Voice of Hope

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This last year has finally drawn to a close. There have been many struggles, but here have been victories as well. We have watched as loved ones have passed to their eternal reward, and we've shared the joy of new births. Our year began with ministerial intensives, and has ended with Christmas and New Year's celebrations. We celebrated together in youth camps, women's retreats, men's retreats and children's training conferences. We've watched as children have started school, and others who have graduated from college. Our churches gathered in meetings all across Tennessee, and have gathered corporately in our bi-annual state convention. As I write what I believe will be the final post of 2007, I would like to share with you the words of the great Apostle Paul: " Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead," (Philippians 3:13) With this scripture i...

I've learned of the passing of Donnie Kirby's mother in South Carolina. Brother Kirby is the pastor of the Big Sandy church. She passed away around 5:00 p.m. on Friday, and the following arrangements have been released: Viewing: Sunday evening (Dec. 30) 7-9 PM Funeral Service: Monday afternoon 3:00 PM (Dec. 31) Cades Pentecostal Holiness Church Services conducted by: Brockington Funeral Home, Lake City, SC Many of you will remember that Donnie's daughter, April is a former employee of our International Offices, working in the White Wing Messenger department. I spoke with Brother Donnie this morning, and he and his family are still in South Carolina. Let's pray for the whole family for the comforting touch of the Spirit of God.

On February 1 & 2, 2008 ministers will gather from all across Tennessee to participate in the annual Ministerial Intensive Training. The intensive will be a wonderful opportunity for currently license ministers, pastors and other leaders to gain much needed information that will assist in ministry. Also, the overseer will be teaching a class for all regularly licensed ministers, establishing the requirements for ordination as a Bishop in the Church of God of Prophecy, and what he looks for before recommending a minister for that rank of ministry (overseer's recommendation is required for anyone to be licensed as a bishop). There will be a class for trial deacons taught by a seasoned Deacon in the church, and those currently serving as local deacons should also attend this class to assist them in continuing education. Remember, this is open to all desiring to attend, not just licensed, credentialed ministers. CLICK HERE to visit our download site where a registration form can ...

The Heartland Fellowship Church (Elizabethton) has scheduled the dedication for their new sanctuary on Sunday, January 6th, 2008. I am sharing this information for anyone who can attend the service and share in the great day of celebration. The local website at www.heartlandfc.org will be continually update, which will include directions to the new church. Congratulations to Pastor Marvin Slagle and the wonderful congregation for this great achievement.

I invite you to check out this website: http://www.awakeningamerica.us/ God bless.

Note: I am posting an email received from our National Overseer of Pakistan. I hope that you will understand that I am not posting his name or contact information for security reasons. Please join me in prayer for our Bishop there: Dear Brothers and sisters Greetings to you in the highest name of Jesus Christ. Hope you are informed of the suddenly death of X Priminister of Pakistan Benazir Bhutto. Pakistan's Benazir Bhutto Killed. The attacker struck just minutes after Bhutto addressed thousands of supporters in the garrison city of Rawalpindi, 8 miles south of Islamabad. She was shot in the neck and chest by the attacker, who then blew himself up. After attack Bhutto was rushed to the hospital and taken into emergency surgery. She died about an hour after the attack. Many chanted slogans against Musharraf, accusing him of complicity in her killing. As news of her death spread, angry supporters took to the streets. In Karachi, shop owners quickly closed their businesses as prot...

There will be a Children's Ministry Intensive on Saturday, February 9th at the Lakeside Church in Westmoreland. Registration fee is $25 prior to January 18th. Registration fee includes training, light breakfast, and lunch. This day will change your Children's Ministry forever. To download a copy of the registration form CLICK HERE

Greetings: I would like to ask that the information in this email be put into your state paper if possible. I am a full time evangelist and at the present have been working in the states of VA. WVa. and TN, & Alaska. I have started to book for the summer in 2008 and also for 09.. Please let your pastors know that I am willing to come and share the gospel with them and the church and community as well. I can be reached at: Evangelist Rebecca Spicer H: 540-726-3197 or C: 540-623-4960 Available to book now for revivals , children's crusades outreach seminars. Will work with any church , no matter the size or distance. Please reply ASAP. References you may use are: My overseer in VA. (Bro Davis - 540-992-3696 ) or (Overseer Larry Dotson - 407-877-0733-- Bro. Dotson was a former pastor to me.) Thank you, Evangelist Rebecca Spicer

Our start time for the Youth/Children's Conference/Fellowship is 1p.m.not 9 am.

