Welcome to Connections!
Dear Dr. E.C.,
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: Caribbean Leadership Conference
2. An Unstoppable Force in Guinea Bissau
3. Announcing TREES OF RIGHTEOUSNESS ICM 07
4. Changes in Finance and Publications
5. Responses from World Impact Viewers
6. Spanish VOS Announces New Series
7. Stewardship Ministries Update
8. Growing a Huge Small Church in Brownsburg, Indiana
9. Resources Ideas from Leadership Development and Discipleship Ministries
10. Upcoming Events
11. To Unsubscribe
From the General Overseer: Caribbean Leadership Conference
Just last weekend the leadership of the Church of God of Prophecy gathered in Jamaica at the tenth Bi-annual Caribbean Leadership Conference, led by General Presbyter Brice Thompson. Each area of leadership for the church around the world holds similar meetings every two years for the purposes of: area fellowship, inspiration, reporting on national progress, and area strategic dialogue. This meeting was noted for the high level of inspiration carried throughout the sessions.
One highlight moment of inspiration was on Saturday morning when a season of prayer was called. Each nation and national leader was prayed for with laying on of hands. Pastors, District Bishops and Parish Overseers received prayer and prayed for one another as the Holy Spirit ignited fervent prayer in the session. It was one of those sessions where it seemed no one wanted to close, as the Spirit continued stirring sweetly over our hearts.
There were many highlights, but one among these was the opening session where the newly-elected Prime Minister of Jamaica, Portia Simpson-Miller, addressed the conference. We were all touched when she claimed that her time as a young girl in Sunday School with the Church of God of Prophecy had laid foundations for her leadership to come. She recalled scripture memory, youth rallies, dramas, and such activities that encouraged her in spiritual development as well as in confidence before people. My mind tried to imagine the humble beginnings of our work in Jamaica. And now the development of this movement over time could testify by grace that the first female Prime Minister of the nation had received discipleship at our hands. Clearly the horizons are endless in Gods great cause.
For more information, contact: Shaun McKinley, Administrative Liaison to the General Overseer by e-mailing shaun@cogop.org.
An Unstoppable Force in Guinea Bissau
The work of the gospel in Africa faces resistance and there are challenges of all kinds. The good news is that no resistance can stop the forward advance of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Peter Koyea, church planter extraordinaire, gives this update of the challenging mission work in Bissau: We must praise the Lord for all is well and the people here know that we are serving a God with greater power than theirs. The Church is growing amidst all that we went through with the late old man that was standing as an agent to hinder us. The juju man [practitioner of the occult] died on New Years eve but we got the news on this past Sunday. For the first time we reached 130 in our worship service here in Bissau on this gone Sunday with people standing and some outside, and 29 of those worshiping with us for the first time gave their lives to Jesus.
As the work progresses spiritually, the people are moving to achieve progress materially. Brother Koyea reports that the church is now registered with the government of Bissau. They have purchased land and are now erecting a building: We are aiming at building a structure just more than temporary due to the difficulties and cost in getting a place here. When the landlord gave us the notice to leave [the house they were renting] we tried and tried but could not find a place up to the expiration of the deadline for us to stay in the house. We went to him again and told him that we have not found a place. He requested the money he gave [returned] to us and agreed for us to stay up to the time our contract will expire but with a condition that we do not use our public address amplifier, loud speakers and drum. We accepted for there was no other choice. This helped to change our mind from erecting a tent on the land to constructing a building where we will be able to stay also.
The Lord has continued to open amazing doors for these faith-filled saints. Two Togolese building contractors have volunteered to work on the building and have only asked for food and transportation as payment. When the building is completed it will seat 150 people, have two bedrooms with each room containing its own bathroom with toilet, an office, a kitchen, sitting room and porch for the apartment. The project will require 7 million Cfa to finish.
For more information on missions, contact Retha Franklin at retha@cogop.org.
Announcing TREES OF RIGHEOUSNESS the 2007 Institute of Childrens Ministry, May 23-26, 2007
. . .that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord. . .(Isaiah 61:3).
Imagine a forest of trees—not deciduous or evergreen. These trees are boys and girls who were once poor, brokenhearted, captive, grieving, and in despair. Because of the Spirit of the Lord working through you these children now stand strong, established, and purposeful. They have become TREES OF RIGHTEOUSNESS. God has planted them and He is glorified!
At the 2007 Institute of Childrens Ministry we will invite God to renew our spiritual lives and ministries, strengthen ministry and leadership skills, participate in interactive learning and hands-on ministry events, and gain understanding of how to win and disciple all children with a specific focus on children at-risk, so that our children may become TREES OF RIGHTEOUSNESS!
