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Showing posts from 2006

Death Announcement - Bonnie Crossno Curtis

Mrs. Bonnie Crossno Curtis, 86, of Huntingdon, Tennessee, died Saturday December 30, 2006, at Huntingdon Health & Rehab. Funeral services will be conducted 5:00PM Sunday December 31,2006, in the Chapel of Dilday Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Bethel Cemetery Monday January 1,2007. Brother Milton Gordon officiating. Mrs. Curtis was born March 5,1920 to the late George and Francis Holt Williams in Greenfield, Tennessee. She was a member of the Church of God of Prophecy, retired clerk for Fred’s Dollar Store, preceded in death by her husbands Wyman Curtis and Elbert Crossno, her children Raymell Gardner, Linda Crossno, Eugene Crossno and James Crossno. She is survived by two sons Manuel Crossno of Huntingdon, Tennessee, Ray Crossno of Nashville, Tennessee, seven grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren and seven great great grandchildren. The family will receive friends from 2:00PM until 5:00PM on Sunday December 31,2006, in the Chapel of Dilday Funeral Home.

Everette Fulmer Funeral Services

Today, I traveled to Decherd to attend (and participate in) the funeral service for Brother Everett Fulmer. Brother Fulmer was born April 4, 1930 in Winchester and entered into rest on December 25, 2006 in Nashville, Tennessee. The service was conducted by: Pastor William Pritchett of the Tulahoma Church of God of Prophecy Pastor Johnnie Carr of the Decherd Church of God Bishop Eugene Weakley, and I participate in the services at the church. There was a standing room only crowd at the church. Thank you for your prayers for the Fulmer family.

Buford Johnson Memorial Service

Today, I attended the funeral services for Bishop Buford Johnson in Cleveland, Tennessee. As I mentioned in earlier posts, he made a great impression on my life. He encouraged me to attend college during my first months as a pastor, and then helped me during the first three months of transition. I was so blessed by his ministry and influence. Pastor John A. Stone, Claxton Cook (Mississippi), Retired Overseer Richard E. Davis and James Wallace (Alabama) officiated the service, and each one did an excellent job. Again, I am thankful to be a minister in the Church of God of Prophecy and serve among such men. Please join me in prayer for the Johnson family.

Death Announcement - Everett Fulmer

I am saddened to report to you that Brother Everett Fulmer passed away shortly after midnight this morning. As many of you know, Brother Fulmer has ministered in Tennessee for many years. I do not have any information on the arrangements, but will post them when I get all of the details. Please join me in praying for the Fulmer family.

House on the Rock Visit - Pulaski, TN

Last Sunday, Debra and I traveled to Pulaski, Tennessee to worship with the great folks there. Pastors David and Jeanie Malone and the congregation gave us a wonderful welcome, and we were thrilled to meet so many new friends, and to see some old ones. After the service, we drove to the new property , where the new building is almost completed. Pastor Malone is to be congratulated for his leadership and the hard work of the church in Pulaski to build such a beautiful property.

Christmas Program - Lakeside

Last Sunday night, Debra, Lindsey and I traveled to Westmoreland to enjoy a great program by the youth department at the Lakeside church. There was a large crowd on hand, and each act of the play was done excellently. I wanted to post earlier, but the time has just been getting by too quickly. Thanks to Bishop Leon Graves and the congregation at Lakeside for an excellent program.

Bishop Buford M. Johnson

The following message is being sent on behalf of the family of the late Bishop Buford M. Johnson: The Reverend Buford M. Johnson, 85, a resident of Cleveland, Tennessee, passed away this morning, December 21, 2006. He was a retired Bishop of the Church of God of Prophecy, licensed in 1941. Reverend Johnson was born in Memphis, Tennessee, on March 8, 1921. He faithfully served his church in many capacities for 44 years under state and national appointment. He first served as Tennessee State Evangelist at age 20. Later he pastored churches in Battle Creek, Michigan and Anniston, Alabama. After graduating from Jacksonville State College in Alabama, Reverend Johnson moved to Cleveland in 1951 to serve at the International Headquarters for the Church of God of Prophecy as Press Editor for all church publications. For the next 11 years, he served as Assistant Editor for the church publication the White Wing Messenger. He was also responsible for the publication of the Happy Harvester. Du

Passing of a Spiritual Giant - Bishop Buford Johnson

I am saddened to share with you the news of the passing of Bishop Buford Johnson. I served under his leadership in Indiana at my first church and his ministry made a lasting impression on my life. I remember his first visit to my church as the overseer. He was very personable and inquired about my life, ministry, etc. He asked about my education and I shared with him that I wanted to go to college, but that needed to work a while at a secular job to keep paying the bills. He asked how much I needed to get started. I told him that I had VA benefits but that it would take three months for them to kick in. He asked, "how much do you need for that three months?" My reply was, "about $200 per month for three months." He told me, "I'll send you the money if you will go." I took him up on it and started to college. Even after completing my undergraduate degrees, he encouraged me to continue with post-graduate work. Earning my Masters and Doctorate de

