White Wing Messenger? - Church of God of Prophecy
White Wing Messenger? - Church of God of Prophecy
White Wing Messenger? - Church of God of Prophecy
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Isn’t there something special about going<br />
to your mailbox and finding a new issue <strong>of</strong> the<br />
<strong>White</strong> <strong>Wing</strong> <strong>Messenger</strong>?<br />
In each copy, you will find inspirational<br />
articles from a diverse group <strong>of</strong> talented<br />
writers, useful resources, event<br />
announcements and summaries, and news<br />
from states, regions, and areas around the<br />
globe. It is a regular means <strong>of</strong> communication<br />
that has proclaimed the Good News and<br />
served the <strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Prophecy</strong> for<br />
more than 87 years.<br />
Help us spread the word about your <strong>Church</strong><br />
magazine today. If you are not a subscriber, we<br />
invite you to join our readership (see page 31).<br />
If you are a subscriber, consider giving a gift<br />
subscription to a friend or a bundle for your<br />
church for as low as $10 a year. You may also<br />
order Spanish and French editions, which are<br />
mailed bi-monthly.<br />
Stay connected with us or subscribe online at<br />
www.whitewingmessenger.com, and become<br />
our Facebook friend at www.facebook.com/<br />
whitewingmessenger.<br />
2 WWM Pastors JUNE and church 2011 leaders, consider placing this page on your church bulletin board to use in your promotion <strong>of</strong> the <strong>White</strong> <strong>Wing</strong> <strong>Messenger</strong>.
Contents<br />
June 2011 • Volume 87, Number 11<br />
6 A Soul-Winning<br />
<strong>Church</strong><br />
by John A. Stone<br />
8 Building People<br />
by Scott Lee<br />
10 From the Community<br />
to the World<br />
by Clayton Endecott<br />
13 What Makes a<br />
Strong Local <strong>Church</strong>?<br />
by W. E. DeGeer, Jr.<br />
14 Strong Families<br />
Make Strong <strong>Church</strong>es<br />
by Larry Duncan<br />
20 Youth Ministries: Converged at Emerge<br />
w w w w<br />
16 Encountering and<br />
Handling Conflict<br />
by H. E. Cardin<br />
19 Is Your <strong>Church</strong><br />
Fiscally Fit?<br />
by Jan Couch<br />
26 It’s Not What I Do,<br />
It’s Who I Am<br />
by E. C. McKinley<br />
Bringing honor to the WORD by the printed word, the <strong>White</strong> <strong>Wing</strong> <strong>Messenger</strong><br />
strives to inspire Christian thought and practice as it imparts the “good news” <strong>of</strong><br />
the Gospel while serving the connectivity needs <strong>of</strong> our church community.<br />
Visit us online—www.whitewingmessenger.org<br />
<strong>White</strong> <strong>Wing</strong> <strong>Messenger</strong> Editorial Board: Londa Richardson, Chair; Daniel Chatham;<br />
Hanny Vidal; Cervin McKinnon; Perry Horner; Tapio Sätilä; Shaun McKinley; and Adrian Varlack<br />
Executive Editor/Publisher: R. E. Howard, Managing Editor: DeWayne Hamby, Copy Editor: Elizabeth Witt,<br />
Editorial Assistant: Pamela Praniuk, Graphic Artists: Perry Horner and Sixto Ramirez,<br />
International Offices (423) 559-5100, and Subscriptions (423) 559-5114<br />
Please submit all material to the <strong>White</strong> <strong>Wing</strong> <strong>Messenger</strong>; Managing Editor; P. O. Box 2910;<br />
Cleveland, TN 37320-2910; phone (423) 559-5128; e-mail us at Editorial@cogop.org.<br />
The <strong>White</strong> <strong>Wing</strong> <strong>Messenger</strong> is the <strong>of</strong>ficial publication <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Prophecy</strong>.<br />
FEATURES CALENDAR OF EVENTS<br />
EDITORIALS<br />
MINISTRIES UPDATES<br />
22 Children’s Ministries: Children Bring<br />
Strength to the Local <strong>Church</strong><br />
25 Women’s Ministries: European<br />
Area-Wide Ladies Retreat<br />
4 Facing Forward:<br />
The Primacy <strong>of</strong> the Local <strong>Church</strong><br />
by Randall E. Howard<br />
31 Messages:<br />
A Beggar in the King’s Court<br />
by DeWayne Hamby<br />
5 News: Here & There<br />
28 Local/State/International News<br />
In His Presence • New <strong>Church</strong>es<br />
Upcoming Events<br />
June 3–5, 2011<br />
Caribbean Ladies Retreat<br />
St. Martin<br />
June 9–12, 2011<br />
CBL School <strong>of</strong> Practical &<br />
Advanced Studies III<br />
SE Spanish Region – Florida<br />
June 11, 2011<br />
Heritage Day<br />
Fields <strong>of</strong> the Wood<br />
Murphy, North Carolina<br />
June 12, 2011<br />
“Lead On, Holy Spirit”<br />
Heritage Ministries Simulcast<br />
Cleveland, Tennessee<br />
June 16–19, 2011<br />
CBL School <strong>of</strong> Practical &<br />
Advanced Studies II<br />
SE Spanish Region – Georgia<br />
June 22–25, 2011<br />
Youth Harvest Training<br />
Barranquilla, Colombia<br />
www.operationomega.org<br />
June 23–July 4, 2011<br />
International Institute <strong>of</strong><br />
Children’s Ministry<br />
Rousse, Bulgaria<br />
children.cogop.org<br />
September 8–11, 2011<br />
CBL School <strong>of</strong> Practical &<br />
Advanced Studies III<br />
SE Spanish Region – Kentucky<br />
<strong>White</strong> <strong>Wing</strong> <strong>Messenger</strong> (ISSN 0043-5007) (USPS 683-020) is published<br />
monthly as the <strong>of</strong>ficial publication <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Prophecy</strong>, 3750<br />
Keith St NW, Cleveland, TN. Send all materials for publication to Editorial<br />
Department; PO Box 2910, Cleveland, TN 37320-2910; e-mail: editorial@cogop.<br />
org, fax: (423) 559-5121. For subscription rates, visit wwm.cogop.org; call<br />
(423) 559-5114; e-mail: subscriptions@cogop.org. Subscription rate: $18.00<br />
per year, payable to <strong>White</strong> <strong>Wing</strong> <strong>Messenger</strong> by check, draft, or money order.<br />
Periodical postage paid at Cleveland, TN 37311 and at additional mail <strong>of</strong>fice.<br />
Donations for the <strong>White</strong> <strong>Wing</strong> <strong>Messenger</strong> may be sent to the above address.<br />
All scripture references are from the King James Version unless otherwise<br />
indicated. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to <strong>White</strong> <strong>Wing</strong> <strong>Messenger</strong>,<br />
PO Box 2910, Cleveland, TN 37320-2910.<br />
WWM JUNE 2011 3
The church is<br />
nothing less<br />
than <strong>God</strong>’s<br />
strategy for<br />
covering the<br />
earth with<br />
His Gospel<br />
and building<br />
His Kingdom<br />
on earth.<br />
4 WWM JUNE 2011<br />
The Primacy <strong>of</strong> the Local <strong>Church</strong><br />
When Paul described the church to<br />
Timothy, he used some l<strong>of</strong>ty and farreaching<br />
language: “. . . the household <strong>of</strong><br />
faith, the church <strong>of</strong> the living <strong>God</strong>, and the<br />
pillar and ground <strong>of</strong> the truth” (1 Timothy<br />
3:15). I believe that Paul used these words<br />
because he understood the vital role <strong>God</strong><br />
had in mind for the local church in His<br />
eternal plan. The church is nothing less<br />
than <strong>God</strong>’s strategy for covering the earth<br />
with His Gospel and building His Kingdom<br />
on earth. The church is the presence<br />
<strong>of</strong> Christ in the world to do the work <strong>of</strong><br />
Christ, transforming life and culture to<br />
His will.<br />
There is one facet that is primary to<br />
this purpose; it is the local church. There<br />
we find a community <strong>of</strong> faith where<br />
believers gather to nurture one another in<br />
the life <strong>of</strong> Christ while they invite others<br />
to join the family and experience that life.<br />
Being a local church is not easy, but it is<br />
the design <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> where relating together<br />
in Christ’s life and purpose as believers<br />
and the “yet to become believers” has<br />
the potential to deliver the world from<br />
darkness. It is just that fantastic and<br />
miraculous to be the body <strong>of</strong> Christ as a<br />
local church. It is <strong>God</strong>’s vital key.<br />
No other aspect <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong>’s Kingdom<br />
has this potential without morphing<br />
into some form <strong>of</strong> a community <strong>of</strong><br />
faith—in other words, a local church.<br />
Denomination and movement centers<br />
have their contributions to make and<br />
can provide healthy infusions to the<br />
local church so that their calling is made<br />
more attainable. Serving accountability,<br />
corporate synergy, mission, vision, and<br />
leadership development are just a few<br />
ways these centers contribute to the<br />
success <strong>of</strong> the local church. Parachurch<br />
ministries contribute with specific focus<br />
ministry <strong>of</strong>ferings for local churches<br />
to select as they feel called, or as they<br />
feel need. The range <strong>of</strong> their potential<br />
contributions creates a wide spectrum <strong>of</strong><br />
specific ministry ranging from missions<br />
to music and beyond. Still both <strong>of</strong> these<br />
must understand that they cannot be<br />
the church, but they contribute to the<br />
empowerment <strong>of</strong> that primary facet <strong>of</strong><br />
the body, the local church.<br />
I realize that when the average church<br />
in North America is far less than 100<br />
members, one begins to wonder if <strong>God</strong><br />
was thinking straight when He chose<br />
this as His strategy. And we all would<br />
admit that the plan does not seem to<br />
be working at optimal level in so many<br />
places and many times. Yet even in those<br />
less-than-perfect settings, the genius <strong>of</strong><br />
the local church can be uncovered if one<br />
looks closely. Believers relating together<br />
to nurture and build up one another in<br />
an environment <strong>of</strong> grace and love—now<br />
that is powerful! And all <strong>of</strong> this is done in<br />
the atmosphere <strong>of</strong> Christ’s presence. He<br />
is there in His church. How many millions<br />
are hurting in this world and would be<br />
drawn to such a community if they only<br />
could “taste and see” firsthand once?<br />
Pastors and lay leaders, we <strong>of</strong>fer this<br />
issue in the hopes that local churches may<br />
renew their realization <strong>of</strong> this high calling<br />
and critical role to be played in <strong>God</strong>’s<br />
eternal plan for the earth. As each <strong>of</strong><br />
these units, no matter how large or small,<br />
reproduces faith, and even reproduces<br />
themselves, <strong>God</strong>’s influence will saturate<br />
cities, regions, and, ultimately, the world<br />
as <strong>God</strong> has designed.<br />
WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
The Global Growth <strong>of</strong> Islam<br />
According to a January 2011 report from the Pew<br />
Research Center’s Forum on Religion & Public Life,<br />
the growth <strong>of</strong> the world’s Muslim population will<br />
outpace the non-Muslim population by double in<br />
the next two decades. The world’s non-Muslim<br />
population is expected to rise at a rate <strong>of</strong> .7 percent<br />
while the Muslim population will grow by 1.5<br />
percent. It is expected that Muslims will make up<br />
26.4 percent <strong>of</strong> the world’s expected 8.3 billion<br />
population in 2030. One in every four people will<br />
be Muslim.<br />
The report also suggests that while the<br />
Muslim growth will outpace the non-Muslim<br />
growth, it will grow at a slower pace than<br />
1990–2000, which was at a rate <strong>of</strong> 2.2 percent.<br />
News continued on page 28<br />
—Source: Pew Research Center’s Forum on Religion & Public Life<br />
T. J. Eaves, rising senior at Western Carolina University, has been selected<br />
by his classmates as the 2011–2012 Student Government President. T. J.<br />
is a member at The ROC, Rockingham, North Carolina, <strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Prophecy</strong>. According to a former Youth Director, Reeves “has always<br />
been the life <strong>of</strong> the youth group. His<br />
smile brings joy to everyone that he<br />
comes in contact with.”<br />
Heritage Day<br />
Simulcast Happening June 12<br />
—Pastor Steve Gilmer<br />
Rockingham, North Carolina<br />
COGOP Teen<br />
Selected<br />
as Student<br />
Government<br />
President<br />
Following the “Pursuing His Spirit” Prayer Event Internet simulcast in January, Heritage Day celebrations in 2011 will be<br />
concluded with a special “Lead On, Holy Spirit” simulcast on June 12. The event will feature historical footage from the<br />
<strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Prophecy</strong>’s early days, a greeting from General Overseer Randall E. Howard, and a special message from<br />
<strong>Church</strong> Historian Adrian Varlack.<br />
On June 11, Heritage Day celebrations will take place at the Fields <strong>of</strong> the Wood Park in Murphy, North Carolina. The<br />
annual celebration includes special singing and messages from <strong>Church</strong> leaders. Admission to the park is free. The simulcast<br />
will take place the following evening at the Keith Street <strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Prophecy</strong> in Cleveland, Tennessee. Those who<br />
aren’t able to join the celebration live are encouraged to use the Internet to broadcast to their homes and churches.<br />
“We are excited to have this opportunity to use new technology to celebrate the <strong>Church</strong>’s rich heritage,” Bishop Howard<br />
said. “The ‘Pursuing His Spirit’ simulcast was so successful, we thought this would be an excellent follow-up.”<br />
To join the Heritage Day 2011 Simulcast, visit www.cogop.org.<br />
WWM JUNE 2011 5
A Soul-Winning <strong>Church</strong><br />
T<br />
Today’s church continues to cry out for <strong>God</strong>’s blessings, for we long to be led by the Holy Spirit and<br />
experience spiritual and numerical growth. However, the question must be asked, “Why should <strong>God</strong> bless us<br />
when we refuse to become what He has called us to be?” What concerns <strong>God</strong> is our effective ministry to the<br />
hearts and minds <strong>of</strong> unsaved people, not our preferences, procedures, or programs.<br />
We have strayed from our real purpose for existing; our existence is in fulfilling Jesus’ mission to reach the<br />
lost. Our purpose is not in maintaining our churches, but, rather, to invade the world and save the perishing.<br />
William Fay, the author <strong>of</strong> Share Jesus Without Fear, states, “. . . as few as five to ten percent <strong>of</strong> the people<br />
in an average church have shared their faith in the past year . . . and one hundred thousand churches will<br />
close their doors this decade.” 1 He goes on to say that the foundational reason for these sad statistics is the<br />
