blessed to be a part of their special weekend.
Special thanks to the Arrowhead Team for extending the invitation, we were blessed to be a part of the event.
Publish Date: March 31, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Shelbyville Revival
The Shelbyville church just ended a three day revival. March 27th thru March 29th. Brother Rick MaHarrey of Genisis Worship Center in Lavergne along with the Southern Gospel group, Judah of which he is part where our guest speakers.
The Holy Spirit feel on just about everyone in some form or fashion. We had people dancing who could barely walk. Others slayed in the Spirit. The Lord was most certainly there with us.
SCOGOP
Publish Date: March 31, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Update from Lebanon
The Church in Lebanon has been greatly blessed by the Lord! Our last revival with Brother Kevin White was one like we used to have with many Holy Ghost blessings and experiences. The revival continued for three weeks. We even broke for two nights and did not interupt the height of the Spirit! There were seven saved, four sanctified and six received the Holy Ghost, with five of these being grown men. There were seven baptized in water and two joined the church.
Revival spirit is still growing! We can't wait for the next revival with Brother White, April 12th.
The yout has greatly increased to 30-35 and we have three vans picking them up around our community. [Many] of these children have never been to church, coming from home lives with many issues, but with God's help we are trying.
We sent a large box of many articles, including a CD/DVD player to Sgt. John Moore in Washington, D.C. He is a military man wounded in Iraq. He and his family are connected to the Crossroads church.
We also dedicated two small children to the Lord. God is wonderful!
Reporter
Janice Wallace
Lebanon Church
Publish Date: March 30, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
2009 Tennessee Men's Retreat
Excitement is growing as we approach the 2009 Tennessee Men's Retreat at Camp Hickory Hills, Tennessee. Pastor Mike Jennette and his staff have been working hard to prepare for this special time of Word, worship and fellowship.
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Guest Speakers at this year are:
Bishop Sam Clements, North American General Presbyter
Bishop E.C. McKinley, Tennessee State Presiding bishop
Brother Enoch Lankford.
The Theme is "Band of Brothers," with the theme, Men of Courage, Men of Humility and Men of Unity. Remember, Joshua 1:9 says, "Be strong and of good courage."
You can now register online by CLICKING HERE.
Everyone who pre-registers will receive a special T-shirt, and we will be enjoying a steak dinner on Friday night, along with Breakfast and Lunch on Saturday.
The cost is only $35, lodging is included.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Publish Date: March 30, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Youth Camps
Our summer camping season is just around the corner and we are looking forward to a successful summer filled with fun, fellowship and worship.
As a service to our constituency, camper applications, staff applications and other forms are availble for download. CLICK HERE or go to our "resource" page and click the link to forms.
Publish Date: March 27, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Death Notice - Edna Bear
Today we learned of the passing of Sister Edna Bear, mother of Pastor Terry Bear of Dickson, Tennessee. Will you please join us in prayer for the family.
Visitation: 2:00 - 8:00 p.m. Saturday
Service: 3:00 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home
Taylor Funeral Home, Inc.
214 North Main
Dickson, Tennessee 37055
Phone: (615) 446-2808
214 North Main
Dickson, Tennessee 37055
Phone: (615) 446-2808
Publish Date: March 23, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Death Notice - Charles Holt
I learned last night of the passing of Charles Holt of Crossville, Tennessee. Charles is the father of Bishop Paul Holt, International Heritage Ministries Director and member of several Tennessee committees. Paul and his family have served churches in Rogersville, Morristown, Lakemoore and Springplace before being appointed to his current position.
I served this family as their pastor in the late 1980's in Upper-east Tennessee and my heart goes out to them, as I am sure yours does.
Please join me in prayer for the family.
Publish Date: March 23, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Death Notice - Ida Langford Gallaher
Bishop,
Our last living charter member, Ida Gallaher passed away this afternoon at the age of 81. She joined our church in 1946. Click the link below for arrangments:
God Bless.
Publish Date: March 23, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Funeral Arrangments - Charles Holt
Charles B. Holt
Receiving of Friends will be on Tuesday from 6:00 to 8PM CST at the Pine Grove Church of God of Prophecy
He will lie in state on Wednesday from 12:00 to 1:00 CST. The funeral will be at 1:00 PM with EC McKinley officiating. The service will also be at the Pine Grove Church. Burial will follow at the Crossville City Cemetery.
Hood Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Pine Grove Church is located at 1171 Lawson Road in Crossville.
Thank you for your prayers.
Paul Holt
Receiving of Friends will be on Tuesday from 6:00 to 8PM CST at the Pine Grove Church of God of Prophecy
He will lie in state on Wednesday from 12:00 to 1:00 CST. The funeral will be at 1:00 PM with EC McKinley officiating. The service will also be at the Pine Grove Church. Burial will follow at the Crossville City Cemetery.
Hood Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Pine Grove Church is located at 1171 Lawson Road in Crossville.
Thank you for your prayers.
Paul Holt
Publish Date: March 21, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Children's Training Event
One Day Children's Ministry Training on March 28th at Crossroads Church in White Bluff, Tn. Registration begins at 8:30am. Training will begin at 9am. We are honored to have Kathy Creasy, International Children's Ministries, to share with us in Tennessee. If you have a desire to minister to children or are currently ministering in your local church, this training is for you. Don't miss this wonderful opportunity. It is not to late to sign up!!
For further information, please contact Kim Batson at kim.batson@comcast.net or 615-604-7484.
For further information, please contact Kim Batson at kim.batson@comcast.net or 615-604-7484.
Click Here to download the registration form.
Publish Date: March 20, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Final District Leadership Meeting
This coming Sunday night, churches in the Tullahoma area will be gathering at our church there for the final District Leadership meeting for this season. These meetings have been well-attended, and the Lord has done a great work in many of these meetings among His people.
We invite everyone to join us for a time of refreshing! The service begins at 6:00 p.m., March 22, 2009 at the Church of God of Prophecy in Tullahoma. I invite you to attend.
Publish Date: March 20, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Crab Orchard Revival
Hello Friends,
The Crab Orchard Church of God of Prophecy will be in revival
Sunday Night March 29th through Wednesday April 1st
With Bishop Paul Holt as our guest speaker
Times: Sunday Night 6:00pm, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 6:30pm
We are excited about what God is doing in our church, and what God is going to do during revival. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the presence of God.
Pastor Terry Swaw
The Crab Orchard Church of God of Prophecy will be in revival
Sunday Night March 29th through Wednesday April 1st
With Bishop Paul Holt as our guest speaker
Times: Sunday Night 6:00pm, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 6:30pm
We are excited about what God is doing in our church, and what God is going to do during revival. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the presence of God.
Pastor Terry Swaw
Publish Date: March 18, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Welcome to the world!
We are happy to announce the birth of Shalom Richardson, daughter of Jeremi and Amy Richardson, and second grandchild of Dwight and Londa Richardson. Everyone is doing fine and blessed of the Lord.I just spoke with Londa a few-minutes-ago and she was thrilled (as expected) to see Ariah's new little sister.
With our congratulations go the promise of our prayers. God bless!
Publish Date: March 17, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Huntingdon Revival
Huntingdon Revival
written by: Evangelist Tim Farmer
It was a pleasure to spend February 27 - March 1 with Bro. and Sis. Gordon and the congregation at our church in Huntingdon. The area pastors were supportive by attending the Friday evening service and providing the service with special singing.
The Lord blessed during each of the altar times, as He always does when His children come to Him in prayer. We were also blessed when the icy weather held off long enough for us to finish up Sunday services, because I felt like God spoke to the congregation on Sunday night and and revival was birthed in the hearts of those at the church.
written by: Evangelist Tim Farmer
It was a pleasure to spend February 27 - March 1 with Bro. and Sis. Gordon and the congregation at our church in Huntingdon. The area pastors were supportive by attending the Friday evening service and providing the service with special singing.
The Lord blessed during each of the altar times, as He always does when His children come to Him in prayer. We were also blessed when the icy weather held off long enough for us to finish up Sunday services, because I felt like God spoke to the congregation on Sunday night and and revival was birthed in the hearts of those at the church.
Publish Date: March 17, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Springplace Revival
Springplace Revival
written by: Evangelist Tim Farmer
We enjoyed revival services with Bro. and Sis. Washburn at the Springplace church in Cleveland during March 4th-8th. It was nice to see familiar, friendly faces in the congregation, and to feel so welcome.
Our services were intense as we took our relationships with God seriously and became honest with God and ourselves. Our altar times were powerful, and Friday night, in particular, was one to remember.
Before we arrived, the church had been fasting and praying. Thank you to the church for taking the services and your desire for revival seriously.
We enjoyed revival services with Bro. and Sis. Washburn at the Springplace church in Cleveland during March 4th-8th. It was nice to see familiar, friendly faces in the congregation, and to feel so welcome.
Our services were intense as we took our relationships with God seriously and became honest with God and ourselves. Our altar times were powerful, and Friday night, in particular, was one to remember.
Before we arrived, the church had been fasting and praying. Thank you to the church for taking the services and your desire for revival seriously.
Publish Date: March 16, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
McMinnville Area Meeting
Once again, the Lord met us in a powerful way at our District Leadership Meeting. Pastor Michael Harris opened the service, and then turned it to Bishop A.J. Coalter, our District Presbyter for this area of Tennessee.
The platform was filled with musicians and singers, and the congregation pressed together to make more room for the excited worshippers. Just about the time for the sermon, a side door opened and a large crowed from Battlefront Ministries came in, excited about what the Lord was doing. Chairs had already been set in the aisles before this large group arrive, and everyone had to get really close to make room! What a problem to have!
There was an amazing anointing during the message and the altar service was powerful as the Lord moved among His people. As people's needs were met, a fresh move of the Holy Spirit blew through the building. God is good!
After the service, the host church, McMinnville (North Hills) served refreshments in their fellowship building, and the saints enjoyed the fellowship as new friends were made, and old friends recounted their memories.
There will be only one more of these meetings for this year, the concluding service to be at the Tullahoma Church next Sunday night. We hope you will be with us, but you need to come early to be sure you get a seat. The service begins at 6:00 p.m.
Publish Date: March 16, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Gallatin Youth Lock In Service
Dear Pastors and Area Ministers,
I just wanted to take a few moments to thank you once again for your support on this upcoming weekend's event.
1Night started two years ago as a vision of Jeff Jones and myself. We wanted to have an opportunity to reach, connect with and minister to youth. The only problem was we knew that church is not always the best place to reach the "unchurched". So, 1Night was born. 1Night is not church but rather a night for youth to come together, bring their friends and have a safe, fun night. They are able to enjoy numerous activities and all we ask is that they give us 15-20 minutes of the time where a minister gives them a "quick mini-sermon". Last year through this "quick mini-sermon" 68 of the 275 young people who came gave their heart to Christ for the first time; about 50% of all in attendance did not even attend church.
We ask that ever member on staff to find one young person there that night an try to connect with them. This became more than just a vain request to one of our church's regular supporters from the Watertown area. Two years ago during the first 1Night, she connected with one of the young people who did not attend a church. God has still given her the opportunity to minister to him regularly through myspace. Through this outreach, God touches lives.
We have never ask for money to help fund this ministry but rather depended on God to provide. God has blessed us this year with an anonymous donation that will help to cover renting the Gallatin Civic Center for the event.
My Pastor Brother Leon Graves from the Lakeside Church in Westmoreland has agreed to join us in prayer during this Wednsday night's service. I would like to take this opportunity to invite you to do the same. James 5:16 says .....The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. All I am asking is for you to cover this event in prayer.
Although this is not a "church" event as it is not associated with any one single church or even denomination, I would like to invite you as a pastor or minister to attend. These young people need to see Christian role models here because they may not see them at home. Once again, thank you for your support. If you do plan to attend let me know. I would love to have join us for our prayer time at 9:00pm before the kids arrive.
Once again let me say thank you for all your support. The one thing I am learning from my pastor It's not about the name on the church, It's about the name of Jesus. I hope we can spread name of Jesus this weekend to a lost generation trying to find themselves.
1Night
Gallatin Civic Center
March 20, 2009
9:30pm-5AM
Thank you,
Robby George
I just wanted to take a few moments to thank you once again for your support on this upcoming weekend's event.
1Night started two years ago as a vision of Jeff Jones and myself. We wanted to have an opportunity to reach, connect with and minister to youth. The only problem was we knew that church is not always the best place to reach the "unchurched". So, 1Night was born. 1Night is not church but rather a night for youth to come together, bring their friends and have a safe, fun night. They are able to enjoy numerous activities and all we ask is that they give us 15-20 minutes of the time where a minister gives them a "quick mini-sermon". Last year through this "quick mini-sermon" 68 of the 275 young people who came gave their heart to Christ for the first time; about 50% of all in attendance did not even attend church.
We ask that ever member on staff to find one young person there that night an try to connect with them. This became more than just a vain request to one of our church's regular supporters from the Watertown area. Two years ago during the first 1Night, she connected with one of the young people who did not attend a church. God has still given her the opportunity to minister to him regularly through myspace. Through this outreach, God touches lives.
We have never ask for money to help fund this ministry but rather depended on God to provide. God has blessed us this year with an anonymous donation that will help to cover renting the Gallatin Civic Center for the event.
My Pastor Brother Leon Graves from the Lakeside Church in Westmoreland has agreed to join us in prayer during this Wednsday night's service. I would like to take this opportunity to invite you to do the same. James 5:16 says .....The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. All I am asking is for you to cover this event in prayer.
Although this is not a "church" event as it is not associated with any one single church or even denomination, I would like to invite you as a pastor or minister to attend. These young people need to see Christian role models here because they may not see them at home. Once again, thank you for your support. If you do plan to attend let me know. I would love to have join us for our prayer time at 9:00pm before the kids arrive.
Once again let me say thank you for all your support. The one thing I am learning from my pastor It's not about the name on the church, It's about the name of Jesus. I hope we can spread name of Jesus this weekend to a lost generation trying to find themselves.
1Night
Gallatin Civic Center
March 20, 2009
9:30pm-5AM
Thank you,
Robby George
Publish Date: March 15, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Bellshire Church - Nashville
This morning I had the privilege of ministering at the Bellshire congregation in Nashville, also in the service, was the West Nashville church and their pastor, L.E. Butler.
I am always grateful to be among God's people.
Publish Date: March 13, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
2009 State Convention Speaker Announced
I am pleased to announce Cathy Payne, International Director for Womens Ministries will be our guest speaker for this year's State Convention.
Cathy has been involved in evangelistic and support ministry for over 36 years. Working first at her local church in
Norview
,
Virginia
as youth and children’s ministries director, Cathy developed a deep love for God and His people that is evident in her ministry manner.
Born and raised in
Norfolk
,
Virginia
, Cathy attended her first years of school at Ingleside Elementary. Moving on to junior high, Cathy attended two years at Lake Taylor Junior High, and was then bused to Ruffner Junior High to achieve racial equity. A graduate of Booker T. Washington High School, Cathy attended
Old
Dominion
University
and
Bakersfield
Community College
, where she achieved an associate’s degree in Arts.
After evangelizing throughout the
Cathy is currently in her sixteenth year of service as International Director of Women’s Ministries for the
Church
of
God
of Prophecy, a ministry that encompasses mission work and has taken her to over 87 nations of the world. Cathy and John have one son, Christopher, a daughter-in-law Amber, and two grandsons, Alexander and Caden.
Publish Date: March 12, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
SPECIAL NOTICE FROM THE OVERSEER
Notice to Pastors and Congregations of Tennessee
Rom 16:17-18
"Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple."
"Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple."
I am saddened there is a need for me to post the following correspondence from our North American Presbyter. I am aware of this, and that some of our pastors have been contacted. I am trusting none of our congregations will be deceived or taken advantage of by former overseers, and I encourage you to refrain from having this minister preach in our pulpits. It is indeed unfortunate that people who leave the Church of God of Prophecy feel it necessary to make our churches their mission field instead of reaching out to the countless millions of lost people.
Please read the correspondence from Bishop Clements:
Once again it seems necessary to send a reminder regarding the status of Boonyong Bureenok. We have received information here at the International Offices again this week that Boon is still making contacts with our
Boonyong Bureenok Appeals
Boonyong Bureenok, former overseer of
Thailand , was involved in an extended discipline process and was removed as Field Secretary of Thailand by the General Presbyter of Asia/Oceania, Bishop David Browder, in consultation with the body of
Asia overseers in June 2008. He was not appointed to any leadership position at the 95th International Assembly. He holds no license with the Church and is no longer associated with us in any official capacity. Any fundraising appeals by Boonyong Bureenok are not authorized by the International Office since he has no accountability to our leadership or the International Office. It is our understanding that he is now with another group and is representing their activities.
Feel free to contact Bishop Browder (who is serving as overseer of
Thailand and is seeking to revitalize our work there) or the International Offices if you have further questions.
Please be sure all of your pastors are again made aware and reminded of the status of Booneyong Bureenok with the
Sincerely,
Publish Date: March 10, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Revival Announement - Shelbyville
Spring Revival
March 27th -March 29th
27th & 28th @ 7pm
29th @ 11am & 6pm
@
The Church Of God Of Prophecy
1014 West Lane Street
Shelbyville, Tennessee
Bishop Lamar Dotson - Pastor
Guest Speaker
Rick MaHarrey
Of
The Genisis Worship Center
(Church Of God)
LaVernge, Tennessee
Pastor MaHarrey is a powerful speaker and filled with the Holy Spirit. He is also part of the Southern Gospel group "Judah"
We invite everyone to attend and be blessed by the Word of God in both word & song
For more information or directions, please contact:
Gail Mills-Claxton
(931)703-9689
Or
Publish Date: March 9, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Heritage Ministries Director at Crossroads
Here is a brief note I received from our International Heritage Ministries Director:
"It was a real treat for me to visit the Crossroads Church on Sunday morning. I was very impressed with the service and the leadership. The music, moderation, reception and etc. were excellent.
If every Heritage Ministries booster was like Sis. Bessie, we would not have a worry at Fields of the Wood.
It seems like, too often, we only hear the negative. I just wanted to take a minute and brag on one of Tennessee’s Churches.
Thanks to both of you for being a supporter of this ministry!
Paul Holt
Heritage Ministries Director
International Assembly Operations Coordinator"
If every Heritage Ministries booster was like Sis. Bessie, we would not have a worry at Fields of the Wood.
It seems like, too often, we only hear the negative. I just wanted to take a minute and brag on one of Tennessee’s Churches.
Thanks to both of you for being a supporter of this ministry!
Paul Holt
Heritage Ministries Director
International Assembly Operations Coordinator"
Publish Date: March 9, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Cleveland Area District Leadership Meeting
The Lord met us in a powerful way last night at the Cleveland/Chattanooga area District Leadership Meeting. The meeting was conducted a the Springplace church in Cleveland, and was fill to overflowing with excited worshippers. After filling all seats, additional rows of chairs, and even chairs were set up outside the sanctuary in hallways to seat everyone.
Pastor Eric Washburn and his praise team led the congregation in worship, and Lindsey McKinley sang a special selection, followed by the word.
At the conclusion of the sermon, the Lord's presence was so rich, and the people spontaneously lifted their praises toward heaven. As people responded to the altar invitation, the pastors and other ministers followed them and began to pray for a fresh anointing, and then other leaders joined them as well.
Special thanks to Bishop A.J. Coalter for organizing the event and to all of the churches that supported the meeting.
Pastor Eric Washburn and his praise team led the congregation in worship, and Lindsey McKinley sang a special selection, followed by the word.
At the conclusion of the sermon, the Lord's presence was so rich, and the people spontaneously lifted their praises toward heaven. As people responded to the altar invitation, the pastors and other ministers followed them and began to pray for a fresh anointing, and then other leaders joined them as well.
Special thanks to Bishop A.J. Coalter for organizing the event and to all of the churches that supported the meeting.
Publish Date: March 9, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Tennessee Men's Retreat
Dear Pastors,
I hope you are doing well today.
I hope you are doing well today.
We want to invite your Churches men’s group to the “09 TN State Men’s Retreat.” It will be at Camp Hickory Hills on April 17th & 18th. The key speakers will be Bishop Sam Clements and Bishop E.C. McKinley. They will be speaking on this year’s theme “Band of Brothers.” There will be a steak dinner Friday evening; several worship services, t-shirt for everyone who pre-registers, lodging and much more. The total cost is $35 and a $15 non-refundable deposit must be sent in by April 6th to ensure a shirt. Everyone will be cut loose at noon Saturday. You may stay and eat or take a sack lunch for the road. Don’t miss this time of fellowship and growing as men of God.
Listed in the attachments are a men’s retreat application and an event poster. Please contact me if you have any questions @ empoweredmj@comcast.com .
In Christ,
Mike Jennette, Pastor @ Empowered
Pastor Mike Jennette
Empowered Ministries Church
1415 Hwy. 70 East
Dickson, TN 37055
615-375-1364
www.empoweredministries.net
Listed in the attachments are a men’s retreat application and an event poster. Please contact me if you have any questions @ empoweredmj@comcast.com .
In Christ,
Mike Jennette, Pastor @ Empowered
Pastor Mike Jennette
Empowered Ministries Church
1415 Hwy. 70 East
Dickson, TN 37055
615-375-1364
www.empoweredministries.net
Publish Date: March 7, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Funeral Services - Mae Ellen Camp
Today, Debra and I attended the funeral servies for Sister Mae Ellen Camp, a retired minister in the Church of God of Prophecy. She passed from this life and into the arms of the Lord on March 4, 2009.
She was preceded in death by her husband Pastor Floyd M. Camp, and together they served the church as pastors in Tennessee, Michigan, North Dakota and Georgia from 1945 until 1977, a total of 32 years. She was licensed in 1958.