Great News - Pastor Jerry Payne

I just received wonderful news...and news that comes with a prayer request. I just learned yesterday that our pastor at Grimsley, Bishop Jerry Payne has been placed at the top of the National Donor's List. Brother Payne has been needing a liver transplant for a long, long time. This means that he could possibly have the new liver by Christmas. Please ask everyone you know to pray that this will come to pass quickly so that our dear brother can receive the transplant quickly and that everything will go well. Brother Payne and his family have labored faithfully for years in Tennessee and have earned the love and respect of all of us. LET'S PRAY FOR A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE!

The Ghosts of Christmas Past

The last few days have been so hectic that its been difficult to get online and post, but I would like to share a little bit of our activity since last Friday. FRIDAY NIGHT Debra, Lindsey and I traveled over to the East Nashville church to take in their Christmas play, called the Ghosts of Christmas past. It was an absolutely WONDERFUL performance. The pastor, Dr. George McDowell and the congregation there put on a "first class" play and at times we thought our sides would split from laughing. I'll try to post some pictures later today so you can see a part of what we enjoyed so much. God bless you!

Christmas Presentation - Rock Church, Big Sandy

I received this from Peggy Evans at Big Sandy and wanted to share it with you: The King in the performance was Chris Bradley. Chris & Joey are both juniors @ Big Sandy High School & both of them are members @ The Rock Church. Super talented young men, even if one of them is mine!

Murfreesboro

Murfreesboro church celebrated Christmas on Sunday evening, December 17, with a banquet at Legends Steakhouse in Smyrna. Fifty-two were in attendance with 21 visitors or new attenders. Six of these have become new members of the Church since last Christmas season. Sis. Juanita Weakley coordinated a well-planned and well-executed program with Christmas carols, games, gifts, and inspiration. Bishop Marion Caruthers presented an inspiring after-dinner devotion on "Beautiful Star of Bethlehem." The song by the same title was shared by banquet celebrants at the close of the devotion. Bishop Caruthers returned in the personna of Santa Claus to present very generous and much appreciated gifts and a Christmas offering to pastors Verlin & Jean Thornton. Other gifts were presented by Bishop Eugene Weakley and Dinah Gibson to Sunday School teachers Marion Caruthers, Virginia Jernigan, and Jean Thornton. The Christmas spirit of family, caring and goodwill was shared by all. May the g

Another Great Site for Information

As you know, I share information from time-to-time concerning study resources for pastors and church leaders. There is a site that I use occasionally because of the vast amount of content. To reach it, click on the link below: http://www.religiononline.org/ As with anything, I cannot endorse any content.

Christmas Play - Huntingdon

CHRISTMAS PROGRAM/PLAY, "THE CLUES OF CHRISTMAS." HUNTINGDON CHURCH OF GOD OF PROPHECY, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17TH AT 10:30 AM AND 6:30 PM. BANQUET AFTER THE EVENING PLAY IN THE DINING HALL. . . The directors and staff continue to work diligently on the upcoming program and play. The children, teens and adults are enjoying this time of getting ready to present the true message of Christmas. We pray that God will help us portray the birth of our Savior, Lord and King. We welcome one and all. Milton Gordon, pastor

Merry Christmas from the Peoples Family - Gordonsville

Friends, Here is the Christmas photo of the Peoples family. Bishop Bobby Peoples is the pastor of the Gordonsville Family Worship Center. I would love to put your photo up on the blog for our readers to see. Please send your photo to me at: ecmckinley@mac.com

Christmas Banquet - Sonbright Christian Center

Yesterday, Debra and I traveled to the local church in Sunbright, Tennessee to join the local church in celebrating Christmas. It was a wonderful banquet, and Pastor Chip Meadows and his staff did a wonderful job of preparing a delicious meal, accompanied by great fellowship, and a special visit by the Possom Hollow Trio, from Possom Hollow, Kentucky. We laughed so hard...that it hurt. Thanks to the church and Brother Meadows for a wonderful time. God bless

Congratulations to District Presbyter Freddie Harding

It gives me great pleasure to announce and congratulate our District Presbyter, Freddie Harding, who recently successfully defended his disertation and the degree of Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) was conferred on him by Tennessee State University. This has been a long, difficulty journey, and I am so proud that he has now completed his journey. Congratulations, Dr. Harding...you've climbed the mountain, now enjoy the view.