Special Guest for the 2007 Institute:
Larry Shallenberger is the Pastor of Children and Student Ministries at Grace Church in Erie, PA where hes ministered for nearly ten years. He is the author of Divine Intention: How Gods Work in the Early Church Empowers Us Today, Lead the Way God Made You: Discovering Your Leadership Style for Childrens Ministry, and Instant Puppet Skits: Big, Hairy Issues Kids Face. Larry has also contributed to over fourteen childrens ministry resource books including the Hands-On Bible. Larry has also contributed to the FaithWeaver, Bible Blitz, and Adventure Club Curriculums. Larry writes a monthly column on volunteer management at www.churchvolunteercentral.com and is a regular contributor to Childrens Ministry magazine. Larrys BridgeKids childrens ministry is designed with a goal of connecting children to God, the church, and the world. Larrys ministry is marked with a passion for innovation and for helping children understand the relational nature of Christianity.
Wanda Parker has worked with children for 38 years in both secular and Christian settings. She has created curriculum and developed training to launch a number of childrens ministries and outreach. Wanda was part of an international team that developed a university curriculum for reaching at-risk kids. Her impact is nationwide, training Christians to work with at-risk kids and their families. She and her husband, Joe, live in Long Beach, California and have three children and four grandchildren. Her current position allows her to use her God-given expertise in every area of curriculum development, training and implementation. A noted speaker, her presentations motivate Christian leaders to reach endangered youth for Christ.
For more information, contact: Leslie Green, Childrens Ministries Administrative Assistant by e-mailing lgreen@cogop.org.
Changes in Finance and Publications
In December 2006, the International Offices said goodbye to then Finance and Publications Director, Bishop Perry E. Gillum. Bishop Gillum, having served for over 40 years in many capacities at the International Offices and state levels of the Church of God of Prophecy, had served in the position of Finance and Publications Director for three years. Bishop Gillum, with wife Evelyn by his side, also faithfully led the General Assembly Task Force, having coordinated every General Assembly that had been located outside of Cleveland, Tennessee.
Bishop Gillum relocated in December to Northern Virginia, where he is presently serving as President of the Change a Life Foundation, a charitable organization serving the needs of children around the world.
The International Offices is grateful for Bishop Gillums contribution and dedication to God and to the Church of God of Prophecy. We pray Gods blessing on him in his new role.
It was announced today that Bishop Benjamin Feliz, Southeast Region Spanish Overseer will assume the role of Finance and Publications Director effective March 1, 2007. Bishop Feliz brings not only a broad ministerial experience, but also a professional background in banking and finance. To read more about Bishop Felizs transition, visit www.cogop.org .
For more information, contact: Shaun McKinley, Administrative Liaison to the General Overseer by e-mailing shaun@cogop.org.
Responses from World Impact Viewers
World Impact receives emails and phone calls from viewers daily from all over the globe. Recently, the scope of respondents has greatly enlarged. In the month of January alone, we have received contacts from viewers in the Republic of Georgia, New Zealand, Ethiopia, Uzbekistan, Australia, Turkmenistan, Pakistan, India, Papua New Guinea, Jamaica, South Korea, Nigeria, the Bahamas, Canada, and the United States.
One viewer from New Zealand writes, My wife and I happened to see your program and the Holy Spirit preached so powerfully through you that we wept in front of the TV for a half-hour. You hit the nail right on the head for us. We will continue to follow your anointed ministry. Another listener from the state of Ohio writes, As we listened to your radio program, our eyes became fountains and our hearts were broken. The insight shared was from a deep well of love. A third viewer from South Korea states, Thank you for World Impact! I love watching your program on TBN and on the Internet. To read more viewer responses, visit www.vosministries.org .
For more information, contact: Brittany Gillum, Voice of Salvation Administrative Assistance by e-mailing brittany@cogop.org.
Spanish Voice Announces New Series
Spanish Voice of Salvation announces a series edited for audiences on the Seven Churches of Asia videotaped at the sites of the seven churches. A beautifully illustrated expository teaching on the book of Revelation is also available. These resources are available from Spanish VOIS, only in Spanish, but it could be a great resource to your church if you have a Sunday school class in Spanish. To order, or for more information, contact the Spanish VOS offices in Orlando by calling 407-344-8432 or e-mail siembra08@earthlink.net.
Stewardship Ministries Updates
Effective January 1, federal tax rules for 2007 require that cash contributions to churches must be substantiated by written communication from the church in order to be deducted. In the past, according to IRS, a bank register, personal note, or diary was accepted as proof of cash contributions of less than $250 each. Canceled checks for individual donations of less than $250 are still acceptable documentation for charitable deduction purposes according to the IRS. If the contribution is more than $250, documentation from the church is required.