choice church members make in choosing the sin <strong>of</strong> silence over being obedient to the call and mission<br />
<strong>of</strong> Jesus.<br />
We have forgotten our purpose as Christians, which is to become the disciples in Christ’s priestly prayer in<br />
John 17:20–26 and in the Great Commission <strong>of</strong> Matthew 28:18–20. Jesus’ commandment to witness to the<br />
unsaved is a constant theme throughout the New Testament. Dr. Jerry Pipes and Victor Lee state, “A verse-byverse<br />
review <strong>of</strong> the words <strong>of</strong> Jesus in the four Gospels reveals at least 35 statements that could be understood<br />
as statements <strong>of</strong> purpose.” 2 They give three <strong>of</strong> these passages as being central to His declaration: Luke 19:10,<br />
John 18:37, and Matthew 20:28.<br />
“For the Son <strong>of</strong> Man has come to seek and to save that which is lost” (Luke 19:10 NKJV, italics mine). In this<br />
passage, there are two crucial elements <strong>of</strong> Jesus’ mission: the first is to seek, for Jesus sought after the lost by<br />
coming to them in the flesh so they may receive the truth; and He came to save them from their sin, giving<br />
them hope for eternal life.<br />
“For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the<br />
truth. Everyone who is <strong>of</strong> the truth hears My voice” (John 18:37 NKJV, italics mine). His statement, “for this<br />
6 WWM JUNE 2011 WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
cause,” leaves no doubt that this is a mission statement,<br />
and it carries His central purpose to bear witness to<br />
the truth.<br />
“Just as the Son <strong>of</strong> Man did not come to be served, but<br />
to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Matthew<br />
20:28 NKJV, italics mine). When Jesus sought out the lost,<br />
He did so to serve them. The primary way He served them<br />
was to give His perfect life for the sinful lives <strong>of</strong> humanity<br />
as a ransom for as many as would believe on Him.<br />
It’s clear that the Evangelists <strong>of</strong> the New Testament<br />
Gospels understood the importance <strong>of</strong> Christ’s mission,<br />
and clearly they wanted you and I to understand this<br />
importance as well. The Great Commission is clearly found<br />
in five places, not by chance, in each <strong>of</strong> the Gospels and<br />
the Book <strong>of</strong> Acts. 3 In each <strong>of</strong> these passages, Jesus’ purpose<br />
takes the form <strong>of</strong> a command for every believer. The<br />
passages are Matthew 28:18–20, Mark 16:15, Luke 24:47, 48,<br />
John 20:21, and Acts 1:8. This clear message presents us<br />
with the tremendous challenge <strong>of</strong> sharing Jesus.<br />
Jesus always supplies sufficient grace, which is the<br />
unmerited favor that gives us the desire and the power to<br />
do His will, with every command given to each believer.<br />
The Holy Spirit empowers us to do His will, and His Word<br />
provides the principles we need to accomplish His mission.<br />
David Wheeler, in his chapter “Spiritual Farming,” states,<br />
“Effective evangelism never violates the principles <strong>of</strong> the<br />
harvest. The best way to recapture success in evangelism is<br />
to return to these principles.” 4<br />
The church must return to the process <strong>of</strong> spiritual<br />
farming if we are to see the spiritual power and growth<br />
we long to see. <strong>God</strong> has not abandoned us; it is believers<br />
abandoning the principles <strong>of</strong> the harvest that results in<br />
our lack <strong>of</strong> fruitfulness. We blame all kinds <strong>of</strong> sins for our<br />
sterile congregations, but the primary sin we must address<br />
is the sin <strong>of</strong> silence.<br />
David Wheeler gives us at least four key truths about the<br />
principles <strong>of</strong> the spiritual harvest:<br />
1. The harvest is a process, not an event.<br />
In modernity, we came to know evangelism as an event<br />
such as a revival service or a personal soul-winning<br />
encounter, but the truth is the harvest requires the<br />
laborious process <strong>of</strong> spiritual farming.<br />
2. More than one element is involved<br />
in the harvest.<br />
In order to ensure a harvest, someone must plant seed.<br />
The seed must be watered. <strong>God</strong> has to make it come to<br />
life, grow, and bear fruit. In other words, it is <strong>God</strong> who<br />
gives the increase <strong>of</strong> salvation, and it can only come<br />
from Him (1 Corinthians 3:6–9).<br />
3. Different people play different roles<br />
in the harvest.<br />
Some plant, and others water.<br />
4. Every aspect is equally important.<br />
If no one plants the seed, there will never be a harvest.<br />
If no one waters the seed, it will never grow and<br />
produce fruit. 5<br />
According to William Fay, nonbelievers must hear the<br />
Gospel an average <strong>of</strong> 7.6 times before they receive it. 6 The<br />
process ends with a nonbeliever accepting Christ as their<br />
Savior, but it begins with believers plowing the fields with<br />
prayer and need-meeting service. Then the seed <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Gospel must be planted, watered, and cared for. The more<br />
believers pray, serve, and plant the seed, the greater<br />
the harvest.<br />
It is our responsibility as believers to be obedient to<br />
<strong>God</strong>’s command to participate in the process <strong>of</strong> evangelism.<br />
One caution must be given here: while living a life <strong>of</strong><br />
Christian integrity is important to the process <strong>of</strong> evangelism,<br />
it is not enough to fulfill our calling to Christ’s mission.<br />
“How then will they call on Him in whom they have not<br />
believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have<br />
not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher?<br />
How will they preach [verbal communication] unless<br />
they are sent? Just as it is written, ‘HOW BEAUTIFUL ARE<br />
THE FEET OF THOSE WHO BRING GOOD NEWS OF GOOD<br />
THINGS!’” (Romans 10:14, 15 NASB, italics mine).<br />
Every believer is responsible for verbally sharing<br />
Jesus with the unsaved. Let’s accept the challenge to<br />
intentionally evangelize the lost for the Kingdom <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong>.<br />
There is nothing that will bring spiritual fulfillment to your<br />
life like the process <strong>of</strong> sharing Jesus!<br />
______________<br />
1 William Fay and Linda Evans Shepherd, Share Jesus Without Fear<br />
(Nashville, TN: B & H Publishing Group, 1999), pp. 6, 7.<br />
2 Dr. Jerry Pipes and Victor Lee, Family to Family: Leaving a Lasting<br />
Legacy (North American Mission Board <strong>of</strong> the Southern Baptist<br />
Convention, 1999), p. 27.<br />
3 Ibid., p. 28.<br />
4 Dave Early and David Wheeler, Evangelism Is . . . How to<br />
Share Jesus With Passion and Confidence (Nashville, TN: B & H<br />
Academic Publishing Group, 2010), pp. 85–92.<br />
5 Ibid., pp. 85, 86.<br />
6 Fay and Shepherd, p. 11.<br />
John A. Stone, Pastor<br />
Keith Street Ministries<br />
Cleveland, Tennessee<br />
WWM JUNE 2011 7
Scott Lee<br />
Sheridan, Wyoming<br />
Having been the lead<br />
pastor at the same<br />
church for nine years<br />
and the youth minister<br />
for about five years prior<br />
to becoming the pastor,<br />
I had reached a place<br />
<strong>of</strong> discouragement. We<br />
had seen some significant<br />
growth and purchased<br />
a different building.<br />
With that move, the<br />
immediate growth was<br />
evident, and now I was<br />
experiencing the pressure<br />
from some individuals to<br />
begin another project for<br />
building or buying.<br />
Feelings <strong>of</strong> inadequacy, coupled with<br />
a perceived need to perform, drove me<br />
to my knees. It was in that moment that<br />
the Spirit <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> spoke clearly to my<br />
heart. I know that I heard the still, small<br />
voice instruct me to focus on “building<br />
people, not buildings.” With that, a<br />
great burden lifted, encouragement<br />
flooded my soul, and a fresh vision began<br />
to develop.<br />
As I processed what I felt <strong>God</strong> speaking<br />
to me, I was reminded <strong>of</strong> the scripture<br />
in Acts 17:24 that tells us clearly that<br />
<strong>God</strong> doesn’t “dwell in buildings.” It is<br />
interesting that when most people hear<br />
or see the word church, we think first <strong>of</strong><br />
a building. In fact, sadly, it seems today<br />
many individuals are more concerned<br />
with buildings than they are with people!<br />
I am convinced that there can be strong<br />
local churches that operate out <strong>of</strong> facilities<br />
that seemingly “aren’t much to speak <strong>of</strong>.”<br />
I also believe that there can be strong<br />
local churches that have no building at<br />
8 WWM JUNE 2011 WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
all. Whether you are in agreement with<br />
me on this or not, consider this: if a local<br />
church is going to be strong, it must be<br />
focused on people, not buildings.<br />
After I felt the Lord speak, I shared<br />
this word with our leadership team,<br />
and it was well-received. Since that<br />
time, we have tried to promote that a<br />
strong local church focuses on building<br />
people. At Bethesda, this is done as<br />
much outside <strong>of</strong> the church’s facility<br />
as it is within our walls. New ministries<br />
have grown through that word from<br />
the Lord. Adopt-a-block, a local churchoperated<br />
food bank, a weekly bus<br />
ministry to the community shelter and<br />
a local substance abuse center, and an<br />
outreach to the state Girl School are<br />
just a few <strong>of</strong> the ways we have found<br />
as avenues to build people. Adopt-ablock<br />
<strong>of</strong> Sheridan is a ministry in which<br />
faithful support is <strong>of</strong>fered to a lowincome<br />
housing unit and a mobile home<br />
court weekly.<br />
We try to meet the needs <strong>of</strong> the people<br />
there both spiritually and physically. We<br />
have provided for the needs and wants<br />
<strong>of</strong> individuals and families. From diapers<br />
and milk to dog food and light bulbs, as<br />
well as putting a new ro<strong>of</strong> on one <strong>of</strong> the<br />
mobile homes, we desire to assist these<br />
folks in every way that we can. We have<br />
also been able to pray with these folks<br />
on many occasions.<br />
Some <strong>of</strong> the people that we are<br />
investing in may never attend our local<br />
church, but we are not concerned with<br />
that. <strong>Church</strong> attendance is not our goal.<br />
We believe that through investing in<br />
the lives <strong>of</strong> these precious people, we<br />
are helping them to see their worth to<br />
our loving <strong>God</strong>. By taking the church to<br />
them, we are assisting them in growing<br />
into the people that <strong>God</strong> has destined<br />
for them to become.<br />
We are blessed to have a facility from<br />
which to minister. For any first-time guests<br />
who do come through our doors, we<br />
desire that from the moment they drive<br />
into our parking lot until the time they<br />
drive away they will have a meaningful<br />
worship experience with our church<br />
family in every way. From greeters assisting<br />
It has been said that there are two<br />
main reasons that people leave churches—<br />
they feel they have no friends, and their<br />
need for purpose has never been met.<br />
attendees with umbrellas during the<br />
rain and snow to follow-up gifts being<br />
taken to the homes <strong>of</strong> first-time guests,<br />
we want to add value to those whom<br />
<strong>God</strong> sends to us. Our guests may never<br />
return, and we are okay with that. Our<br />
focus is not to get them to return; our<br />
focus is to help them understand how<br />
much they are valued by our <strong>God</strong>!<br />
If someone chooses to return to our<br />
church family, we shift to making disciples<br />
<strong>of</strong> them. We <strong>of</strong>fer a Discipleship Track<br />
that has something for everyone.<br />
From our First Steps curriculum to our<br />
small group ministries, our hope is to<br />
encourage consistent Christian growth<br />
in those whom <strong>God</strong> entrusts to us. We<br />
have intentionally designed a plan that<br />
will assist everyone in becoming all that<br />
<strong>God</strong> wants them to be.<br />
Our Discipleship Track begins with<br />
basic Bible truths, then transitions<br />
into a more in-depth spiritual growth<br />
course, and continues on through<br />
Leadership Development. We desire<br />
that our family know why they believe<br />
what they believe. We desire that<br />
each one would identify the gifting <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>God</strong> that is upon their lives and then,<br />
through the ministry <strong>of</strong> the small groups<br />
and outreach efforts, we purposefully<br />
provide opportunities for them to be<br />
used in their gifting.<br />
It has been said that there are two<br />
main reasons that people leave churches—<br />
they feel they have no friends, and their<br />
need for purpose has never been met.<br />
This obviously means that they haven’t<br />
had a meaningful connection with<br />
anyone in the church, and they do not<br />
feel valued. This is why an emphasis on<br />
building people is so effective. A healthy<br />
discipleship ministry can help to meet<br />
these two great needs <strong>of</strong> individuals.<br />
We have found that new individuals are<br />
effectively assimilated into our church<br />
family, and they are better cared for<br />
when they get connected to one <strong>of</strong> our<br />
small groups.<br />
When we can help those whom <strong>God</strong><br />
sends us by providing a caring and safe<br />
environment in which to grow and then<br />
<strong>of</strong>fer them opportunities to use their<br />
gifts, then we have found that we are<br />
helping to build people. Sometimes,<br />
<strong>God</strong> only leaves His people with us for<br />
a short season. Sometimes, we have<br />
individuals who are with us much<br />
longer. Either way, we want to invest<br />
in them while <strong>God</strong> allows them to be<br />
a part <strong>of</strong> our family. At Bethesda, we<br />
aren’t trying to “keep people,” we are<br />
trying to “grow them” and then let <strong>God</strong><br />
place them wherever He desires for<br />
them to be!<br />
Believe me, it is easy to slip back into<br />
the mindset that a strong local church<br />
must have a nice facility, lots <strong>of</strong> people,<br />
and a lot <strong>of</strong> money. We try to make it a<br />
priority to speak <strong>of</strong>ten <strong>of</strong> the vision <strong>of</strong><br />
building people. From the pulpit, to the<br />
children’s ministries, to the small group<br />