New Tennessee Educational Initiative

Dear Friends, Next week, I will be announcing a new educational inititive for the ministry and members of the Church of God of Prophecy in the State of Tennessee. I have been working on this inititive for some time, and it will be introduced at our January ministry intensive held at the campground next month. This will be a multi-tiered approach that will add a connection to Beacon University of Columbus, Georgia, as well as a practical ministry element. Each pastor will receive a packet at the middle of next week, and I am requesting that you give serious consideration to the new inititiative. God bless.

East Nashville Christmas Play

I am passing this on as a service to the East Nashville Church of God of Prophecy You are cordially invited to a “Way off Broadway Production” Of ‘The Ghosts of Christmas Past’ In town only for two nights. Make your plans now to attend Friday, December 15, 2006 at 7:00pm Saturday, December 16, 2006 at 7:00pm At: East Nashville Church of God of Prophecy 901 Strouse Avenue, Nashville , Tennessee 37206 Phone 615-228-5354 for directions.

Tennessean Article - Video Games

In today's Tennessean Newspaper, an article was published concerning a new video game loosely based on the series of novels entitled "Left Behind." This was an article written and carried by the Associated Press concerning objections to the game. I was interviewed by the reporter for my views on the game. Although there is only one quotation carried, the interview lasted for about 15 minutes, and I was able to share my opinion on the theology behind the series, and how it is incorporated in the game. The story was carried on page one and continued to page 8 A. Since we have blog readers from all of the United States and in several other nations, I am including the content of the article that was published December 13, 2006: CHRISTIAN-themed video game assailed as violent, intolerant By DAVID CRARY Associated Press NEW YORK -- Targeted largely at conservative Christians, it's a violent video game with a difference: Combatants on one side pause for prayer, and their fa

One Day Children's Ministries Intensive - West Nashville

Dear Pastor and Children's Ministers, Just wanted to remind you that there will be a one-day CM training intensive at the West Nashville church on January 13. The intensive targets local children's ministers including Sunday School teachers, VBS and camp volunteers, children's worship directors as well as the leader of children's ministry. Participants will be involved in hands-on learning focused on the concepts of passion for children's ministry, developing as a leader in children's ministry, winning children to Christ, principles of discipleship and involving kids in ministry. Registration before December 15th is $25 per person including a light breakfast snack and lunch as well as training materials. After December 15th registration is $30 per person. Please come be with me on Saturday, January 14th! CLAIMing His Purposes for Our Kids! Kathy Creasy

Liverworth Church

This morning, Debra and I visited with the church at Liverworth. We were so blessed to receive a warm welcome from Brother and Sister Huff, and the congregation there. There was a lot of good singing and worship, and I was blessed to minister the word. After the morning service, we had a great dinner in the fellowship with all the folks present. Special thanks to Brother and Sister Huff and the fine folks at Liverworth.

Update on Pastor Glenn O'Kain

This afternoon, I was able to visit with Brother and Sister O'Kain at Vanderbilt Medical Center in Nashville. Brother O'Kain underwent surgery to remove infection on one arm and one knee. When I visited with him, he was in good spirits. I told him that many of you are praying for him and he seemed to appreciate the thought. I learned the other day that Brother O'Kain has been on dialysis for over 35 years; longer than anyone in the whole Southeastern United States. He is to be commended for his courage and faithfulness in the ministry under difficult circumstances for a long time. Please help me hold him up to the Lord in prayer.

Special Prayer Request

I just learned that Brother Glen O'Kain, our pastor a Dickson is undergoing surgery this morning at Vanderbilt. I will try to report later after I have been to the hospital. Please pray for Glen and the O'Kain family.

Visit to Ridgely

Today, I traveled to Ridgely, Tennessee to visit with the Prince family. David Prince, Sr. passed away, and services are scheduled for tomorrow afternoon at the funeral home there. David's son, David (II) serves as the senior pastor of the Rock Church in Big Sandy, Tennessee. Please join me in prayer for this precious family. God bless.

Districts 9 and 10 Pastoral Christmas Banquet

Tonight, Debra and I traveled to Westmoreland to attend the District 9 and 10 Christmas banquest hosted for the pastors of the two districts, and their spouses. Bishop Leon and Faye Graves did a great job of organizing, preparing and serving the pastoral couples in their districts. Several from the local church at Lakeside helped in serving and entertaining everyone present in the Family Life Center of the Lakeside church. It was a wonderful time and we are so thankful to have been invited.

Passing of David Prince, Sr.

I am saddened to announce the passing of David Prince, Sr. David is the father of our pastor at the Rock Church in Big Sandy, Tennessee. Visitation is tomorrow evening from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Ridgely Funeral Home with services at the same location at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday. Please help me for the Prince family.

Passing of Virgil Tackett

I am saddened to inform you of the passing of Virgil Tackett. Virgil is the grandfather of Ron Tackett, the pastor of the Abundant Life church in Crossville. The funeral will be on Monday in Trumann, Arkansas. Please join me in praying for the Tackett family.