If people in the church have concerns, they can commit to electronic funds transfer or credit card donations which are available in some churches.
A tax deduction should not be our motivation to give. However, tax rules must be obeyed by individuals and the Church. Jesus response was to render to Caesar what belongs to Caesar.
All pastors should have received a W-2 by January 31. Visiting speakers should have received a 1099 if the church paid him/her $600 or more in the calendar year of 2006.
For more information, contact: Liz Walters, Stewardship Ministries Administrative Assistant by emailing liz@cogop.org.
Growing a Huge Small Church in Brownsburg, Indiana
Pastor Furney Revels of the Brownsburg, Indiana Church of God of Prophecy, along with the core leadership from that church, spent the weekend of January 26-28 learning the dynamics of Growing a Huge Small Church. The seminar focused on building strong effective small groups in the local church that will multiply by reaching into the harvest where each small group meets. Brownsburg is a suburb of Indianapolis with unbelievable potential for a great harvest of souls. Pastor Revels is an innovative young pastor that represents the exciting future of creative ministry in the Church of God of Prophecy. It was a joy to be with Pastor Revels and his family and minister to the wonderful people of this local church.
For more information, contact: Marvin Eskew, Small Group Ministries Coordinator by e-mail marvin@cogop.org.
Resource Ideas From Leadership Development and Discipleship Ministries
We occasionally get requests from churches needing resources for new believers. There are many good resources available for assisting the growth of new Christians. Below you will find a list of a few of these pieces, along with a brief description of each. If your church is in need of such material, we suggest that you look at these books and decide which might work best in your particular situation.
Anders, Max. The New Christians Handbook: Everything New Believers Need To Know. Nelson Reference (April 1999). ISBN: 0785207074. Take one spin through this guide, and youre grounded – not in trouble, but in truth! Brief chapters present basic what, why, and how facts of the Christian faith, clarifying even the deepest Bible doctrines and explaining how to put them into practice in real life. Varying evangelical views are presented fairly, interesting stories and anecdotes relate information effectively, especially for people with a limited church background, and the contemporary style page design appeals to todays young adults. Great for beginners – and a perfect "refresher" course for veterans.
Bennett, Ron and Mary. Beginning the Walk series (3 books). Beginning the Walk Bible studies are designed to help believers begin their new walk with Christ. Although intended for individual use, they can also be used with a mentor or a small group. Each study contains six lessons with a key Scripture verse at the beginning of each lesson. In-depth teaching, clarifying questions, a summary and prayer make up the lessons. Most of the Scripture quotations are taken from The Message and are included in the text. This series will provide the foundational teachings and resources necessary for building a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Jesus: The Way. Navpress Publishing Group (January 2005). ISBN: 1576833496. This volume is the first study in the series. It introduces the challenges likely to be encountered in a new and growing faith and provide tools to overcome them. This study focuses primarily on Ephesians and Colossians, two letters written by the apostle Paul for new believers.
Jesus: The Truth. Navpress Publishing Group (January 2005). ISBN: 1576837076. This volume is the second study in the series. It focuses on various aspects of a believers new identity in Christ through powerful word pictures derived primarily from the gospel of John.
Jesus: The Life. Navpress Publishing Group (January 2005). ISBN: 1576837084. This volume is the third study in the series. It outlines the basic resources of a believers faith walk such as the Word, prayer, and grace.
Laurie, Greg. Discipleship: The Next Step in Following Jesus. Harvest House Publishers (July 1998). ISBN: 1565079531. Popular pastor and evangelist Greg Laurie takes readers to the roots of dynamic faith and provides the nourishment they need to grow spiritually strong. Concise and to the point, every page delivers solid biblical principles and specific steps for developing the radical faith of the early church, including-requirements for becoming a disciple, Gods promises that bring His Word to life for every believer, blueprints for revolutionary living. Advocating an uncompromising commitment to Jesus, Greg Laurie provides hands on ideas to develop a more intimate relationship with the Lord.
Laurie, Greg. New Believers Guide to Prayer. Tyndale House Publishers (February 2003). ISBN: 0842355723. As a believer in Jesus Christ, believers can call on the Lord any hour of the day or night – through prayer. But new believers probably have some questions about exactly how to tap into the power of prayer. In this clear, concise guidebook, Pastor Greg Laurie answers questions common to new Christians about the practice of prayer, providing answers for such issues as how to: talk to God the way you talk to your best friend, use different kinds of prayer for different circumstances, overcome obstacles to effective prayer, and hear Gods answers to prayer.