During the early 1990's she served as a nursing hom ombudsman for Bradley County.
Bishop Allen Davis, and Pastor Gene Dasher conducted the services at Grissom Funeral Home in Cleveland, and both did an excellent job, and as I always I am proud of our ministers and how well they present themselves to the community.
After special solos, and the conclusion of remarks, the entire congregation sang a congregational song.
Publish Date: March 6, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Children's Ministries Training Opportunities
You can save $10 per participant if you register before March 13th: We are honored to have Kathy Creasy, International Children's Ministries, to come to our area to share a wonderful day of Children's Ministry Training. Please complete the application and have it submitted prior to March 13th to save...
This is a wonderful opportunity to enhance your ministry to Children in your local church. Anyone who works in ministry to children in your local church would benefit: Sunday School, Children's Church; Nursery Ministry; Vacation BIble School, etc. I look forward to see you there.
If you do not have a current Children's Ministry operating in your local church, you need this training opportunity...
March 28th: Crossroads Church in White Bluff, Tennessee
April 25th: Abundant Grace Church in Memphis, Tennessee
Please make arrangements today to attend.
For Further information, please contact Kim Batson at 615-604-7484 or kim.batson@comcast.net.
This is a wonderful opportunity to enhance your ministry to Children in your local church. Anyone who works in ministry to children in your local church would benefit: Sunday School, Children's Church; Nursery Ministry; Vacation BIble School, etc. I look forward to see you there.
If you do not have a current Children's Ministry operating in your local church, you need this training opportunity...
March 28th: Crossroads Church in White Bluff, Tennessee
April 25th: Abundant Grace Church in Memphis, Tennessee
Please make arrangements today to attend.
For Further information, please contact Kim Batson at 615-604-7484 or kim.batson@comcast.net.
Publish Date: March 5, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Special Prayer Request - JoAnn Winchester
Two-weeks-ago, Joanne Winchester underwent knee replacement surgery. She has been in rehab since the surgery, but today was taken to the hospital with complications. I just spoke with Bishop C.C. Winchester, our pastor at Paris, Tennessee and he said she is in a lot of pain, and has asked for the prayers of God's people.
Will you please join me in prayer?
Publish Date: March 4, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Death Notice - Mae Camp
From Pastor Gene Dasher
Sis Mae Camp a long time warrior for the Lord went to be with the Lord today. I’m sure she is rejoicing with Bro Floyd her husband of many years who labored with her in their ministry.
Sis Camp is an evangelist and spared any service she attended. At present final plans are not complete but she will be at Grissom’s in Cleveland and at present they are talking Saturday at 3pm for the service
Pastor Gene Dasher
Union Grove
Publish Date: March 3, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
District One Leadership Meeting
On Sunday evening, worshippers braved the inclimate weather to gather at the Heartland Fellowship Church in Elizabethon, Tennessee for the District Leadership Conference for the upper-east Tennessee districts.
The local worship team did an excellent job in leading our worship service, Bishop McKinley brought the message and an offering was received for the Fields of the Wood project.
Special thanks to Bishop Robert Ledford for organizing and moderating the evening, that was a blessing to many.
Publish Date: March 1, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Cleveland Area Youth and Childrens Training Event
Bro. McKinley,
I am sending this to you to have you post this on your website and forward to all of the East TN pastors and connections you have that way.
Next Saturday March 7th at 3 PM EST we are having our free Youth and Children's Conference. There will be free food, workshops, fellowship, and worship services. Several drama ministries will minister through the evening as well. We will have a special leaders workshop for our children's workers/leaders as well as our youth leaders. God has blessed in each one of these conferences across the state. This is our last one for our district weekends, make it our best.
WHERE: Springplace COGOP- Cleveland, TN
WHEN: 3 PM E.S.T.
WHAT: FREE YOUTH AND CHILDREN'S CONFERENCE
MORE INFO: www.TennesseeYouth.org, Facebook- Tennessee Youth Ministries
CONTACT: Joshua Lynn (865-567-2753, or jlynn@TennesseeYouth.org) or Shaun McKinley (smckinley@cogop.org)
Thank you.
God Bless,
Joshua Lynn
865.567.2753
jlynn@tennesseeyouth.org
www.TennesseeYouth.org
I am sending this to you to have you post this on your website and forward to all of the East TN pastors and connections you have that way.
Next Saturday March 7th at 3 PM EST we are having our free Youth and Children's Conference. There will be free food, workshops, fellowship, and worship services. Several drama ministries will minister through the evening as well. We will have a special leaders workshop for our children's workers/leaders as well as our youth leaders. God has blessed in each one of these conferences across the state. This is our last one for our district weekends, make it our best.
WHERE: Springplace COGOP- Cleveland, TN
WHEN: 3 PM E.S.T.
WHAT: FREE YOUTH AND CHILDREN'S CONFERENCE
MORE INFO: www.TennesseeYouth.org, Facebook- Tennessee Youth Ministries
CONTACT: Joshua Lynn (865-567-2753, or jlynn@TennesseeYouth.org) or Shaun McKinley (smckinley@cogop.org)
Thank you.
God Bless,
Joshua Lynn
865.567.2753
jlynn@tennesseeyouth.org
www.TennesseeYouth.org
Publish Date: February 27, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Death Notice - R.O. Covey
Just a little earlier today, I learned of the passing of Bishop R.O. Covey. I will post funeral arrangements once I receieve them. Please join me in prayer for the family.
Publish Date: February 26, 2009 :: Author: Jacob Young
Lebanon Youth Service
HELLO BRO. MCKINLEY! I JUST WANT TO ASK YOU IF YOU WOULD POST THIS ON THE CHURCH BLOG.
WED. NIGHT, 2-25, KEVIN CARVER SPOKE AT LEBANON COGOP TO THE YOUTH. THE SPIRIT MOVED GREATLY AND YOU COULD DEFFINATELY SEE THAT KEVIN WAS LISTENING TO THE LORD!!
THERE WERE 70 IN ATTENDANCE. A SPECIAL THANKS TO THE WATERTOWN CHURCH FOR BRINGING THEIR YOUTH AND SUPPORTING!
AND THANK YOU TO EVERYONE THAT CAME AND RECEIVED A BLESSING!!!!
IN HIS SERVICE
JACOB YOUNG
JACOB YOUNG
Publish Date: February 24, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Lakemoore Church (Morristown) Revival
Lakemoore Church in Morristown will host Revival with Evangelist Brian Taylor March 6th, 7th, 8th. This is a Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Services Friday and Saturday will be 7:00pm and Sunday Morning service will be 10:30am. Everyone be fasting and praying for a powerful move of God! You will not want to miss this power packed Revival! There will be Special singing for each service. Everyone is invited!
Publish Date: February 24, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Korean Language Outreach in Tennessee
Today, I was blessed to meet with our Tennessee Korean-language church coordinators, 
Pastors Dennis and Young Didion, a new minister and two pastors and discuss our future work. Pastor Windell and Myrna Moore also met with us at my office.
The two pastors, one from Nashville and the other from New Jersey shared their past works that have taken them around the world to mission fields including Russia, China, Myanmar (formerly Burma) and too many areas to name here.
During our hour and one half meeting, we also conducted a conference call with our North American General Presbyter, Bishop Sam Clements and General Overseer, Bishop Randall Howard.
Pastors Dennis and Young Didion, a new minister and two pastors and discuss our future work. Pastor Windell and Myrna Moore also met with us at my office.The two pastors, one from Nashville and the other from New Jersey shared their past works that have taken them around the world to mission fields including Russia, China, Myanmar (formerly Burma) and too many areas to name here.
During our hour and one half meeting, we also conducted a conference call with our North American General Presbyter, Bishop Sam Clements and General Overseer, Bishop Randall Howard.
Publish Date: February 23, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Baggett's Chapel Youth Group
I am posting an email I received about an event at Baggett's Chapel. I would love to add your event to my blog when possible. Just email them to me by clicking here.
Bro. Mckinley,
This past Friday night, Feb. 20th the Baggetts Chapel "Chain Breakers" youth group hosted our first annual Youth Lock-in.
Bro. Mckinley,
This past Friday night, Feb. 20th the Baggetts Chapel "Chain Breakers" youth group hosted our first annual Youth Lock-in.
The Burns youth group and Drama Team joined us for this event. We had a wonderful time in the Lord.
We were blessed to have Ben Longberg and his band lead us in worship with their christian music.
The Burns Drama Team as well as Baggetts Chapel "His In Service" performed for the audience. We had approximately 54 people in attendance.
The theme for this lockin was "Where is God Taking Me and how is He going to get Me there? We had one young lady accept the Lord as her Saviour and several other needs were met. There was lots of food, games and fun for the entire night.
Thanks to everyone who made this a truly wonderful and blessed event.
Roger and Vicky Davis
Youth Directors
Baggett's Chapel "Chain Breakers"
"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality."
Romans 12:12-13
Thanks to everyone who made this a truly wonderful and blessed event.
Roger and Vicky Davis
Youth Directors
Baggett's Chapel "Chain Breakers"
"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality."
Romans 12:12-13
Publish Date: February 20, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Fields of the Wood Pavilion
This past Thursday, our work crew was scheduled to do a preliminary inspection on the Fields of the Wood Pavilion. As we've written before, this pavilion was built, paid for and dedicated by the churches of Tennessee.
The pavilion has fallen into bad shape in need of repairs and we've embarked on a fund-raising campaign to raise $12,000 to make it as nice as possible. To date, we've raised over $2,000, so as you can see, we still have a way to go.
Bishop McKinley gave the first $100 challenging churches and ministers to match the funds. It is our desire to have this completely renovated (including the restrooms in the pavilion in plenty of time time for our anniversary service the week of June 13th).
If you would like to donate, please send your contributions to:
Church of God of Prophecy
FOTW Project
P.O. Box 2319
Hendersonville, TN 37077-2319
Your contributions are completely tax deductible. Thanks for your help!
Publish Date: February 16, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Tennessee Marriage Retreat - 2009
The MainStay Suites Hotel and Conference Center was the setting for the 2009 Tennessee Marriage Retreat. There was a great response to the retreat this year, with fifty couples more than last year.
As always, Debra McKinley did a wonderful job in putting the program together, and moderating the three day annual gathering in Tennessss. Special guest speaker, Pastor Duke Stone (Hickory Valley Community Church) presented a fascinating study on the book of Habakkuk, and gave a storng personal testimony to finalize his presentation.
The Tennessee State Staff assisted in the weekend, along with the Tennessee Marriage and Family Committee.
There was a great sense of worship and entering into the Presence of the Lord as the Joshua Dasher and the Keith Street Ministries worship team performed in their usual excellence.
Many of the couples have commented, "this is the best retreat I've ever been to!"
This year's theme was "Fireproof your Marriage" from the award winning box office hit, Fireproof starring Kirk Cameron. All of the material from the weekend centered around the movie, which was shown on Saturday night at our "Date night."
We hope you will begin to plan next years marriage retreat scheduled for the same location, MainStay Suites and Conference Center in Pigeon Forge. The dates next year will be February 12-14, 2010 (which is on Valentine's weekend).
Publish Date: February 13, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Special Prayer Request - Chris Walker
Brother Mckinley
Would you please post this on the blog?
Please pray for my son, Chris Walker, he has been having back pain for
about 1 or 2 years now, he has been to the doctor several times and they
didn't think it was any thing to worry about. Last week he ask them to do
a MRI and they did. They sent him to a doctor in Nashville today. He told
him there was something on his spine but he wasn't sure what it was, that
he thought itcould be either a tumor or multiple myeloma. He is 28 years
old, him and his wife have three children ages 2,4, and 6.
Please pass this on to all of the pastors and please pray that God will
heal him and also save his soul.
Thank you and God Bless
Geneva Carter
Pastor at Livingston
Would you please post this on the blog?
Please pray for my son, Chris Walker, he has been having back pain for
about 1 or 2 years now, he has been to the doctor several times and they
didn't think it was any thing to worry about. Last week he ask them to do
a MRI and they did. They sent him to a doctor in Nashville today. He told
him there was something on his spine but he wasn't sure what it was, that
he thought itcould be either a tumor or multiple myeloma. He is 28 years
old, him and his wife have three children ages 2,4, and 6.
Please pass this on to all of the pastors and please pray that God will
heal him and also save his soul.
Thank you and God Bless
Geneva Carter
Pastor at Livingston
Publish Date: February 10, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
A.J. Creel - Corrected Information
PER BERT AND DONNA (CREEL) BROOKS, 02/10/ 3:30 P.M.
THE INFORMATION WITH REGARD TO BROTHER A.J. CREEL'S VISITATION AND FUNERAL IS AS FOLLOWS:
Brother A. J. Creel's visitation will take place on Wednesday, February 11, 2007 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the North Rome Church of God, 1929 North Broad Street, Rome, Georgia. The funeral service for Brother Creel will be held "immediately" following the visitation.
The family sincerely apologizes for any confusion or inconvenience.
Kathleen Patterson-Lowry
North Rome Church of God
Sanctuary Class
THE INFORMATION WITH REGARD TO BROTHER A.J. CREEL'S VISITATION AND FUNERAL IS AS FOLLOWS:
Brother A. J. Creel's visitation will take place on Wednesday, February 11, 2007 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the North Rome Church of God, 1929 North Broad Street, Rome, Georgia. The funeral service for Brother Creel will be held "immediately" following the visitation.
The family sincerely apologizes for any confusion or inconvenience.
Kathleen Patterson-Lowry
North Rome Church of God
Sanctuary Class
Publish Date: February 10, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Death Notice - A.J. Creel
Dear Fellow Labors,
Warm Christian Greetings. I heard through Diane Flowers last evening that Bishop A. J. Creel had been put on hospice. When I called the home this morning, Bishop creel had already passed away. The lady whom I spoke with at the Creel home shared with me that his viewing will be tonight at the North Rome Church of God from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Bishop Creel's funeral will be Wednesday evening at the North Rome Church of God at 7:00 PM.
Please keep the Creel family in your prayers. I'm sure that flowers, cards, calls would be greatly appreciated. Bishop Creel has been a prominent minister/leader and served as the State Overseer of Georgia for many years.
Blessings,
Bishop Adams
P. O. Box 370
Lizella, GA 31052
Office (478) 935-6880
Fax (478) 935-6888
E-mail gacogop@aol.com
Web www.GACOGOP.ORG
Warm Christian Greetings. I heard through Diane Flowers last evening that Bishop A. J. Creel had been put on hospice. When I called the home this morning, Bishop creel had already passed away. The lady whom I spoke with at the Creel home shared with me that his viewing will be tonight at the North Rome Church of God from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Bishop Creel's funeral will be Wednesday evening at the North Rome Church of God at 7:00 PM.
Please keep the Creel family in your prayers. I'm sure that flowers, cards, calls would be greatly appreciated. Bishop Creel has been a prominent minister/leader and served as the State Overseer of Georgia for many years.
Blessings,
Bishop Adams
P. O. Box 370
Lizella, GA 31052
Office (478) 935-6880
Fax (478) 935-6888
E-mail gacogop@aol.com
Web www.GACOGOP.ORG
Publish Date: February 9, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Special Prayer Request - Charles Holt
Dear Friends:
Unless there is a miracle soon, it would appear that my Dad is in the final days/weeks of his life. Over the past weekend, he received two blood transfusions. He has been accustomed to having this done every 10 to 40 days. The Doctor has informed Dad that he is out of options and is recommending hospice. Under hospice, there would not be the availability of blood transfusions. Without divine intervention, he cannot live long without them.
I will be going to Crossville in a bit to visit with Dad and take care of some related business for Mom. Mom is very weary, but her spirits are good.
Barbara’s Dad is also now bedfast and not eating. He is experiencing abdominal pains and vomiting. He has pancreatic cancer and was given six months to live back in July 2006. He is already under hospice care and his condition continues to deteriorate.
Barbara’s Mom is also in bad condition and is only hanging on because she feels that her husband needs her. She needs a touch from God.
Thank you for your prayers. God’s grace has been more than sufficient for us!
Blessings,
Paul Holt
Unless there is a miracle soon, it would appear that my Dad is in the final days/weeks of his life. Over the past weekend, he received two blood transfusions. He has been accustomed to having this done every 10 to 40 days. The Doctor has informed Dad that he is out of options and is recommending hospice. Under hospice, there would not be the availability of blood transfusions. Without divine intervention, he cannot live long without them.
I will be going to Crossville in a bit to visit with Dad and take care of some related business for Mom. Mom is very weary, but her spirits are good.
Barbara’s Dad is also now bedfast and not eating. He is experiencing abdominal pains and vomiting. He has pancreatic cancer and was given six months to live back in July 2006. He is already under hospice care and his condition continues to deteriorate.
Barbara’s Mom is also in bad condition and is only hanging on because she feels that her husband needs her. She needs a touch from God.
Thank you for your prayers. God’s grace has been more than sufficient for us!
Blessings,
Paul Holt
Publish Date: February 9, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Leadership Meeting - Arrowhead (Knoxville)
Last night churches gathered from East Tennessee for our annual Leadership meeting. A great spirit prevailed, and the worship by the local church was great! District Presbyer, Bishop R.D. Ledford did an outstanding job of moderating the conference, and just before the evening message, my daughter, Lindsey ministered in song.
Testimonies have already come in about the life-changing moments experienced during the sharing of the Word and the altar service. Interestingly, after the service was over, and many had left the church, the Spirit of the Lord was there in such a great way that that people were still going to the altar, lingering in God's presence.
We are grateful for the move of the Lord and expecting more!
Publish Date: February 8, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
District Leadership Meeting Livestream
The Arrowhead Church in Knoxville will be providing a livestream of the District Leadership meeting tonight (February 8, 2009). We hope those who cannot be there in person will join us. You can go to the link by clicking here.
Publish Date: February 7, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Live Video Feed at Arrowhead
Today, I watched a live video feed of the PowerHouse Youth event at the Knoxville Arrowhead church. This is a great way to keep up with events as they happen. Special thanks to Bishop Terry Barnwell and his staff for making this available.
Our District meeting is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. (E.S.T.) tomorrow, February 8, 2009. You can watch the event by going to the Arrowhead church website and clicking on the link: http://www.arrowheadchurch.org
There will be a time of worship followed by special singing and then I will be sharing the message. We invite you to attend or watch the event live. God bless.
There will be a time of worship followed by special singing and then I will be sharing the message. We invite you to attend or watch the event live. God bless.
NOTE: You may access the archived video at: http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/1132574
Publish Date: February 6, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
State Convention Website
We are anxiously looking forward to the 2009 Tennessee State Convention, praying for and expecting a great move of God.
I have created a website to keep you up-to-date on announcements, programs and other relevant information. I invite you to check it out by clicking here
Publish Date: February 3, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Another great week
I am again receiving reports from all over Tennessee about a move of God taking place. This is exciting, and to hear that very small churches are adding new members and our ministers baptizing new converts.
I do believe the Lord is moving in a fresh way!
Publish Date: February 3, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Shelbyville Special
There will be a supper and singing February 21st at The Shelbyville Church Of God of Prophecy on West Lane Street beginning at 5pm.Supper is at 5 and be be at a charge of $6.
Roast beef will be on the menu this month
Singing will start at 6pm
Featured singers will be "The Servants Quartet" (Brian Smothermon's new group) among with others
Everyone welcomed
Publish Date: February 3, 2009 :: Author: E.C. McKinley
Update on Rylan Whittington
Received the following update:
Thanks for all your prayers. Rylan is doing very well. Blood pressure is stable. He's breathing on his own. Infection is going away.
Doc says still may be three or four more days.
Thanks again for all of your prayers. Thats one thing about cogop that we will never lose. When a Family member needs prayer the rest of the family gets on there knees and gets busy about the buisness of prayer.
Love and miss you guys.
Jerrod Jammie Madison Rylan
Publish Date: February 2, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Good news from Pikeville
I just learned from District Presbyter, Bishop Freddie Harding that he received five new members into the church at Pikesville yesterday. This is a very small church, one that has struggled to keep going in recent years, so I'm sure you can see this is GREAT NEWS!
Publish Date: February 1, 2009 :: Author: Bishop Paul Holt
Special Prayer Request - Ryln Whittington
Please join my in prayer for 3-month-old, Rylan Whittington, grandson of our Abundant Life, Bishop Ron Tackett.
He is suffering from RSV and has suffered the collapse of one lung, low blood count, and has been given blood transusions. Rylan is also on a ventillator, in the children's hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas.
The family has asked we share request.
Publish Date: January 27, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Funeral Services
This obituary is for one of the family members of our Tennessee Outreach to the Hispanic community at Victory Chapel in Cleveland. The church plant is one of our Tennessee churches under the direction of Brother Cliff Anderson.
Fredy Perez Roblero was killed while operating his business in Cleveland.
I visited with the family and with Pastor Anderson. This is one of our Tennessee church plants and I am asking all of you to join me in prayer for the family, and for the arrest of the perpetrator(s) of this crime.
Tuesday, Jan 27, 2009
Fredy Ruben Perez Roblero, 36, a resident of Cleveland and a native of Guatemala, passed away Friday, Jan. 23, 2009.
He was the owner of Tienda Perez, a Hispanic grocery store in Cleveland which he had recently purchased from the previous owners.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Oralia Perez.
He attended Victory Chapel Church with his family.
Survivors include his wife, Rosemery Escalante de Perez; sons: Fredi Perez Jr. and Samuel Perez; and daughters: Amy Perez and Daisy Perez, all of Cleveland; parents, Pedro Perez and Catalina Roblero, both of Guatemala; brothers: Adan Perez and Eliazar Perez, both of Guatemala; and sisters: Cristina Perez and Norma Perez, both of Cleveland, and Jobita Perez of Guatemala.