leader in the home and into every<br />
ministry, we must continually remind<br />
ourselves and those we serve that we<br />
are about growing people.<br />
We are not a perfect church. We are<br />
not a large church. We are a church that<br />
can and will get better. We don’t have<br />
all <strong>of</strong> the answers, but we are learning<br />
this—<strong>God</strong> values people, not buildings.<br />
With this vision at the core <strong>of</strong> our local<br />
church, we have seen <strong>God</strong> prove to us<br />
time and time again that when we value<br />
what He values and invest in what He<br />
invests in, then He will faithfully give us<br />
what we need to take care <strong>of</strong> it.<br />
WWM JUNE 2011 9
G General Presbyter Clayton Endecott<br />
moved to Germany as a missionary<br />
with his wife, Wanda, and his sons,<br />
Cortney and Bradley, in 1983. What<br />
was supposed to be a short-term visit<br />
turned into a lifelong calling. With two<br />
more children, Tessa and Christian, born<br />
in Germany, Bishop Clayton dedicated<br />
his life and work to <strong>God</strong> and missions.<br />
Now Germany has two COGOP churches<br />
in the cities <strong>of</strong> Langen and Erlangen,<br />
and, in February, the churches joined<br />
together to start a missions school.<br />
Samson Chen, the director <strong>of</strong> the<br />
mission school in England where more<br />
than 150 short-term mission team<br />
members have been trained and have<br />
already visited several nations on<br />
four continents, brought teams from<br />
England to help establish the German<br />
missions school. The two local churches<br />
in Germany are now focusing on<br />
evangelizing in their local communities<br />
and on their mission outreach countries,<br />
Armenia and Georgia.<br />
Bishop Clayton was interviewed on<br />
the topic <strong>of</strong> the role <strong>of</strong> missions in the<br />
small church by his youngest son Christian,<br />
who has been appointed missions<br />
leader <strong>of</strong> the Langen <strong>Church</strong> and<br />
serves as a freelance journalist for the<br />
Offenbacher Post in Dreieich, Germany.<br />
Why should a local church<br />
be mission-minded, and how<br />
important is this work to<br />
reach the nations?<br />
I feel it is an essential part <strong>of</strong> our<br />
DNA as a Pentecostal church, a church<br />
<strong>of</strong> “Spirit and Word.” The Word <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong><br />
is clear, from the call <strong>of</strong> missions from<br />
<strong>God</strong> to Adam (“Where are you?”), and<br />
the call for the nations in Yahweh’s<br />
covenant with Abraham. The prophets<br />
say <strong>God</strong> will give us the nations. Of<br />
course, the words <strong>of</strong> Jesus are clear in<br />
all four Gospels and then Acts, which<br />
for me as a believer and for us as a<br />
10 WWM JUNE 2011 WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
From the<br />
Community<br />
to the World<br />
movement are<br />
not only historically<br />
descriptive, but<br />
prescriptive <strong>of</strong><br />
how the church <strong>of</strong><br />
Jesus Christ will act<br />
and be.<br />
Luke writes in<br />
Acts 1:8 (NIV), “But<br />
you will receive power when the<br />
Holy Spirit comes on you; and you<br />
will be my witnesses in Jerusalem,<br />
and in all Judea and Samaria, and to<br />
the ends <strong>of</strong> the earth.” The prescribed<br />
missions method <strong>of</strong> Jesus can be best<br />
explained with concentric circles.<br />
Mission work starts at home—our first<br />
circle <strong>of</strong> influence—and moves on to<br />
the community, to the region, to the<br />
state, to the country, and then on to<br />
the outermost circle <strong>of</strong> influence, the<br />
rest <strong>of</strong> the world. <strong>God</strong> is always looking<br />
for the lost, and that is what His<br />
church does.<br />
A Conversation With Clayton Endecott<br />
Our local churches in Germany have<br />
been experiencing growth since we<br />
have been committed to missions. This<br />
is always a matter <strong>of</strong> prayer, giving,<br />
raising leaders, and going out. A good<br />
example for the growth in the local<br />
body is the Emmanuel <strong>Church</strong> in Kiev,<br />
Ukraine. Last year, the church sent<br />
out more than 500 mission teams<br />
into neighboring communities where<br />
they gave witness and, in many cases,<br />
planted new churches and have also<br />
gone to surrounding nations.<br />
Our small local churches in Germany<br />
cannot send out so many mission teams<br />
as a large church like Emanuel <strong>Church</strong><br />
in Kiev, who enjoys around 3,000 in<br />
attendance, but we can train our teams<br />
to evangelize in Germany and to assist<br />
in church-planting in neighboring cities<br />
and send them out to the nations each<br />
year as well. Our size should not hold us<br />
back from doing our part for missions at<br />
home and abroad. Both large churches<br />
and small churches can always trace<br />
growth back to their true calling<br />
to be mission-minded.<br />
How can focusing on missions<br />
also help the local church?<br />
Missions, just like every other<br />
ministry and value <strong>of</strong> the church, should<br />
not only be preached and taught, but,<br />
most importantly, be modeled by pastors<br />
and leaders. We all learn better by<br />
modeling than in the classroom; learning<br />
by doing, just like Jesus and His disciples.<br />
When pastors and leaders engage in<br />
missions, it helps them to recognize and<br />
focus their training on their emerging<br />
leaders. The vision <strong>of</strong> the church will be<br />
broadened. As we say in Germany, we<br />
begin to think “beyond the rims <strong>of</strong> our<br />
own soup bowl.” And, again, this starts<br />
first at home, in your local “Jerusalem,”<br />
and goes on to the world.<br />
WWM JUNE 2011 11
What about churches that are<br />
struggling financially? How<br />
can they still be encouraged<br />
to support missions?<br />
Here the biblical concepts <strong>of</strong><br />
sowing and reaping through giving<br />
come to mind, even when it seems<br />
impossible. Giving is an act <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> that<br />
we personally and as a church need<br />
to follow in obedience to love <strong>God</strong>. I<br />
believe if we do not give lovingly to<br />
others, the will <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> for our own lives<br />
and for our local church will suffer. We<br />
simply close the doors <strong>of</strong> His abundance<br />
when we do not give. Jesus is the<br />
perfect example <strong>of</strong> generosity. The truth<br />
is, when we give we always receive.<br />
I love the story <strong>of</strong> a church in West<br />
Texas I read about who decided to give<br />
50 percent <strong>of</strong> their income to missions.<br />
Since that time, the church has grown<br />
in numbers and spiritually and supports<br />
many mission projects all over the<br />
world. They are also the largest church<br />
in their city and have sent out many<br />
church-planters and missionaries. Even<br />
churches that are struggling financially<br />
will receive more than they can imagine<br />
from <strong>God</strong> when they are generous in<br />
missions giving.<br />
How can a church be mindful<br />
<strong>of</strong> the global call and at the<br />
same time not forget to reach<br />
its own community?<br />
People have <strong>of</strong>ten come to me in the<br />
past and told me, “I have a heart for<br />
Burma; I need to go to Burma.” After<br />
they tell me they are from Birmingham,<br />
I ask them, “What are you doing in your<br />
home city?” Usually, I receive the same<br />
reply: “Not much, I can’t really do<br />
much here because I am not<br />
where I belong yet<br />
—in Burma.”<br />
12 WWM JUNE 2011<br />
It is as simple as it sounds. If it doesn’t<br />
work in Birmingham, it is not going to<br />
work in Burma. Yes, the church needs<br />
to be mission-minded and also give<br />
lovingly to missions, but let us again<br />
not forget Acts 1:8. Missions starts at<br />
home and emerges systematically to the<br />
ends <strong>of</strong> the earth. The church that has a<br />
heart for the lost on the other side <strong>of</strong><br />
the world will have a heart for people<br />
across the street.<br />
In February, the two churches in<br />
Germany began a mission school with<br />
more than 30 students ready to serve<br />
the Lord in their local community and<br />
abroad. During the years, both German<br />
churches have had the privilege <strong>of</strong><br />
hearing from missionaries from around<br />
the world and now hope to strengthen<br />
Missions is the heart <strong>of</strong><br />
a thriving local church.<br />
That is what makes<br />
their heart beat.<br />
their heart for evangelizing the lost in<br />
Germany and around the globe. They<br />
invite Christians from other nations every<br />
year to participate in their children’s<br />
and youth camps and experience <strong>God</strong><br />
together. The heart for missions seems<br />
to be a natural part <strong>of</strong> their faith from<br />
the beginning.<br />
During Easter <strong>of</strong> last year, the church<br />
in Langen sent a group <strong>of</strong> young adults<br />
to Georgia and Armenia to serve and<br />
witness there. For all <strong>of</strong> them, the trip<br />
was a life-changing experience. They<br />
came home and shared their testimonies<br />
to the church where the whole church<br />
was motivated to missions in a personal<br />
way, and from all that the mission team<br />
now participates in the mission school.<br />
This year and next year, the churches are<br />
planning to send out mission teams not<br />
only to Armenia and Georgia, but also<br />
to other countries while they engage in<br />
evangelism and discipleship in their home<br />
churches and neighboring communities.<br />
I guess, for me, missions is the<br />
heart <strong>of</strong> a thriving local church.<br />
That is what makes their<br />
heart beat.<br />
WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
What makes a strong local church? What makes attendance rise and fall? In my<br />
opinion, these two questions have the same answer.<br />
The impact a church has in a community will determine the strength <strong>of</strong> the<br />
church and its numbers. A church that has little impact on a community will be<br />
weak, but a church with great impact will be strong.<br />
What is impact? Some individuals might say we cannot have impact without<br />
money or without a lot <strong>of</strong> people to help. However, impact is more than what we<br />
are able to give and do for a community; it is how we exist in that community.<br />
<strong>Church</strong>es with the mentality that <strong>God</strong> will just bring people in don’t seem to<br />
catch the fullness <strong>of</strong> Revelation 22:17: “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. .<br />
. .” The Spirit <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> is already at work in our communities, but it is still up to the<br />
bride to go and say, “Come.”<br />
Take the parable <strong>of</strong> the wedding feast in Luke 14:16–24 in which the master<br />
tells his servant to go and say, “Come . . .” (v. 17). When we pray for <strong>God</strong> to go and<br />
bring people to the church, we are taking the place <strong>of</strong> the Master; telling <strong>God</strong> to<br />
go and say, “Come” makes Him the servant.<br />
If our church’s community does not even know it exists, then we have failed to<br />
live up to what the calling <strong>of</strong> our church is. The community should know about<br />
our church. They should at least know the name and location, and preferably the<br />
pastor and doctrine.<br />
Regarding resources, one may say, “We have nothing to give people when they<br />
come.” I was once asked by a pastor, “What can I give them when they show up?<br />
I have nothing at my church to give them—no music, no teachers, and a building<br />
that is in need <strong>of</strong> repair.” To any pastor who is in the same position, give them the<br />
only thing you can ever give—Jesus! He is all that truly matters. The rest helps, but<br />
if we are Jesus’ body, then we have to be Him to the world.<br />
Give people love, compassion, and Jesus. Skillful music, exciting multimedia,<br />
and impressive structures will all pass away, but the words <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> are eternal.<br />
How can you impact your community? Share the Gospel. Going door-to-door<br />
has seemingly become a lost art in the church today. When a church is planted in<br />
a new area, attempting to connect with potential members should be one <strong>of</strong> the<br />
main focuses <strong>of</strong> the church.<br />
The <strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Prophecy</strong> has gone back to its core values—Prayer,<br />
Harvest, and Discipleship. In these values lie the direction for the greatest impact a<br />
church can make. First, pray and ask for <strong>God</strong>’s direction, blessing, and Spirit as you<br />
go into the community. Second, spread the Gospel and win souls. And, then, teach<br />
others to do the same.<br />
One thing that is perhaps lacking in some congregations is the ability to<br />
minister. We are saved not to be pew-riders, but to be workers. A. J. Tomlinson<br />
once wrote a message titled, “Every Member a Worker,” in which he stated that<br />
we are to not have inactive members who just come to church and pay tithes<br />
and <strong>of</strong>fering, but active, soul-winning members. In the world we live in, there<br />
is no reason why we cannot try to reach our communities. With resources such<br />
as computers, telephones, and flyers, we can work on doing something to press<br />
forward in the Kingdom <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> no matter how old we are, how much money our<br />
church has, or how many people help us.<br />
Do you love the community in which you attend church or do you just love<br />
to attend a church that happens to be located in that community? What would<br />
be the impact on the community if your church were to shut its doors for good?<br />
Consider the impact your church is making, and pray for wisdom and laborers to<br />
help make it more.<br />
W. E. DeGeer Jr.<br />
Irvington, Alabama<br />
What<br />
Makes a<br />
Strong<br />
Local<br />
<strong>Church</strong>?<br />
WWM JUNE 2011 13
The family is <strong>God</strong>’s primary institution<br />
on earth. A <strong>God</strong>-centered family within<br />
a vibrant local church is the best place<br />
on earth for teaching, nurturing,<br />
evangelizing, making disciples, building<br />
relationships, equipping for service,<br />
instilling godly principles, living out the<br />
Great Commandment, and fulfilling the<br />
Great Commission.<br />
