Voice of Hope

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.

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.

Retired minister, Everett Fulmer's services will be tomorrow at 1:00 p.m. at the Decherd Church of God in Decherd, Tennessee. Please join me in prayer fo the Fulmer family.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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...

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...

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 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!

The Christmas Program/Play at Huntingdon was great. We thank the Lord for all who participated. Go to www.eagleflight777.blogspot.com to read more and see pictures. Milton Gordon, Pastor

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 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...

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 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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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...

The Christmas play, "PARDONED" will be presented on Sunday night, 17th and on Monday night, 18th at 7:00 pm both nights and you are invited to come, see and enjoy. Bring your family and friends. Bishop F. Leon Graves

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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"

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.

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.

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.

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...

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.

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

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.

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...

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.

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.