A Remembrance of Life service will be held at 7 p.m. today, Jan. 27, 2009, at the North Ocoee Chapel of Jim Rush Funeral Homes with Pastor Cliff Anderson officiating.
The family will receive friends today from 5 p.m. until the time of the service at 7 p.m. at the funeral home.
Publish Date: January 26, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Anniversary Service
This morning, we attended the First Assembly Anniversary service near Fields of the Wood in North Carolina. A good crowd was there, including Sister Londa Richardson and her parents, Brother & Sister Allen Davis.
Bishop Paul Holt did an outstanding job of organizing and moderating the meeting in the small room, and we heard an excellent message from our General Overseer, Bishop Randall Howard. Dr. David Roebuck Director of the Dixson Pentecostal Research Center was also in attendance with a large contingent of the International Office staff and some from the Pentecostal Holiness Church.
I am so thankful to be a part of a great movement of God with such humble beginnings.
Publish Date: January 25, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
The Lord showed up
As I write, it is about 20 minutes after midnight (Sunday Night/Monday Morning) and though physically tired, I had to share with you about today's services.
This morning, Debra and I were at the Peerless Road Church, where I preached in the AM service. The choir did a magnificent job of leading us into worhip, and at the conclusion of the message, the Lord showed up in a special way.
What a wonderful refreshing we experienced as the Spirit of the Lord moved on people in the altar service, and as many danced in the Presence of the Lord. Thank God for His wonderful presence.
We left Cleveland in the afternoon, and visited with an old friend who is in desperate physical need (a man we pastored years ago). We prayed with him before leaving and left being thankful for the grace of the Lord.
This evening, we gathered for our District Leadership Meeting in the plateau region. Dr. Freddie Harding did an excellent job moderating, and the worship was again powerful. There were so many people at the Pine Grove church for the meeting (well above 300) that chairs had to be set out in the aisles, and at one point the pastors in the area had to move to the choir loft with the musicians to make room! God is Good!
We are so blessed to minister to the wonderful people of Tennessee, and we sense a stirring in the hearts of God's people.
Tomorrow morning, I will be attending the First Assembly Anniversary Service at the First Assembly House, followed by lunch at the Fields of the Wood near Murphy, North Carolina.
Again, though physically worn out, the something still turning on the inside that I recognize as the Presence of God. God bless is our prayer.
Publish Date: January 23, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Office work and other outreach
This has been a great week across the State of Tennessee. Yesterday, I was able to spend the whole day in the office catching up on administrative work and interviewing prospective pastors for Tennessee. God is definitely up to something.
This coming weekend, we will be gathering at the Pine Grove Church in Crossville for our continued series of District Leadership meetings, and I am thrilled at the turn out, and the worshipful congregations that have gathered in our previous meetings this year, but I am looking forward to the gatherings to complete the stae tour. I hope to see you there!
It is time to push beyond the ordinary, to do the extraordinary, empowered by the Power of the Holy Spirit. I believe there is a stirring in the hearts of God's people, and soon we will see a hunger among our younger people in our church. As one of the "old-timers" I am going to do everything in my power to see their dreams of a move of God to come to pass. While it happens, we don't want to leave those of us who are "old-timers" behind. We want to see God move too!
I do love all of you and I am looking forward with anticipation to hear of the testimonies of God's move in your life!
Publish Date: January 23, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Fields of the Wood Service
First Assembly Commemoration Service
January 26, 2009 @ 10:00 AM
January 26, 2009 @ 10:00 AM
First Assembly House
Murphy NC near Fields of the Wood
□ Welcome by Bishop Paul Holt, Heritage Ministries Director
□ Prayer by Bishop Wayne Allen, Fields of the Wood Caretaker
□ Reading of First Assembly Minutes by Pastor Don Johnston, Fields of the Wood Worship Chapel
□ Congregational Singing coordinated by the Fields of the Wood Worship Chapel
□ Comments by Bishop Ben Feliz, Director of Finance, Administration, & Publishing
□ Message by Bishop Randy Howard, General Overseer
□ Song led by the Fields of the Wood Worship Chapel
□ Closing Comments and Corporate prayer of Thanksgiving led by Bishop Paul Holt
□ At the conclusion of the service, everyone is invited to join us for lunch at Fields of the Wood in the Burger Mountain Cafe. The meal will not be free, but a 20% discount will be given.
Publish Date: January 21, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Staff Appointment
Yesterday, I made the appointment of Pastor Dennis and Young Didion coordinators for the Korean-language work in the State of Tennessee. We are looking forward to seeing new Korean-speaking congregations planted as the new doors of opportunities are opened among us.
Publish Date: January 20, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Prayer Request - Cora Frances Neal
I received word a few-minutes-ago that the mother of Pastor Richard Neal has been taken to the hospital. Brother Neal is still waiting on an update on her condition. I am in Cleveland, but one of our ministers, Jeff Jones has gone to be with the family in Hendersonville and check on her condition.
Please join me in prayer for this special need
Publish Date: January 20, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Special Prayer Request - Pastor James Blackmon
Yesterday I received word that Pastor James Blackmon (Oakwood-Chattanooga) underwent open-heart surgery. I visited with him last night, and was able to pray for him. He was sitting up with his family.
Please join me in prayer for Brother Blackmon.
Publish Date: January 19, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Sunday services
On Sunday morning, I had the privilege of ministering at the Peerless Road Church in Cleveland. The Lord blessed in a special way during the altar service, for which I am grateful.
Immediately after the morning service, I left Cleveland and drove to our third District Leadership meeting, this one hosted at the Lakeside Church in Westmoreland. Bishop F. Leon Graves, the District Presbyter moderated the service which was filled with lively worship. After sharing the message, the altar response was powerful, with many needs met. The worship team outdid themselves, as usual. Special thanks to all in attendance (a full house) at the meeting.
Our next District Leadership Meeting will be next Sunday evening at the Pine Grove Church in Crossville. We are looking forward to seeing you there.
Publish Date: January 19, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Doris "Tolbert" Gary Funeral Services
At a little after 5:00 a.m. this morning, Debra and I made the trip back to Cleveland, this time to attend the funeral services of a friend at the Keith Street Church.
Doris Marie Tolbert Gary was born October 3, 1931 and was promoted to Glory January 14, 2009 at the age of 77.
The services were officiated by Dr. Dan Kurbis, Bishop Richard E Davis and Pastor John A. Stone. There were many others who participated in the services, including a loving remembrance by her son Pete Tolbert.
Many of you know that Sister Gary was preceded in death by Bishop Johnny Tolbert and Bishop Charles Gary.
Publish Date: January 17, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Connie "Horner" Lawson funeral
It is a little after midnight on Saturday night/Sunday morning and I just arrived in Cleveland to prepare for services in the morning (Sunday). I wanted to take just a moment to post a message about funeral services today.
This morning, I arrived in Michie, Tennessee for the funeral of Connie "Horner" Lawson. The church was full! An amazing thing considering the blowing, cold weather. The services were beautiful as Pastor James Lawson spoke, along with Sister Horner's children and friends. Dr. Roy Bennett, the pastor of the Michie church preached an magnificant sermon and the services were closed by a song from Perry Horner and a prayer by Kay Horner.
The graveside services were officiated by Dr. Bennett, and I spoke a few words, followed by encouragement and a prayer by Dr. H.E. Cardin.
Again, I am so impressed by the love shown from our family. There was a large group of Peerless Road Church members and staff (Perry & Kay Horner are members there) along with a host of friends. What a wonderful movement we are a part of! God bless.
Publish Date: January 16, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
A week of travel
Friends,
This has been an extremely busy week, one filled with victory for the work of the Lord, and one that has been taxing emotionally on our folks in Tennessee.
Last Sunday morning, I was blessed to minister at the Peerless Road Church in Cleveland where the Lord blessed in a special way. Almost immediately after the service, we learned of the passing of Shelia Robbins, spouse of our Dyersburg, Tennessee Pastor. Shelia had struggled for a long time with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease), but was ultimately delivered into the presence of the Lord.
Debra, Lindsey and I left the Cleveland area and made the four-hour-drive to White Bluff, Tennessee where we held our second Tennessee Leadership Meeting at the Crossroads church. District Presbyter Bishop Gary Riley did an outstanding job of organizing and moderating the service. We had a wonderful meeting, epecially during a time of prayer.
That night we returned to Hendersonville where we changed out suitcases and tried to recuperate from the road.
The following morning, Debra and I left Hendersonville to make the three-hour-drive to Dyersburg. There we visited the funeral home in charge of Sister Robbins funeral services, and that night we stayed with Pastor Jerry Robbins. We were treated so special and are again amazed at the wonderful presence of the Lord as He strengthened the hearts of the Robbins family.
On Wednesday morning, I was joined by Bishop Clayton Mahan (District Presbyter, Bishop Eugene Weakley (former Tennessee State Overseer), Bishop Sam Clements (North American General Presbyter) in the funeral service. There was a large crowd present, and I was especially heartened to see Brother Robbins peers from Arkansas, Tennessee and Louisiana make the trip for visitation/funeral services.
After the burial service, the folks of the Dyersburg church "out-did" themselves with a nice meal and reception in the gymnasium of the Dyersburg church. After visiting for a couple of hours, we returned to Hendersonville to pick up dry cleaning and change suitcases again.
While in Dyersburg, we learned of the passing of Sister Doris "Tolbert" Gary in Cleveland. She is well known in Tennessee, and has served as a pastor's wife and wife of a District Presbyter. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Bishop Johnny Tolbert and her second husband, Bishop Charles M. Gary, both ministers of great reputation in Tennessee. Her visitation is scheduled for Sunday in Cleveland at the Keith Street Church, where the funeral service will also be conducted on Monday.
We also learned of the passing of Jerry Riley, brother to our District Presbyter, Bishop Gary Riley (he also serves as Senior Pastor at the Crossroads church). On Thursday afternoon, Debra and I visited with the family at the funeral home in Portland, Tennessee.
Today, I leave again for West Tennessee for the services of Connie "Horner" Lawson at the Michie church tomorrow. Sister Lawson was living in North Carolina at the time of her passing, and will be taken to Michie for a funeral service and burial near her family who preceded her in death.
After the funeral, I will return to Cleveland to minister a second time at the Peerless Road Church. After the morning service, we will make the four-hour-drive to the Lakeside church in Westmoreland for our third District Leadership Meeting.
Early on Monday morning, Debra and I will leave out for Sister Gary's funeral services in Cleveland.
I told you all of this to say thank you to so many of you who have told us you pray for us every day, and the promise of prayers in the future. There are times the body grows weary from the travel, but our spirit remains strong. As the families greive, we pray with them, we rejoice in area meetings, and the daily care of the churches falls upon us. But, we are so thankful the Lord allows us to be apart of such a wonderful body of believers, who deeply love and care for one another.
We pray for all of you every day and we love you!
Publish Date: January 15, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Death Notice - Jerry Riley
I received the following information concern the brother of Gary Riley, our District Presbyter and pastor of the Crossroads Church in White Bluff. Please join me in prayer:
Jerry Wayne Riley, age 63, of Portland, passed away January 13, 2009, at his residence.
He was born in Sumner County on May 18, 1945.
He is survived by his wife, Kathy Simpson Riley of Portland; sons, Kevin (Mitzie) Riley of Portland, Jeremy (Chuana) Riley of Cross Plains; grandchildren, Joshua, Heather, Patrick, Kaylin, Blake, Kyle, Hailley, Tanner, Austin, and Madison; parents, Louell and Josephine Riley of Gallatin; brothers, Gary Riley of White Bluff, Glenn Riley of Hendersonville; sisters, Judy Bolding of Gallatin, Jeanette Barton of Gallatin.
Visitation will be 12 p.m., until 9 p.m., Thursday, January 15, 2009, and 12 p.m., until 9 p.m., Friday.
Funeral service will be 1 p.m., Saturday, January 17, 2009, at Wilkinson & Wiseman Funeral Home with Pastor Gary Riley officiating.
Interment will be at Old Brush Cemetery.
Publish Date: January 15, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Death Notice and Arrangments - Consuelo Horner Lawson
The funeral arrangements for Consuelo Horner Lawson are as follows:
Family visitation, funeral service, and burial will all be held at the Michie, TN Church of God of Prophecy on Saturday, January 16th.
Visitation from 12:00 - 1:45 PM
Service at 2:00 PM
Burial in church cemetery immediately following service
Memorial Funeral Home in Corinth, MS is in charge of the arrangements.
Browder's Florist (friends of the family)
1622 Shiloh Road
Corinth, MS 38834
662-286-5292
Ms. Lawson had also requested that memorials be sent to:
Church on the Rock
c/o Pastor Kenny Duke
2690 Villa Woods Lane
Granite Falls, NC 28630
Family visitation, funeral service, and burial will all be held at the Michie, TN Church of God of Prophecy on Saturday, January 16th.
Visitation from 12:00 - 1:45 PM
Service at 2:00 PM
Burial in church cemetery immediately following service
Memorial Funeral Home in Corinth, MS is in charge of the arrangements.
Browder's Florist (friends of the family)
1622 Shiloh Road
Corinth, MS 38834
662-286-5292
Ms. Lawson had also requested that memorials be sent to:
Church on the Rock
c/o Pastor Kenny Duke
2690 Villa Woods Lane
Granite Falls, NC 28630
Publish Date: January 15, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Death Notice - Doris "Tolbert" Gary
Dear Friends,
Sister Doris Gary passed away this week. Many of you in Tennessee (and beyond) know Sister Doris, as she has been in ministry for many, many years. Doris is preceeded in death by her first husband, Bishop Johnny Tolbert, and by her second husband, Bishop Charles M. Gary.
Visitation and funeral services will be at the Keith Street Church, 4000 Keith Street in Cleveland, Tennessee.
Visitation will be Sunday, January 18, 2009 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Funeral Services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, January 19, 2009 at 11:00 a.m.
There will be a short time of visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Monday prior to the funeral services.
Remember, the times given are Eastern Standard Time.
Publish Date: January 12, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Funeral Arrangments - Shelia Robbins
Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 13, 2009 and the funeral service will be on Wednesday, January 14, 2009 at 1:00 p.m.
The funeral (and visitation) will be at:
Curry's Funeral Home
416 N. Sampson Avenue
Dyersburg, TN 38024
(731) 285-2242
Officiating:
Bishop Clayton Mahan, District Presbyter
Bishop Eugene Weakley, Former Tennessee State Overseer
Bishop E.C. McKinley, Tennessee State Overseer
Please join us in prayer fo the Robbins family
Publish Date: January 11, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Death Notice - Shelia Robbins
Early this afternoon, Sister Shelia Robbins passed away at Dyersburg, Tennessee. Shelia's husband, Jerry serves as the pastor of the Church of God of Prophecy in Dyersburg.
I spoke with Brother Robbins on the telephone twice today, reminding him that his church family in Tennessee (and beyond) are praying for him and his family during this time in his life.
Pastor Robbins, his family and the local church have been examples of love, kindness and the grace of God in action.
Please join me in prayer for Jerry and his family, I will be posting details of the funeral services tomorrow just as soon as I receive them from the family.
Publish Date: January 9, 2009 :: Author: ECM
Mom's Day of Prayer - Murfreesboro
PRAYING MOMS MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Saturday, January 17, 2009
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Restoration Fellowship
Church of God of Prophecy
675 DeJarnette Lane
Murfreesboro, Tennessee
For more information:
Publish Date: January 7, 2009 :: Author: ECM
Youth Pastor position open
Hello everyone,
I just wanted to get the word out about a part time youth pastor position. If you know of someone intersted please let me know:
Johnston Community Church (Church of God of Prophecy)
Part Time Youth Pastor Position Available
Selma, NC
Send resume or if you would like more information please contact us via church website
www.jcchurch.com
Thanks!
Kenny Lee
I just wanted to get the word out about a part time youth pastor position. If you know of someone intersted please let me know:
Johnston Community Church (Church of God of Prophecy)
Part Time Youth Pastor Position Available
Selma, NC
Send resume or if you would like more information please contact us via church website
www.jcchurch.com
Thanks!
Kenny Lee
Publish Date: January 6, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Urgent Prayer Request
I am writing with an urgent prayer request for one of our local church members, serving in the United States Army in Iraq.
Bro. John Moore, is a member at Crossroads in White Bluff, and is a sergeant with a Stryker brigade serving in Iraq. He was injured in a road-side bomb explosion yesterday morning their time while on patrol in a town northwest of Baghdad. Both his ankles were broken in the blast.
They have operated on him and will be sending him to the army hospital in Germany sometime today we understand and after that we are not sure. He did call his wife Amanda this morning to let her know his condition.
Please remember this family in your prayers. John is 27 years old with a precious wife Amanda and two little girls Bryanna and Ashley.
Please remember this family in your prayers. John is 27 years old with a precious wife Amanda and two little girls Bryanna and Ashley.
Again, this is ONE OF OUR OWN church members, please join me in prayer
Publish Date: January 5, 2009 :: Author: ECM
Empowered Ministries - Anniversary
On Sunday morning, Debra, Lindsey and I were blessed to participate in the first anniversary services at the Empowered Ministries Church in Dickson, Tennessee. The church was filled with an expectant crowd and it was wonderful to see many who were there one-year-ago, as well as the new folks that have become a part of the ministry there since then.
The service kicked off with the youth dance team making a special presentation and was followed by praise and worship led by an able worship team. Those of you who read our blog on a regular basis know that we organized the church one-year-ago with 72 members, and on Sunday the attendance was 144. I was thrilled to see such a large crowd, and when I commented about it, was told that a few Sundays ago there were above 220 in attendance.
Pastor Mike & Rhonda Jennette and the staff there are doing a wonderful job as they reach out to the community and beyond.
Congratulations Empowered family!
Publish Date: January 5, 2009 :: Author: ECM
West Tennessee District Leadership Meeting
On Sunday evening, ministers and laity of our churches in the Western part of Tennessee gathered at the Holiday Inn conference center for our annual gathering. There was a great crowd on hand, and we were blessed by the fellowship.
Almost all of the state staff were on hand for the meeting, and information was shared concerning our work in Tennessee.
The worship team was led by Bishop Clayton Mahan and we were blessed by the vocal ministry of Randy Crowder.
Bishop Robbie Wier assisted in the moderation of the meeting.
Well over 200 people were in attendance at the meeting, which was concluded by special prayer for Pastor Jerry Robbins and his wife Shelia, and an ordination service for our newest minister, Alette Shapley.
We are thankful for the participation of our precious folks in West Tennessee. The next meeting will be this coming Sunday evening at the Crossroads church in White Bluff, Tennessee at 6:00 p.m. We hope to see you there!
Publish Date: January 3, 2009 :: Author: ECM
Church of God of Prophecy Announces
21 Days of Prayer and Fasting
On the first 21 days of January 2009, let the Church of God of Prophecy unite together in prayer. Jesus has told us, "If two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them" (Matthew 18:19, 20).
As God calls prayer warriors together across this body of ministry, we will be activating this great promise of Christ. In addition to our unity in hunger to seek God together, we can unite in agreement on specific needs as well. Here we offer you one simple prayer focus for each day of the 21-day fast. May we feel the sweeping surge of grace as on each day we unite on one simple need.
Saints, I know that God is going to hear us in our hunger and in our unity. Based on this knowledge, I claim 1 John 5:14, 15 as our victory even before we pray our first prayer in this 21 days. "And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him."
My friends, we are seeking God, and we are united around His Gospel. Who can stand against us? First John also affirms our faith, saying, ". . .whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith" (5:4). Join me in believing God for great things as this New Year begins.
On the first 21 days of January 2009, let the Church of God of Prophecy unite together in prayer. Jesus has told us, "If two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them" (Matthew 18:19, 20).
As God calls prayer warriors together across this body of ministry, we will be activating this great promise of Christ. In addition to our unity in hunger to seek God together, we can unite in agreement on specific needs as well. Here we offer you one simple prayer focus for each day of the 21-day fast. May we feel the sweeping surge of grace as on each day we unite on one simple need.
Saints, I know that God is going to hear us in our hunger and in our unity. Based on this knowledge, I claim 1 John 5:14, 15 as our victory even before we pray our first prayer in this 21 days. "And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him."
My friends, we are seeking God, and we are united around His Gospel. Who can stand against us? First John also affirms our faith, saying, ". . .whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith" (5:4). Join me in believing God for great things as this New Year begins.
Bishop Randall E. Howard
General Overseer
21 Days of Prayer and Fasting Directives
The International Office would be greatly blessed by the prayers of this Church family. As we focus on our core values of Prayer, Harvest, and Leadership Development, we pray that God will make us more and more effective in facilitating strong ministry throughout this network.
Prayer is the hidden secret behind the work of God. Let's ask God to send a call to prayer down over our ministries worldwide. God does not intend that the Church do His work alone, but through prayer, God wants to enter the Church and accomplish His will.
Harvest is the call God has given this Church and many others for this very day of opportunity. Pray that God will pour into us a fresh passion for souls much like Rachel wept for children. May we weep for the birth of new children into the Kingdom.
World Missions is a call to every local church in the Kingdom. Pray for new zeal and inspiration to give.
The Young Harvest is a call that is gripping hearts in this era. With such potential in the lives of youth, and such evil attacking them, now is the time to rescue the next generation for God's glory. Pray for success in evangelization of the young harvest.
Local Churches are the heartbeat of God's growing Kingdom. There in the family of God gathered together, all the operations of Kingdom transformation are applied. Pray for local churches to be filled with God's presence and power in order to be the life centers God intends them to be.