Local churches become stronger<br />
as they place a renewed emphasis on<br />
healthy families. While the church can<br />
<strong>of</strong>fer a variety <strong>of</strong> ministries and programs,<br />
the best service the church can provide<br />
is to help families help themselves. The<br />
church should teach and model basic<br />
biblical principles and then encourage<br />
each family to apply and live out these<br />
principles in daily life.<br />
The Need for<br />
Family Ministry<br />
Families are in crisis, and they<br />
need help. Unfortunately, the church<br />
doesn’t always function as an authentic<br />
community bound together by the<br />
intimacy <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong>ly love. Therefore, the<br />
church hasn’t always been equipped to<br />
meet those needs.<br />
This is reflected in the fact that<br />
even though we’ve stood strongly in<br />
opposition to divorce, it has now invaded<br />
our families and churches in proportions<br />
barely distinguishable from the rest <strong>of</strong><br />
society. As we move into the second<br />
decade <strong>of</strong> the twenty-first century,<br />
concerns about the destruction <strong>of</strong><br />
marriage and the breakdown <strong>of</strong> families<br />
have moved to center stage. Sadly,<br />
very few voices, even those <strong>of</strong> religious<br />
leaders, have dared to speak up.<br />
Biblical teaching aside, the breakdown<br />
<strong>of</strong> marriage has social consequences.<br />
The disappearance <strong>of</strong> a marriage culture,<br />
and its replacement by a post-marital<br />
culture, is the driving force behind almost<br />
all the gravest societal problems—<br />
crime, poverty, welfare dependence,<br />
homelessness, spousal abuse, child<br />
abuse, educational stagnation, and<br />
economic instability.<br />
Strong<br />
Families<br />
Make Strong<br />
<strong>Church</strong>es<br />
The rapid decline <strong>of</strong> marriage is based<br />
on a central myth sold by intellectuals,<br />
politicians, feminists, psychologists,<br />
lawyers, and even some ministers—that<br />
it’s not declining, but merely changing for<br />
the better. We’re told that marriages are<br />
happier and healthier, children are better<br />
<strong>of</strong>f, and people have more freedom and<br />
choices now that the taboos against<br />
divorce, same-sex marriage, and unwed<br />
motherhood have been discarded.<br />
As society accepts these myths, the<br />
implications are clear: marriage has<br />
become disposable. If we believe divorce,<br />
the break-up <strong>of</strong> families, and illegitimacy<br />
are inevitable, then no one needs to take<br />
responsibility for the devastation. And<br />
if there’s no solution, there really is no<br />
problem. So we tend to treat the collapse<br />
<strong>of</strong> marriage like a natural disaster such<br />
as earthquakes, hurricanes, tsunamis,<br />
tornadoes, or floods—all <strong>of</strong> which cause<br />
pain and destruction that cannot be<br />
prevented, only relieved somewhat after<br />
the fact.<br />
Local <strong>Church</strong>es<br />
Ministering to Families<br />
Ministry to the family must become<br />
a major issue for our local churches.<br />
However, effective ministry can’t be<br />
provided simply by expanding the church’s<br />
roster <strong>of</strong> activities, or by appointing an<br />
14 WWM JUNE 2011 WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
individual to oversee family ministries.<br />
There must be a change in the mindset<br />
<strong>of</strong> the pastor and local church if ministry<br />
to families is to become effective.<br />
Family ministry must have a two-fold<br />
focus—to care for, support, nurture,<br />
and empower families, and to bring<br />
people together as a body <strong>of</strong> believers<br />
in a way that enables authentic, biblical<br />
community to take place.<br />
There are several key elements that<br />
are required for a local church to begin<br />
formulating a response to the needs<br />
<strong>of</strong> families.<br />
• A theology <strong>of</strong> family—a fully<br />
developed statement that<br />
documents what we believe the<br />
Bible teaches concerning marriage<br />
and the family.<br />
One reason why many churches<br />
have been such poor caretakers<br />
<strong>of</strong> marriage is because they have<br />
never had a fully developed<br />
theology <strong>of</strong> marriage. If we can’t<br />
explain why marriage really matters<br />
theologically, why maleness and<br />
femaleness have real meaning,<br />
and how marriage is <strong>God</strong>’s way<br />
<strong>of</strong> completing these two sides <strong>of</strong><br />
humanity, then the only posture<br />
we will have to stand against the<br />
tidal wave <strong>of</strong> divorce, the rise<br />
<strong>of</strong> illegitimate births, and the<br />
homosexual onslaught is one <strong>of</strong><br />
personal prejudice.<br />
A theology <strong>of</strong> marriage must be<br />
more than a list <strong>of</strong> Scripture verses<br />
on the topic. We must develop<br />
and draw from a comprehensive<br />
understanding <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong>’s creation <strong>of</strong><br />
male and female, why and how “the<br />
two become one flesh,” and how<br />
this “mystery,” as Paul calls it, is so<br />
significant as to represent Christ’s<br />
relationship with His church. If we don’t<br />
live from this position, we are no<br />
different from the world around us.<br />
Other elements needed for an<br />
effective local church ministry to families<br />
include the following:<br />
• A mission <strong>of</strong> family ministries—a<br />
statement <strong>of</strong> why ministry to the<br />
family exists in the local church.<br />
This statement may also be<br />
accompanied by specific objectives<br />
that are expected to be fulfilled<br />
through the mission.<br />
• A vision <strong>of</strong> family ministries—a<br />
statement <strong>of</strong> how things would<br />
look if the church were effectively<br />
carrying out its mission <strong>of</strong><br />
ministering to families.<br />
• A passion for families—a burning<br />
desire for families to grow spiritually,<br />
relationally, and emotionally.<br />
• A champion <strong>of</strong> families—an<br />
individual, or group, within the<br />
local church who is committed<br />
without reservation to the welfare<br />
and growth <strong>of</strong> families. Ideally,<br />
the pastor would be the primary<br />
champion <strong>of</strong> the family in each<br />
church, but there should be others<br />
as well. The pastor sets the agenda.<br />
• A mindset for families—a way <strong>of</strong><br />
understanding what church is all<br />
about that takes into account the<br />
centrality <strong>of</strong> families.<br />
Notice that none <strong>of</strong> these elements<br />
are programmatic. Programs aimed at<br />
families will not, by themselves, achieve<br />
the objective <strong>of</strong> building strong, stable<br />
families. Activities and programs aren’t<br />
the foundation <strong>of</strong> family ministry;<br />
intimate, loving relationships are.<br />
Most <strong>of</strong>ten, a local church is a<br />
collection <strong>of</strong> ministries and programs<br />
designed to be supported by families. In<br />
order to become most effective, however,<br />
the church must become a network<br />
<strong>of</strong> families supported by the church’s<br />
ministries and programs.<br />
Such thinking is a radical departure<br />
from our current understanding <strong>of</strong><br />
church. For many years, we’ve relied<br />
on our strong stand against divorce<br />
to ensure strong families, and while<br />
we should stand firmly on scriptural<br />
principles regarding the sanctity <strong>of</strong><br />
marriage, that by itself has proven to be<br />
ineffective in saving our families from<br />
stress and break-up.<br />
We’ve now reached a point at which<br />
what we do must match what we believe.<br />
It’s not enough to be against divorce;<br />
we must be for families, and that means<br />
reinventing church in such a way that<br />
the needs <strong>of</strong> families are considered<br />
in the design and operation <strong>of</strong> all we<br />
do. This doesn’t mean that the church<br />
becomes the focus <strong>of</strong> the family, but<br />
rather that the family becomes the focus<br />
<strong>of</strong> the church.<br />
George Barna suggests that a key<br />
principle the church must keep in<br />
mind is to equip the family to minister<br />
to itself. His contention is that most<br />
churches attempt to solve the problems<br />
<strong>of</strong> troubled families instead <strong>of</strong> helping<br />
families solve their own problems. This<br />
creates a co-dependency, or addiction, in<br />
which the family never becomes able to<br />
function on its own without intervention<br />
by the church. Family crises don’t occur<br />
at the church, so families must be<br />
equipped to deal with crises when and<br />
where they happen—in real life.<br />
The church must enable the family to<br />
meet its own needs so the family, in turn,<br />
can bring life and strength to the church.<br />
In this way, families become contributors<br />
to the life <strong>of</strong> the local church rather than<br />
consumers <strong>of</strong> the church’s resources.<br />
There’s so much work to be done.<br />
Satan is attacking families more heavily<br />
than at any other time. Again, I believe<br />
this is because he knows that families are<br />
at the very heart <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong>’s purposes here<br />
on earth. The enemy knows that if he can<br />
destroy marriages and families, he has<br />
gone a long way toward destroying the<br />
church. Please join us in the fight for<br />
our families.<br />
The time has come when we are going<br />
to have to put our beliefs into action<br />
and bring all our resources to bear in the<br />
fight against the forces that are bent on<br />
destroying <strong>God</strong>’s primary institution,<br />
the family. Together, with <strong>God</strong>’s help,<br />
we can do it.<br />
Larry Duncan, Pastor<br />
Coweta, Oklahoma<br />
WWM JUNE 2011 15
Local churches are like families, but even the best families<br />
sometimes have heated disagreements that change the<br />
course <strong>of</strong> the relationship. As a leader, what can you do when<br />
you encounter conflict? Your thoughtful, measured response<br />
is important.<br />
How do you respond to disagreements? What is your<br />
conflict resolution style? You may gravitate toward one <strong>of</strong> five<br />
responses. Take a quick break from reading this magazine,<br />
and take an online test. Go to www.selectpro.net/index.php/<br />
ScrInfoIBA.html.<br />
How did you do? In this article, we’ll look at some <strong>of</strong><br />
the advantages and disadvantages for each response. The<br />
following are the five responses—avoiding, competing,<br />
accommodating, compromising, and collaborating.<br />
16 WWM JUNE 2011<br />
Dr. H. E. Cardin<br />
Cleveland, Tennessee<br />
Avoiding<br />
The possible mantra is, “If you ignore it, it will go away.”<br />
This style is unassertive and not very cooperative. The<br />
positive aspects <strong>of</strong> an “avoiding” style are that it<br />
reduces stress, saves time, side-steps danger, and waits<br />
for better conditions. The negative aspects <strong>of</strong> this<br />
style are that it generates a loss <strong>of</strong> respect, builds<br />
potential resentment, or delays or creates a decline in the<br />
working relationship.<br />
Scripture talks about avoiding in several instances. If you<br />
see evil, and it will bring conflict, avoid it (Proverbs 4:14,<br />
15). Should you see where you might go head-to-head with<br />
someone causing trouble, avoid them (Romans 16:17). We
are also told to avoid vain rhetoric (1 Timothy 6:20), and<br />
avoid questions that create strife (2 Timothy 2:23; Titus 3:9).<br />
When might you consider avoidance? When the issues are<br />
unimportant. When the issues are really symptoms <strong>of</strong> other<br />
issues. When the issues are something someone else can<br />
handle. When issues are just too sensitive. When it’s an issue<br />
that you simply cannot win (a lose/lose situation).<br />
Should you respond with avoidance, exercise caution. Be<br />
careful to not be judgmental and blame others; control your<br />
anger, and stay focused on clearly declared goals. When you<br />
postpone, set the time. I remember a time that any degree<br />
<strong>of</strong> tension or conflict would arise during business meetings,<br />
the moderator would say, “We will table this at this time.” A<br />
mentor to me once said loudly, “How big is that table?” Set a<br />
time. Use humor to diffuse the tension.<br />
How do people avoid? They quit jobs, leave a church, lose<br />
contact, withdraw from participation, and become more<br />
absent. They give the appearance that they’re not aware<br />
(didn’t see, didn’t hear, hasn’t spoken).<br />
Dr. Fred Garmon <strong>of</strong> the Pentecostal Theological Seminary<br />
said that among <strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> ministers who were surveyed<br />
for their style <strong>of</strong> handling conflict, avoidance scored numberone<br />
(38.5 percent). Pastors who leave because <strong>of</strong> conflict<br />
were 29.2 percent. Of these, 42.1 percent will leave a second<br />
church. Those who would change pr<strong>of</strong>essions because <strong>of</strong><br />
conflict were 33.7 percent (Evangel, Volume 8, Number 3).<br />
Competing<br />
The possible mantra <strong>of</strong> those with this style <strong>of</strong> conflict<br />
resolution is, “My way or the highway.” This style is very<br />
assertive, but not very cooperative. The positive aspect <strong>of</strong><br />
this style is that a quick decision is reached. However, the<br />
negative aspects are many: feedback may not be given;<br />
low empowerment; reduced learning; restricted influence;<br />
indecision; slow to act; and low empowerment. The<br />
“competing” personality may be surrounded by “yes men”<br />
and have strained relationships with others.<br />
Scripture is used many times with the competing style:<br />
“Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit<br />
yourselves . . .” (Hebrews 13:17); “. . . but I would not stretch<br />
forth mine hand against the LORD’s anointed” (1 Samuel<br />
26:23); “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord,<br />
and not unto men” (Colossians 3:23); and “. . . there was also<br />
a strife among them, which <strong>of</strong> them should be accounted the<br />
greatest. And he said unto them, The kings <strong>of</strong><br />
the Gentiles exercise lordship over them . . .” (Luke 22:24, 25).<br />
When should you consider using the competing style?<br />
When there is only one response (based on polity, procedure,<br />
etc.). When an unpopular action needs to be taken. When<br />