Laurie, Greg. New Believers Guide to Effective Christian Living. Tyndale House Publishers (July 2002). ISBN: 084235574X . An individual has just decided to follow Jesus! Now what? Youll find biblical answers to the new believers many questions in this clear, concise guide. Pastor Laurie reveals Jesus as our Savior, friend, and Lord; and tackles important topics including salvation, spiritual growth, Bible study, prayer, fellowship, overcoming temptation, facing problems, seeking Gods will, sharing your faith, and more.
MacDonald, William. How to Begin Your Christian Life (First Steps for the New Christian). Cumberland House Publishing (revised edition, October 2002). ISBN: 1581822839. This work is an introduction to the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ. Designed to help new Christians discover what kind of relationship they have with God, the simple steps outlined here challenge individuals to make the most important decision of their life. Biblical, specific, and practical, this book answers the difficult questions many people ask by simply outlining the steps that lead to a life of faith – all from the Scriptures themselves.
MacDonald, William. How to Grow in Your Christian Life (First Steps for the New Christian). Cumberland House Publishing (revised edition, August 2002). ISBN: 158182307X. This resource is an introduction to the joys of living the Christian life in all its fullness. Written for new believers and for anyone who wants to learn the basics of Christian living, this book is a reliable resource on living a full, rich Christian life and developing good habits for spiritual growth. Topics include: assurance of salvation, how to read the Bible, victory over temptation, and persevering in faith. Everything you need to know about beginning and growing in your Christian life is included, as well as a guide to memorizing key Bible verses and a twelve-week devotional guide.
Tell, Evan. Growing in the Family. Kregel Publications (2000) ISBN: 0825431735. Growing in the Family is a practical, easy-to-follow guide to help new Christians grow in their faith. Topics include how to live in daily fellowship with Christ, how to study the Bible and apply it to life, how to use ones gifts to serve others, how to face the problems and temptations of life, and how to share ones faith with confidence. Not only for personal use, this resource can also be used in discipleship training classes as well as in small groups.
Tell, Evan. Welcome to the Family! Understanding Your New Relationship to God and Others. Kregel Publications (1996). ISBN: 082543176X. A practical and easy-to-follow guide, this introduction to the basics of Christian growth concisely answers questions on relationships, prayer, fellowship, temptation, confession, discipleship, evangelism and more. Ideal for helping new believers or for anybody involved in follow-up programs, this handy little manual is a great "refresher" for mature Christians too.
For more information, contact: Jeanette Rollins, LD&D Administrative Assistant by emailing cblfeedback@cogop.org.
Upcoming Events
February 2007
Camp Boothe, AL – Childrens Ministries Training, February 2-3
San Jose, CA – Childrens Ministries Training (Spanish/English), February 17
Cerritos, CA – Childrens Ministries Training (Spanish/English), February 24
Brooksville, FL – C: Takin It to Heart (Childrens Ministries), February 9-10
Salisbury, MD - East Coast School of Ministry, February 2-3
March 2007
Niagara, Canada – Niagara Falls Ladies Retreat, March 16-18
Ventura, CA – Pacific Southwest Ladies Retreat, March 9-11
Newark, NJ – Atlantic Northeast Ladies Retreat, March 30 – April 1
Crossville, TN (Pinegrove Church) – Runnin the Race Childrens Ministry Training, March 10
Warda, TX - Texas Relational Ministry Conference, March 16-17
April 2007
Alix, Alberta - Western Canada Center for Biblical Leadership Conference, April 23-27
Murphy, NC – Easter Program, April 7
Hoboken, NJ – Runnin the Race (Childrens Ministries) – Bilingual, April 7
Toronto, Ontario - East Canada Leadership Development Institute, April 30-May 4
Cleveland, TN - Leadership Development Institute, April 17-21
Memphis, TN – CM: Takin It to Heart (Childrens Ministries), April 21
Staverton, England - European Womens Ministries Leadership Conference - April 11-12
Staverton, England - European Ladies Retreat - April 13-15
May 2007
Greeley, CO - Colorado Relational Ministry Conference, May 11-12
Des Moines, IA - Great Plains Ladies Retreat, May 4-6
Murphy, NC - Gospel Concert at Fields of the Wood, May 26
Providence, RI – CM Takin It to Heart, May 5
Cleveland, TN - Institute of Childrens Ministry, May 23-26
For more information, contact: Shaun McKinley, Administrative Liaison to the General Overseer by e-mailing shaun@cogop.org.
If You Enjoyed Connections. . .
If you enjoyed reading Connections, please take a moment to forward it to your friends and church family.