Developing Leaders is the key to completing all that God has placed before this world ministry to accomplish. As we pour into leaders, we will tap the multiplying power of God to minister powerfully.
Pastors are the key. Pray for Pastors today. Pray for their ministries, their outreach, their strength, their vision, their families, their health, their protection, and their provision. The enemy is out to destroy these precious, God-called servants, but we can pray a hedge of divine protection around them and divine help for them.
South America: Six Nations in South America face specific challenges in ministry: Uruguay, Venezuela, Brazil, Ecuador, Paraguay, and Colombia. Let's pray that God will bring His divine help for each one of these to rise and flourish in the harvest.
In Central America, our General Presbyter has recovered with the healing help of God. Pray that these nations will flourish and Brother Santiago will receive continuing strength.
Pray for three nations in Central America: Nicaragua, Mexico, and Belize. The first two are strong as national ministries while Belize is a younger work. All of these need the guidance of the Lord as they step into new doors of opportunity to reach out.
North America is in a time of distress nationally. Let's pray together that God will use this for His glory, and many will turn their hearts and lives toward the Gospel.
Church-Planting in North America is the great passion of North American General Presbyter, Sam Clements. Let's unite to pray that God will give a mighty surge of new churches of all kinds to this land.
In the Caribbean, the strongest national industry is often tourism. This means that the struggles of North America are automatically transferred over to this region. Pray that this area will experience heavenly reviving also.
Leadership is vital in this area of ministry. As the Caribbean steps into a new era of ministry and outreach, pray that God will raise up leadership on all levels and in all of these nations.
Asia holds the majority of the world's population. Pray that God will raise up new, young, emerging leaders and send forth laborers into the great harvest of this continent. This is the day of Gospel opportunity in Asia.
Europe/CIS/Middle East continues to experience humanistic challenges in the west, much like North America. Pray that the lands of the Great Awakening would once more be filled with Gospel success.
Europe/CIS/Middle East continues to experience revival in the east. Let's pray that the revival influences there will spread further and overwhelm all other influences in this land. Pray that the eastern revival will flow to the west in Europe and into the Middle East.
Africa is a land where the harvest has erupted into great church-planting and growth. Pray for the Lord of the Harvest to supply the multitude of needs now being seen and felt in this great continent.
Africa has experienced such growth that we are now praying that God will send great help to support this growth. Pray for resources to flow into the national offices of the Church in Africa. God can bring help from within Africa and from without.
Publish Date: January 2, 2009 :: Author: ECM
Prayer Request for Pastor James Huff
Pastor James Huff (Liverworth, TN) was hospitalized this week for a surgical procedure. He subsequently suffered a stroke that has left him partially paralyzed.
I am requesting your prayers for Bro Huff and his family at this difficult time.
Publish Date: January 1, 2009 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Join Heritage Ministries Today
You can now join the Heritage Ministries Association (formerly CPMA) online.
http://webapps.cogopmedia.com/forms/HM_Member_Form.html
Information for those who join online will be forwarded to the local church listed on the form.
Please help me spread the word.
Have a blessed and Happy New Year!
Paul Holt
Heritage Ministries Director
International Assembly Operations Coordinator
Church of God of Prophecy International Offices
PO Box 2910
3720 Keith Street NW
Cleveland TN 37320
Receptionist: (423) 559-5100
Direct Line: (423) 559-5135
Fax: (423) 559-5216
Email: pholt@cogop.org or spaulholt@charter.net
http://webapps.cogopmedia.com/forms/HM_Member_Form.html
Information for those who join online will be forwarded to the local church listed on the form.
Please help me spread the word.
Have a blessed and Happy New Year!
Paul Holt
Heritage Ministries Director
International Assembly Operations Coordinator
Church of God of Prophecy International Offices
PO Box 2910
3720 Keith Street NW
Cleveland TN 37320
Receptionist: (423) 559-5100
Direct Line: (423) 559-5135
Fax: (423) 559-5216
Email: pholt@cogop.org or spaulholt@charter.net
Publish Date: January 1, 2009 :: Author: ECM
District Leadership Meeting - Jackson
This coming Sunday night, ministers and laity in Western Tennessee will be gathering at the Holiday Inn Convention Center located at 541 Carriage House Drive in Jackson.
Bishop Robbie Wier and Bishop Clayton Mahan will be moderating the evening services and the State Staff will be on hand to book speaking engagements and share dates of importance with you at their tables.
Bishop E.C. McKinley, Tennessee State Presiding Bishop will be delivering the message. We do hope you will join us.
Bishop E.C. McKinley, Tennessee State Presiding Bishop will be delivering the message. We do hope you will join us.
Date: January 4, 2009
Time: 6:00 P.M.
Publish Date: December 31, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Happy New Year
It hardly seems possible that another year has come and gone so quickly. It's as if it were only yesterday that we were looking forward to a new year filled with hopes and anticipation.
During the year of 2008 we've seen much of the Lord's work done in Tennessee, as people have come to a life-changing experience with the Lord Jesus Christ, many have experienced the blessings of sanctification and the baptism of the Holy Spirit. A host of individuals have been baptized in water and many of our churches have seen their memberships increase as the membership covenant was administered.
We've seen new churches organized and our youth camps, and other ministries have expanded.
We've seen new churches organized and our youth camps, and other ministries have expanded.
We look forward to 2009 as another great year for the Church of God of Prophecy around the world, but particularly in Tennessee.
All of our staff wish you the best of the New Year and we trust the Lord Jesus Christ will bless and keep you.
Publish Date: December 29, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Mildred Clements Funeral
Today, I attended the funeral services of Mildred Clements (see earlier posts for obituary) in Clarksville, Tennessee.
The funeral service was conducted by Bishop Ray C. Wynn, and Minister David W. Taylor of Cleveland, TN. The final prayer was offered by General Overseer, Bishop Randall Howard.
Bishop Sam Clements, North American General Presbyter and his wife Linda were in attendance, along with Presbyters Bishop A.J. Coalter and Bishop Gary Riley. Also, Bishop Tim Coalter (South Carolina Presiding Bishop elect) and a host of pastors, ministers and friends were also there.
Music was provided by Bishop Wayne & Jenna Allen and Retha Frankland. As always, I am so impressed by the ministry of our church and their loving and caring attitudes and heart-felt sympathy.
Please join me in prayer for the family.
Publish Date: December 28, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Mildred Clements Obituary
Sis. Mildred Clements, 85, wife of deceased pastor Bro. William Clements, passed away December 26, 2008 in Clarksville. The funeral arrangements are as follows:
Visitation: Sunday, Dec. 28th, 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Monday, Dec. 29th, 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Funeral: Monday, Dec. 29th, 1pm
Sykes Funeral Home
424 Franklin St.
Clarksville, TN
Ph. 931-647-1562
The funeral will be held at 1 p.m. Monday at Sykes Funeral Home with Bishop Ray C. Wynn and Minister David W. Taylor officiating.
Visitation: Sunday, Dec. 28th, 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Monday, Dec. 29th, 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Funeral: Monday, Dec. 29th, 1pm
Sykes Funeral Home
424 Franklin St.
Clarksville, TN
Ph. 931-647-1562
The funeral will be held at 1 p.m. Monday at Sykes Funeral Home with Bishop Ray C. Wynn and Minister David W. Taylor officiating.
Burial will be in Coleman-Tatum Cemetery.
Sis. Clements was born in Houston County, Tenn., on May 5, 1923, to the late Irvin and Mattie VonSchmitto Coleman. She was married to the late Pastor William Stokes Clements for 54 years, serving as a faithful pastor's wife, mother and friend to all who knew her.
She graduated from Central School in Montgomery County on April 29, 1938, and was a member of the Church of God of Prophecy for 69 years.
She was also preceded in death by three brothers, Willie, Boyd and Ryan Coleman; one son, William James Clements; and one grandson, Gary Clements.
She is survived by sons, Billy of Scurry, Texas, Donald of Pottsboro, Texas, Darrell of Clarksville, Ricky of Cleveland, Tenn.; daughter, Annette (David) Taylor of Cleveland, Tenn.; brother, J.D. (Vivian) Coleman of Clarksville; grandchildren, Robert, Kenny and Steven Clements, Lisa
Schwichtenberg, Tracey Christian, Alan Clements, Sloane, Blair and Bud (Darrell Jr.) Clements, Lee and Michael Taylor; stepgrandchildren, Pat, Sheila and Connie; as well as numerous great- and great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
She was also preceded in death by three brothers, Willie, Boyd and Ryan Coleman; one son, William James Clements; and one grandson, Gary Clements.
She is survived by sons, Billy of Scurry, Texas, Donald of Pottsboro, Texas, Darrell of Clarksville, Ricky of Cleveland, Tenn.; daughter, Annette (David) Taylor of Cleveland, Tenn.; brother, J.D. (Vivian) Coleman of Clarksville; grandchildren, Robert, Kenny and Steven Clements, Lisa
Schwichtenberg, Tracey Christian, Alan Clements, Sloane, Blair and Bud (Darrell Jr.) Clements, Lee and Michael Taylor; stepgrandchildren, Pat, Sheila and Connie; as well as numerous great- and great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Publish Date: December 27, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
A Must Read Book
I must admit something. For the past 27 years of ministry, I've had a real appetite to read. I've read just about anything available, and have over those years gathered quite a diverse library. Most preachers are like that.
About fifteen-years-ago, a church member put a book in my hands that absolutely changed my life. The book is A GRACE AWAKENING by Dr. Charles Swindoll, and it is such a good book that I've read it through multiple times. In fact, before the next year is out, I will probably read it again.
I also have the habit of reading multiple books at the same time...no, I don't mean literally, but I will read a chapter or two a day of several bookss. I've found this to broaden my knowledge and help me to learn quickly. However, this past week, I bought a book that I started reading, and I literally kept reading it until I finished it this morning. For the first time in years, I've read it through without picking up the other three I was reading at the time.
The book? I'm glad you asked. BEING CHRISTIAN Exploring Where you, God and Life Connect by Stephen Arterburn and John Shore.
(ISBN978-0-7642-0426-5 for those of you who might want to look it up at your favorite Christian bookstore)
This book IS just what it says. I found it enjoyable to read, and a valuable source for new Christians and those of us who have been around a while too. Last night, Debra came into the room and asked, "is that a good book?" My reply came out before I realized what I was saying, but it was something like this: "This book would have saved me a lot of heartache had I read it when I was first saved." Of course, it wasn't in print then, but I think you get the idea.
I would challenge all of you to stop by the bookstore and take a peek at the book, and let me say, "I GET NO COMMISSION FOR THIS, ABSOLUTELY nothing, except for the ability to recommend something that could help you in your Christian walk.
If you are one of those who thinks the only good reading material is found in the ANTI-NICEAN FATHERS, then this book will probably seem like fluff to you, but I found it to lay again the principles and precepts all Christians need to learn at the beginning, but to also be reminded of once you've been a believer for a long time.
God bless you is my earnest desire.
Publish Date: December 27, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Death Notice - Mildred Clements
I received this from District Presbyter, Bishop Gary Riley:
Dear Bro. McKinley,
I received word from one of our members that Sis. Mildred Clements, wife of deceased pastor Bro. William Clements, passed away this morning in Clarksville. It is my understanding that the funeral arrangements are as follows:
Visitation: Sunday, Dec. 28th, 3pm-6pm
Funeral: Monday, Dec. 29th, 1pm
Sykes Funeral Home
424 Franklin St.
Clarksville, TN
Ph. 931-647-1562
I thought I would pass this along just in case you have not received word as of yet.
God bless!
Bro. Gary Riley
Dear Bro. McKinley,
I received word from one of our members that Sis. Mildred Clements, wife of deceased pastor Bro. William Clements, passed away this morning in Clarksville. It is my understanding that the funeral arrangements are as follows:
Visitation: Sunday, Dec. 28th, 3pm-6pm
Funeral: Monday, Dec. 29th, 1pm
Sykes Funeral Home
424 Franklin St.
Clarksville, TN
Ph. 931-647-1562
I thought I would pass this along just in case you have not received word as of yet.
God bless!
Bro. Gary Riley
Publish Date: December 25, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Looking forward
We trust you have had a wonderful Christmas and that you are now looking forward to a New Year with anticipation!
We are thankful for all the Lord has done for our churches and ministries in the past year, and we are looking forward with joyful hearts for the new year ahead of us.
May God bless YOU!
Publish Date: December 21, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Prayer Request for Massengale Family
Rubert Massengale, father of Pastor Roy Massengale of the Oliver Springs church passed away shortly before midnight last night. At this time the arrangements are pending, but preliminary plans have been made for visitation on Tuesday (12/23/08) and services planned for Wednesday (12/24/08) at Sharp's Funeral Home in Oliver Springs, Tennessee. Once I have the obituary, I will post it on this website.
Publish Date: December 18, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Leadership Development Intensive
As many of you are aware, each January for the past several years, we have hosted a Ministerial Development Intensive at our campground at the end of January. I am posting today, and will be sending more information to the churches and ministers to inform everyone of a change of plan.
As you may know, the International Leadership Development Institute is scheduled for April 21-24, 2009 in Cleveland, Tennessee. This will be one of the best yet, and there is a broad spectrum of classes, ministry and intensives. This year, I will be teaching a class on the history of the Church of God of Prophecy from 1923 to present. This will be an enlightening class for anyone who may not know of the multitude of changes that have taken place. I will be putting them into a biblical perspective that will lead to our present and future as a movement of God. I am encouraging you to make plans to attend.
You may view the entire schedule of events, and learning opportunities by CLICKING HERE to be taken to the International Offices website. This is being updated regularly by Dr. H.E. Cardin, our director.
In that this is going to showcase a new direction for educational direction for the International body of the Church of God of Prophecy, we will NOT host the annual intensive at the end of January, but will be focusing on providing support for the major conference April 21-24, 2009.
More information will be released through other communication avenues. It would be wonderful for Tennessee to have the largest delegation to this new endeavor. We look forward to seeing you there!
More information will be released through other communication avenues. It would be wonderful for Tennessee to have the largest delegation to this new endeavor. We look forward to seeing you there!
Publish Date: December 14, 2008 :: Author: ECM
District 9 & 10 Christmas Banquet
The Lakeside church in Westmoreland was the setting for the annual Districts 9 & 10 Christmas banquet. The pastors of these two areas were hosted by Bishop Leon and Fay Graves, and their capable staff.
There was a great meal, followed by entertainment provided by the Lakeside Staff. This has become an annual event and one that we always look forward to.
Debra and I were pleased to share a meal with almost all of the District pastor and companion.
Publish Date: December 11, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Heartland Fellowship - Elizabethton
This past Sunday morning, Debra and I were at the Heartland Fellowship church in Elizabethton to celebrate the first year anniversary in their new building, and their 75th anniversary as a congregation.
Pastor Marvin Slagle and the congregation gave us a wonderful welcome, and it was a joy to preach to the vibrant congregation.
We are so thankful to have the opportunity to visit and share with the wonderful people of Tennessee!
Publish Date: December 7, 2008 :: Author: ECM
NE Tennessee Christmas Breakfast
Saturday morning, Debra and I met with ministry of the NE Tennessee area of the State. District presbyter, Bishop R.D. Ledford did a wonderful job of scheduling and arranging the breakfast, and there was plent to eat, and also great fellowship.
The breakfast was hosted by the Arrowhead church in Knoxville and we are thankful for the wonderful time.
Publish Date: December 6, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Prayer Request
As I write, it is Saturday evening, December 6, 2008. I just spoke with Pastor Jerry Robbins (Dyersburg) a few-minutes-ago and learned that Sister Shelia has has taken a turn for the worse. She is running a high fever and in much pain.
As you can imagine, this is a difficult time for the Robbins family, perhaps one of the most difficult since Shelia was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease).
I am asking all of our churches, ministries and laity to please join us in prayer for the Robbins family at this time.
Publish Date: December 4, 2008 :: Author: Bishop Paul Holt
Pictures Needed
I am posting this email from Bishop Paul Holt, Director of Heritage Ministries
We are working on preparing new materials (brochures, etc) for Fields of the Wood. We have found that we have very few good photos in a digital format.
If you have any good photos of Fields of the Wood or any of the markers, please email them to pholt@cogop.org.
Thanks so much.
Paul Holt
Heritage Ministries Director
International Assembly Operations Coordinator
Assistant to the Director of Finance, Publishing & Administration
Church of God of Prophecy International Offices
PO Box 2910
3720 Keith Street NW
Cleveland TN 37320-2910
Receptionist: (423) 559-5100
Direct Line: (423) 559-5135 or (423) 559-5217
Fax: (423) 559-5219
Email: pholt@cogop.org
If you have any good photos of Fields of the Wood or any of the markers, please email them to pholt@cogop.org.
Thanks so much.
Paul Holt
Heritage Ministries Director
International Assembly Operations Coordinator
Assistant to the Director of Finance, Publishing & Administration
Church of God of Prophecy International Offices
PO Box 2910
3720 Keith Street NW
Cleveland TN 37320-2910
Receptionist: (423) 559-5100
Direct Line: (423) 559-5135 or (423) 559-5217
Fax: (423) 559-5219
Email: pholt@cogop.org
Publish Date: December 3, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Prayer for Robbins Family
Today, Debra and I visited with Jerry and Shelia Robbins at the Dyersburg Medical Center in Dyersburg, where Shelia is a patient. At this point Shelia is in critical condition and needs the prayer support of all of the state.
We just returned home a few-minutes-ago (Wednesday PM) and I am passing on Pastor Jerry Robbins' thanks for the many prayers, visits and calls, however, the family is in need of all of us holding them up in prayer.
I will keep you posted on her progress, but her condition is grave.
Publish Date: December 2, 2008 :: Author: Bishop Randall Howard
Fast for Awakening 2009
December 01, 2008
RE: Fast for Awakening 2009
Dear State, Regional, National Overseer:
Once more this year the Leadership of the International Office invites the Church of God of Prophecy family all around the world to join us in a Fast for Awakening 2009 as we begin the New Year. It has been a great strength infusion over the past two years to begin the New Year with 21 days of fasting and seeking God for His blessings over our efforts to answer His call and carry His gospel forward in the world. This year I cannot imagine beginning the year without such a season of seeking and hunger for God.
The most pronounced lesson that we have learned over the last two years has been that Christ is the head of the church and we can do nothing without Him. Amazingly the simplest lessons seem to be the ones that keep returning as new revelations along the journey. Just as our flesh bodies are the frail temples for our soul and spirit to use, the church here on earth is the frail vessel for Christ to fill and then work through to accomplish His will in the world.
I know of no better way to welcome and to empower Christ’s filling and working in the church than through fasting and prayer. So this January we are looking forward to another wonderful season of setting aside our desire for food and lifting high our desire for His will to be done and His presence to lead our ministries fresh and new. Fasting has always been a means of pressing our flesh cravings down, a form of crucifixion, and seeking Christ’s presence and power. In a real way we are joining Christ in Gethsemane saying, “Not my will but thine be done.”
With this understanding that we are the vessels and Christ is the treasure that fills us and empowers us, we can all declare that we need God in our areas of outreach and ministry. In the broad scope let me point you to our three Core Values as we consider fasting and seeking God for the first 21 days of 2009. Prayer, Harvest, and Leadership Development are the three values God has laid on our hearts from the General Presbyters’ table.
Prayer, perhaps we could ask God to raise up a mighty prayer hunger for God and His personal touch throughout out ministry area. There are so many aspects of application for this great value, revival, renewal, awakening, empowering, leading…
Harvest, perhaps we could pray that God will work with us, in us, and through us to see where He is opening ministry opportunities and to carry us into those divinely prepared ministries. Again, many harvest goals could be mentioned for prayer.
Leadership Development, perhaps we could seek God to raise up an army of harvesters and ministers to reap in this glorious season of harvesting around us. The list will span from developing new emerging leaders, to fortifying our current consistent and strong leaders.
Also as we pray here in the United States we will be joining the Awakening America movement that is led by Bishop William Wilson. Material for information about the Awakening America season of fasting can be easily found at their web site or by contacting the International Center for Spiritual Renewal.
We are not alone in this season of seeking. Many other ministries have felt the tug of the Lord on their hearts to seek Him early for this year of ministry. Let’s remember the promise of God from Jeremiah as we join together for this Fast for Awakening 2009, “Call unto me and I will answer thee and show thee great and mighty things that you do not know.” As we seek God together I am expecting great and mighty things to come from God.
Praying For His Awakening,
R. E. Howard
General Overseer
REH/djs
RE: Fast for Awakening 2009
Dear State, Regional, National Overseer:
Once more this year the Leadership of the International Office invites the Church of God of Prophecy family all around the world to join us in a Fast for Awakening 2009 as we begin the New Year. It has been a great strength infusion over the past two years to begin the New Year with 21 days of fasting and seeking God for His blessings over our efforts to answer His call and carry His gospel forward in the world. This year I cannot imagine beginning the year without such a season of seeking and hunger for God.
The most pronounced lesson that we have learned over the last two years has been that Christ is the head of the church and we can do nothing without Him. Amazingly the simplest lessons seem to be the ones that keep returning as new revelations along the journey. Just as our flesh bodies are the frail temples for our soul and spirit to use, the church here on earth is the frail vessel for Christ to fill and then work through to accomplish His will in the world.
I know of no better way to welcome and to empower Christ’s filling and working in the church than through fasting and prayer. So this January we are looking forward to another wonderful season of setting aside our desire for food and lifting high our desire for His will to be done and His presence to lead our ministries fresh and new. Fasting has always been a means of pressing our flesh cravings down, a form of crucifixion, and seeking Christ’s presence and power. In a real way we are joining Christ in Gethsemane saying, “Not my will but thine be done.”