a quick decision is needed. When consensus fails. When<br />
people are too reserved. You have asked for input, but little<br />
to nothing has been shared.<br />
If the competing style is used, be careful to lay the<br />
groundwork, explain your motives, appeal to shared concerns,<br />
be specific, be focused, be respectful, listen and respond,<br />
don’t threaten, and outline healthy boundaries.<br />
Accommodating<br />
The possible mantra <strong>of</strong> the accommodator is, “I really<br />
want to help.” This style is not very assertive and is quiet<br />
cooperative. The positive aspects are that it is greatly<br />
appreciated when help is needed, when harmony needs to<br />
be restored, when building relationships, and when you need<br />
a quick ending. The negative aspect is that it could lead to<br />
loss <strong>of</strong> respect. (“Just tell me what to do, and I’ll do it.”)<br />
The Bible speaks <strong>of</strong> accommodating in Romans 15:1: “We<br />
then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities <strong>of</strong> the weak,<br />
and not to please ourselves.” It is also addressed in Romans 12:21:<br />
“Be not overcome <strong>of</strong> evil, but overcome evil with good.” Other<br />
verses that touch on it include the following: “Let no man seek<br />
his own, but every man another’s wealth” (1 Corinthians 10:24)<br />
and “Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love;<br />
in honour preferring one another” (Romans 12:10). We are<br />
also reminded that Christ took “. . . upon him the form <strong>of</strong> a<br />
servant . . .” (Phillippians 2:7). Regarding lawsuits, Paul<br />
asks, “. . . Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be<br />
cheated?” (1 Corinthians 6:7 NIV).<br />
When might you consider accommodating? When you<br />
are doing a favor to help someone, when you have been<br />
persuaded, when you are obeying authority, when you<br />
are deferring to someone else’s experience, when you are<br />
appeasing someone who is dangerous, when you have been<br />
outvoted, when you have been convinced, or when you need<br />
to repair any damage you may have caused.<br />
Should you respond with accommodation, be careful to<br />
not be a sore loser. If you have wronged someone, apologize.<br />
Compromising<br />
The possible mantra is, “Let’s make a deal.” This is<br />
somewhat assertive and somewhat cooperative. The positive<br />
aspects <strong>of</strong> this style are that it can be faster, it can be fair,<br />
and it can help to maintain the relationship. Negative aspects<br />
include losing the big picture and compromising on items<br />
that shouldn’t be allowed. You could also lose long-term<br />
goals, and you could become cynical.<br />
In the Word, we are told to “submit yourselves one<br />
to another . . .” (Ephesians 5:21), “. . . live peaceably . . .”<br />
(Romans 12:18), and “. . . be ye transformed by the renewing<br />
<strong>of</strong> your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and<br />
acceptable, and perfect, will <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong>” (v. 2).<br />
When might you consider compromise? When people<br />
need to “save face,” to avoid embarrassment, when you<br />
need a temporary solution to a complex issue, when you<br />
need a quick decision, when being more assertive would<br />
harm relationships, or when other methods (competing,<br />
collaborating, etc.) have failed.<br />
WWM JUNE 2011 17
If you plan to compromise, there are things to consider.<br />
It’s very important to remember that compromising isn’t<br />
weakness. Make concessions as long as they are reciprocal.<br />
Insist on fairness up-front. Determine the facts as objectively<br />
as possible.<br />
Collaborating<br />
The final conflict style is a popular one for bringing peace<br />
into a situation. The collaborator’s possible mantra is, “Two<br />
heads are better than one.” This style is very assertive and<br />
very cooperative. Positive traits <strong>of</strong> collaborating mean<br />
that you will have a higher quality <strong>of</strong> a decision, be able<br />
to integrate a solution, learn by merging perspectives, and<br />
gain commitment. You can also move past the conflict to<br />
strengthen relationships. Collaborating creates a win-win<br />
atmosphere, and combines the insights so as to reach a<br />
richer understanding. Though this style is most encouraged,<br />
there are still possible negatives. You can spend too much<br />
time on trivial matters. Also, others may take advantage <strong>of</strong><br />
your spirit <strong>of</strong> cooperation, and you may wind up overloaded<br />
with work.<br />
The Bible tells us, “. . . how good and how pleasant it is<br />
for brethren to dwell together in unity” (Psalm 133:1), and<br />
instructs us to “. . . keep the unity <strong>of</strong> the Spirit in the bond<br />
<strong>of</strong> peace” (Ephesians 4:3). In the familiar passage <strong>of</strong> Romans<br />
8:28, “And we know that all things work together for good to<br />
them that love <strong>God</strong>, to them who are the called according to<br />
his purpose,” the phrase, “work together” is from the Greek<br />
sunergeo (soon-erg-eh’-o), where we get our word synergy.<br />
When should you consider collaborating? When both<br />
concerns are vital, when learning is needed, when there is<br />
a need to merge insights from diverse perspectives, when<br />
you need commitment to a decision (ownership), and when<br />
relationships need to be restored.<br />
Should you respond with collaboration, be careful to set<br />
the right tone when addressing the issue. Identify both sides<br />
<strong>of</strong> the concern, and state the conflict is a mutual problem.<br />
Encourage brainstorming, and then pick the best ideas<br />
from all. Be firm, but also allow for some flexibility. During<br />
collaboration, use “we” language without blaming. Listen<br />
rather than jump to conclusions. Restate the other person’s<br />
concern, showing your understanding. Stay away from<br />
language such as, “We need to . . .” or “We should. . . .”<br />
Instead, use phrases such as, “What if we were to . . .” or<br />
“Suppose we. . . .” Then agree on the best ideas. It’s also a<br />
good idea to use humor to ease the tension.<br />
In whatever conflict style you find yourself using, proceed<br />
with prayer. Realize that our enemy is ultimately not <strong>of</strong> this<br />
world, and his goal is to divide us. Be confident <strong>of</strong> your<br />
role as a leader in seeking the best possible solution to<br />
the conflict.<br />
________________<br />
For more information, visit “Ministry Helps” at www.<br />
tomlinsoncenter.com/ministryhelps.htm and see the many other<br />
items that address the subject <strong>of</strong> conflict.<br />
Need a greater understanding in dealing with conflict? Consider<br />
some <strong>of</strong> the CIMS courses <strong>of</strong>fered by the Tomlinson Center.<br />
Leading With Integrity: <strong>Church</strong> Leadership and Administration—A study <strong>of</strong> contemporary concepts <strong>of</strong> spiritual<br />
leadership with emphasis on scriptural models for varied administrative and leadership functions, including<br />
communication, decision-making, conflict management, delegation, financial accountability, stewardship, and<br />
operational procedures. Christ should be at the center <strong>of</strong> the leadership role. 2 CIMS credits. The portion dealing<br />
with conflict resolution includes Conflict Is Universal; Unresolved Conflict Escalates; Poor Communication Causes<br />
Conflict; A Model for Conflict Resolution, Part 1 and 2 by Dr. Mary Ruth Stone.<br />
Helping People in Crisis; Pastoral Care and Counseling—A study <strong>of</strong> helping skills for pastors. This course reviews<br />
basic counseling principles in working with people in crisis situations, in times <strong>of</strong> grief, and in times <strong>of</strong> death and<br />
dying. The course also reviews referral opportunities, community resources, and ethical guidelines, including<br />
confidentiality and reportable <strong>of</strong>fenses. 2 CIMS credits. The portion dealing with conflict resolution includes<br />
Marital Crisis—Covenant and Marriage and Marital Crisis—Conflict and Marriage by Dr. John Vining.<br />
Understanding Yourself and Others: Understanding Human Behavior—An introduction to the study <strong>of</strong> human<br />
personality and behavior from a Christian perspective. The goal <strong>of</strong> such a study is to help the student to attain a<br />
better self-understanding and to gain a knowledge <strong>of</strong> the personality attributes <strong>of</strong> the individuals with whom he or<br />
she interacts. 1 CIMS credit. The portion dealing with conflict resolution includes Conflict Resolution, Part 1 and 2<br />
by Dr. Paul Conn.<br />
Take these courses for credit, and learn how to have them transferred for full college credit.<br />
Visit tomlinsoncenter.org for more information.<br />
18 WWM JUNE 2011 WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
Is Your <strong>Church</strong> Fiscally Fit?<br />
Is your church fiscally fit? To<br />
determine whether or not it is, you<br />
must look at the average <strong>of</strong> giving in<br />
relation to your attendance. A rule <strong>of</strong><br />
thumb minimum, as a starting point,<br />
is $1,200 per person for the highest<br />
weekly gathering, which is usually<br />
Sunday morning. If your Sunday<br />
morning attendance is 150, your<br />
reference point to see if your church<br />
is fiscally fit is $180,000 per year.<br />
Anything less than this is a wakeup<br />
call for you to teach and preach<br />
stewardship as soon as possible.<br />
A strong local church will experience<br />
generosity from people who give freely,<br />
joyously, regularly, expectantly, and<br />
even sacrificially. Good stewardship<br />
doesn’t just happen, nor is it developed<br />
in a vacuum.<br />
There are three foundation stones<br />
upon which a fiscally sound and<br />
strong church is built:<br />
1. People are experiencing a<br />
deeper commitment to Christ in dayto-day<br />
living. Stewardship is so<br />
important because it reveals outwardly<br />
what’s inward. Sound churches<br />
are filled with committed believers<br />
who are continuously growing in<br />
their spirituality and discipleship.<br />
Obedience and faithfulness prevail<br />
over personal agendas with a “what’s<br />
in it for me” attitude. Generosity was<br />
the first genuine response to the<br />
outpouring <strong>of</strong> the Holy Spirit.<br />
“And when they had prayed, the<br />
place in which they were gathered<br />
together was shaken, and they were<br />
all filled with the Holy Spirit and<br />
continued to speak the word <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong><br />
with boldness. Now the full number<br />
<strong>of</strong> those who believed were <strong>of</strong> one<br />
heart and soul, and no one said<br />
that any <strong>of</strong> the things that belonged<br />
to him was his own, but they had<br />
everything in common” (Acts 4:31, 32).<br />
When they were all filled with<br />
the Holy Ghost, they immediately<br />
lived out the bedrock stewardship<br />
teaching that <strong>God</strong> is the owner <strong>of</strong><br />
everything. They were able to be very<br />
generous because they no longer saw<br />
themselves as owners. Everything<br />
they had became available to <strong>God</strong><br />
and others. Their hands opened over<br />
all that had been placed in them—no<br />
grasping, possessing, and locking up.<br />
2. There is a clear and compelling<br />
vision <strong>of</strong> what <strong>God</strong> is calling the<br />
church to be and to do. The mission<br />
statement <strong>of</strong> your church must be<br />
more than a cliché. It must be more<br />
than ink on paper or projection <strong>of</strong><br />
the PowerPoint statement. Prayer<br />
and fasting have identified <strong>God</strong>’s<br />
vision for your church so clearly, it is<br />
easily articulated to the even casual<br />
attendant. People will give to vision,<br />
especially when it has been formed<br />
from <strong>God</strong>’s heart. Everyone delights in<br />
partnering with a passionate, fulfilling<br />
ministry that is changing lives and<br />
making a difference in where people<br />
spend eternity.<br />
3. There is a high level <strong>of</strong> trust that<br />
leadership is handling the finances<br />
in a <strong>God</strong>-honoring way. An effective<br />
finance and stewardship committee<br />
that consists <strong>of</strong> a true representative<br />
<strong>of</strong> the church is at work. A budget<br />
that is driven by the vision is the<br />
centerpiece <strong>of</strong> a church that operates<br />
with a level <strong>of</strong> openness that leaves<br />
no room for lack <strong>of</strong><br />
accountability. A budget<br />
that stretches with faith,<br />
yet is realistic, communicates<br />
that good stewardship is<br />
practiced at all levels in all areas<br />
<strong>of</strong> ministry. Every member can<br />
know how much money comes into<br />
the church, how it is used, and the<br />
results realized. Safeguards such<br />
as two <strong>of</strong>fering counters and two<br />
authorizations <strong>of</strong> each check are<br />
in place.<br />
Strong churches are a reflection <strong>of</strong><br />
strong leaders and strong decisions. A<br />
strong church recognizes its work is<br />
not done until the people are handling<br />
their money, time, and talents according<br />
to biblical principles. An annual<br />
stewardship emphasis month that<br />
teaches children, youth, and new<br />
converts tithing and giving is on the<br />
calendar. Stewardship is a year-round<br />
part <strong>of</strong> the ongoing discipleship<br />
ministry as well. Bible studies and<br />
small group ministries help people to<br />
discover their motivational gift with<br />
an in-depth study <strong>of</strong> Romans 12:6–8.<br />
In strong churches, people are<br />
taught to live by <strong>God</strong>’s principles such<br />
as tithing first fruits, minimizing debt,<br />
and giving sacrificially. No church can<br />
be strong if the biblical mandate for<br />
good stewardship is feared, ignored,<br />
and neglected. The pastor must put<br />
forth the vision. A stewardship director<br />
would also be a good addition to the<br />
core <strong>of</strong> the church’s leadership team.<br />
Jan Couch<br />
Stewardship Ministries<br />
Director<br />
WWM JUNE 2011 19
More than 1,200 youth and youth workers from the Caribbean and all over North America gathered at the Marriott<br />
World Center, Orlando, Florida, for the <strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Prophecy</strong> International Youth Conference March 25–27, 2011.<br />
The conference’s dynamic, four-fold theme, “Discern, Develop, Devote, Deliver” served as a strategic building block for<br />
creating the four-dimension youth. Each Spirit-filled session was designed to engage and prepare today’s youth. Friday<br />