Jarred receives Black Belt

Friends, In response to my earlier request for photos for the blog of our Tennessee family, I am sharing today pictures from Jarred Carpenter. Remind me to stay on his good side! God bless. "Brother McKinley you have a beautiful granddaughter! I can tell that you love her very much, may God bless your family! Here is some pictures of our youngest Jarred. In these pictures he is testing and receiving his Black Belt in Shaolin Kung-Fu. He is the smallest and most talented in his age group and he has won many awards at tournaments all of which he gives God the Glory!! Thanks for letting us share our loved ones. God Bless, Pastor Robert Carpenter"

Christmas Pictures...Peek-A-Boo and Praise

Okay, I know you're going to say that I am some kind of a nutty grandfather for putting this picture up....well, maybe you are correct. I just had to share the picture of our grandaughter, Reagan Caroline McKinley in her first Christmas pictures. I have a great idea, for parents/grandparents who have similar pictures and would like to share them with the readers of our blog. If you would like your "little darlin" to be featured here, just send the picture to me at my email address: overseer@tncogop.org and I'll be happy to add it. Be sure to give me their name. I think this is a great way to brag a little bit. Thanks and God bless.

Two more prayer needs...

Tonight, I stopped by the hospital and visited/prayed with James Brown who went through another surgery today. I posted earlier about James suffering an accident on the job, where he was electrocuted. Thank the Lord that his life was spared, and that he is recovering. Also, I visited with Pastor Glen O'Kain who was hospitalized last night. He needs our continued prayers for God's healing touch. He will be undergoing tests tomorrow.

Very Special Prayer Need

Tomorrow our pastor at Grimsley, Bishop Jerry Payne will be undergoing some more tests at the hospital in Nashville. He has been needing a liver transplant for some-time-now. We need to pray that this process is speedy, approved and taht the transplant takes place. Like so many of our pastors, Brother Payne has labored many years in Tennessee faithfully, and has been there for a lot of others when they needed him. Please join me in praying for this extra-special need.

Sunday Night Football...

Tonight, I was able to get home in time to see the end of the Sunday Night NFL game between the Denver Broncos and the Seattle Seahawks. I love football, I just can't help it, but what made this game such a pleasure to catch is to know that one of the members of the Church of God of Prophecy is on the field. Last year, on Super Bowl Sunday, I preached at Josh's home church in the morning service, and I know that some of the folks from his church read our blog from time-to-time. Pastor Cabales and the whole church are a great bunch of people...especially at Super Bowl parties where they know how to cook a mean hot-dog and set up the Diet Pepsi one after another. Josh Brown (Number 3) is the kicker for the Seattle Seahawks. He is a member of our church in Kirkland, Washington, and is not ashamed of his faith, or of his church. In a recent interview, he mentioned the Church of God of Prophecy church services. Josh won the game with a field goal, his third of the night with on

Urgent Prayer Request - James Brown

Some-time-ago, I posted a prayer request for James Brown, spouse of Judy Brown, a minister/former pastor in our church. At the time, I requested prayer because of an accident that put him int he hospital in serious condition. I learned today from District Presbyter, Bishop Richard Neal that he is to undergo surgery again tomorrow, and that the family is requesting our prayers. Without going into the full details, suffice it to say, this is a very serious prayer need. Please join me in praying for God's hand on James' life.

Tennessean Article -12.3.06

Sunday, 12/03/06 Pastors no masters of cultural coolness Gap reflects effort to know world, but not be worldly By ANITA WADHWANI Staff Writer This past week, I gave an interview to Anita Wadhwani of the Tennessean Newspaper regarding the release of a study commissioned by the Southern Baptist Convention through Lifeway Press. You can CLICK HERE to see the article for yourself. During the interview, I was asked to take a pop culture quiz. You can see that here as well. While the quiz included above is small, you can see it "full-size" by CLICKING HERE

Upper East Tennessee Christmas Banquet

Yesterday, Debra and I traveled to Knoxville to enjoy a great evening of fellowship, good food and entertainment at the Arrowhead church. Bishop R.D. Ledford, District Presbyter for upper east Tennessee and his family hosted a great dinner for the ministry of Districts 1,2 and 3. We really appreciated the warm welcome we received and as always, the fellowshp was the highlight. After the dinner, we traveled by home to get some things done in the office. Thanks again, Section 1 and Bishop Ledford.