With this understanding that we are the vessels and Christ is the treasure that fills us and empowers us, we can all declare that we need God in our areas of outreach and ministry. In the broad scope let me point you to our three Core Values as we consider fasting and seeking God for the first 21 days of 2009. Prayer, Harvest, and Leadership Development are the three values God has laid on our hearts from the General Presbyters’ table.
Prayer, perhaps we could ask God to raise up a mighty prayer hunger for God and His personal touch throughout out ministry area. There are so many aspects of application for this great value, revival, renewal, awakening, empowering, leading…
Harvest, perhaps we could pray that God will work with us, in us, and through us to see where He is opening ministry opportunities and to carry us into those divinely prepared ministries. Again, many harvest goals could be mentioned for prayer.
Leadership Development, perhaps we could seek God to raise up an army of harvesters and ministers to reap in this glorious season of harvesting around us. The list will span from developing new emerging leaders, to fortifying our current consistent and strong leaders.
Also as we pray here in the United States we will be joining the Awakening America movement that is led by Bishop William Wilson. Material for information about the Awakening America season of fasting can be easily found at their web site or by contacting the International Center for Spiritual Renewal.
We are not alone in this season of seeking. Many other ministries have felt the tug of the Lord on their hearts to seek Him early for this year of ministry. Let’s remember the promise of God from Jeremiah as we join together for this Fast for Awakening 2009, “Call unto me and I will answer thee and show thee great and mighty things that you do not know.” As we seek God together I am expecting great and mighty things to come from God.
Praying For His Awakening,
R. E. Howard
General Overseer
REH/djs
Publish Date: December 1, 2008 :: Author: Bishop Paul Holt
FOTW Fund Raiser
The Fields of the Wood is doing a fund raiser to offset the cost for our Christmas Light Display.
We are making Christmas stockings made out of plywood. These stockings will be placed on stakes and used to line the roadways in the park. For $5.00, we will put your name or another name that you designate and the abbreviation of the State you are from.
You may send your order (please include name(s) desired and your state to me via email at pholt@cogop.org. You may mail your payment to the Heritage Ministries Director’s attention – PO Box 2910 – Cleveland TN 37320.
Again, the cost is $5.00 per stocking/name.
Paul Holt
We are making Christmas stockings made out of plywood. These stockings will be placed on stakes and used to line the roadways in the park. For $5.00, we will put your name or another name that you designate and the abbreviation of the State you are from.
You may send your order (please include name(s) desired and your state to me via email at pholt@cogop.org. You may mail your payment to the Heritage Ministries Director’s attention – PO Box 2910 – Cleveland TN 37320.
Again, the cost is $5.00 per stocking/name.
Paul Holt
Publish Date: November 30, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Christmas is on the Way!
As I share this blog entry with you tonight I am reflecting on the past few days at our home in Hendersonville. This year, Shaun, Stephanie and Reagan visited with us and shared the whole Thanksgiving weekend experience. The weekend included not only the traditinal Thanksgiving dinner, but also a trip to see "ICE" at Opryland. This is the final year for the "Grinch" theme and we were thankful for the opportunity to share it with family.
I am trusting you have experienced a wonderful weekend as well, and that the Lord was with you in a special way.
God bless!
Publish Date: November 28, 2008 :: Author: Bishop Paul Holt
Christmas Lights at Fields of the Wood
The Christmas Season officially opens at Fields of the Wood on Saturday, November 29 with a special lighting ceremony.
The activities will start at 5:00 PM and will last an hour or so with a number of singers and a devotion by Bishop Wayne Allen.
There will be Hot Chocolate, Hot Apple Cider and snacks. The Gift Shop will be open after the service.
Wood Christmas Stockings are still available and will be throughout December. To date, 155 have been ordered.
Special thanks to. . . one husband and wife ordered individual stocking and each gave $50.00. The Tullahoma TN Church of God of Prophecy ordered 48 stockings. Thank you!
A BIG THANK you to Don & Sandra Johnston for working on these stockings and to our entire staff for all their work in preparing for the Christmas Season!
For more information click here
The activities will start at 5:00 PM and will last an hour or so with a number of singers and a devotion by Bishop Wayne Allen.
There will be Hot Chocolate, Hot Apple Cider and snacks. The Gift Shop will be open after the service.
Wood Christmas Stockings are still available and will be throughout December. To date, 155 have been ordered.
Special thanks to. . . one husband and wife ordered individual stocking and each gave $50.00. The Tullahoma TN Church of God of Prophecy ordered 48 stockings. Thank you!
A BIG THANK you to Don & Sandra Johnston for working on these stockings and to our entire staff for all their work in preparing for the Christmas Season!
For more information click here
Publish Date: November 28, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Special Prayer Requests - Shelia Robbins
Tonight I received word that Shelia Robbins has been hospitalized in Dyersburg with a serious medical condition. Shelia's husband Jerry serves as the pastor of our Dyersburg church.
I spoke with Brother Robbins and he said the doctors are treating her condition with medication, hoping to clear up an infection. Many of you know that Shelia has suffered for quite some time with a debilitating illness and that her husband Jerry has faithfully cared for her.
Will you please join me tonight praying for the Lord's touch? Thank you.
Publish Date: November 26, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Pausing to give thanks
This morning I had a pleasant thought as I roused from sleep. It was a thought that went back almost 30 years. The thought was about a place called "Hillgrove."
Hillgrove was a small church located just outside of Radcliff, Kentucky, and it is a church that made a difference in my life. Let me explain.
30-years-ago, I was serving in the U.S. Army, assigned to Fort Knox, Kentucky. My wife and I had been married almost two years and I son was approaching his first birthday. Next month will be mine 30th anniversary as a Christian, and it was this conversion that brought me to Hillgrove.
For the previous 18 months I attended church with Debra in the Louisville, Kentucky area, mostly when I was not on duty. The church was a small church, but the pastor had a tendency to compromise and make excuses for my sins. In fact, he once asked me to serve in a local church position, knowing I was unconverted. This always bothered me as a "law and order" type. It was amazing that when I came to a crisis point in my life, it wasn't a compromising preacher I needed.
After my conversion in December 1978, my wife was happy I'd made the change, but probably a little suspicious that there wasn't going to be a real change. Yet, my mind was made up to serve Christ and I wanted to do whatever necessary to continue the commitment I'd made to God. I knew that I could not do that in a place where I had not respect for the minister.
One Saturday, we we're traveling down a back country road, and Debra pointed at a small, white cinder-block building and said, "that's one of our churches." There was no sign and I said" how can you know that?" Her reply was, "I just know, go look in the window."
I pulled into the front of the church and looked in the window. The entire wall behind the pulpit had a Pacific Island mural on it, but I could see a Church of God of Prophecy flag in the corner, and a tract-rack in the vestibule. Then and there, we decided to go the next Sunday morning.
As we arrived, there were less than 15 people in the Sunday morning service, and although we didn't know anyone there, I knew I was home. The pastor, Brother Arthur Thornhill and his wife gave us a warm welcome and began a relationship that has affected me to this day.
The Thornhills and the congregation took us under their wing, and as a young family, care for us as if we were there own. Their two daughters were married and had families of their own, and the sons-in-law were both deacons in the church.
During the next year and a half, I saw what New Testament love was about, and I learned the meaning of "fellowship" first hand. Although the Greek word "koinonia" (fellowship) is a 20th century creation, their love for us was how I read it in the New Testament.
Looking back, Brother Thornhill was probably not a "deep preacher" but he was a man who lived his convictions, and was by no means a man who compromised. I will never forget something he said to me..."People will say of preachers, that is a great man of faith....the truth is that in reality they are a man of a great faith." Now, you may need to think about that, but it is the absolute truth. God does not look for "great" men of faith...rather He is looking for men of a great faith."
Through all of these thirty years, I've never forgotten the wonderful people at the Hillgrove church. They showed me love, compassion, patience and ingratiated themselves to my heart forever.
In that Thanksgiving is tomorrow, and should be a time of remembering our blessings, I'm thankful the Lord gave me a one-day jump on it. I am thankful for all of the "Hillgrove" churches, though they may have a different name, the spirit is the same. God bless you!
Publish Date: November 24, 2008 :: Author: Joshua Lynn
PowerHouse a Great Success
POWERhouse: Tennessee Youth Retreat 2008 was a wonderful success. The success was not because we had over 350 with us, or the fact that we had wonderful worship, or the fact that our staff did a fantastic job it was the fact that God changed lives. I personally want to say thanks to the best staff I have ever worked with- God Bless you is my prayer (I know He did and will continue to do so).
A special thanks to Pastor Eric Washburn, State Evangelist Tim Farmer, Tanner Gann (a 14 year old preacher) and Youth Pastor Kevin Carver for bringing the Word of God to us over the weekend.
The state youth ministries wanted to show our youth pastors/leaders our thanks for what they do on a daily basis, most volunteering their time to do so. They were our 'VIP's" for the weekend.
On Saturday, at lunch, they were served a steak and chicken meal with all the fixings along with cheesecake. They also enjoyed front of the line pleasures Saturday evening. But more importantly during their separate growth group times and a special message by Pastor Eric Washburn, God ministered to them and touched their hears in a personal way.
Many have already shared how awesome God was during this wonderful weekend of POWER as God allows those to 'Retreat,' 'Restore,' and then return home to 'Reach.' God has linked us with a new move of His spirit and we are very exited of the reports we expect to follow as revival moves through our churches because of the hearts of young people.
I also want to say thanks to the Lakeside Youth Ministries and Youth Pastor Kevin Carver, as they allowed me to preach at "Firehouse' on our way home Sunday evening. God gave us a sweat spirit as He spoke to each of us. I appreciate the youth and Pastor Kevin for making the dedication to have service in the face of tired bodies and a long weekend- God will bless this commitment to worship Him and serve Him.
As always we are more than willing to come preach to your church or youth ministry or meet and share with your youth ministry teams as we work to see God continue to use this wonderful Generation as we expect the Greatest Revival to break out through our youth.
God Bless,
Joshua Lynn
Tennessee Youth Ministries
I also want to say thanks to the Lakeside Youth Ministries and Youth Pastor Kevin Carver, as they allowed me to preach at "Firehouse' on our way home Sunday evening. God gave us a sweat spirit as He spoke to each of us. I appreciate the youth and Pastor Kevin for making the dedication to have service in the face of tired bodies and a long weekend- God will bless this commitment to worship Him and serve Him.
As always we are more than willing to come preach to your church or youth ministry or meet and share with your youth ministry teams as we work to see God continue to use this wonderful Generation as we expect the Greatest Revival to break out through our youth.
God Bless,
Joshua Lynn
Tennessee Youth Ministries
Publish Date: November 22, 2008
PowerHouse 2008
Last night, I attended the evening services for our annual PowerHouse event at Camp Hickory Hills. The worship was great and Pastor Eric Washburn, of the Springplace Church in Cleveland preached an outstanding message on the story of Jacob wrestling an angel.
At the conclusion of the message, the altar response was powerful as young people from across the state (and several other states) responded to the call. As always, there was a late-night time of snacks and fellowship in our cafeteria.
This morning, the event continued with growth groups and general services featuring Kevin Carver, youth pastor at the Lakeside church in Westmoreland. Again, there was a great altar response.
During the morning session, I met with our youth camp coordinators and directors of the camps for the 2009 season. As we sat together, we planned and shared for what we believe is going to be powerful time of camping.
During the morning session, our Internationa Youth Directors, Trevor and Ailene Reid visited the camp, spoke with the youth camping staff and took a tour of the campground. The Reids were in Nashville over the weekend attend a Youth Specialties event at the Nashville Convention Cener, and they took time out of the schedule to visit with us.
I do not have final attendance figures, but was told that about 330 were in attendance. Special thanks to Joshua Lynn and his staff on a successful event!
Publish Date: November 21, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Senior Saints Thanksgiving Feast
Yesterday, Debra and I joined a lively group of senior saints at the Roberts Tabernacle church for a Thanksgiving luncheon. Karen Coley and the ladies of the church organized and served a wonderful meal, along with some fun time and special singing.
We are so thankful for the loving ministry that takes place in our churches across Tennessee so often displayed in these type events.
Publish Date: November 19, 2008 :: Author: ECM
PowerHouse Almost Here
In just a few days, young people from all over will be converging on Camp Hickory Hills for the annual PowerHouse event. Joshua Lynn and his staff are preparing for what we believe will be a powerful spiritual moment in time.
As the applications continue to come in, we are happy to report a large crowd for this year, and if you are waiting to send your registration, please don't put it off any longer.
We look forward to seeing you there!
For more information go to the Youth Website by Clicking Here
Publish Date: November 19, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Special Prayer Request - Wonnie Weakley
Most of the folks in the Tennessee churches hold a very special place in their hearts for Sister Juanita Weakley. As many of you may know, she has been having some medical difficulties lately and is in need of our prayers.
Debra spoke with Brother Weakley just a few-minutes-ago (9:30 p.m.11/19/08) and he and Sister Weakley are asking that we keep her in our prayers, trusting the Lord for a physical touch in her body.
I know that you all love her, as we do and we know that she has a BIG heart, and has prayed countless prayers for so many of us, now we can return the prayers for her.
God bless.
Publish Date: November 17, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Prayer Request
This past weekend, Debra and I were at the Regional Ladies Retreat at Lake Barkley, Kentucky. While there, my older sister, Judy suffered a heart attack.
She was taken to the local hospital in Logansport, Indiana, but her condition grew worse. She was transferred to the Heart Center in Indianapolis.
Debra and I left early Sunday and drove to Indianapolis, where we visited with and prayed with my sister. She is in stable condition. I would appreciate your prayers for her tonight.
May the Lord bless you.
Publish Date: November 13, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Marriage Retreat Just Around The Corner
The Tennessee Marriage Retreat is just around the corner! Information will soon be arriving at our local churches and the couples attending in the past with valuable information.
The cost will NOT increase this year, however, we will be returning to the MainStay Suites in Pigeon Forge, TN, one of the favorite locations of many of our returning attendees.
The retreat is scheduled for Valentine's Day weekend, February 13-15, 2009 and we are looking forward to a great time in the Lord.
Guest speakers and the theme will also be released.
We are looking forward to seeing you there!
Publish Date: November 13, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Online Calendar
To see a calendar view of the state events CLICK HERE
Publish Date: November 12, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Death Notice - Louise Manus
Louise Manus
Sister Manus is the wife of retired Tennessee Minister, James Manus. Will you join me in prayer for the family.
(October 22, 1920 - November 12, 2008) Louise Echols Tate Manus, age 84 of Decherd, passed away Wednesday November 12, 2008 at Golden Living Health Care. She is preceded in death by her mother, Bessie Sartin Echols and her father, Creed Echols; grandmother, Louisa Echols; brother Jean Echols.
Sister Manus is the wife of retired Tennessee Minister, James Manus. Will you join me in prayer for the family.
(October 22, 1920 - November 12, 2008) Louise Echols Tate Manus, age 84 of Decherd, passed away Wednesday November 12, 2008 at Golden Living Health Care. She is preceded in death by her mother, Bessie Sartin Echols and her father, Creed Echols; grandmother, Louisa Echols; brother Jean Echols.
Survivors include her husband, James Manus of Decherd; stepson, Bobby Tate of Tracy City; step daughters, Jeanette Smith of Palmer; Alice Coffelt and Shirley Schoenmann, both of Winchester; several cousins.
The funeral service will conducted 2 p.m. Friday November 14, 2008 at Bethel Community Church in Pelham with Sister Mary Shelton officiating. Interment will follow in the Bethel Community Church Cemetery with family members serving as pallbearers. Visitation will be Thursday evening from 5-8 p.m. at Watson-North Funeral Home.
Publish Date: November 11, 2008 :: Author: Bishop EC. McKinley
Regional Ladies Retreat - Lake Barkley
In just a few days, ladies from several states will gather at the Lake Barkley Conference and Retreat Center for the Regional Ladies Retreat hosted by the International Offices Women's Ministries Department of the Church of God of Prophecy.
This retreat has become a highlight for the ladies who will experience the fellowship, worship and relaxing atmosphere in the tranquil rolling hills of Western Kentucky.
Debra and I will be there, as we are every year, and will look forward to seeing you there!
Publish Date: November 9, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Hickory Valley Celebrates 100 Years
On Sunday, Debra, Lindsey and I were privileged to celebrate with the Hickory Valley Community Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee as they celebrated their 100th anniversary as a local church.
There was a great celebration as Pastor Duke Stone, his family and staff put together an inspiring program looking back to the past, at the present and toward the future.
Among the guests were former pastors, former state overseers, and our General Overseer, Bishop Randall E. Howard. In the morning service, the former state overseers, Bishop Eugene Weakley and A.J. Coalter addressed the congregation, and I was given the opportunity to do the same, followed by Bishop Howard who just returned on a midnight flight from Africa. This was all followed by a special challenge from the Pastor, who preached a timely, relevant sermon.
After the morning service, a great lunch was served, and former pastor's wife Pat Minter shared her memories, followed by former pastor Bishop Allen Davis, who held the record for length of appointment as pastor before Pastor Stone recently passed that record.
All of the musical celebrations were presented well, and the congregation was blessed. More information can be found at the local church website. CLICK HERE.
Publish Date: November 6, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Final District Pastor/Companion Meeting
Earlier this fall, Debra and I began meeting with pastors and companions in each of Tennessee's seven sectional areas to share a time of fellowship and sharing. Tonight was our final meeting as we gathered with Districts 11, 12 and 13 at the Crossroads Church in White Bluff, Tennessee.
There was a great turnout with almost all of our pastors and companions in this area, and we shared a catered meal and a great time together. I appreciate District Presbyter Bishop Gary and Joyce Riley for arranging such a nice evening, and the Lord gave us great weather (low 70's) to travel there and back.
We have wonderful pastoral families in our church and we are so privleged to serve them.
Publish Date: November 4, 2008 :: Author: Bishop Paul Holt
Heritage Ministries
If you have not already done so, there is still time to become a Heritage Ministries Association Member for 2008!
The Heritage Ministries Association provides financial and prayer support for efforts to preserve our Church heritage and maintain and improve Fields of the Wood, the First Assembly House, the Shearer Schoolhouse site, and the Holy Ghost Marker.
Membership is $10.00. To join, please see your local Heritage Ministries Director or Pastor. You can also mail your membership request along with $10.00 to:
Heritage Ministries Director
Thank you for your support for Heritage Ministries!
Blessings!
Paul Holt
Publish Date: November 4, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Prayer for a Nation
"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord:" (Psalm 33:12)
As I write today, it is at the close of my office hours, and in a few minutes I'll be going home. No doubt I will be like the rest of you, wondering about the outcome of the elections taking place in our nation today. Perhaps its just me, but it seems like this election has been going on forever. Political pundits have tried to spin their candidates in a favorable way, and trying to convince us that their candidate is the "one" who will be best for us. That's their job, and they seem to have an unending stream of material. I voted early, so my choice was made long before today.
I am sharing an experience with you today that happened to me over the weekend, and perhaps you can identify with the experience.
On Saturday, I was with Debra in Elizabethton, Tennessee for the third of three regional ladies conferences. After dropping her off, I drove to the Panera Bread in Johnson City to complete some administrative work. I stopped at a small gas station to fill my gas tank, and I had heard so much of the spin on the radio that I had to turn it off. I could see the stories on the front pages of the newspapers for sale at the station, and with a sigh, I leaned against my car.
As I raised my head, I looked up and at the top of the hill and saw three crosses and a billboard that simply read "Jesus is Lord." It was almost as if the Lord was trying to remind me that while we should be involved in the political process as good citizens, voting our consciences, there is a "larger" picture than what we may be seeing.
We are a part of a spiritual kingdom that is not of this world. Regardless of who is elected president, senator, etc., God is in control of our lives, and we are looking for a city whose builder and maker is God!
I cannot explain the comfort that came to my heart, but I've had it from that moment, and that is a peace that some folks will never understand.
Thank the Lord for His presence, and for the reminder of His love for all of us. May God bless you!
Publish Date: November 2, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
reFresh Women's Conferences and Weekend Travels
On Saturday, Londa Richardson and her ministry team hosted the third of three regional ladies conferences in Tennessee. As with everything they do, Londa and her team presented and absolutely excellent program at the Heartland Fellowship Church in Elizabethton. Special thanks to Pastor Marvin Slagle and his congegation for hosting the event.
This morning, Debra and I attended the Spring Place church in Cleveland, and we were blessed to see the church excited as they ministered to one another, and as the Presence of the Lord moved through the building. Pastor Eric Washburn delivered a powerful sermon which was well received by the congregation.
Tonight, I met with the Peerless Road Church in Cleveland. As you may already know, Pastor Tim Coalter has been selected by the General Presbytery to serve as the State Overseer of South Carolina. While the church will miss Pastor Coalter, they understand that a new season is in store for Brother Coalter and the congregation. Tennessee's loss will be South Carolina's gain. Please join me in prayer for Tim and Kelly and the congregation.
Publish Date: November 1, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Death Notice - Garland Tounsend
I am saddened to announce the death of Garland Tousend, the father of Charlotte Carney. Charlotte and her husband Bishop Johnny Carney pastor the churches at Bristol and Kingsport. Services are being handled by Humcnik Funeral Home in Brook Park, Ohio.
Please join me in prayer for this precious family
Publish Date: October 29, 2008 :: Author: Kim Batson
Children's Revival
Everyone is invited to a Children's Revival at Grace Chapel Church in Ashland City November 9th, 10th, and 11th at 6:30pm.
Tuesday night will be a special family service. I hope you can join us for a wonderful time.
For more information please contact Kim Batson at 615-604-7484 or kim.batson@comcast.net.