night spotlighted “Discern,” Saturday morning focused on “Develop,” Saturday night promoted “Devote,” and Sunday<br />
morning concluded with “Deliver.”<br />
With great expectations and enthusiasm, Friday morning registration was a grand success. The youth <strong>of</strong> the church<br />
were ready to EMERGE to a higher level in <strong>God</strong> and in ministry. The vision for the conference was to have an encounter<br />
with <strong>God</strong>, allow Him to reveal His call in the lives <strong>of</strong> His youth, and be released to fulfill that calling in the world.<br />
Angélica Maria Dorantes, Chile, said, “Wow, Emerge was a beautiful experience that I’m still remembering 4D. My<br />
husband and I are grateful to <strong>God</strong> for the opportunity to attend Emerge, to see young people with high skills, preaching,<br />
teaching, prayer, and praise, beautiful talents, and a beautiful feast. We shared with many young people from different<br />
latitudes together with the sole purpose <strong>of</strong> learning, sharing, proclaiming, and blessing the name <strong>of</strong> our <strong>God</strong>.”<br />
Gospel Worship Pastor <strong>of</strong> Destiny <strong>Church</strong>, Texas, Freddy Rodriguez evoked the presence <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> on Friday night and<br />
for the remainder <strong>of</strong> the weekend. The atmosphere was filled with pure worship and adoration as he was led by the<br />
Holy Spirit. He sang songs like, “I Will Run,” “You Make All Things New,” “How He Loves Us,” and “Wrap Me in Your<br />
Arms” among others.<br />
Master Illusionist Harris III blew the audience away as he displayed how easily people can be deceived. Through his<br />
purposeful performance, he reminded the youth to walk by faith and not by sight.<br />
As the weekend was filled with diversity in the body <strong>of</strong> Christ, Rhema Soul, Gospel HIP HOP Sensation rocked the<br />
conference room. They brought their own flavor and style. Some youth were seen bouncing and nodding their heads as<br />
they ministered.<br />
Who could forget the children? The children’s ministry had Spirit-filled and dynamic sessions throughout Emerge. The<br />
kids were energized and excited about praise and worship, the Word, and other engaging activities like balloon-twisting<br />
and juggling.<br />
20 WWM JUNE 2011 WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
Setting the pace for the conference, the first speaker was<br />
Robert Madu from Texas. His message was based on discerning<br />
your gifts from <strong>God</strong>. “There are three people that want our gift:<br />
<strong>God</strong> wants our gift, the enemy wants our gift, and other people<br />
want our gift.” How do you determine your gift? These are the<br />
steps: “Identify what you like to do: What comes easy to you<br />
that is hard for others? What do other people like about you?”<br />
Madu said.<br />
Saturday morning was a series <strong>of</strong> holistic workshops peaking<br />
the interest <strong>of</strong> all in attendance. It was clear that some people<br />
could not make up their minds on which workshop to attend<br />
while others were very passionate and knew exactly where they<br />
wanted to go. There were power-packed sessions such as, “Warfare<br />
Praise Dance,” “Spiritual Warfare,” “He Has Called You,” “Friends<br />
With Benefits,” “Successful Me,” “Cultivating Your Call to<br />
Preach,” “I’m a Missionary,” and “Gym Shoes and Tired Knees.”<br />
As the <strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Prophecy</strong> core values are to glorify<br />
<strong>God</strong> through prayer, harvest, and leadership development,<br />
it was a great honor to have the General Overseer, Randall<br />
Howard, in attendance at the conference. He also conducted an<br />
enlightening and empowering workshop under the theme, “Your<br />
Spiritual Life.”<br />
On Saturday night, eyes were closed, hands lifted, and hearts<br />
chased after <strong>God</strong> as renowned Gospel Recording Artist William<br />
McDowell ministered his hits, “I Give Myself Away” and “We Say<br />
Yes.” His ministry brought a shift in the service, and the Word <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>God</strong> was brought through His servant, Jerry Chalk, from Ukraine.<br />
Chalk challenged the young people to encounter <strong>God</strong> because<br />
“Your calling becomes your challenge to change your world,<br />
your encounter brings your confirmation, your encounter brings<br />
your transformation, and your transformation brings <strong>God</strong>’s<br />
desire in your life,” he said.<br />
After Saturday night’s General Session, there was an “After-<br />
Glow.” Gifted youth from the represented countries hit the stage<br />
and displayed their unique talents. A memorable moment was<br />
when The British Virgin Islands Worship Team “caught a fire,”<br />
and the youth were so blessed by their ministry that they left<br />
the conference room singing praises to <strong>God</strong>.<br />
On Sunday morning, the final session <strong>of</strong> the conference was<br />
powerful. Rodriguez was accompanied by a Worship Ministry<br />
Ensemble, and there was a dynamic drama presentation by<br />
Battlefront Ministries. Trevor Reid, International Youth Co-<br />
Director, released the youth to deliver through the Word. He<br />
said, “This army will deliver, heal, prophesy, be visionaries,<br />
anointed, and powerful. No weapon formed against us could<br />
prosper, we are a mighty army.”<br />
Chains were broken, lives were healed, eyes were opened, and<br />
Christ was revealed. After the four-dimension weekend, the goals<br />
<strong>of</strong> the conference were achieved. Gifts were stirred up, the call<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> was acknowledged, and tools were provided to nurture<br />
the call. Operation Omega Youth Ministries has EMERGED!<br />
—Katherine Beneby II<br />
<strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Prophecy</strong> (Bahamas)<br />
WWM JUNE 2011 21
Children Bring<br />
Strength to the<br />
Local <strong>Church</strong><br />
One <strong>of</strong> the greatest resources available to the<br />
local church is the contribution made by a child<br />
servant. Many <strong>of</strong> us focus on the responsibility<br />
that we have to minister to children. While this<br />
is certainly a necessary and biblical pursuit, we<br />
must not forget another part <strong>of</strong> the equation.<br />
<strong>God</strong> is calling children to minister and bring<br />
strength to the local church. It is not necessary<br />
to wait until our children reach maturity before<br />
they are used by <strong>God</strong>. Children have so much to<br />
<strong>of</strong>fer, and it is time to capitalize on it. One needs<br />
to look no further than the child Samuel to see<br />
what <strong>God</strong> can do, not only for the young harvest<br />
but through the young harvest.<br />
The Dedication<br />
<strong>of</strong> Children Causes<br />
the Dedication<br />
<strong>of</strong> Parents.<br />
Samuel’s mother Hannah vowed, saying, “. . .<br />
remember me, and not forget thine handmaid,<br />
but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child,<br />
then I will give him unto the Lord all the days<br />
<strong>of</strong> his life . . .” (1 Samuel 1:11). A year after<br />
Hannah’s prayer, Samuel was born. Two years<br />
later, Hannah dedicated her son to the Lord.<br />
Samuel was not the only person who was<br />
dedicated that day. The mother’s commitment<br />
to <strong>God</strong> was so influenced by this child that she<br />
gave him back to <strong>God</strong> for His service. Her life was<br />
changed! Children have a way <strong>of</strong> influencing their<br />
parents in this way. Focusing on the spiritual<br />
needs <strong>of</strong> children not only blesses them, but it<br />
blesses us.<br />
Children hear<br />
the voice <strong>of</strong> god.<br />
Samuel heard <strong>God</strong>’s voice, but his<br />
inexperience led him to the Priest Eli to answer<br />
the call. This young child said yes, even before he<br />
knew who he was answering. He was listening;<br />
he was eager to be obedient and to serve. He<br />
eventually discovered it was the call <strong>of</strong> the Lord,<br />
not the call <strong>of</strong> the priest that he was hearing.<br />
<strong>God</strong> is still calling children for His service, and<br />
they are willing to say yes with no questions<br />
asked. Children are energetic servants, capable<br />
<strong>of</strong> hearing from the Lord. Now, consider what<br />
would have happened if Eli had discouraged<br />
Samuel’s experience. Eli could have very easily<br />
discounted what Samuel was hearing by saying,<br />
“You are just too young.” However, Eli said,<br />
“Go, lie down: and it shall be, if he calls thee,<br />
that thou shalt say, Speak, Lord, for thy servant<br />
heareth . . .” (3:9). For every modern-day Samuel,<br />
<strong>God</strong> has selected an Eli that will encourage the<br />
child to be obedient by saying “yes.”<br />
children Speak<br />
the word <strong>of</strong> god.<br />
When Samuel did as Eli instructed him,<br />
the Lord told Samuel about the things He<br />
22 WWM JUNE 2011 WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
was going to do in Eli’s house. Eli’s sons<br />
were unrestrained, and judgment was<br />
coming. Even though Eli had been told this<br />
previously by the Lord, when the words<br />
were spoken by the child Samuel, Eli was<br />
willing to listen. When Samuel spoke, Eli<br />
confessed, “He is the LORD; let him do<br />
what is good in his eyes” (v. 18 NIV). It took<br />
the words <strong>of</strong> a child to bring the message<br />
home to Eli. <strong>God</strong> used Samuel long before<br />
he was recognized as a prophet. <strong>God</strong><br />
will use honest, unassuming children to<br />
speak His truths to us if we will only listen.<br />
Perfect praise can come through children<br />
as evidenced in Matthew 21:16: “Out <strong>of</strong><br />
the mouth <strong>of</strong> babes and sucklings thou hast<br />
perfected praise.”<br />
<strong>Church</strong>es that make room for children<br />
to minister have hope. Children are more<br />
than capable <strong>of</strong> leading us in the Word<br />
and worship. We must simply learn to look<br />
and listen for what <strong>God</strong> is saying to and<br />
through them.<br />
Jeff <strong>White</strong><br />
Greenville, South Carolina<br />
Make plans now to attend<br />
the 2011 Institute <strong>of</strong><br />
Children’s Ministry.<br />
September 22–25, 2011<br />
Ridgecrest, North Carolina<br />
Reasons Children Are<br />
Essential to a Healthy<br />
Local <strong>Church</strong><br />
4<br />
1. Serving children in the local church is an opportunity to<br />
serve Christ Himself. “And whoever welcomes a little child<br />
like this in my name welcomes me” (Matthew 18:5 NIV).<br />
2. Children assure the future <strong>of</strong> the local church (Judges 2:10;<br />
Psalm 78:1–7). Neil Postman said, “Children are the living<br />
messages we send to a time we will not see.”<br />
3. Children are the reservoir from which the local church will<br />
draw future ministry leaders. If the local church effectively<br />
disciples its children, within ten years there will be an<br />
overflowing reservoir <strong>of</strong> leaders to serve in the local<br />
church and to send out from the local church.<br />
4. Believing children are gifted by the Holy Spirit just as<br />
adults are. When their ministry gifts are recognized,<br />
developed, and released, they will be used to bring the<br />
body <strong>of</strong> believers into unity and spiritual maturity<br />
(Ephesians 4:11–16).<br />
• Grow in your ability to lead from a place <strong>of</strong> spiritual<br />
and emotional health.<br />
• Discover ways to lead up, influencing your senior<br />
pastor and those who serve alongside you.<br />
• Become better equipped to lead children’s ministry<br />
strategically, creatively, and relationally.<br />
• Learn ways you can lead families in creating faith<br />
environments in their homes.<br />
Skilled leaders are essential to the<br />
accomplishment <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong>’s purposes in<br />
the lives <strong>of</strong> our children.<br />
For more information, visit the Children’s<br />
Ministry website at http://children.cogop.org.<br />
WWM JUNE 2011 23
Vision 2020: For Such A Time As This<br />
Guest Speakers<br />
Randy Howard,<br />
General Overseer<br />
Trevor Reid,<br />
International Youth<br />
Ministries Co-Director<br />
Pastors and Pastors’ Wives Conference<br />
September 26-29, 2011<br />
Clarion Hotel, Tegucigalpa, Honduras<br />
Benjamin Feliz,<br />
Central America<br />
General Presbyter<br />
Kathy Creasy,<br />
International Children’s<br />
Ministries Director<br />
Receive training and ministry from quality, proven leaders on the following topics:<br />
• <strong>Church</strong> Growth<br />
• Discipleship<br />
• Missions<br />
• Children’s Ministries<br />
Sam Clements,<br />
North America<br />
General Presbyter<br />
José Garcia,<br />
California State<br />
Overseer<br />
Registration<br />
$250/per person at Clarion Hotel, two to a room ($475 for married couples)<br />
For special arrangements, contact Damaris Feliz at (423) 559-5521 or dfeliz@cogop.org.<br />
Register by completing the form below or online at www.cogop.org/hondurasconference.<br />
REGISTRATION FORM (Must be postmarked by July 1, 2011)<br />
Name: ______________________________________________________________________________________________<br />
Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________<br />
City: _______________________________ State: _____________ Zip:_________ E-mail: __________________________<br />
Accommodations: ___ Hotel ($250/person or $475/married couple)<br />
Payment Enclosed: ___ Check ___ Money Order<br />
Gabriel E. Vidal,<br />
South America<br />
General Presbyter<br />
No picture<br />
available<br />
Mario Vega,<br />
Pastor <strong>of</strong> Christian<br />
Elim, El Salvador<br />
David Bryan, Global<br />
Outreach Ministries<br />
Director<br />
No picture<br />
available<br />
Rene Peñalba, Pastor<br />
<strong>of</strong> Central Christian<br />
International <strong>Church</strong><br />
• Youth Ministry<br />
• Prayer<br />
• Leadership Development<br />
• Holiness<br />
Hector Ortiz, Center<br />
for Biblical Leadership<br />
Director<br />
No picture<br />
available<br />
Edmundo Guillen,<br />
Pastor <strong>of</strong> Lluvia de<br />
Gracia, Honduras<br />
Return to:<br />
<strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Prophecy</strong> International Offices<br />
Central America General Presbyter’s Office<br />
P.O. Box 2910<br />
24 WWM JUNE 2011 Cleveland, TN 37320-2910 WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
European Area-Wide Ladies Retreat<br />
Cyprus<br />
Every other year, the International<br />
Ladies Retreat team is blessed to join women<br />
from the nations <strong>of</strong> Europe, Eastern Europe, and the Middle<br />