To Unsubscribe from Connections
To unsubscribe from future mailings, go to http://www.cogop.org and click on Connections Newsletter. On the following page, select Remove me from the newsletter list from the drop down menu and enter your information.
Dear Dr. E.C.,
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: Caribbean Leadership Conference
2. An Unstoppable Force in Guinea Bissau
3. Announcing TREES OF RIGHTEOUSNESS ICM 07
4. Changes in Finance and Publications
5. Responses from World Impact Viewers
6. Spanish VOS Announces New Series
7. Stewardship Ministries Update
8. Growing a Huge Small Church in Brownsburg, Indiana
9. Resources Ideas from Leadership Development and Discipleship Ministries
10. Upcoming Events
11. To Unsubscribe
From the General Overseer: Caribbean Leadership Conference
Just last weekend the leadership of the Church of God of Prophecy gathered in Jamaica at the tenth Bi-annual Caribbean Leadership Conference, led by General Presbyter Brice Thompson. Each area of leadership for the church around the world holds similar meetings every two years for the purposes of: area fellowship, inspiration, reporting on national progress, and area strategic dialogue. This meeting was noted for the high level of inspiration carried throughout the sessions.
One highlight moment of inspiration was on Saturday morning when a season of prayer was called. Each nation and national leader was prayed for with laying on of hands. Pastors, District Bishops and Parish Overseers received prayer and prayed for one another as the Holy Spirit ignited fervent prayer in the session. It was one of those sessions where it seemed no one wanted to close, as the Spirit continued stirring sweetly over our hearts.
There were many highlights, but one among these was the opening session where the newly-elected Prime Minister of Jamaica, Portia Simpson-Miller, addressed the conference. We were all touched when she claimed that her time as a young girl in Sunday School with the Church of God of Prophecy had laid foundations for her leadership to come. She recalled scripture memory, youth rallies, dramas, and such activities that encouraged her in spiritual development as well as in confidence before people. My mind tried to imagine the humble beginnings of our work in Jamaica. And now the development of this movement over time could testify by grace that the first female Prime Minister of the nation had received discipleship at our hands. Clearly the horizons are endless in Gods great cause.
For more information, contact: Shaun McKinley, Administrative Liaison to the General Overseer by e-mailing shaun@cogop.org.
An Unstoppable Force in Guinea Bissau
The work of the gospel in Africa faces resistance and there are challenges of all kinds. The good news is that no resistance can stop the forward advance of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Peter Koyea, church planter extraordinaire, gives this update of the challenging mission work in Bissau: We must praise the Lord for all is well and the people here know that we are serving a God with greater power than theirs. The Church is growing amidst all that we went through with the late old man that was standing as an agent to hinder us. The juju man [practitioner of the occult] died on New Years eve but we got the news on this past Sunday. For the first time we reached 130 in our worship service here in Bissau on this gone Sunday with people standing and some outside, and 29 of those worshiping with us for the first time gave their lives to Jesus.
As the work progresses spiritually, the people are moving to achieve progress materially. Brother Koyea reports that the church is now registered with the government of Bissau. They have purchased land and are now erecting a building: We are aiming at building a structure just more than temporary due to the difficulties and cost in getting a place here. When the landlord gave us the notice to leave [the house they were renting] we tried and tried but could not find a place up to the expiration of the deadline for us to stay in the house. We went to him again and told him that we have not found a place. He requested the money he gave [returned] to us and agreed for us to stay up to the time our contract will expire but with a condition that we do not use our public address amplifier, loud speakers and drum. We accepted for there was no other choice. This helped to change our mind from erecting a tent on the land to constructing a building where we will be able to stay also.
The Lord has continued to open amazing doors for these faith-filled saints. Two Togolese building contractors have volunteered to work on the building and have only asked for food and transportation as payment. When the building is completed it will seat 150 people, have two bedrooms with each room containing its own bathroom with toilet, an office, a kitchen, sitting room and porch for the apartment. The project will require 7 million Cfa to finish.
For more information on missions, contact Retha Franklin at retha@cogop.org.
Announcing TREES OF RIGHEOUSNESS the 2007 Institute of Childrens Ministry, May 23-26, 2007
. . .that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord. . .(Isaiah 61:3).
Imagine a forest of trees—not deciduous or evergreen. These trees are boys and girls who were once poor, brokenhearted, captive, grieving, and in despair. Because of the Spirit of the Lord working through you these children now stand strong, established, and purposeful. They have become TREES OF RIGHTEOUSNESS. God has planted them and He is glorified!
At the 2007 Institute of Childrens Ministry we will invite God to renew our spiritual lives and ministries, strengthen ministry and leadership skills, participate in interactive learning and hands-on ministry events, and gain understanding of how to win and disciple all children with a specific focus on children at-risk, so that our children may become TREES OF RIGHTEOUSNESS!