Connections Newsletter

Thank you for signing up to receive Connections, an e-newsletter from the Church of God of Prophecy International Offices. Here you will find the latest news and information on upcoming ministry events. We hope you enjoy all that you will read here. Send us your comments and thoughts by emailing connections@cogop.org. In this E-Mail. . . 1. From the General Overseer: 100 Days of Prayer Continues 2. Mission News; The High Cost of Leadership 3. Five Reasons to Teach on Stewardship Early in the Year 4. Ladies Retreats Update: Final Weekend for Fall Retreats 5. Voice of Salvation Team Travels to Israel 6. Why Prepare for Christian Ministry with the Tomlinson Center 7. News from North America 8. Upcoming Events 9. Transitions at the International Offices 10. To Unsubscribe From the General Overseer: 100 Days Of Prayer Continues Many thanks to all that have been a part of the 100 Days of Prayer. And for any o

Tennessean Article on Pop Culture

Yesterday I gave an interview to a writer of the Tennessean Newspaper in Nashville on the results of a recent study released on the topic of pastor's awareness of pop-culture. The story is scheduled to be carried in the Sunday edition of the newspaper this week (12.3.06). I do hope you will have a chance to check the article out, and I will post it on the blog once published. God bless.

Minister Available to Preach

Yesterday, I met with the youth pastor of the Robert's Tabernacle church in Westmoreland, Brother Marty Scruggs. Marty is soon to be licensed as a regular minister in the Church of God of Prophecy, and is interested in ministering in our churches when possible. He is willing to fill in, if a pastor needs someone to fill the pulpit and is available for revivals. Here is his contact information: Marty Scruggs 1801 Fairfield Rd Westmoreland, TN 37186 (615) 644-3379 pastormarty@nctc.com You can feel free to contact his pastor, Tim McCaleb for a reference.

From David Bryan....Global Outreach Director

Missions News The High Cost of Leadership What if following Christ and leading God's people meant death threats, armed police escorts, and hiding in secret locations, separated from your family? Bishop Dorlean, national leader of Haiti, is experiencing this unthinkable set of circumstances. The soft-spoken overseer's deep passion and commitment to his people and the work of the Lord has certainly been tested in recent days. We received a prayer plea from Brother Dorlean on November 23rd through Bob Vital-herne, one of the linguists in the World Language Department. The details were chilling – some individual or a group of people was trying to kill him. He said that heavily armed people had been looking for him in his neighborhood. On Monday night [November 20th] he had to be escorted by heavily armed police officers to his house. Out of concern for his safety, they took him to another location to spend the night, away from his family. He remains in an undisclos

Ministerial Intensive

Today, I met with several other overseers, and Dr. H.E. Cardin (Tomlinson Center) and Bishop Sam Clements discussing future plans for the educational needs of our ministry. At this meeting, I shared my vision of what I feel the Lord is leading me to, which will be a multi-faceted approach to miniderial development and education. We discussed (at length) the intensive that will be held at our campground on January 12-13, 2007 and some expressed interest in attending the intensive. I do hope you will begin making plans to tak part in the intensive, more information will follow. God bless.

Marriage Retreat

Last night, Debra and I met with the Family Enrichment Board to discuss and pre-plan our marriage retreat scheduled for the last weekend of February. We are expecting it to be a great time of fellowship, worship and tips on marriage. I am so greatful to Brothers and Sisters Stone, Reid and Holt. I hope you will make plans to attend.

Fields of the Wood Christmas Lights Display

Celebration of Lights 11/21/2006 Everyone Welcome! November 25, 2006, 6:00 p.m. EST! Everyone is invited to a special Thanksgiving celebration and Christmas lighting program at the Fields of the Wood Park on November 25th at 6:00 P.M. Throughout the Christmas season the Park lights will be displayed each evening from dark until 10:00 p.m. EST. Fields of the Wood is located just 18 miles from Murphy, NC and 14 miles from Ducktown, TN on NC Hwy 294. For more information, contact: Church of God of Prophecy 3720 Keith Street PO Box 2910 Cleveland, TN 37320-2910 423.559.5100

House on the Rock - Pulaski, TN

Yesterday, I met with the State Trustees to conduct an inspection on the new church being constructed in Pulaski. I would like to say that Pastors David and Jeanie Malone have done a wonderful job of preparation and building of a new sanctuary. The building met, and exceeded my expectations, and the Church of God of Prophecy will have a beautiful facility there once the work is completed. If any of you can help with manual labor (hanging lights, etc.) please let me know that you are available and we can make the connection for you. God bless.

Funeral Arrangements - John McClure, Jr.

Dear Friends, The arrangements for John McClure, Jr. are as follows: Tuesday, November 28, 2006 Visitation from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 29, 2006 Visitation from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m. The visitation and funeral service will be held at Jim Rush Funeral Home. An graveside service will follow the funeral service at Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Please continue to remember Valerie and her family in your prayers. Shaun McKinley | Administrative Liaison to the General Overseer ____________________________ Church of God of Prophecy International Offices P.O. Box 2910 Cleveland, TN 37320-2910 phone: 423.559.5209 fax: 423.559.5108 email: shaun@cogop.org web: http://www.cogop.org

Update - Pastor Jerry Payne

This afternoon, Debra and I visited with Pastor Jerry Payne at the Veterans Hospital in Nashville. Jewell, J.J. and Julia were there as well. As many of you know, Jerry has been needing a liver transplant for some-time-now. I am asking you to join me in a special time of intercessory prayer for Pastor Jerry. He has labored faithfully in the Church of God of Prophecy many years, with the past 21 of those years at the local church in Grimsley...this is a precious family needing all of us to bind together for a physical touch in his body. I know that God will bless you as you share this burden.