East for a celebration <strong>of</strong> ministry. This year, the nation <strong>of</strong><br />
Cyprus hosted the bi-annual event at the Palm Beach Hotel in<br />
Larnaca. The team <strong>of</strong> ministry included Soula Charalambous,<br />
Wanda Endecott, Judy Gregorio, Lyena Chalk, Athena Petrou,<br />
Loula Petrides, Diana Hutch, Donna Howard, myself and<br />
my husband, John, and all the national leaders from the<br />
nations <strong>of</strong> Europe, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. We<br />
were blessed to have our General Presbyter, Bishop Clayton<br />
Endecott, and the Presiding Bishops <strong>of</strong> five nations to join us<br />
(Cyprus, Egypt, Bosnia Herzegovina/Italy/Macedonia/Malta,<br />
Germany, and Greece).<br />
The Friday evening service began with a powerful manifestation<br />
<strong>of</strong> the presence <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> through celebration and worship. We<br />
also celebrated the supernatural healing and restoration <strong>of</strong><br />
Ximo Gregorio, and the attendance <strong>of</strong> Samir and Eatedal Rizk<br />
from a chaotic and violent national crisis in Egypt. As these<br />
and others began to testify about the work <strong>of</strong> the Spirit in<br />
their lives, ministries, and nations, faith began to rise.<br />
Saturday began with the ministry <strong>of</strong> Diana Hutch<br />
(Columbus, Ohio), Donna Howard (Odenville, Alabama) and<br />
Soula Charambous (Larnaca, Greece) and continued into<br />
the evening with the testimonies <strong>of</strong> the miraculous work <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>God</strong> throughout the nations as each national leader <strong>of</strong> this<br />
Samir and Eatedal Rizk<br />
region shared. The evening continued with celebration and<br />
miracles as prayer led us to witness the power <strong>of</strong> salvation,<br />
sanctification, Spirit baptism, healing, restoration, provision,<br />
and many other blessings and works <strong>of</strong> the Spirit.<br />
As we gathered Sunday morning for our last service<br />
together, the witness <strong>of</strong> the Lord came, and we were once<br />
again ushered into His presence as He worked among us.<br />
Our special thanks go to Bishop and Sister Charalambous<br />
and their national staff as the host nation for organizing<br />
a beautiful conference site and extending a warm and<br />
loving welcome.<br />
Shortly after this retreat, we received the news <strong>of</strong> the<br />
unexpected death <strong>of</strong> Tetyana (Tanya) Voznyuk, the wife <strong>of</strong> our<br />
Presiding Bishop in Ukraine and co-pastor <strong>of</strong> our local church<br />
in Kiev. Tanya’s investment in and influence through the<br />
women’s retreat/conference ministry has been amazing and<br />
life-impacting. Within her own nation, she had become an<br />
example <strong>of</strong> creative, anointed, and excellent ministry. While<br />
we mourn her departure from earth, heaven rejoices in her<br />
victorious arrival in eternity.<br />
Cathy Payne<br />
Women’s Ministries<br />
Director<br />
Tetyana (Tanya) Voznyuk, far right<br />
Ximo Gregorio<br />
WWM JUNE 2011 25
It’s Not<br />
What I Do . . .<br />
It’s Who<br />
I Am<br />
Recently, an incident happened<br />
that brought me to a pr<strong>of</strong>ound<br />
realization <strong>of</strong> what being a minister is<br />
all about.<br />
I had a full day planned. This is not<br />
so unusual, but the way it unfolded<br />
led me to what I like to call a “divine<br />
appointment.” I started out my<br />
morning at Vanderbilt University<br />
Hospital with a visit to one <strong>of</strong> our<br />
friends, Bill, who had been taken<br />
there in the middle <strong>of</strong> the night<br />
by ambulance. He had been in the<br />
emergency room all night long, and<br />
his family waited anxiously to hear a<br />
diagnosis from the doctors.<br />
I left there and started on my way<br />
home. I needed to be in Cleveland by<br />
4:00 p.m. that afternoon, and it is a<br />
three and one-half hour drive.<br />
Earlier, I had ordered a specific book<br />
from Amazon.com that I needed for<br />
research, and it had not yet arrived,<br />
so I decided to visit Barnes and Noble.<br />
After walking to the section where<br />
the book should have been, I decided<br />
to go to the information desk and ask<br />
if they had it in stock. There was an<br />
older man standing at the information<br />
desk asking about a book, and the<br />
clerk could not seem to find it in<br />
their system. I waited patiently and<br />
overheard the man give the name<br />
<strong>of</strong> the author. It was a name I had<br />
been familiar with since studying<br />
this author more than 20 years ago<br />
in college.<br />
I said, “Excuse me, I don’t mean<br />
to intrude, but I believe I can help<br />
you with this.” The man turned and<br />
said, “Please do.” I then stated, “That<br />
book has probably been out <strong>of</strong> print<br />
for many years, and you will have a<br />
hard time finding it. It was probably<br />
published before World War I.”<br />
The clerk then said, “Do you know<br />
the author’s name?” “Yes,” I replied<br />
and shared it with her. She typed<br />
the name <strong>of</strong> the author in, and the<br />
computer pulled up the title <strong>of</strong> the<br />
book and the author’s other works<br />
and excitedly said, “It was published<br />
in 1918; you were right.” Then she<br />
said to me, “He is looking for a book<br />
to give as a gift to his granddaughter.”<br />
This man then looked at me, and<br />
his face saddened. He said, “It’s not<br />
really for my granddaughter, it’s for<br />
me. I am trying to find a book that will<br />
26 WWM JUNE 2011 WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
help me find <strong>God</strong>. I can’t seem to find<br />
anything here.”<br />
I looked around the large store<br />
(I must admit it was on purpose and<br />
a bit dramatic), and I said, “Do you<br />
see all <strong>of</strong> these books in this store?<br />
There are thousands.” I then said,<br />
“I know the <strong>God</strong> that gave all <strong>of</strong> this<br />
knowledge, and in fact there aren’t<br />
enough books to contain Him.”<br />
A huge tear dropped down the<br />
man’s cheek as he said, “I just don’t<br />
understand.” I smiled and said, “May I<br />
share something with you?”<br />
By now, the other staff had<br />
begun to gather at the information<br />
desk. Three ladies were watching<br />
intently and listening to every word. I<br />
continued, “Sir, what is your name?”<br />
“John,” he answered. I said, “Well,<br />
John, let me tell you the two basic<br />
truths about all true theology.”<br />
I continued, “First, <strong>God</strong> is. He<br />
exists; He is real. And second, you can<br />
find Him.” At that point, he said, “I’ve<br />
tried a lot <strong>of</strong> churches—Evangelical,<br />
Lutheran, Catholic, even Pentecostal,<br />
but I can only find a lot <strong>of</strong> noise.<br />
Nothing is speaking clearly with me.<br />
I am lost.”<br />
I then said, “John, I am not talking<br />
about religion. I am talking about a<br />
real relationship with the true and<br />
living <strong>God</strong>, and He wants you to<br />
know Him. He wants you to know<br />
Him personally.”<br />
By now, John’s tears were flowing<br />
freely, and the women around the<br />
counter hadn’t moved. Now, there<br />
were two other individuals standing<br />
behind me, and I noticed they were<br />
paying attention to every word. I<br />
said, “John, can I pray with you?” His<br />
answer was the one I expected and<br />
the one I hoped for: “Yes, please.”<br />
As I placed my hand on his shoulder<br />
and began to bless him, John met the<br />
Lord right there in the middle <strong>of</strong> the<br />
store. To <strong>God</strong> be the glory!<br />
After spending a little more time<br />
with John and sharing good resources<br />
for his newfound faith, he said, “I’ve<br />
found what I was looking for. I can’t<br />
believe you were standing right<br />
there when I was searching for an<br />
answer.” My reply was simple. “John,<br />
that’s just how much <strong>God</strong> loves you.<br />
He had a divine appointment with<br />
you today.”<br />
After John left, the woman said,<br />
“Is there a book you were looking<br />
for?” I said, “Yes, but I doubt you<br />
have it in stock.” She checked and<br />
found they did not have it. I realized<br />
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cci.arearep@yahoo.com<br />
that the search for a book was never<br />
the object <strong>of</strong> the trip to Barnes and<br />
Noble. John was the object <strong>of</strong> the<br />
search, and the Good Shepherd found<br />
John there.<br />
Later in the afternoon, I made the<br />
trip to Cleveland for the memorial<br />
service <strong>of</strong> a great man <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong>, Bishop<br />
Henry Biggers.<br />
As I sat in the church, listening to<br />
the songs, listening to the sermon,<br />
and looking around the room at the<br />
multitude <strong>of</strong> ministers both active<br />
and retired, the thought <strong>of</strong> my<br />
encounter with John that day was<br />
fresh in my mind. I realized that so<br />
much is expected <strong>of</strong> ministers, but<br />
the recurring thought kept coming to<br />
my mind: This is not what I do . . . it’s<br />
who I am.<br />
And so it is with all <strong>of</strong> us who carry<br />
the Gospel <strong>of</strong> Jesus Christ. We care<br />
for His people because it’s not what<br />
we do . . . it’s who we are.<br />
E. C. McKinley<br />
State Overseer <strong>of</strong> Tennessee<br />
Hendersonville, Tennessee<br />
WWM JUNE 2011 27
NEWSHere &There<br />
Called Out <strong>of</strong> Darkness<br />
Tameka Scotton Shares Story <strong>of</strong> Healing<br />
Tameka Scotton knows what it means to come out <strong>of</strong> the darkness and “. . . into His marvellous light”<br />
(1 Peter 2:9). And she wants everyone to know it.<br />
Longtime COGOP members and delegates <strong>of</strong> the International Assembly are familiar with the 39-year-old.<br />
Tameka, an alumnus <strong>of</strong> Tomlinson College and the daughter <strong>of</strong> Ron and Gladys Scotton, has ministered in<br />
churches and events through North America and beyond with her amazing musical talents.<br />
On December 3, 2010, however, her life changed. In recovery for a routine medical procedure, Tameka’s<br />
heart stopped. Although she was revived, she also suffered a stroke, adding to an already grave situation. With<br />
her family and friends at her side, Tameka began a long journey back to her normal life, most notably with her<br />
eyesight, which had been impaired because <strong>of</strong> the stroke. “I was unable to see anything,” she said. “I was in<br />
darkness. And yet the Lord told me this was happening for reasons. That caused me to be still and be at peace.”<br />
In therapy, Tameka became familiar with her medical records, as a way <strong>of</strong> coming to terms with what<br />
happened. As she questioned the listing <strong>of</strong> “slow heart rate, flat line, and PEA,” she discovered that it meant<br />
“pulseless electronic activity.” “That hit me so hard,” she said. “I had died. When I realized that, I just walked<br />
into a private room and cried.” Still, in the midst <strong>of</strong> that fear, Tameka proclaimed, “I died, but <strong>God</strong> . . . I just<br />
have to thank Him for reviving me. He didn’t have to do that, but He did.”<br />
Although Tameka still has a few hurdles yet to cross, including white spots in her vision and settling back at<br />
her own home, she is grateful for the hand <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> she felt even through the darkness. She is also overcome<br />
with emotion when speaking <strong>of</strong> the support <strong>of</strong> her family, friends, and church that rallied behind her in prayer.<br />
“<strong>God</strong> is real, and He allowed a chain <strong>of</strong> prayers to go across the world on my behalf,” she said. “I want the<br />
people to know that the prayers have been and are being answered. Thank you everyone for the calls, prayers,<br />
hugs from a distance, whatever your contribution. To <strong>God</strong> be the glory!”<br />
FINLAND CONGO<br />
Revival Meetings Spark<br />
Members’ Deliverance<br />
We had a wonderful week with Joseph “Bo” Robinson and<br />
David Smith. We had special meetings in which our theme<br />
was Luke 4:18, 19—“Let the People Be Delivered!” This was<br />
definitely happening there. People were prayed for, and<br />
they found deliverance in Jesus. We had four meetings and<br />
approximately 70 different persons in attendance.<br />
Bo and David ministered to our leadership team as well, and<br />
that was very encouraging. <strong>God</strong> gave wisdom and direction<br />
to us. We are so thankful for Bo and David and for those who<br />
made it financially possible for them to come.<br />
Some special prayer requests: Pray for the local church to be<br />
birthed in Hameenlinna. Pray for the meeting place for monthly<br />
worship services. Pray for wisdom on how to reach people in<br />
Hameenlinna. Pray for common, united vision. Pray for three<br />
young leaders, who are going to attend a youth camp and<br />
training in the U.S. next June. Pray for the new believers, new<br />
disciples, and new members. Pray that barrenness will be over<br />
and that <strong>God</strong> will give a great harvest for us here.<br />
—Tapio Sätilä, Overseer <strong>of</strong> Finland<br />
28 WWM JUNE 2011<br />
LOCAL/STATE/INTERNATIONAL<br />
New <strong>Church</strong>-Plants and New Believers<br />
Congo Brazzaville National Overseer Jean Pierre Mukendi<br />
reports that new churches are being organized in Epinansa with<br />
a founding membership <strong>of</strong> 50 and the <strong>of</strong>ficial organization <strong>of</strong><br />
the church in Elouna with 96 members. Bishop Mukendi stated,<br />
“We were told the <strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Prophecy</strong> is the first church<br />
in the area and that I am the first missionary to come to Elouna.<br />
Praise <strong>God</strong>!”<br />
During a series <strong>of</strong> services in the Okah Village, Bishop<br />
Mukendi was approached by a woman who repented <strong>of</strong><br />
practicing sorcery. She told him, “My father was a great killer<br />
sorcerer, and me and my brothers and sisters were brought<br />
up in sorcerer practice. Our father put by food something in<br />
my womb and those <strong>of</strong> my sisters, which troubles and makes<br />
us suffer a lot. Every night, we go in forest and enter in deep<br />
pit to practice witchcraft. The <strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>Prophecy</strong> is my<br />
first church to attend, and I confess and repent because I the<br />
sorcerer and prostitute girl, I want from today [to] receive Jesus<br />