Special Guest for the 2007 Institute:
Larry Shallenberger is the Pastor of Children and Student Ministries at Grace Church in Erie, PA where hes ministered for nearly ten years. He is the author of Divine Intention: How Gods Work in the Early Church Empowers Us Today, Lead the Way God Made You: Discovering Your Leadership Style for Childrens Ministry, and Instant Puppet Skits: Big, Hairy Issues Kids Face. Larry has also contributed to over fourteen childrens ministry resource books including the Hands-On Bible. Larry has also contributed to the FaithWeaver, Bible Blitz, and Adventure Club Curriculums. Larry writes a monthly column on volunteer management at www.churchvolunteercentral.com
Wanda Parker has worked with children for 38 years in both secular and Christian settings. She has created curriculum and developed training to launch a number of childrens ministries and outreach. Wanda was part of an international team that developed a university curriculum for reaching at-risk kids. Her impact is nationwide, training Christians to work with at-risk kids and their families. She and her husband, Joe, live in Long Beach, California and have three children and four grandchildren. Her current position allows her to use her God-given expertise in every area of curriculum development, training and implementation. A noted speaker, her presentations motivate Christian leaders to reach endangered youth for Christ.
For more information, contact: Leslie Green, Childrens Ministries Administrative Assistant by e-mailing lgreen@cogop.org.
Changes in Finance and Publications
In December 2006, the International Offices said goodbye to then Finance and Publications Director, Bishop Perry E. Gillum. Bishop Gillum, having served for over 40 years in many capacities at the International Offices and state levels of the Church of God of Prophecy, had served in the position of Finance and Publications Director for three years. Bishop Gillum, with wife Evelyn by his side, also faithfully led the General Assembly Task Force, having coordinated every General Assembly that had been located outside of Cleveland, Tennessee.
Bishop Gillum relocated in December to Northern Virginia, where he is presently serving as President of the Change a Life Foundation, a charitable organization serving the needs of children around the world.
The International Offices is grateful for Bishop Gillums contribution and dedication to God and to the Church of God of Prophecy. We pray Gods blessing on him in his new role.
It was announced today that Bishop Benjamin Feliz, Southeast Region Spanish Overseer will assume the role of Finance and Publications Director effective March 1, 2007. Bishop Feliz brings not only a broad ministerial experience, but also a professional background in banking and finance. To read more about Bishop Felizs transition, visit www.cogop.org
For more information, contact: Shaun McKinley, Administrative Liaison to the General Overseer by e-mailing shaun@cogop.org.
Responses from World Impact Viewers
World Impact receives emails and phone calls from viewers daily from all over the globe. Recently, the scope of respondents has greatly enlarged. In the month of January alone, we have received contacts from viewers in the Republic of Georgia, New Zealand, Ethiopia, Uzbekistan, Australia, Turkmenistan, Pakistan, India, Papua New Guinea, Jamaica, South Korea, Nigeria, the Bahamas, Canada, and the United States.
One viewer from New Zealand writes, My wife and I happened to see your program and the Holy Spirit preached so powerfully through you that we wept in front of the TV for a half-hour. You hit the nail right on the head for us. We will continue to follow your anointed ministry. Another listener from the state of Ohio writes, As we listened to your radio program, our eyes became fountains and our hearts were broken. The insight shared was from a deep well of love. A third viewer from South Korea states, Thank you for World Impact! I love watching your program on TBN and on the Internet. To read more viewer responses, visit www.vosministries.org
For more information, contact: Brittany Gillum, Voice of Salvation Administrative Assistance by e-mailing brittany@cogop.org.
Spanish Voice Announces New Series
Spanish Voice of Salvation announces a series edited for audiences on the Seven Churches of Asia videotaped at the sites of the seven churches. A beautifully illustrated expository teaching on the book of Revelation is also available. These resources are available from Spanish VOIS, only in Spanish, but it could be a great resource to your church if you have a Sunday school class in Spanish. To order, or for more information, contact the Spanish VOS offices in Orlando by calling 407-344-8432 or e-mail siembra08@earthlink.net.
Stewardship Ministries Updates
Effective January 1, federal tax rules for 2007 require that cash contributions to churches must be substantiated by written communication from the church in order to be deducted. In the past, according to IRS, a bank register, personal note, or diary was accepted as proof of cash contributions of less than $250 each. Canceled checks for individual donations of less than $250 are still acceptable documentation for charitable deduction purposes according to the IRS. If the contribution is more than $250, documentation from the church is required.