Shiloh Church of God of Prophecy

This morning, Debra and I visited the church at Shiloh (between Smithville and Sparta on Hwy 70) and received a warm welcome from the pastor Bishop Arthur and Francis Murry. It was a beautiful drive with the warm, sunny day, and although the traffic was little heavy, it was an enjoyable trip. We enjoyed the worship, and the Lord met us there. Thank God for His blessings.

Special Prayer Request - McClure Family

I am posting this email that I just received from the International Offices. Many of you will remember John McClure who passed away about 7-years-ago. This is his son... Dear Friends, Please be in prayer for Valerie Willis (formerly Valerie McClure), who served for many years at the International Offices, most recently as our switchboard operator. Valerie tragically lost her eldest son John McClure, Jr. in a car accident this weekend. I do not have many of the details, but John’s passing came early on Sunday morning, November 26, 2006. Please be in prayer for Valerie, Tim, Chris and their families as the deal with this sad loss. Arrangements have not yet been made, but I will send them to you once they are announced. Shaun McKinley | Administrative Liaison to the General Overseer ____________________________ Church of God of Prophecy International Offices P.O. Box 2910 Cleveland, TN 37320-2910 phone: 423.559.5209 fax: 423.559.5108 email: shaun@cogop.org web: http://www.cogop.org

Additional Prayer Request

I JUST RECEIVED THIS EMAIL FROM PASTOR MIKE JENNETTE, EMPOWERED MINISTRIES, DICKSON. Sister Hazel Guire fell and broke her hip two weeks ago. She is doing better and staying with her daughter Joan in Louisiana. If anyone wants to send her a card, she is at this address: Box 846 Loranger, LA 70446. She should leave the hospital this week. God Bless You All. Bro. Mike Jennette

Happy Thanksgiving

All of us have something to be thankful for. We all have times that life seems to be overwhelming, and the natural reaction is to be negatively affected by the circumstances in our lives. But there is much to be thankful for. When counseling people who are going through difficult circumstances, I have often gave them the following instructions: 1. Get a piece of paper and a pencil. 2. Draw a line down the middle, from top to bottom, making two columns. 3. Label the left side blessings; Label the right side your problems. 4. Now fill in the columns, and see if your blessings outnumber your problems. I have done this before and found that my blessings always outnumber my problems every time. God is so good to us, and we can truly be thankful for all he has done.

Have you ever seen a pumpkin like this?

Just wanted to share a picture of Reagan with all of you. God bless.

New information on the Website

Dear Friends, I am pleased to announce that we have added a video presentation promoting the Institute of Children's Ministries to be conducted in Cleveland next May. This is a quality video that can be downloaded, or played streaming video in your church. Just go to the website http://tncogop.org and click on the ICM07 in the menu bar at the top. I do hope this will be helpful to you. God bless.

Another Great Resource

Again, I am posting a link to a great website for bible study and sermon preparation. This site is a site filled with Christian Classics from great authors. This area includes of lot of the study materials used by bible colleges and seminaries. I hope you will take advantage of each opportunity presented. Oh, by the way....I receive not compensation for these endorsements, they are only given as a resource to those who may be new to the internet. It always helps to have someone guide you. To go to the Christian Classics Ethereal Library click HERE or cut and paste the following address in your browser: http://www.ccel.org/

Another good bible resource...

A few days ago, I mentioned the online version of Bible Pro, which I found extremely useful for bible study, regardless of what platform (PC, Mac, Linux) you use. After posting my findings about Bible Pro, Pastor Milton Gordon of Huntingdon, Tennessee shared with me that he uses the "Blue Letter Bible" program which is alson an online resource. I did not know about this before his post, but have found it filled with a tremendous amount of study materials, including audio and video features. You can find it by CLICKING HERE or going directly to the website at http://www.blueletterbible.org/ Thanks for the help Brother Gordon

Prayer Request - Sharon Caruthers

Sharon Caruthers whose husband Vernon pastors at Campaign is currently in Baptist Hospital in Nashville. She has now been in the hospital for about 11 days. I visited with her and Vernon today at the hospitall and had prayer for her. She will be undergoing a serious surgery tomorrow. Will you please join me in praying for her and her family?