Publish Date: October 21, 2008 :: Author: Sammy Allen
Wrigley News Update
We still had around 90 in attendance!
The Message was titled "The Building of a Team" with a video and powerpoint presentation.
The Message was titled "The Building of a Team" with a video and powerpoint presentation.
The largest team had 28 team members and they won a tailgate dinner that consisted of fried chicken, green beans, potato salad and rolls. We had a drawing for other prizes. Wanda and I donated the prizes.
Everyone was asked to wear their favorite team colors.
The youth supplied a chip and dip and sandwich lunch after the service.
The best part of the day was that we had 6 saved during the service!!!
Publish Date: October 21, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Rested and Ready
For those of you who are regular readers of our daily blog, you know that there have been no new posts for over a week. That was by design and not by accident.
The past week has been the opportunity to keep a promise I made to my family over two-years-ago. When our first grandchild Reagan was born, I told my immediate family that we would celebrat her second birthday at DisneyWorld. This past October 16, 2008 was the big day, although somehow or another the birthday party spread out for the whole time.
I started using computers in 1984, which began after learning "keypunch" systems in college. Since that time, almost 25 years, I spend an entire week not using a computer, a feat that was no small task for a "techno-freak." That, my friends is the real reason the posts have not come. The rest is over, and I am ready to begin posting again.
I want to thank all of our staff, and the district presbyters for helping me to get some much needed rest...something I recommend for all ministers. Our former Bishop, Eugene Weakley reminded us often...."if you don't come apart every now and then, you will FALL apart." He was so right. God bless all of you!
Publish Date: October 11, 2008 :: Author: Joshua Lynn
PowerHouse Applications Available
PowerHouse applications are now available for download. To get you copy CLICK HERE
Publish Date: October 11, 2008 :: Author: Juanita Weakley
A special message from Momma Wonnie
THANK YOU from "WONNIE"
I have literally been overwhelmed at the visits, cards, phone calls, etc., that I received during my recent cancer surgery.
THANK YOU is just not adequate enough, to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone.
THANK YOU Brother and Sister McKinley for being with me during and after my surgery. They came with a georgeous floral arrangement from the State of TN, plus bearing other gifts.
My pastor, Brother Verlin Thornton; was super supportive during and after my surgery.
I had so many precious family, friends, and former pastors with me, what a comfort! I am constantly receiving calls, cards, etc., since coming home.........wow........it blesses me.
I just wanted to try to express myself with a THANK YOU Tennessee on this blog.
The fourteen years Gene served as Overseer, I learned to love all of you very much, you are the greatest people on earth.
I will enjoy my floral arrangement for a long long time and when I look at it, I will think of how precious all of you Tennesseans are.
Publish Date: October 11, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Upcoming Revivals
Our new State Evangelist, Tim Farmer will begin revival services at the following locations and dates. If you are in the area, please drop in and support the revival, and remember to bring someone needing the Lord with you!
Dayton - Oct. 12-17 and possibly the 18th
Grimsley - Oct. 19 - 22
Lenox - Oct. 30 - Nov. 2
Grimsley - Oct. 19 - 22
Lenox - Oct. 30 - Nov. 2
Publish Date: October 9, 2008 :: Author: Francis Schaeffer
A thought for the day...
“Men today do not perhaps burn the Bible, nor does the Roman Catholic Church any longer put it on the [forbidden] index, as it once did. But men destroy it in the form of exegesis; they destroy it in the way they deal with it. They destroy it by not reading it as written in normal literary form, by ignoring historical-grammatical exegesis, by changing the Bible’s own perspective of itself as propositional revelation in space and time, in history, by saying only the ’spiritual’ portions of the Bible have authority for us. I would say to you who call yourselves Bible-believing Christians, if you see the Word of God diminished as it is in our day and are not moved to tears and indignation, I wonder if you have any comprehension of the day in which we live. If we as Bible-believing Christians can see God’s Word, God’s verbalilzed, propositional communication, treated as it is so often treated and are not filled with sorrow and do not cry out, ‘But don’t you realize the end thereof?’–I wonder: do we love His Word? If we fight our philosophic battles, our artistic battles, our scientific battles, our battles in literature, our battles in drama, without emotional involvement, do we really love God? How can we do it without being moved as Jeremiah was moved? How can we speak of judgment and yet not stand like the weeping prophet with tears?”
Taken from The Complete Works of Francis A. Schaeffer, Vol. 4, “Death in the City,” pp. 244-245. The Complete Works of Francis a Schaeffer
Publish Date: October 8, 2008 :: Author: Carol Spence
Death Notices - West Robbins
September 30, 2008
The church at West Robbins would like to report that two brothers at the local church [have] passed away.
August 7, 2008, Brother David Potter
September 21, 2008 Brother Hestol Chambers
These brothers were a great help to the local church and will be missed. [Please] pray for these families:
Delphia Potter and her children
Colivra Chambers and her children
These families are faithful to the local church
Sincerely,
Carol Spence
Publish Date: October 8, 2008 :: Author: Shannon Thomas
Mayland VBS
Mayland Church of God of Prophecy held our VBS June 16 through 21 this year, our theme was "Son World." We thank God for a good week and blessing us with many children who attended.
We closed VBS with a special carnival celebration. There children as well as some of the adults enjoyed games, [a] hay ride, dunking booth and pie throw, along with hot dogs and snow cones.
We also would like to give God all the honor and glory for two healings within our church. Brother Jim Forsythe was healed of prostate cancer and his wife Sister Betty Forsythe had her vision healed. Our God is truly in the healing business. On whom else would we chosse to entrust our health and life to? No one but God!
Thank you Lord for your endless mercy and grace.
By: Shannon Thomas
Publish Date: October 5, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Crossroads Church - Pastor Appreciation Day
This morning, Debra, Lindsey and I were privileged to be with the church in White Bluff known as Crossroads, along with Pastor Gary Riley's family. This was a surprise visit that was planned some-time-back by the pastor booster committee, and we were thrilled to be a part of it. 
It was a total surprise to Brother and Sister Riley and the congregation was so loving, thoughtful and kind. I was allowed to serve as the principle speaker for the event, following numerous testimonies and presentation by the children's ministries and youth ministries departments.
Thank the Lord for our faithful ministers and their families across this state who serve with such distinction. God bless.
Publish Date: October 2, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Latest Update on Juanta Weakley - GOOD NEWS!
I spoke with Bishop Eugene Weakley at 10:40 a.m., October 2, 2008 concerning his wife, Sister Juanita Weakley.
He shared that the family was just informed that the surgery on her colon was successful, the lymph nodes are in such shape that there is no need to worry, that while they will continue to monitor her over time, she will probably be released today! This is ahead of schedule, and the lymph node concern is a reason to rejoice!
Brother Weakley was ecstatic over the news, and the family is relieved. We all rejoice in the goodness of God!
Dr. E.C. McKinley
State Overseer
Dr. E.C. McKinley
State Overseer
Publish Date: October 2, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Juanita Weakley Released from Hospital
I am happy to report that Sister Juanita Weakley was released from the hospital late this afternoon. I spoke with Bishop Weakley and he said that she is thrilled, and so is he.
She will be resting and recovering from home. The Weakleys asked me to share that they are thankful for all of the prayers of the saints and for your kind expressions of love and support.
We serve a great Lord!
Publish Date: October 1, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Juanita Weakley
Yesterday, Debra and I visited with Sister Weakley and prayed for her prior to her surgery. We waited with Brother Weakley, Jeff and Regina until Sister Weakley was out of surgery and in recovery. The doctors briefed Regina and Brother Weakley and shared the following:
About 10-12 inches of her colon was removed, and the doctors feel certain they were able to isolate any threat there.
The family has asked that we all join them in prayer for Sister Weakley for a speedy recovery and that the necessary treatments will be provided.
This morning I talked with Brother Weakley and he shared that Sister Weakley has a bit of a fever, but they both rested last night. Sister Weakley will be in the hospital for about three days.
The family has asked that we all join them in prayer for Sister Weakley for a speedy recovery and that the necessary treatments will be provided.
This morning I talked with Brother Weakley and he shared that Sister Weakley has a bit of a fever, but they both rested last night. Sister Weakley will be in the hospital for about three days.
Debra and I will visited Sister Weakley this afternoon at the hospital and she was in good spirits. I shared that many of you have inquired about her condition and that you are offering your prayers and best wishes...The Weakley family is grateful.
I will continue to post updates on this site. Thank you for your prayers.
Dr. E.C. McKinley
Tennessee State Overseer
I will continue to post updates on this site. Thank you for your prayers.
Dr. E.C. McKinley
Tennessee State Overseer
Publish Date: September 27, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Slayden - One night revival service
Tuesday, September 20, 2008 at 7:00 P.M.
The Slayden church will be hosting a special area-wide one-night revival service with State Overseer, Bishop E.C. McKinley. Pastor E.C. Kephart and the congregation invite everyone to attend the special service.
The service will also feature special "Blue-grass" music and the Ferrells.
Everyone is invited to attend!
Publish Date: September 27, 2008 :: Author: Shlo Wyatt
Revival Services at Erin
Greetings,
We would like to cordially invite you and your church to come out and join us for the upcoming revival at the Erin Church of God of Prophecy.
Attached you will find a flyer announcing our revival October 5th at 11am and October 6th thru 11th at 7pm nightly with the state Youth Director from South Carolina, Bro. Chucky Chandler.
We are Praying with Great Expectation for what we know that our God wants to do for HIS desperate and hungry people! And we would love to have you come out and be with us during this awesome time.
If you have any trouble downloading the flyer or you have any questions, please feel free to contact Bro. Neal or my self.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
Richard Neal 931.289.8798 or rnealsr@peoplestel.net
Always Blessed,
Shlo Wyatt
We would like to cordially invite you and your church to come out and join us for the upcoming revival at the Erin Church of God of Prophecy.
Attached you will find a flyer announcing our revival October 5th at 11am and October 6th thru 11th at 7pm nightly with the state Youth Director from South Carolina, Bro. Chucky Chandler.
We are Praying with Great Expectation for what we know that our God wants to do for HIS desperate and hungry people! And we would love to have you come out and be with us during this awesome time.
If you have any trouble downloading the flyer or you have any questions, please feel free to contact Bro. Neal or my self.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
Richard Neal 931.289.8798 or rnealsr@peoplestel.net
Always Blessed,
Shlo Wyatt
Publish Date: September 27, 2008 :: Author: F. Leon Graves
Revival at Lakeside Church - Westmoreland
Just a reminder that Evangelist Sylvia Staten from
South Carolina will be with us on Sunday morning,
Monday and Tuesday nights.
It was on the district calendar but I wanted to
remind you so you could announce it on Wednesday
and Sunday.
Come if you can.
In His Service,
F.Leon Graves
Lakeside Church
Lakeside Church
Publish Date: September 26, 2008 :: Author: Pastor Robert Carpenter
News from Lakemoore Church - Morristown
Hello Brother McKinley, 9/26/08
Greetings from Lakemoore Church we pray for you daily and hope that all is well for you and your family. I too came away from this years Assembly being filled with a yearning to allow God to do more through me! I was also encouraged in my spirit to hear the men and women of God speaking and saying the same things that we have preached and heard taught in our local church just in the past few months! It lets me know that we are on the same page so to speak, with what God wants to do in the church.
I want to fill you in on what has been happening at Lakemoore this summer. The Pastor’s Council met in May and decided to try having an 8:30am worship service and then Sunday School followed with our 10:30am worship service. There would be NO evening services. We agreed to this trial worship schedule for the months of June and July. There were several reasons for this, one that some folks were missing out on coming to worship because of work schedules and so now, they come to the early service. Two we have been hit hard in our local area with the high price of food and gas. Some of our dedicated members were having a hard time paying for gas to come out for the evening service. So we decided to be conscious of what was happening and give the folks a choice of Sunday morning services then not have an evening service.
Everyone has loved this new schedule. We have seen an increase in Sunday School attendance and the giving levels have maintained. The people save money by not having to pay for gas to come and the church saves money by not having to use the utilities. The Council has encouraged family time during these Sunday evenings and I have noticed even with my own family a strengthening that only comes from the bond of fellowship. I will be very honest I was very reluctant to change to this schedule because of tradition. I was afraid of offending someone. The church has fully agreed to this new schedule and we have experienced REVIVAL services both during the 8:30am and the 10:30am service. The Council has decided to continue with this schedule until January 2009, but it looks like its here to stay!
During July we had VBS and we seen five saved and I baptized two. We have had five new members to join the church with five more ready to join now! While I was at the Assembly there was a forty-five year old man came and gave his heart to the Lord! Every service is power packed with the gifts of the spirit in operation! We have at least four to six visitors for every service wanting to come and see what God is doing at Lakemoore! We just give God the praise for all He is doing through His people! It’s not been easy there have been many battles but we have been made victorious over them all!
Saturday, September 6th we had our Sixth annual Fall Festival & Auction. I will admit right up until four days before the festival I did not think that we would have very much for this years auction. We had been working hard to get items donated and we had been turned down by a lot. But we had been blessed with several donations but were no near what we have had in the past. The economy had really hit us hard this year. The day before the festival things started coming in not just small things I am talking big things like cars and vans! We had three vehicles donated two cars and one van! To God be the Glory!! We ended up raising $13,200 dollars the second highest festival total that we have ever had. God is so good!
We had Homecoming last Sunday with former Pastor Dan Palmer speaking. We had a packed house (over 200) and a wonderful service with some of the best food I have ever eaten! Also, I baptized one and plan to baptize more very soon. Please come and be with us when you can and I know that you will be blessed!
Sincere in the Lords work,
Pastor Bishop Robert Carpenter
Greetings from Lakemoore Church we pray for you daily and hope that all is well for you and your family. I too came away from this years Assembly being filled with a yearning to allow God to do more through me! I was also encouraged in my spirit to hear the men and women of God speaking and saying the same things that we have preached and heard taught in our local church just in the past few months! It lets me know that we are on the same page so to speak, with what God wants to do in the church.
I want to fill you in on what has been happening at Lakemoore this summer. The Pastor’s Council met in May and decided to try having an 8:30am worship service and then Sunday School followed with our 10:30am worship service. There would be NO evening services. We agreed to this trial worship schedule for the months of June and July. There were several reasons for this, one that some folks were missing out on coming to worship because of work schedules and so now, they come to the early service. Two we have been hit hard in our local area with the high price of food and gas. Some of our dedicated members were having a hard time paying for gas to come out for the evening service. So we decided to be conscious of what was happening and give the folks a choice of Sunday morning services then not have an evening service.
Everyone has loved this new schedule. We have seen an increase in Sunday School attendance and the giving levels have maintained. The people save money by not having to pay for gas to come and the church saves money by not having to use the utilities. The Council has encouraged family time during these Sunday evenings and I have noticed even with my own family a strengthening that only comes from the bond of fellowship. I will be very honest I was very reluctant to change to this schedule because of tradition. I was afraid of offending someone. The church has fully agreed to this new schedule and we have experienced REVIVAL services both during the 8:30am and the 10:30am service. The Council has decided to continue with this schedule until January 2009, but it looks like its here to stay!
During July we had VBS and we seen five saved and I baptized two. We have had five new members to join the church with five more ready to join now! While I was at the Assembly there was a forty-five year old man came and gave his heart to the Lord! Every service is power packed with the gifts of the spirit in operation! We have at least four to six visitors for every service wanting to come and see what God is doing at Lakemoore! We just give God the praise for all He is doing through His people! It’s not been easy there have been many battles but we have been made victorious over them all!
Saturday, September 6th we had our Sixth annual Fall Festival & Auction. I will admit right up until four days before the festival I did not think that we would have very much for this years auction. We had been working hard to get items donated and we had been turned down by a lot. But we had been blessed with several donations but were no near what we have had in the past. The economy had really hit us hard this year. The day before the festival things started coming in not just small things I am talking big things like cars and vans! We had three vehicles donated two cars and one van! To God be the Glory!! We ended up raising $13,200 dollars the second highest festival total that we have ever had. God is so good!
We had Homecoming last Sunday with former Pastor Dan Palmer speaking. We had a packed house (over 200) and a wonderful service with some of the best food I have ever eaten! Also, I baptized one and plan to baptize more very soon. Please come and be with us when you can and I know that you will be blessed!
Sincere in the Lords work,
Pastor Bishop Robert Carpenter
Publish Date: September 23, 2008 :: Author: ECM
West Tennessee Pastor/Companion Meeting
Last night the pastors and their companions from West Tennessee gathered at Ryan's Buffet in Jackson, Tennessee. All but two of our pastors/companions were there and we enjoyed a great time of fellowship together.
Special thanks to Bishop Robbie & Kathy Wier and Bishop Clayton & Loudonna Mahan for helping to organize the meeting.
There are great things going on across the State of Tennessee and we are pleased to be a part of such a wonderful team.
Publish Date: September 20, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Tri-Cities Area Pastor/Companion meeting
This afternoon, Debra and I traveled to Kingsport to visit with the pastors and their companions from that part of the state. We were so blessed with the time of fellowship and a great meal.
During these meetings we have been sharing information, but most importantly we have the opportunity to share with one another, encourage one another and look forward together.
Special thanks to Bishop Robert Ledford and Sister Ruby for their help in arranging these gatherings.
Publish Date: September 20, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Knoxvile Area Pastors/Spouse Meeting
Last night Debra and I shared a meal and fellowship with the pastors/companions of the Knoxville area churches. This past week has been a full one with the opportunity to meet with our wonderful pastors and their companions in four of our sections. The next meeting is scheduled in the upper east Tennessee (Tri-Cities) area.
We are thankful to Bishop Robert and Ruby Ledford for arranging the meeting. With the Lord's help, we will have visited with all but one area of the state this coming Monday night when we will meet with the West Tennessee group.
Publish Date: September 19, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Hurricane Ike & COGOP
Dear Overseer,
I wanted to share with you a more detailed and updated report from Brother Howard regarding Brother & Sister Ortiz. Please continue to remember them in your prayers. Please continue to pray for Brother & Sister Schall, too, during this time of transition and their strength as they minister to the people that have been affected.
It is our hope to go “live” on the web today with news and ways our people can help. We will endeavor to keep this current with news updates as it is received. Please send any items of interest and prayer requests you may receive regarding the devastation to our office so we can keep our people informed.
Sincerely,
Sam N. Clements
Ortiz Situation Update:
As many have heard two large oak trees fell on the Texas State Parsonage in the storm. Brother and Sister Ortiz had been packed and were ready to move when the storm came through. With the tree falling on the house rain came in abundantly through the days of evacuation. Nearly everything had water damage. Brother Ortiz contacted the insurance company and they shared they could not come out until the trees were off the house (possibly safety policies). So Brother Ortiz first had some church volunteers to give a try, but the job was too large for them. Next he went to professionals who were already busy with many of these situations. But when he got one to come and look at it they said they could not handle a job so large as this anyway. Brother Ortiz feels that by the grace of God he connected with another company and they came out with clear ability to get the work done. He mentioned that these trees had actually fallen so completely on the house that they were not supported from the ground at all. He even feared as the men got into the attic while cutting pieces of the tree until they could finally get them off. His fear was that the structure of the house might have been compromised and the men could fall through if the tree shifted or they stood on a weak spot. So even this has been a hard journey.
While this was going on Brother Ortiz rented a Uhaul truck to use as a storage area for some of the boxes and things that did not get wet. He said a crew from the neighborhood came to his house and gave him help while moving all of this. Also he contacted the movers to let them know that some of the things they had estimated to move before the storm were damaged now and would not be moved at all. So the movers were going to come back and do another estimate. But they mentioned that they learned in Katrina that there was a possibility of mold damage and if that was too severe they might not be able to move the load at all. Of course Sister Ortiz had boxed everything up as she wanted it, but to check for mold the movers were going to have to go through all the boxes. Once again more uncertainty and more work.
So by late Thursday afternoon the trees had finally been removed, the insurance adjuster had not been able to come out to view the damage, the movers were going to come view the load again, and the storage Uhaul was in the yard. At that point Brother Ortiz was contemplating that he might have to move in Uhauls as a worst case scenario. Obviously everything has been thrown into confusion and more difficulty, as well as loss through the damage of the storm. We realize this is only one story of damage and there are more church families with needs, and the multiplied hundreds of families generally in need. Still Brother Ortiz is one of our long term leaders we love. And we feel for he and Sister Ortiz as they go through all these challenges. Brother Ortiz says he has not been calling many since he is embroiled in all of this crisis management. Yet he wanted our church people to know and was thankful for all the prayers from everyone.
Let’s continue to pray for help and strength for the Ortiz family as they work through this challenge. And we want to pray for the many other church related victims of the storm as well as all those suffering loss and displacement.
R E Howard
I wanted to share with you a more detailed and updated report from Brother Howard regarding Brother & Sister Ortiz. Please continue to remember them in your prayers. Please continue to pray for Brother & Sister Schall, too, during this time of transition and their strength as they minister to the people that have been affected.
It is our hope to go “live” on the web today with news and ways our people can help. We will endeavor to keep this current with news updates as it is received. Please send any items of interest and prayer requests you may receive regarding the devastation to our office so we can keep our people informed.