If people in the church have concerns, they can commit to electronic funds transfer or credit card donations which are available in some churches.
A tax deduction should not be our motivation to give. However, tax rules must be obeyed by individuals and the Church. Jesus response was to render to Caesar what belongs to Caesar.
All pastors should have received a W-2 by January 31. Visiting speakers should have received a 1099 if the church paid him/her $600 or more in the calendar year of 2006.
For more information, contact: Liz Walters, Stewardship Ministries Administrative Assistant by emailing liz@cogop.org.
Growing a Huge Small Church in Brownsburg, Indiana
Pastor Furney Revels of the Brownsburg, Indiana Church of God of Prophecy, along with the core leadership from that church, spent the weekend of January 26-28 learning the dynamics of Growing a Huge Small Church. The seminar focused on building strong effective small groups in the local church that will multiply by reaching into the harvest where each small group meets. Brownsburg is a suburb of Indianapolis with unbelievable potential for a great harvest of souls. Pastor Revels is an innovative young pastor that represents the exciting future of creative ministry in the Church of God of Prophecy. It was a joy to be with Pastor Revels and his family and minister to the wonderful people of this local church.
For more information, contact: Marvin Eskew, Small Group Ministries Coordinator by e-mail marvin@cogop.org.
Resource Ideas From Leadership Development and Discipleship Ministries
We occasionally get requests from churches needing resources for new believers. There are many good resources available for assisting the growth of new Christians. Below you will find a list of a few of these pieces, along with a brief description of each. If your church is in need of such material, we suggest that you look at these books and decide which might work best in your particular situation.
Anders, Max. The New Christians Handbook: Everything New Believers Need To Know. Nelson Reference (April 1999). ISBN: 0785207074. Take one spin through this guide, and youre grounded – not in trouble, but in truth! Brief chapters present basic what, why, and how facts of the Christian faith, clarifying even the deepest Bible doctrines and explaining how to put them into practice in real life. Varying evangelical views are presented fairly, interesting stories and anecdotes relate information effectively, especially for people with a limited church background, and the contemporary style page design appeals to todays young adults. Great for beginners – and a perfect "refresher" course for veterans.
Bennett, Ron and Mary. Beginning the Walk series (3 books). Beginning the Walk Bible studies are designed to help believers begin their new walk with Christ. Although intended for individual use, they can also be used with a mentor or a small group. Each study contains six lessons with a key Scripture verse at the beginning of each lesson. In-depth teaching, clarifying questions, a summary and prayer make up the lessons. Most of the Scripture quotations are taken from The Message and are included in the text. This series will provide the foundational teachings and resources necessary for building a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Jesus: The Way. Navpress Publishing Group (January 2005). ISBN: 1576833496. This volume is the first study in the series. It introduces the challenges likely to be encountered in a new and growing faith and provide tools to overcome them. This study focuses primarily on Ephesians and Colossians, two letters written by the apostle Paul for new believers.
Jesus: The Truth. Navpress Publishing Group (January 2005). ISBN: 1576837076. This volume is the second study in the series. It focuses on various aspects of a believers new identity in Christ through powerful word pictures derived primarily from the gospel of John.
Jesus: The Life. Navpress Publishing Group (January 2005). ISBN: 1576837084. This volume is the third study in the series. It outlines the basic resources of a believers faith walk such as the Word, prayer, and grace.
Laurie, Greg. Discipleship: The Next Step in Following Jesus. Harvest House Publishers (July 1998). ISBN: 1565079531. Popular pastor and evangelist Greg Laurie takes readers to the roots of dynamic faith and provides the nourishment they need to grow spiritually strong. Concise and to the point, every page delivers solid biblical principles and specific steps for developing the radical faith of the early church, including-requirements for becoming a disciple, Gods promises that bring His Word to life for every believer, blueprints for revolutionary living. Advocating an uncompromising commitment to Jesus, Greg Laurie provides hands on ideas to develop a more intimate relationship with the Lord.
Laurie, Greg. New Believers Guide to Prayer. Tyndale House Publishers (February 2003). ISBN: 0842355723. As a believer in Jesus Christ, believers can call on the Lord any hour of the day or night – through prayer. But new believers probably have some questions about exactly how to tap into the power of prayer. In this clear, concise guidebook, Pastor Greg Laurie answers questions common to new Christians about the practice of prayer, providing answers for such issues as how to: talk to God the way you talk to your best friend, use different kinds of prayer for different circumstances, overcome obstacles to effective prayer, and hear Gods answers to prayer.