Prayer Request - Everett Fulmer

I just returned from visition Brother Everett Fulmer, who is currently hospitalized at Vanderbilt Medical Center in Nashville. Brother Fulmer is a retired minister, and is well known throughout the state. He developed a kidney stone, and it created infection in his body. He is currently in critical condition, and I would appreciate you praying for him, and his children.

Fields of the Wood

The 2006 summer has been very busy at Fields of the Wood. Our staff has been working hard to keep the Park presentable for all our guests. The gift shop and café have served hundreds of people with their gift-shopping needs and hunger pains. It has been an exciting experience to meet our visitors from across the U.S. as well as guests from Canada, Central America, South America and many other countries from around the world. We enjoyed a wonderful time in the Lord on Heritage Day Celebration commemorating June 13, 1903. Our General Overseer, Bishop F.S. Fisher Sr. was present and blessed everyone with his word of encouragement “Vision Now” – “Spirit Driven”. Peerless Road Pastor, Bishop Tim Coalter delivered an inspiring and uplifting message. We were also blessed to have Tennessee Harmony from Cleveland, TN lifting up the name of our Lord in song. Although it was a very ‘hot’ day, it was a glorious day. Various events this season have included gospel singings in observance of Memoria

Local Church Visit - Murfreesboro

Today, Debra and I visited the church at Murfreesboro, under the able pastoral leadership of Verlin and Jean Thornton. It was also good to see our former State Overseer, Bishop Eugene and Juanita Weakley. There was a good crowd there, and at the conclusion of the service the local church honored Brother and Sister Thornton with a pastor's apprection moment, along with gifts and expressions of love from the congregation. We were so happy to be there for the special moment. We also were blessed to be with former members of our church (when we pastored Columbia), Jeff and Dinah Gibson. After the service, the church had their Thanksgiving dinner of turkey, dressing and all the trimmings. Thanks Brother and Sister Thornton and the congregation of Murfreesboro for such a warm welcome.

New Camp Coordinators Announced...

I am pleased to announce that Pastor Mike and Kathy Burton have agreed to serve as Tennessee State Youth Camp Coordinators. They will begin this appointment immediately. Pleae be sure to give them support as they begin this new ministry. Terry Bear will continue to serve as campground caretaker.

New Software I recently found..

Several years ago, I switched from using PC based computers to Apple MacIntosh systems. I've been using my "mac" now for about four years. One of the things I've had difficulty with is find good bible-based software that will work on my "platform." Because many of our readers use "mac" computers as well, I wanted to share something I found today. THIS WILL WORK ON EITHER PC OR MAC because it is web-based. DISCLAIMER: I am receiving nothing for sharing this, just wanted to let you know abou a website I came across. As with anything on the internet, you have to be careful, but so far this has worked really good for me. You can find the software at: http://biblepro.bibleocean.com and you can either download it, order a CD or do as I do, use the free online version. This has great features and will help you. God bless.

Tennessee Youth Retreat

A large group of Tennessee Youth gathered at Camp Hickory Hills this weekend to celebrate, worship and fellowship. Our State Youth Directors, Caleb Winstead, Joshua Lynn and Gigi Cummings did a great job of putting together a well-balanced, exciting program for everyone present. I've included some shots of the opening night events.

Missions Praise Report - Huntingdon, TN

Thank God for another great Sunday of worship. We thank the Lord for over $1400.00 dollars being turned in to World Missions for the month of October. Brother Ntezimana James, Overseer of Uganda and Sudan will be needing this to help with new tires and other needs as he noted in an email. We are continuing to pray for this country. I received an email from him a few days ago. Here is part of the email. Hello Milton We just finished our Leadership Conference. It endend yesterday. The attendence was 700 pastors with many blessings. Thank you for your prayers. Getrudha , my wife has not yet gone through operation and seems God has done his operation. Please keep praying for her complete Milacle. I will be sending you june programme very soon so that you start praying about it. . . How is your wife and the Church. We are praying for you. Coming soon is Ladies Retreat which starts 22nd Nov.-26th.Pray for the move of the Spirit upon the ladies. I will get back to you this week but per now, l

Missions Update

Pressure and Prayer in Belarus A spiritual battle has raged on multiple fronts for over two years. Our national overseer, Henadzi Kernazhytski (Gena), alerted us to the attacks on religious freedom, launched by the Belarussian authorities who sought to forcibly confiscate the property of the largest evangelical church in Minsk, the capital city of Belarus. The struggle escalated as the pastor of the New Life Church, Slava Goncharenko, sent out a call to Christians across Belarus and around the world to intercede for the reversal of the decision to take their church building. Our national leader, Pastor Gena, has been intimately involved with this effort to galvanize Christians around the world to pressure the Belarussian government to rescind this action and support freedom from the repression that affects all churches in the nation of Belarus. The church marshaled a cadre of intercessors and began a hunger strike and fast on October 5, 2006 with up to 150 people occupying the church

Special Prayer Request - Sharon Caruthers

Please help us pray for Sharon Caruthers, whose husband, Vernon serves as pastor of our church Campaign, Tennessee. About two-years-ago, she underwent a hip-replacement surgery. This past week, while reaching down to pick something up, she felt a "pop" in her hip. The surgical rod that was placed in her hip snapped. Sharon is in a tremendous amount of pain, and currently suffering greatly. She will undergoing surgery next week. In the meantime will you please help us pray for her. God bless you.