Sincerely,
Sam N. Clements
Ortiz Situation Update:
As many have heard two large oak trees fell on the Texas State Parsonage in the storm. Brother and Sister Ortiz had been packed and were ready to move when the storm came through. With the tree falling on the house rain came in abundantly through the days of evacuation. Nearly everything had water damage. Brother Ortiz contacted the insurance company and they shared they could not come out until the trees were off the house (possibly safety policies). So Brother Ortiz first had some church volunteers to give a try, but the job was too large for them. Next he went to professionals who were already busy with many of these situations. But when he got one to come and look at it they said they could not handle a job so large as this anyway. Brother Ortiz feels that by the grace of God he connected with another company and they came out with clear ability to get the work done. He mentioned that these trees had actually fallen so completely on the house that they were not supported from the ground at all. He even feared as the men got into the attic while cutting pieces of the tree until they could finally get them off. His fear was that the structure of the house might have been compromised and the men could fall through if the tree shifted or they stood on a weak spot. So even this has been a hard journey.
While this was going on Brother Ortiz rented a Uhaul truck to use as a storage area for some of the boxes and things that did not get wet. He said a crew from the neighborhood came to his house and gave him help while moving all of this. Also he contacted the movers to let them know that some of the things they had estimated to move before the storm were damaged now and would not be moved at all. So the movers were going to come back and do another estimate. But they mentioned that they learned in Katrina that there was a possibility of mold damage and if that was too severe they might not be able to move the load at all. Of course Sister Ortiz had boxed everything up as she wanted it, but to check for mold the movers were going to have to go through all the boxes. Once again more uncertainty and more work.
So by late Thursday afternoon the trees had finally been removed, the insurance adjuster had not been able to come out to view the damage, the movers were going to come view the load again, and the storage Uhaul was in the yard. At that point Brother Ortiz was contemplating that he might have to move in Uhauls as a worst case scenario. Obviously everything has been thrown into confusion and more difficulty, as well as loss through the damage of the storm. We realize this is only one story of damage and there are more church families with needs, and the multiplied hundreds of families generally in need. Still Brother Ortiz is one of our long term leaders we love. And we feel for he and Sister Ortiz as they go through all these challenges. Brother Ortiz says he has not been calling many since he is embroiled in all of this crisis management. Yet he wanted our church people to know and was thankful for all the prayers from everyone.
Let’s continue to pray for help and strength for the Ortiz family as they work through this challenge. And we want to pray for the many other church related victims of the storm as well as all those suffering loss and displacement.
R E Howard
Publish Date: September 19, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Plateau Area District Pastor's Meeting
Last night Debra and I met with pastors from the Cumberland plateau area for a time of fellowship and sharing. We had a great number of the pastors in the area gathered at the Fall Creek Falls State Park.
District Presbyter, Dr. Freddie & Juanita Harding hosted the gathering, and we were so grateful to sit together and share with our great leadership in this area.
This is the third of our meetings this fall with the leadership. We are looking forward to the next meeting, with Knoxville area pastors.
Publish Date: September 16, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Tennessee Section Two Pastor/Companion Meeting
Last night, we joined Bishop A.J. & Norma Coalter at the Golden Corral restaurant in Cleveland, Tennessee to share a meal and fellowship with our pastors and their companions.
This is the second in our meetings that will take us across the entire State of Tennessee having the opportunity to share with all of our pastors/companions. By next Monday, we will have met with every section except the Crossroads area, and that date will be announced at a later time.
Debra and I look forward to sitting with the pastoral leadership of Tennessee, to share resources and provide encouragment for one another. We are so deeply grateful for the wonderful leadership God has provided for the people of the Church of God of Prophecy.
A final word of thanks to Bishop A.J. & Norma Coalter for assisting us in the planning and preparation, and for their loving, prayerful support.
Publish Date: September 14, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Sunbright
Today, Debra and I visited the church at Sunbright, With Pastor & Sister Jack Lawson serve. The church had been in revival for a couple of days preceding our visit, and the church was still basking in the glow of the Spirit.
We are so thankful for the warm welcome we received and we are thankful for all the Lord is doing in Sunbright.
Publish Date: September 12, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Upper Middle Tennessee Pastor's Meeting
Last night, Debra and I were privileged to meet with the Pastors and their companions in the Upper Middle Tennessee Section for a time of fellowship, a great meal and sharing of information.
Bishop F. Leon & Faye Graves, District Presbyter arranged the meeting facilities and did a great job on the choice. We are so thankful for their help and leadership.
The meeting was in Lebanon, Tennessee and all but two pastors/companions were in attendance. We are so blessed to have such a wonderful pastoral team in Tennessee, and we know the churches are blessed.
This is the first of meetings that will continue for the next Ten days. By that time, we will have had the opportunity for this type of meeting with all of our pastoral leadership in Tennessee, with the exception of the Crossroads area and all of the District Presbyters. The Crossroads area meeting will be later, and pastors will be informed of the meeting location and other information prior to the meeting.
Publish Date: September 11, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
The Day America Changed
It doesn't seem possible that seven years have passed since the horrible day that America changed forever. Extremists commandeered aircraft that turned modes of transportation into weapons of death and destruction.
That day the lives of countless millions changed. The victims of the terrorists of 9/11 who lost their lives weren't the only ones who suffered. Their families have been forever affected and changed as their loved ones were taken from them so suddenly and in such a traumatic way. The victims at the Pentagon, the Twin Towers in New York and in a field in Pennsylvania were the result of hatred and twisted truth. We must never forget.
Our soldiers have served on the battlefields of foreign lands, our family members were deployed to bring freedom and liberty from the hands of dictatorial regimes, and to protect our way of life.
Please join me today in prayer for our soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines, for our law enforcement officers, emergency medical and other first responders. We need to pray for their families. We must honor these men and women who risk their lives for us, and be sure to thank them for their service.
We will pray for our leaders and pray for peace. May God bless you.
Publish Date: September 9, 2008 :: Author: ECM
A move of God at Old Hickory
I am sharing an email I received today from Pastor Terry Lowery at the Old Hickory Church. I DID ask (and received) his permission to share the good news and he encouraged me to share all of it:
Sir,
Glorious day. We baptized 9 Sunday. Many backed out at the last minute. I probably need a little more time with them, but, so happy to be the one to baptize them. It was pay off time.
We are now beginning a membership class for them. I want them to join the church. That is a change for me. I began to think that membership did not matter. I was confused about what that meant for a few years, but the Lord has helped me through that. That has hurt the local churches in America I believe. I am afraid many pastors have felt the same way I did.
We had the Lords supper Sunday and ran out of communion cups for the first time. I ask that our children not participate unless parents are there to counsel them and ok the participation. I want them to feel a part, but know that is a family decision. Even without the 2 or so children not participating, we still ran out of cups. That failure was exciting. We had a great crowd at church.
Guess you can tell I am overwhelmed by God.
Terry
Publish Date: September 8, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
A Call for Prayer - Juanita Weakley
Word has been received today from former Tennessee State Overseer, Bishop Eugene Weakley, regarding a special prayer need in their family. Sister Juanita Weakley ("Wonnie") received a diagnosis today of colon cancer. The area affected is small and they are believing God for a BIG miracle. The Weakleys are known for their love, concern, and prayer support for others in Tennessee for many years. As the family of God, let's join our hearts and prayers with them today believing for God's healing power!
Publish Date: September 7, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Prayer Requests
Yesterday, our pastor at Cookeville, Sister Thelma Roby was taken to Crossville for emergency surgery. Please join me in prayer and check back here for updates.
Also, my wife's brother, Greg is scheduled for surgery tomorrow morning in Indiana. We are requestion prayers for him as well.
Over the weekend, Tito Rivera, the son of our Southwest United States Overseer, Bishop Jose Rivera passed away suddenly and unexpectedly.
Will you please join me in all of these special prayer requests?
Publish Date: September 7, 2008 :: Author: Gary Riley
Death Notice - Betty Morgan
Please remember the Morgan Family in your prayers. Sis. Betty Morgan, wife of Crossroads Church Deacon, Bro. Carl Morgan, passed away suddenly this morning at home at the age of 67 years old. She was a faithful member of the local church and she had been a member of the Church of God of Prophecy for 55 years. She will be greatly missed. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Taylor Funeral Home in Dickson.
God bless!
Bro. Gary Riley, pastor
Publish Date: September 4, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
A stirring in my soul...
A stirring in my heart. That’s really the only way to explain what has been motivating me for some time now. As the gavel dropped concluding the 2008 International Assembly of the Church of God of Prophecy, it felt like something literally began to move in me.
In our last state convention (2007) I shared my heart’s vision for the churches and ministries of Tennessee. It included a recommitment to the Great Commission of Matthew 28. I shared that we need to “refuse to be defined” and to press on to the things that matter most. I shared one statement that continues to wake me up in the early mornings, and I would like to share it with you again today. “We need to stop trying to be a denomination and return to our roots as a missionary movement. Dedicated to evangelism and discipleship of believers.”
During the last assembly we heard the core values reiterated. We are committed to prayer, evangelization of the lost and the discipleship of believers. I can still hear and feel the call resonating in my spirit.
In just a couple of weeks, I will begin meeting with pastors and their companions in small groups across the state. This has become an annual event that I look forward to, especially since I love the fellowship of our excellent pastors and their families. In these meetings, I will again share these feelings, but I also believe there may be a stirring in their hearts too.
This past week, a pastor sat in my office sharing (with a gleam in his eye) that he will be filling the baptistery with water and baptizing a person he has worked with so long, but is now going to see this man follow the Lord’s example in baptism.
My friends there is a stirring, and I don’t just think it’s in my heart…are you feeling it too?
In our last state convention (2007) I shared my heart’s vision for the churches and ministries of Tennessee. It included a recommitment to the Great Commission of Matthew 28. I shared that we need to “refuse to be defined” and to press on to the things that matter most. I shared one statement that continues to wake me up in the early mornings, and I would like to share it with you again today. “We need to stop trying to be a denomination and return to our roots as a missionary movement. Dedicated to evangelism and discipleship of believers.”
During the last assembly we heard the core values reiterated. We are committed to prayer, evangelization of the lost and the discipleship of believers. I can still hear and feel the call resonating in my spirit.
In just a couple of weeks, I will begin meeting with pastors and their companions in small groups across the state. This has become an annual event that I look forward to, especially since I love the fellowship of our excellent pastors and their families. In these meetings, I will again share these feelings, but I also believe there may be a stirring in their hearts too.
This past week, a pastor sat in my office sharing (with a gleam in his eye) that he will be filling the baptistery with water and baptizing a person he has worked with so long, but is now going to see this man follow the Lord’s example in baptism.
My friends there is a stirring, and I don’t just think it’s in my heart…are you feeling it too?
Publish Date: September 2, 2008 :: Author: Sammy Allen
Wrigley News Update
Therefore I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations; I will sing praises to your name. 2 Samuel 22:50
We praise God for the great services Sunday! Our Sunday morning Bible study classes are growing and the Lord is blessing. We are blessed with a great Christian Education Director, Barbara Brown, and each teacher.
During the 11:00 A. M. worship service Brother Gene Kelly did a great job of bringing Word of God in song and preaching! The altar service was great and we praise God for one saved! It was so good to see Gene and Pat Kelly this weekend. Please continue to pray for their ministry as God is going to use them in many ways!
Sunday night the district came together for our 5th Sunday night district service at Zion Hill Church of God of Prophecy. The house was full of people and the Spirit of the Lord. Pastor Mike Jennet brought the message under the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Pastor Mike did an outstanding job of challenging the district to reach the lost for Jesus Christ. Special thanks to each one who was able to attend the service.
The new addition to the stage in the sanctuary looks great. Bobby did a great job and is a great carpenter. The new carpet in the youth room and in the back hall also looks great! Special thanks to Billy Wise for taking the lead in putting the carpet down. Thank you also goes to everyone who assisted in this work being done. Also, thanks to Charles Bradshaw for getting an $800 amp donated to Wrigley Church.
Wrigley Church is blessed in so many ways. To God be the glory!
We praise God for the great services Sunday! Our Sunday morning Bible study classes are growing and the Lord is blessing. We are blessed with a great Christian Education Director, Barbara Brown, and each teacher.
During the 11:00 A. M. worship service Brother Gene Kelly did a great job of bringing Word of God in song and preaching! The altar service was great and we praise God for one saved! It was so good to see Gene and Pat Kelly this weekend. Please continue to pray for their ministry as God is going to use them in many ways!
Sunday night the district came together for our 5th Sunday night district service at Zion Hill Church of God of Prophecy. The house was full of people and the Spirit of the Lord. Pastor Mike Jennet brought the message under the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Pastor Mike did an outstanding job of challenging the district to reach the lost for Jesus Christ. Special thanks to each one who was able to attend the service.
The new addition to the stage in the sanctuary looks great. Bobby did a great job and is a great carpenter. The new carpet in the youth room and in the back hall also looks great! Special thanks to Billy Wise for taking the lead in putting the carpet down. Thank you also goes to everyone who assisted in this work being done. Also, thanks to Charles Bradshaw for getting an $800 amp donated to Wrigley Church.
Wrigley Church is blessed in so many ways. To God be the glory!
Publish Date: September 2, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Harvest Partners - Peru, South America
The Following is an email received from Annette Taylor of the Harvest Partners Department at the International Offices:
"Brother David, Just got an E-mail from Brother Ted Cooper reporting about Alto Salaverry, Peru…
Attached are several photos of the new property and church building which were purchased through special Harvest Partners Level 2 project funding by our congregation in Lebanon, TN. Michelle Brooks-Young is the HP Coordinator for the Lebanon Church.
To God be the glory for the wonderful things He is accomplishing through HP Mission-Minded congregations such as Lebanon, TN…
Blessings,
Annette"
Attached are several photos of the new property and church building which were purchased through special Harvest Partners Level 2 project funding by our congregation in Lebanon, TN. Michelle Brooks-Young is the HP Coordinator for the Lebanon Church.
To God be the glory for the wonderful things He is accomplishing through HP Mission-Minded congregations such as Lebanon, TN…
Blessings,
Annette"
Read more of the correspondence: 'Hello dear brother Ted,
Hope everything is fine with you, I am very happy because of the blessings we have received from God.
Yesterday Jun 09, we purchased the property for ALTO SALAVERRY Mission church. It is a happiness for us. Brother Rafael coordinated with my Dist. overseer sister Edith Saladaña to purchase the property, I also helped sister Edith. So, Sister Edith, Brother Felix, Pastor Pedro Urbina and I went to purchase the property to Alto Salaverry.
However it's not the one you saw when you were here, because the owner didn't want to sell his property, he said he was going to travel to another city to work, that was the why he wanted to sell his property, but then he changed his mind.
However, God gave us a better property, near the PanAmerican Highway, it is 7.5 meters wide x 25 meters long, it is the enough space for the church and for Pastor's house. Moreover the property includes 1000 bricks that the owner had bought for the property, and 17 big roof tiles. It costed S/. 8000 and with the rest of the money we are going to start to build the church. THANK YOU VERY MUCH brother Ted because as I told you, you were the instrument God used to do this miracle. Pastor Felix and his family are VERY happy. They are praying so much for you and for all the American brothers and sisters.
God bless you so much brother Ted.
Your brother and friend,
Martin Morales."
Hope everything is fine with you, I am very happy because of the blessings we have received from God.
Yesterday Jun 09, we purchased the property for ALTO SALAVERRY Mission church. It is a happiness for us. Brother Rafael coordinated with my Dist. overseer sister Edith Saladaña to purchase the property, I also helped sister Edith. So, Sister Edith, Brother Felix, Pastor Pedro Urbina and I went to purchase the property to Alto Salaverry.
However it's not the one you saw when you were here, because the owner didn't want to sell his property, he said he was going to travel to another city to work, that was the why he wanted to sell his property, but then he changed his mind.
However, God gave us a better property, near the PanAmerican Highway, it is 7.5 meters wide x 25 meters long, it is the enough space for the church and for Pastor's house. Moreover the property includes 1000 bricks that the owner had bought for the property, and 17 big roof tiles. It costed S/. 8000 and with the rest of the money we are going to start to build the church. THANK YOU VERY MUCH brother Ted because as I told you, you were the instrument God used to do this miracle. Pastor Felix and his family are VERY happy. They are praying so much for you and for all the American brothers and sisters.
God bless you so much brother Ted.
Your brother and friend,
Martin Morales."
Publish Date: August 31, 2008 :: Author: ECM
New State Evangelist Named
Today, I am announcing the appointment of a new State Evangelist for Tennessee. Pastor Tim and Kimberly Farmer have been serving as senior pastor at the Lawrence Chapel Church of God of Prophecy since leaving their post as Regional Evangelists/Youth Directors for the Ohio and West Virginia region.
With a burden to see the lost saved and the people of God revived, Tim and Kimberly are launching out into ministry in our churches, to help all of our congregations (no matter what size) to experience revival. Their energetic approach to ministry will be a real asset to our congregations, and with excellent musical and preaching ministry, there is no doubt you will be blessed. Based in Spring Hill, Tennessee (just outside Nashville), they will be traveling the state all but two weeks each year.
Publish Date: August 27, 2008 :: Author: Bishop E.C. McKinley
Choices...we all make them
Choice consists of the mental process of thinking involved with the process of judging the merits of multiple options and selecting one of them for action. Some simple examples include deciding whether to get up in the morning or go back to sleep, or selecting a given route for a journey. More complex examples (often decisions that affect what a person thinks or their core beliefs) include choosing a lifestyle, religious affiliation, or political position.This morning I met a man who was working what most would consider a dead-end job. While I see this man on a regular basis (on my way to the office) for the first time I wondered what was it that brought him to this place. Now while I don't usually "jump to conclusions" the obvious truth was staring me in the face. This man came to this point in life because of the choices he made along the way. We all make choices, and those choices lead to behavior, and behavior has consequences.
As I sat there, watching this man work, I wondered what choices he might have made to bring him here. A number of thoughts came to my mind. Is it possible that while "partying" with his friends, he consumed alcohol or drugs to the point of inebriation. The first few drinks, or the first few times he used chemical substances, were choices. After that, he may have come to to place of dependency, where he was "driven" to abuse the substances more and more, until one night his behavior put him behind the wheel of an automobile, or in a situation that involved law enforcement. The alert officer saw the signs of chemical/alcohol abuse which led to an accident, or a violation of some other law, and now...he was arrested, charged and adjudicated. His police or abuse record now follows him for the rest of his life. Ultimately, it was his choices that brought him here.
My mind continued to work, and I wondered if perhaps he was an unpopular student at school. Always chosen last on the playground, or perhaps his grades plummeted because he couldn't keep up with the other children. It is quite possible that he didn't have the parental support at home, because of the choices others made, and after continued failures in the academic setting, he decided it was easier to drop out of school than to continue. This was a choice he made, but now, years later, he is living out the consequences of his choice in education. There was a time when America was a more industrial-based economy, and factory jobs that didn't require much education were plentiful...but now? Well, we've moved to an information/service-based economy, where basic skills learned through education will be requirements for the job force. Now, years later, he is in a dead-end job because of his choice.
A man/woman finds marriage growing more and more monotonous. With the cost of raising a family, providing housing and everything comes with it, work hours grow longer and communication decreases in the marriage. Actually, communication doesn't have to decrease. Even with the ever increasing demands, there are still 168 hours in every week, and choices can "carve out" time to maintain a relationship strong. Yet, as communication decreases, a chasm grows in the relationship.
One day a younger co-worker seems to notice the increasing stress, causing your behavior to change...your relationships are tenuous at best, and they notice you. Where your mate at home does not seem to "understand" you, this person does. They take time to notice you, to listen to your concerns, and one day the comment is made, "my husband/wife just doesn't understand." The co-worker replies without hesitation, "I don't understand that. You are so kind, he/she is lucky to have you." Maybe there is a pat on the hand, an arm around the shoulder, or even what seems to be an innocent embrace. The choices began a long-time-ago, but for the first time, you begin to notice a change in your own thinking. "What if? No, I don't need to go there." But you do. Now you make a choice to place yourself in situations where you are increasing sharing time with the co-worker. Now the embraces become more common place...the lunches grows more intimate, the fantasies more commonplace. Then you make the ultimate choice...it's actually a choice that began a long-time-ago, when you chose to NOT cultivate the relationship with your spouse.
The great King David made such a choice once. While his men were on the battlefield, he chose to stay home...and while walking late one evening, a beautiful young neighbor named Bathsheba caught his eye. His next choice caused a calamity of huge proportions. He chose to have her brought to him...she became pregnant...she was a married woman, and while her husband was serving the king on the field of battle, David was helping himself to Bathsheba. His choice led to a cover up. How many times have we heard, "the cover up is worse than the crime?" In this case, the cover up led to the murder of an innocent man, the death of a baby, and a king whose repentant prayer is one for all of us to read (Psalm 51). It was David's choice...he chose wrong. He should have been on the field of battle, and if not, he should have turned and walked back to his own home...but he didn't make those choices.
Back to the husband/wife and the co-worker. Their choice will lead to a broken home, ultimate betrayal and the separation of a family. The children may now have two buy two or three Mother's Day cards, they will be separated from the biological parents, and the happy home that was envisioned on the wedding day. Court battles, divorce, embarrassment, shame and unfortunately, the choice made by this man/woman will sow the seed for future generations. How sad, how unfortunate, how preventable...yet it was a choice that began it all.
Regardless of what brought this man to his dead-end job, all of these thoughts flooded my mind. Choice is such an important thing. A free will that God placed in every person. Life is about choices. From the beginning it was this way.
Adam and Eve (Genesis 3) were placed in a garden called Eden. God told them they could eat the fruit of every tree in that garden...except one. They could have eaten of the Tree of Life, but instead, they chose to eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. Their choice, which was actually disobedience to God, led to an immediate realization of their own nakedness which led to fear. That fear, resulted in their behavior to hide from God. They were banished from the Garden of Eden, and the results of their choice, sin and death was passed on to every human being from that time to now.
The good news is that God made a way to recover from wrong choices. We can make the choice to accept Jesus Christ as the Lord of all, and as our personal savior (John 3:16) or we can choose a life of sin, death and separation from God.