Christ and to be saved and healed.”<br />
WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
MASSACHUSETTS<br />
New Spanish<br />
<strong>Church</strong>-Plant<br />
Saturday, March 26, 2011, in the city <strong>of</strong><br />
Springfield, Massachusetts, a new <strong>Church</strong><br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Prophecy</strong> was organized in the<br />
Northeast Hispanic Region, District 1. This<br />
is the 47th church in the region; it was<br />
established thanks to the work and efforts<br />
<strong>of</strong> Pastor Henry García and his family,<br />
who sowed <strong>God</strong>’s Word in hungry hearts<br />
and began meeting through Bible studies<br />
and services in homes with a group <strong>of</strong><br />
brothers and sisters.<br />
Bishop Rahadamés Matos, Regional<br />
Overseer, and Pastor José Ferreras,<br />
District Overseer, were present at the<br />
inauguration and were able to enjoy with<br />
us a service full <strong>of</strong> worship and joy<br />
for what our Lord is doing in the region.<br />
Several pastors and representatives <strong>of</strong> the<br />
local churches in the region honored this<br />
celebration with their presence. Bishop<br />
Anastasio Matamoros, pastor <strong>of</strong> the church<br />
GEORGIA ALABAMA<br />
Pastor Reports Healing <strong>of</strong> Leukemia<br />
I wanted to take a minute and share with you what<br />
happened in our Sunday morning service. During the altar call, a<br />
grandmother asked that we pray for her four-year-old grandson<br />
who had been diagnosed with leukemia. They had found 13<br />
lumps on his body and were scheduled to go back to the doctor<br />
to discuss treatment and to run more tests. She was able to<br />
bring him to church, and we got him out <strong>of</strong> children’s church<br />
to be anointed and prayed for. He went back to the doctor<br />
again, and most <strong>of</strong> the lumps had already disappeared, and the<br />
rest were dissolving away! I felt so strongly in my spirit while<br />
we prayed for him that he had been healed, and by faith we<br />
declared that during the service.<br />
Part <strong>of</strong> this was so amazing to me because the little boy’s<br />
name was Joshua. My little brother’s name is also Joshua, and<br />
he was diagnosed and healed <strong>of</strong> leukemia at almost the same<br />
exact age. I remember as I prayed for him, I said, “<strong>God</strong>, I have<br />
seen You do this once before, and I believe You can and will do it<br />
again!” Praise <strong>God</strong> for His infinite mercy!<br />
—Pastor Jonathan Brown, Claxton COGOP<br />
in Georgetown, Delaware, delivered a<br />
powerful message. Brother Anastacio,<br />
along with his wife Carmen, traveled<br />
eight hours to join in this celebration.<br />
Visitors included Pastor Rafael and María<br />
Díaz, along with a group <strong>of</strong> brothers and<br />
sisters from Dover, New Jersey; Pastor<br />
Juan and Jacqueline Melo from Lawrence,<br />
Massachusetts; Pastor Rubén and Virginia<br />
Báez from Providence, Rhode Island;<br />
Pastor Marisol and Marcos Severino from<br />
Worcester, Massachusetts; Pastor Eduardo<br />
and Estela Cáceres from Lynn, Massachusetts;<br />
as well as ministers and district leaders,<br />
missionaries, and evangelists.<br />
A highlight at this event was the<br />
presence <strong>of</strong> Reverend John Richards,<br />
pastor <strong>of</strong> Christian Life Center, and his<br />
wife. Reverend Richards <strong>of</strong>fered words<br />
<strong>of</strong> encouragement, affirmation, and<br />
fellowship, motivating us to work and<br />
make the city shine with <strong>God</strong>’s Word.<br />
Reverend Richards affirmed the importance<br />
<strong>of</strong> Hispanic churches because this ethnic<br />
SEND NEWS ITEMS TO EDITORIAL@COGOP.ORG<br />
Youth Doing Doorto-Door<br />
Evangelism<br />
At the Chickasaw, Alabama,<br />
<strong>Church</strong>, some <strong>of</strong> our youth knocked<br />
on doors in our neighborhood<br />
giving out tracts and inviting people<br />
to come visit us. One lady was sick,<br />
and they prayed with her. This<br />
touched her, and she plans to visit<br />
us. Another came and said she<br />
was so impressed by our youth,<br />
and she could feel the Spirit <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Lord as they came into her home.<br />
We praise the Lord for the zeal<br />
and willingness they have to do<br />
something for the Lord. They<br />
came back and shared stories<br />
<strong>of</strong> their visits. They have ordered<br />
Bibles to give out to those who<br />
may not have one.<br />
—Source: Alabama Update<br />
group makes up approximately 54 percent<br />
<strong>of</strong> the city’s total population. During the<br />
service, brothers and sisters <strong>of</strong> the<br />
newly organized church shared testimonies<br />
<strong>of</strong> how Pastor Henry ministered to them.<br />
Two young people from Dover, New<br />
Jersey, presented choreography <strong>of</strong> a song<br />
that spoke about the importance <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Holy Spirit in the work that we do,<br />
allowing a beautiful time for worship.<br />
The Holy Spirit ministered to us in a<br />
wonderful way when we all sang the song<br />
titled, “Santo Jesús” (“Holy Jesus”) led by<br />
Geraldine García.<br />
At the end <strong>of</strong> the service, 29 people<br />
became members <strong>of</strong> the church. Bishop<br />
Rahadames Matos, Regional Overseer,<br />
assisted by the local pastors, <strong>of</strong>ficiated the<br />
ceremony with great enthusiasm. Pastors<br />
Henry and Jacqueline García were appointed<br />
pastors <strong>of</strong> the new church. We hope to<br />
continue to see <strong>God</strong>’s grace in the lives <strong>of</strong><br />
our pastors and the Springfield <strong>Church</strong>.<br />
WWM JUNE 2011 29
NEWSHere &There<br />
Raymond Pruitt<br />
Dr. Raymond McRay Pruitt, 88, died<br />
Wednesday, March 9, 2011, at his home<br />
in Oxford, Mississippi.<br />
Dr. Pruitt was married to Aleda Pruitt.<br />
He studied at the University <strong>of</strong> Hawaii<br />
and the University <strong>of</strong> Tennessee before<br />
receiving an honorary doctorate from<br />
the <strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> Theological Seminary<br />
in Cleveland, Tennessee. As a Sergeant,<br />
Dr. Pruitt served in the United States<br />
Army during World War II in the<br />
Pacific Theatre.<br />
Dr. Pruitt was an ordained minister<br />
in the <strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Prophecy</strong> since<br />
November 14, 1940, and authored<br />
Fundamentals <strong>of</strong> the Faith, Disciplined<br />
Disciples, and Present Help Sermon Outlines<br />
and was involved in various other<br />
writing projects for the <strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Prophecy</strong> Sunday School Department.<br />
MINISTERS<br />
Maximiliano Lobos<br />
Santa Lucia Cotz, Guatemala; March 24,<br />
2011; licensed minister for 47 years.<br />
Feliciano Ixpatá G.<br />
Escuintia, Guatemala; March 28, 2011;<br />
licensed minister for 50 years.<br />
Laura E. Lord<br />
California, Missouri; March 30, 2011;<br />
licensed minister for 37 years.<br />
William J. Norton<br />
Taylorsville, Kentucky; April 4, 2011;<br />
licensed minister for 33 years.<br />
30 WWM JUNE 2011<br />
In His Presence<br />
Eugene Weakley<br />
Eugene Weakley, 83 years, <strong>of</strong><br />
Murfreesboro, Tennessee, passed away<br />
on March 28, 2011, after a short illness.<br />
Bishop Weakley was married to Juanita<br />
Faye Cowan Weakley on November 19,<br />
1955. He attended Trevecca College in<br />
Nashville and Cleveland State Community<br />
College and Lee University in Cleveland,<br />
Tennessee. He was a veteran <strong>of</strong> the<br />
United States Army and served in World<br />
War II from 1945–1947.<br />
Bishop Weakley began his ministry in<br />
1948, serving in various capacities<br />
in the <strong>Church</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Prophecy</strong>,<br />
including pastor, State Overseer for<br />
Tennessee, District Overseer, and Small<br />
Group Ministries Director, among other<br />
responsibilities. Even after retirement,<br />
Bishop Weakley continued to minister<br />
and faithfully served the <strong>Church</strong> for 63<br />
years as a minister.<br />
Gilbert Loraine Smith<br />
Saint Augustine, Florida; April 4, 2011;<br />
licensed minister for 56 years.<br />
MEMBERS<br />
Aimee Grace Cathy<br />
Dickson, Tennessee; March 18, 2011.<br />
(One out <strong>of</strong> four people who were<br />
saved in Tent Revival at Burns in 1950.)<br />
Isabelle A. Croyle<br />
Karns City, Pennsylvania; April 4, 2011.<br />
She was the mother <strong>of</strong> Bishop C. Jay Croyle.<br />
Tanja Voznyuk<br />
Kiev, Ukraine; April 8, 2011.<br />
Tanja was the wife <strong>of</strong> Bishop Vitaliy<br />
Voznyuk, Overseer <strong>of</strong> Ukraine.<br />
LOCAL/STATE/INTERNATIONAL<br />
ALABAMA<br />
Short Creek<br />
“Thy Kingdom come; Thy will be<br />
done. . . .” As prayers go up, the<br />
blessings come down. <strong>God</strong> has<br />
been doing great and mighty<br />
things in our midst. . . . Anointed<br />
preaching, powerful study <strong>of</strong><br />
the Word, miracles <strong>of</strong> healing,<br />
deliverance from strongholds,<br />
repentant souls . . . we come in<br />
anticipation <strong>of</strong> what <strong>God</strong> will do<br />
next. Nothing is impossible! <strong>God</strong><br />
is also blessing us financially as<br />
we are working to pay <strong>of</strong>f our<br />
renovation loan. Sister Kay Pate is<br />
heading up our fund-raiser dinner<br />
each Friday. This month, we raised<br />
a little more than $1,500. To <strong>God</strong><br />
be the glory!<br />
West Blocton<br />
Praise the Lord! We are being<br />
blessed continually with healings<br />
and people turning their lives<br />
over to <strong>God</strong> and seeking a closer<br />
walk with Him. Prayers are being<br />
answered amid a sweet and<br />
powerful moving <strong>of</strong> the Holy Ghost.<br />
Red Bay<br />
Our church began January with<br />
a 21-day corporate fast. This was<br />
the first time we had done this as<br />
a church, and it was a humbling<br />
experience. We ended the fast<br />
with a Celebration Service, which<br />
included worship, drama, and<br />
The Williams Family. This was a<br />
celebration for what <strong>God</strong> is going<br />
to do during 2011 in our church<br />
and individually.<br />
WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
MESSAGES<br />
DeWayne Hamby, Managing Editor<br />
A Beggar in the<br />
King’s Court<br />
I love to travel. One <strong>of</strong> the highlights <strong>of</strong><br />
my life is discovering new locations and<br />
soaking in the beauty <strong>of</strong> the world that<br />
<strong>God</strong> has created. Sure, there are some<br />
parts more exciting than others. Moving<br />
through an airport security line is low on<br />
my list <strong>of</strong> fun activities, but arriving at the<br />
destination helps erase that anxiety.<br />
During one vacation, I was particularly<br />
bubbly and upbeat, mostly due to the<br />
incredible savings we received when we<br />
booked our trip. Imagine paying for the<br />
janitor’s closet and getting the king’s<br />
quarters, and you get a clue <strong>of</strong> how I<br />
felt. I was walking around in paradise,<br />
determined not to miss a moment. I even<br />
told my wife, “I feel like one <strong>of</strong> those<br />
beggars that got invited to the king’s feast<br />
because no one else showed up.”<br />
You’ll remember that Jesus told the<br />
parable <strong>of</strong> the Great Banquet in Matthew<br />
22. The king had prepared a wedding feast<br />
for his son, only to be disappointed in<br />
those who ignored his invitation. When he<br />
realized those who were invited weren’t<br />
found worthy and did not treat his<br />
invitation with due respect, he filled up<br />
the banquet hall with random attendees.<br />
While I enjoyed my moment in the sun,<br />
I’m at a loss for creating a winning<br />
and successful life plan that allows me<br />
access to eternal life.<br />
not everyone shared my<br />
enthusiasm. I could see it<br />
in their faces and even<br />
overheard random complaints. This place<br />
wasn’t quite as nice as they thought it<br />
could be or the service wasn’t as detailoriented<br />
as they would have liked. I knew<br />
many would hit the Internet to <strong>of</strong>fer<br />
scathing reviews while I would relate my<br />
own experience as glowing. We shared<br />
the same location and most likely identical<br />
accommodations, but our assessments<br />
were polar opposites. Why?<br />
There are people who think they<br />
deserve the best and people who know<br />
that they don’t. I landed on the latter end<br />
<strong>of</strong> that, especially in that instance. It was a<br />
random blessing that placed us there, not<br />
anything I could have orchestrated on my<br />
own. I hadn’t invested the same amount<br />
<strong>of</strong> time or resources that some <strong>of</strong> them<br />
had, but I was enjoying the benefits all the<br />
same. It reminds me <strong>of</strong> another parable<br />
found in Matthew 20 <strong>of</strong> the workers in<br />
the vineyard.<br />
“So when evening had come, the<br />
owner <strong>of</strong> the vineyard said to his steward,<br />
‘Call the laborers and give them their<br />
wages, beginning with the last to the<br />
first.’ And when those came who were<br />
hired about the eleventh hour, they each<br />
received a denarius. But when the first<br />
came, they supposed that they would<br />
receive more; and they likewise received<br />
each a denarius. And when they had<br />
received it, they complained against the<br />
landowner, saying, ‘These last men have<br />
worked only one hour, and you made<br />
them equal to us who have borne the<br />
burden and the heat <strong>of</strong> the day.’ But he<br />
answered one <strong>of</strong> them and said, ‘Friend,<br />
I am doing you no wrong. Did you not<br />
agree with me for a denarius? Take what<br />
is yours and go your way. I wish to give to<br />
this last man the same as to you. Is it not<br />
lawful for me to do what I wish with my<br />
own things? . . .’” (vv. 8–15 NKJV).<br />
<strong>God</strong> never said this life would be fair.<br />
Things are not just going to “even out.”<br />
I’m glad because I’m at a loss for creating<br />
a winning and successful life plan that<br />
allows me access to eternal life. Left to<br />
my own devices and resources, I would<br />
surely fail.<br />
It’s the grace <strong>of</strong> <strong>God</strong> that makes all the<br />
difference. I need to constantly remind<br />
myself <strong>of</strong> that to maintain the proper<br />
perspective and have an attitude <strong>of</strong><br />
gratitude to the One who is giving me<br />
exactly what I don’t deserve.<br />
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