2007 Tennessee Marriage Conference

Praise Report - Huntingdon, TN

Bishop McKinley: Just a quick summary of some great things God is doing. We praise the Lord for the following blessings at Huntingdon over the past three weeks. One recently saved. Several healed and delivered. New Families attending services. Over $5000.00 in New Property indebtedness paid off. Over $600.00 offering for The Walker Family on Homecoming Day. A $3000.00 offering (above the payoff) given to the furtherance of the New Property Development. A great spirit of unity and revival moving in the local church. We give God praise and honor for all He is doing and than him. Milton Gordon, Pastor

Fall Revival - East Nashville

Dear Pastors and Friends, Greetings in the name of Jesus, Our Fall Revival will be held this Friday, Saturday and Sunday with our Annual Thanksgiving Dinner to follow Sunday morning's service. Our Speaker will be: Brother Wayne Robertson of Clarksville. Friday Night October 17th. at 7:00 pm Saturday Night October 18th at 7:00 pm Sunday morning October 19th at 11:00 am, with Thanksgiving dinner to follow. Sunday Night October 19th at 6:30 pm East Nashville Church of God of Prophecy is located at 901 Strouse Avenue, Nashville, Tennessee 37206 For directions, please call 615-228-5354. Thank you.

Special Prayer Request - James Brown

Brother James Brown, spouse of one of our Tennessee ministers, Judy Brown was electrocuted today. The electricity went through one arm, through his chest and out the other arm. His arm is broken - also his shoulder and possibly some bones in his back. Scans are being done to detect any possible damage to his internal organs. He is presently in critical condition with extreme pain. Please prayer for Brother James and Sister Judy Brown, members at Clarksville

Praise Report - Livingston

Dear Brother Mckinley, I just wanted to take a few minutes to write you and tell you how God blesses and give Him praise. About two or three months ago the lady that played the keyboard for us left to go to another church. This left us with no music at all. We begin to pray and ask God for help. I had talked to some people about recording piano music on disc for us but nothing had worked out. Praise God four weeks ago on a Sunday night my son and his wife and children walked in for the service. I had no idea they were coming, because they had not been coming. They have been here every service since and they are calling this their home church now. My son plays the guitar and also the piano some, and his wife plays the piano. She don't know the songs that we sing but she is learning them so she can play for us. My grandson also plays the harmonica and is learning to play the paino and guitar. My daughter-in-law played for us this morning in the service and also tonight. I give God

Lake Barkley Ladies Retreat Concludes

Once again, Catherine Payne and here staff did an outstanding job ministering to the ladies in our part of the United States. The attendance was good, and the speakers and preachers ministered in the power of the Spirit. I am including just a few of the photos of the retreat at this time to give you a little more of the "flavor" of things. We got home late, and received a phone call that the interpreter for the hispanic ladies, Ana Sandiago was stranded at the airport. Debra and I went to the airport and picked her up, and got her a room close to the airport (here flight leaves really early tomorrow morning) and then we returned home. I have a meeting tomorrow, but after that, I will put all of the photos up on our state website so you can see all of them. If I'm not mistaken, I may have as many as 100. God bless you is my prayer.

Ladies Retreat - Lake Barkley

The Regional Ladies Retreat at Lake Barkley began last evening and will continue through tomorrow. I've included some pictures for your viewing pleasure. God bless.

General Overseer Connections Newsletter

Thank you for signing up to receive Connections, an e-newsletter from the Church of God of Prophecy International Offices. Here you will find the latest news and information on upcoming ministry events. We hope you enjoy all that you will read here. Send us your comments and thoughts by emailing connections@cogop.org. In this E-Mail. . . 1. 100 Days of Prayer Update 2. Mission News: Out of Court with Victory in Guinea Bissau 3. Youth Conference Cancellation: A Message from Youth Ministries Director Palma Hutchinson 4. January is Stewardship Emphasis Month 5. Tomlinson Center Online Begins Third Semester 6. News From North America 7. Transitions at the International Offices 8. Upcoming Events 9. To Unsubscribe 100 Days of Prayer Update In our Upper Room devotion at the International Offices a week ago we prayed for the leaders of the church all around the world. The Spirit entered that prayer time and quickened