Choices? We all make them, every day of our life is filled with choices. It is incumbent on all of us to make the right choice...remember, the results can lead to life or death...therefore, choose wisely. Your eternity depends on it.
Publish Date: August 25, 2008 :: Author: Bishop EC. McKinley
Senior Ministries - Bread of Life Church
Have you thought about ministry to senior citizens lately? Well, Pastor Todd Ellis and the congregation of the Bread of Life church in Johnson City have.
About three-months-ago, they began an outreach ministry to senior citizens on a monthly basis. From that time, the ministry has grown from about 12 to 25. This is an excellent result for the toil in this much needed area of ministry. Most folks don't realize that with the aging "baby-boomer" population, will present more opportunities as the years go by.
A wise pastor and congregation will give attention to this group, as well as ministry to younger families, youth and children.
Remember, a balanced approach is always best. It is possible to have roots and wings.
Publish Date: August 25, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Core Value Number 1
For far-too-long, there has been (in some quarters) a lackadaisical attitude toward prayer in many of the churches in North America. There is an old axiom that goes something like this, "if you have a dinner the church will be full, but if you call a prayer meeting only a few will show up." It has been my misfortune to see this axiom fulfilled.
When I was the Overseer of the Northwest Region, it was my privilege to meet and become acquainted with Sister Edith James. She was a Godly older woman who knew the value of prayer. One of our local churches had been closed and sitting vacant for a long time. Sister James took a pillow and a blanket and went to the local church for a season of prayer. Her prayer time was more than minutes or hours....actually she stayed there for days, with no food, praying and fasting on behalf of the ministry of our church in that city. Her prayers brought results and the church was resurrected from death, as God brought people. She believed in prayer.
Time and space don't allow me to share all of the different testimonies I could give to you about praying people whom I've known. I've watched miracles happen, I've seen lost people born again and I've watched as the Holy Spirit poured out His presence on individuals, ministers and congregations as a result of prayer.
I firmly believe that prayer is a lost spiritual discipline in too many of our people's lives today. The family altar needs to be revived in our day. It is a shame to work to return prayer to schools when it doesn't take place in our homes. It is time we return to our knees and see the Power of God at work in our lives. First it will change us, then those around us, and ultimately will bring revival to our work. Let's not forget the promise of God found in 2 Chronicles 7:14, "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and will heal their land."
When the early church observed the life of Jesus, walking with Him every day, they could have made a lot of requests, but there is one I would love to draw your attention to..."One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray..." (Luke 11:1). Isn't it interesting that they didn't ask him to teach them to do miracles, but rather to teach them to pray? It was after this that the Lord gave the formula for prayer.
I invite you to join me in a revival...a revival of prayer in the Church of God of Prophecy. This is our first CORE VALUE, and it is directly linked to the two that will follow. I invite you to check back as we delve further into the values that drive us!
When I was the Overseer of the Northwest Region, it was my privilege to meet and become acquainted with Sister Edith James. She was a Godly older woman who knew the value of prayer. One of our local churches had been closed and sitting vacant for a long time. Sister James took a pillow and a blanket and went to the local church for a season of prayer. Her prayer time was more than minutes or hours....actually she stayed there for days, with no food, praying and fasting on behalf of the ministry of our church in that city. Her prayers brought results and the church was resurrected from death, as God brought people. She believed in prayer.
Time and space don't allow me to share all of the different testimonies I could give to you about praying people whom I've known. I've watched miracles happen, I've seen lost people born again and I've watched as the Holy Spirit poured out His presence on individuals, ministers and congregations as a result of prayer.
I firmly believe that prayer is a lost spiritual discipline in too many of our people's lives today. The family altar needs to be revived in our day. It is a shame to work to return prayer to schools when it doesn't take place in our homes. It is time we return to our knees and see the Power of God at work in our lives. First it will change us, then those around us, and ultimately will bring revival to our work. Let's not forget the promise of God found in 2 Chronicles 7:14, "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and will heal their land."
When the early church observed the life of Jesus, walking with Him every day, they could have made a lot of requests, but there is one I would love to draw your attention to..."One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray..." (Luke 11:1). Isn't it interesting that they didn't ask him to teach them to do miracles, but rather to teach them to pray? It was after this that the Lord gave the formula for prayer.
I invite you to join me in a revival...a revival of prayer in the Church of God of Prophecy. This is our first CORE VALUE, and it is directly linked to the two that will follow. I invite you to check back as we delve further into the values that drive us!
Publish Date: August 25, 2008 :: Author: ecm
Core Value Number 2
I have now been in full-time ministry for twenty-five-years. There have been a lot of lessons along the way, most of them learned by experience. On more than one occasions, I have heard ministers, experts and commentators pronounce the death of evangelism. I've even heard some say that the "grace dispensation" has ended and no one will be saved in the near future. What is so sad is that usually this means the pronouncements become a self-fulfilling prophecy in the individual minister's life...they become unproductive, and instead of accepting the need to return to their prayer closet and altar of repentance, they blame their lack of spiritual productivity on the Lord Himself.
You might notice that while I am commenting on evangelism, the word evangelization may be more appropriate. We've felt like there are only a few methods of reaching lost people, predominantly mass evangelism or personal evangelism, or revival-meetings. Isn't it interesting that even REVIVAL services more often seem to be from a Sunday to Wednesday or a Wednesday through Sunday? Why? Because the lives of believers have become so cluttered and busy that it is often to gather a crowd for too long a period of time.
Please don't misunderstand me. I am not casting a critical eye here, but rather I am calling attention to the obvious. Do you remember the days of one-week, two-week, or even month-long revivals? Do you remember the altars being filled with hungry seekers for the power of God? Yet, today far too many churches have stopped having altar calls altogether. While we have tried to become "seeker-sensitive" is it possible we have ceased to be "God-seekers?"
In these past twenty-five-years, I've given great attention to personal evangelism by studying various methods, and implementing them at every possible opportunity. There is nothing more fulfilling than to see an individual change before your very eyes as they pass from death to life. Yet, there are so who feel that only a select few are "gifted" with the ability to share the Gospel. My friends, it has more to do with desire than it does gifting. How many people can quote the latest statistics on NASCAR racing, or their favorite football or baseball player, but they have not committed to memory a few Scriptures that the Holy Spirit can bring to their mind when sharing the greatest news ever?
The church has never moved forward by trusting the elites and the experts, but it has always been by the common people, armed with the Word of God and empowered by the Holy Spirit to reach lost humanity and fulfill the ministry of reconciliation we've been given. Is personal evangelism dead? No! It still works. Is pulpit evangelism a viable option? Yes, preach the word and then give the opportunity for the people to made a decision, one way or another.
During my first state convention in Tennessee, I made the observation that many ministers report no conversions, baptisms or new members added to their churches, yet they still write that their churches are "experiencing revival." How can this be? It didn't take long for some to "straighten out" the overseer on his thinking on revival. PLEASE, remember I am not criticizing, only asking the obvious. If there is revival, shouldn't there be some results? I mean real, tangible results? Yet, many of the churches continue to decline, all the while stating "WE ARE EXPERIENCING REVIVAL."
I believe there are some needed changes in our thinking. First of all, we must stop being defensive when we are not reaching our communities around us. We must have a funeral service and bury the "status quo" and return to the Great Commission given to us by Jesus Himself; "Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:19-20)
While some argue over doctrine and splitting of theological hairs, the calling of the church has not changed...our goal must be to recommit ourselves to the very foundational call of the church. It does no good to paint the barn where the equipment for harvest is housed. Yes, the machinery should be well-oiled and maintained, but at some point you have to take the harvester out into the field and put it to use in the way the Creator of the machinery intended. Otherwise, the harvest will die in the field, rotting because there was no one to gather it in.
We must become creative...using new tools that God has placed in our hands. We must witness one-on-one, we must conduct revival meetings, we must use the tools of technology and find ways to get the message out. Whether by electronic or hard-printed materials, we must not stop until the work is finished....and it will never be finished as long as we live, and the Holy Spirit still enables us.
Finally, I would like to share a story with you of a man I met during my first appointment as a State Overseer in the Church of God of Prophecy. The year was 1998, and I had just moved from Tennessee to Montana. While getting settled in, I learned that a former State Overseer of Monday had fallen and was recovering from a broken hip in a nursing home.
I immediately found the nursing home in the city of Billings and asked for the room of Bishop L.R. Lane. By now, this man of God had been retired for some thirty years, and was a faithful member of the local church, and a "papa" to the ministers of the region. He would mentor them around his kitchen table, and speak words of encouragement into the lives of those following him, even though he could no longer do the work.
I will never forget that visit with Bishop Lane. He encouraged me to do a good job, always make good notes and preach the word. The final thing he said (as I was about to have prayer with him and leave) was this, "Brother Overseer, if you need me in any way, I am ready to go. If you want me to pastor, plant a church, serve in any way, call me and I will do the best I can."
I was overwhelmed by the dedication of this man of God. He was incompacitated by surgery but the fire in his heart had not gone out.
Not long after that, I helped to preach his funeral, and I shared this story with the people present. No one was surprised. This soldier of the cross, who had moved to Montana and worked among the Native American peoples was buried a hero. In reality most people reading this blog never had the opportunity to meet Bishop Lane, but while he may not be known in this generation, his work will live on for generations behind him, and his welcome in heaven was sweet.
We are about reaching lost people. Sure, we've been sidetracked by other things that are not as important, but now...we will focus! We will use every venue, every opportunity, and all our strength to reach this harvest.
The time has come for the church to arise and reach the world!
You might notice that while I am commenting on evangelism, the word evangelization may be more appropriate. We've felt like there are only a few methods of reaching lost people, predominantly mass evangelism or personal evangelism, or revival-meetings. Isn't it interesting that even REVIVAL services more often seem to be from a Sunday to Wednesday or a Wednesday through Sunday? Why? Because the lives of believers have become so cluttered and busy that it is often to gather a crowd for too long a period of time.
Please don't misunderstand me. I am not casting a critical eye here, but rather I am calling attention to the obvious. Do you remember the days of one-week, two-week, or even month-long revivals? Do you remember the altars being filled with hungry seekers for the power of God? Yet, today far too many churches have stopped having altar calls altogether. While we have tried to become "seeker-sensitive" is it possible we have ceased to be "God-seekers?"
In these past twenty-five-years, I've given great attention to personal evangelism by studying various methods, and implementing them at every possible opportunity. There is nothing more fulfilling than to see an individual change before your very eyes as they pass from death to life. Yet, there are so who feel that only a select few are "gifted" with the ability to share the Gospel. My friends, it has more to do with desire than it does gifting. How many people can quote the latest statistics on NASCAR racing, or their favorite football or baseball player, but they have not committed to memory a few Scriptures that the Holy Spirit can bring to their mind when sharing the greatest news ever?
The church has never moved forward by trusting the elites and the experts, but it has always been by the common people, armed with the Word of God and empowered by the Holy Spirit to reach lost humanity and fulfill the ministry of reconciliation we've been given. Is personal evangelism dead? No! It still works. Is pulpit evangelism a viable option? Yes, preach the word and then give the opportunity for the people to made a decision, one way or another.
During my first state convention in Tennessee, I made the observation that many ministers report no conversions, baptisms or new members added to their churches, yet they still write that their churches are "experiencing revival." How can this be? It didn't take long for some to "straighten out" the overseer on his thinking on revival. PLEASE, remember I am not criticizing, only asking the obvious. If there is revival, shouldn't there be some results? I mean real, tangible results? Yet, many of the churches continue to decline, all the while stating "WE ARE EXPERIENCING REVIVAL."
I believe there are some needed changes in our thinking. First of all, we must stop being defensive when we are not reaching our communities around us. We must have a funeral service and bury the "status quo" and return to the Great Commission given to us by Jesus Himself; "Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:19-20)
While some argue over doctrine and splitting of theological hairs, the calling of the church has not changed...our goal must be to recommit ourselves to the very foundational call of the church. It does no good to paint the barn where the equipment for harvest is housed. Yes, the machinery should be well-oiled and maintained, but at some point you have to take the harvester out into the field and put it to use in the way the Creator of the machinery intended. Otherwise, the harvest will die in the field, rotting because there was no one to gather it in.
We must become creative...using new tools that God has placed in our hands. We must witness one-on-one, we must conduct revival meetings, we must use the tools of technology and find ways to get the message out. Whether by electronic or hard-printed materials, we must not stop until the work is finished....and it will never be finished as long as we live, and the Holy Spirit still enables us.
Finally, I would like to share a story with you of a man I met during my first appointment as a State Overseer in the Church of God of Prophecy. The year was 1998, and I had just moved from Tennessee to Montana. While getting settled in, I learned that a former State Overseer of Monday had fallen and was recovering from a broken hip in a nursing home.
I immediately found the nursing home in the city of Billings and asked for the room of Bishop L.R. Lane. By now, this man of God had been retired for some thirty years, and was a faithful member of the local church, and a "papa" to the ministers of the region. He would mentor them around his kitchen table, and speak words of encouragement into the lives of those following him, even though he could no longer do the work.
I will never forget that visit with Bishop Lane. He encouraged me to do a good job, always make good notes and preach the word. The final thing he said (as I was about to have prayer with him and leave) was this, "Brother Overseer, if you need me in any way, I am ready to go. If you want me to pastor, plant a church, serve in any way, call me and I will do the best I can."
I was overwhelmed by the dedication of this man of God. He was incompacitated by surgery but the fire in his heart had not gone out.
Not long after that, I helped to preach his funeral, and I shared this story with the people present. No one was surprised. This soldier of the cross, who had moved to Montana and worked among the Native American peoples was buried a hero. In reality most people reading this blog never had the opportunity to meet Bishop Lane, but while he may not be known in this generation, his work will live on for generations behind him, and his welcome in heaven was sweet.
We are about reaching lost people. Sure, we've been sidetracked by other things that are not as important, but now...we will focus! We will use every venue, every opportunity, and all our strength to reach this harvest.
The time has come for the church to arise and reach the world!
Publish Date: August 25, 2008 :: Author: ECM
Core Value Number 3
In the past two posts, I've shared with you the first two of our three core values that will drive everything we do. The third value is ministry development. In recent years, the term "Leadership Development" has been applied to just about anything and everything, however, the truth is, there must be real focus on what development is.
First of all, I am talking about more than preachers, but preachers are NOT excluded in process. In each of our churches there is an "army" of volunteers. They do everything from scrubbing the toilets to teaching Sunday School classes. The list is endless of the people who needs to share in the developmental process.
It would be simple enough to have a series of classes aimed at the pastors, however, the truth is that ALL of us need development, and ALL of us are to be in the ministry in some way, shape or fashion. One-hundred-years-ago we were a missionary movement, punctuated by the cry "every member a worker and a work for every member." We practiced "saturation evangelization." Basically, when we would plant a church in one town, we would begin to look to the next town, village and city. That spirit needs to be revived in the Church of God of Prophecy, and the best way this will happen is when we begin to development of the people sitting in the pews.
As with any other leadership principle, the "stream never rises above its source." This effort must be led by the ministers, who will lead by example. Every minister, regardless of his/her age should be pursuing excellence in their ministry, and they must be doing their best to upgrade. As we lead by example, surely the people will follow us.
A few-months-ago, two of our older ministers shared with me that they have enrolled in a doctoral program. I told them how proud I am of their desire to learn. Now pay attention to what I am saying. These ministers pastor two of our smaller churches and both old enough to draw Social Security Retirement benefits, however, they is not satisfied to stay where they are with the educational progress. I admire men like Bishop E.C. Kephart and Bishop Jerry Payne for setting a higher standard for all of us around them.
At 61-years-old, my mother (a licensed minister in our church) decided to obtain her GED from the county school system. As a child of the depression, she was blessed to get through the eighth grade, but that was it. After rearing her family, working along side my father, and with fewer years ahead than behind, she was not satisfied with her level of knowledge. She wanted to achieve and applied herself to do better. I pray the same spirit will take hold of all of our ministry, whether they are lay ministers or licensed ministers.
In most of our communities there are options. Not everyone has the confidence to enroll in a full-fledged University degree program, but how many could start by attending Adult Educations Programs offered by a plethora of Community Colleges near us? Could you at least try it out? Then, there are those who can attend college, and you should never live your life wondering what might have been.
Even if the organized educational program is not something you can do, my honest conviction is that with all of the books, tapes, CD's, DVD programs available, there is no reason to maintain a low level of excellence when a little effort would raise the bar in your personal life. If you can read, you can learn. If you cannot read (and someone is reading this to you) then take advantage of a mentoring program in your community where volunteers will assist you in overcoming the hurdle in front of you.
Our Ministerial Development Intensives offer one of the best opportunities around to "upgrade" your education, and my hope is that many of you will attend the next session, and I am not just talking about our new ministers, but every one of us can use the time together of fellowship and instruction.
In his inaugural address of 1960, John F. Kennedy said, "I would rather attempt something great and fail, than to do nothing and succeed." How true this is.
Mentoring is a lost art among us...when an older, experienced minister will take a younger minister under his/her wing and "pour into them" from your years of experience. We will develop mentoring among our people, we will offer quality material to help willing students learn, and if you are nervous about upgrading education, I am willing to go with you to a college campus and walk you through the process of enrollment, and go with you to a financial counselor to help you get grants and apply for scholarships. YOU CAN DO IT!
Finally, this may sound somewhat disjointed, but as I have been writing, it is pouring out of my heart. God gave the VERY BEST to mankind and we should offer Him no less. I challenge you to help me fulfill the third core value of ministry development, and watch as God brings about a change in your life...a thirst for knowledge.
First of all, I am talking about more than preachers, but preachers are NOT excluded in process. In each of our churches there is an "army" of volunteers. They do everything from scrubbing the toilets to teaching Sunday School classes. The list is endless of the people who needs to share in the developmental process.
It would be simple enough to have a series of classes aimed at the pastors, however, the truth is that ALL of us need development, and ALL of us are to be in the ministry in some way, shape or fashion. One-hundred-years-ago we were a missionary movement, punctuated by the cry "every member a worker and a work for every member." We practiced "saturation evangelization." Basically, when we would plant a church in one town, we would begin to look to the next town, village and city. That spirit needs to be revived in the Church of God of Prophecy, and the best way this will happen is when we begin to development of the people sitting in the pews.
As with any other leadership principle, the "stream never rises above its source." This effort must be led by the ministers, who will lead by example. Every minister, regardless of his/her age should be pursuing excellence in their ministry, and they must be doing their best to upgrade. As we lead by example, surely the people will follow us.
A few-months-ago, two of our older ministers shared with me that they have enrolled in a doctoral program. I told them how proud I am of their desire to learn. Now pay attention to what I am saying. These ministers pastor two of our smaller churches and both old enough to draw Social Security Retirement benefits, however, they is not satisfied to stay where they are with the educational progress. I admire men like Bishop E.C. Kephart and Bishop Jerry Payne for setting a higher standard for all of us around them.
At 61-years-old, my mother (a licensed minister in our church) decided to obtain her GED from the county school system. As a child of the depression, she was blessed to get through the eighth grade, but that was it. After rearing her family, working along side my father, and with fewer years ahead than behind, she was not satisfied with her level of knowledge. She wanted to achieve and applied herself to do better. I pray the same spirit will take hold of all of our ministry, whether they are lay ministers or licensed ministers.
In most of our communities there are options. Not everyone has the confidence to enroll in a full-fledged University degree program, but how many could start by attending Adult Educations Programs offered by a plethora of Community Colleges near us? Could you at least try it out? Then, there are those who can attend college, and you should never live your life wondering what might have been.
Even if the organized educational program is not something you can do, my honest conviction is that with all of the books, tapes, CD's, DVD programs available, there is no reason to maintain a low level of excellence when a little effort would raise the bar in your personal life. If you can read, you can learn. If you cannot read (and someone is reading this to you) then take advantage of a mentoring program in your community where volunteers will assist you in overcoming the hurdle in front of you.
Our Ministerial Development Intensives offer one of the best opportunities around to "upgrade" your education, and my hope is that many of you will attend the next session, and I am not just talking about our new ministers, but every one of us can use the time together of fellowship and instruction.
In his inaugural address of 1960, John F. Kennedy said, "I would rather attempt something great and fail, than to do nothing and succeed." How true this is.
Mentoring is a lost art among us...when an older, experienced minister will take a younger minister under his/her wing and "pour into them" from your years of experience. We will develop mentoring among our people, we will offer quality material to help willing students learn, and if you are nervous about upgrading education, I am willing to go with you to a college campus and walk you through the process of enrollment, and go with you to a financial counselor to help you get grants and apply for scholarships. YOU CAN DO IT!
Finally, this may sound somewhat disjointed, but as I have been writing, it is pouring out of my heart. God gave the VERY BEST to mankind and we should offer Him no less. I challenge you to help me fulfill the third core value of ministry development, and watch as God brings about a change in your life...a thirst for knowledge.
Publish Date: August 24, 2008 :: Author: Bishop EC. McKinley
Welcome to our New Site!
It's finally here! After much preparation and formating changes, out new site is up and running. There are several new things you will find here, and I'd like to take a moment to point it out.
Find a Church is the newest feature that offers an online database with connection information for Tennessee Churches. Here you will find connections to each of our local ministries. Searcheable by Name, Area Code or City.
Staff is the place with instant connection to changes of state staff
Prayer is a point of connection for your prayer requests. Once filled out, they are instantly delivered to our team of prayer partners
Missions is a connection for our missionary connections and projects. This page will show the connection of Tennesee and beyond.
Flash has been added to make the site more modern
As you take the next few days to check out the site, we invite you to check back often for changes. We are a work in progress!