Laurie, Greg. New Believers Guide to Effective Christian Living. Tyndale House Publishers (July 2002). ISBN: 084235574X . An individual has just decided to follow Jesus! Now what? Youll find biblical answers to the new believers many questions in this clear, concise guide. Pastor Laurie reveals Jesus as our Savior, friend, and Lord; and tackles important topics including salvation, spiritual growth, Bible study, prayer, fellowship, overcoming temptation, facing problems, seeking Gods will, sharing your faith, and more.
MacDonald, William. How to Begin Your Christian Life (First Steps for the New Christian). Cumberland House Publishing (revised edition, October 2002). ISBN: 1581822839. This work is an introduction to the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ. Designed to help new Christians discover what kind of relationship they have with God, the simple steps outlined here challenge individuals to make the most important decision of their life. Biblical, specific, and practical, this book answers the difficult questions many people ask by simply outlining the steps that lead to a life of faith – all from the Scriptures themselves.
MacDonald, William. How to Grow in Your Christian Life (First Steps for the New Christian). Cumberland House Publishing (revised edition, August 2002). ISBN: 158182307X. This resource is an introduction to the joys of living the Christian life in all its fullness. Written for new believers and for anyone who wants to learn the basics of Christian living, this book is a reliable resource on living a full, rich Christian life and developing good habits for spiritual growth. Topics include: assurance of salvation, how to read the Bible, victory over temptation, and persevering in faith. Everything you need to know about beginning and growing in your Christian life is included, as well as a guide to memorizing key Bible verses and a twelve-week devotional guide.
Tell, Evan. Growing in the Family. Kregel Publications (2000) ISBN: 0825431735. Growing in the Family is a practical, easy-to-follow guide to help new Christians grow in their faith. Topics include how to live in daily fellowship with Christ, how to study the Bible and apply it to life, how to use ones gifts to serve others, how to face the problems and temptations of life, and how to share ones faith with confidence. Not only for personal use, this resource can also be used in discipleship training classes as well as in small groups.
Tell, Evan. Welcome to the Family! Understanding Your New Relationship to God and Others. Kregel Publications (1996). ISBN: 082543176X. A practical and easy-to-follow guide, this introduction to the basics of Christian growth concisely answers questions on relationships, prayer, fellowship, temptation, confession, discipleship, evangelism and more. Ideal for helping new believers or for anybody involved in follow-up programs, this handy little manual is a great "refresher" for mature Christians too.
For more information, contact: Jeanette Rollins, LD&D Administrative Assistant by emailing cblfeedback@cogop.org.
Upcoming Events
February 2007
Camp Boothe, AL – Childrens Ministries Training, February 2-3
San Jose, CA – Childrens Ministries Training (Spanish/English), February 17
Cerritos, CA – Childrens Ministries Training (Spanish/English), February 24
Brooksville, FL – C: Takin It to Heart (Childrens Ministries), February 9-10
Salisbury, MD - East Coast School of Ministry, February 2-3
March 2007
Niagara, Canada – Niagara Falls Ladies Retreat, March 16-18
Ventura, CA – Pacific Southwest Ladies Retreat, March 9-11
Newark, NJ – Atlantic Northeast Ladies Retreat, March 30 – April 1
Crossville, TN (Pinegrove Church) – Runnin the Race Childrens Ministry Training, March 10
Warda, TX - Texas Relational Ministry Conference, March 16-17
April 2007
Alix, Alberta - Western Canada Center for Biblical Leadership Conference, April 23-27
Murphy, NC – Easter Program, April 7
Hoboken, NJ – Runnin the Race (Childrens Ministries) – Bilingual, April 7
Toronto, Ontario - East Canada Leadership Development Institute, April 30-May 4
Cleveland, TN - Leadership Development Institute, April 17-21
Memphis, TN – CM: Takin It to Heart (Childrens Ministries), April 21
Staverton, England - European Womens Ministries Leadership Conference - April 11-12
Staverton, England - European Ladies Retreat - April 13-15
May 2007
Greeley, CO - Colorado Relational Ministry Conference, May 11-12
Des Moines, IA - Great Plains Ladies Retreat, May 4-6
Murphy, NC - Gospel Concert at Fields of the Wood, May 26
Providence, RI – CM Takin It to Heart, May 5
Cleveland, TN - Institute of Childrens Ministry, May 23-26
For more information, contact: Shaun McKinley, Administrative Liaison to the General Overseer by e-mailing shaun@cogop.org.
If You Enjoyed Connections. . .
If you enjoyed reading Connections, please take a moment to forward it to your friends and church family.
To Unsubscribe from Connections
To unsubscribe from future mailings, go to http://www.cogop.org and click on Connections Newsletter. On the following page, select Remove me from the newsletter list from the drop down menu and enter your information.
Comments