JANUARY 1-6-2008 6:00 PM West Tennessee Leadership Meeting Jackson (Location TBA) 1-12-2008 1:00 PM Children/Youth Fellowship Crossroads Church 1-13-2008 6:00 PM Middle Tennessee Leadership Meeting Crossroads Church 1-19-2008 1:00 PM Children/Youth Fellowship Murfreesboro Church 1-20-2008 6:00 PM Middle Tennessee Leadership Meeting Murfreesboro Church 1-27-2008 6:00 PM Plateau Region Leadership Meeting Lawrence Chapel Church 1-29-2008 through 1-21-2008 All Day Synergize Pastor's Conference Atlanta,Georgia

Today, I received a voice mail from Pastor Geneva Carter (Livingston, TN) concerning her son Jeff Slaten. We had asked for special prayer for him prior to Christmas after he was rushed to the hospital. Sister Carter relayed that Jeff has expressed his thanks to all who have prayed for him. It is a wonderful thing when God moves on our situations in answer to our prayers. Yes, He still answers prayer! God bless

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This year, our family celebrated Christmas on the 24th instead of the 25th. Stephanie had to work today, so we all gathered at Shaun's house on the 24th, along with Frank and Glenda Shroyer to share a meal and open gifts! Imagine, a toddler amidst all of the toys with every eye focused on her, and you could probably get a picture of what it was like. We had such a wonderful time together in Cleveland and we are all so thankful for the goodness of the Lord to our family. This morning, in my devotional time, the study guide I personally follow made the point that Christ was born to die. That His birth was a forward look to the day when He would become our "kinsman redeemer" and rescue us all from the punishment we so justly deserve. I am so grateful for His sacrifice, and for the understanding that He will one day return to catch the church away. What a joyful thought on this Christmas Day!

My family and I wish you a Merry Christmas. Our hope and prayer is that the "Prince of Peace" will be with you and all of your family and friends. May God bless each of you!

This morning, my family was all together at the Peerless Road Church in Cleveland. Debra, Lindsey and I made the trip over to the home of Shaun, Stephanie and Reagan, along with a friend of ours, Secil Mathew who had flown in from London, England to spend the holidays with us. The music and other parts of the service were great and the Pastor, Tim Coalter preached on of the best sermons I believe I've ever hear on the "Gift of Grace." My heart was so full as we concluded the service with holy communion, with my family and so many friends present. God certainly has been good to our family. I am certain that whatever form the services took today in our churches across Tennessee, that many others were blessed just as I am. We have such wonderful pastors, pastor's families and laity in this great State and we are all blessed to work and worship together in the great harvest the Lord has placed us in. My final thought concerns a Christmas service well over 30-years-ago...

Earlier this week, we sent out our second W.H.I.T. (What's Happening in Tennessee) electronic version. This is a weekly version sent to keep you abreast of events and news in the Church of God of Prophecy (Tennessee and beyond). If you did NOT receive one of these E-news versions, I would be more than happy to add you to our list so you can begin receiving them. To subscribe simply CLICK HERE to send an email requesting to be added to the list. In the "SUBJECT" line of your email or in the body, type "Subscribe." God bless!

Just a brief reminder to let you know that our State Offices are now closed for the holidays. As always, you can send email, or leave voices messages at the office if there is an urgent need. All of us at the state office wish you a Merry Christmas, and remember, Jesus is the Reason for the Season. NOTE: I WILL CONTINUE POSTING TO THE BLOG THROUGHOUT THE HOLIDAYS TO KEEP YOU UP ON NEWS FROM AROUND THE STATE

Today we welcome Donny & Linda Giles into our world-wide fellowship of the Church of God of Prophecy. Brother Donny was also appointed to serve as the new pastor at the Lewisburg church. (Pictured: Donny & Linda Giles, District Presbyter Gary & Joyce Riley, E.C. McKinley, Presiding Bishop - Tennessee. Welcome!

As a service to our readers, I am placing two committee reports on our download page for your convenience. These two reports are released so that the constituency of our church can review, comment and participate in the process. You can download these documents by CLICKING HERE. Any questions or comments should be directed to the particular General Assembly Committee. I invite the members of the Church of God of Prophecy to take an active role in the General Assemblies of the church.

The reports to be presented at the General Assembly in 2008 are now available for download at the International Offices website: www.cogop.org

Dear Friends, Please be advised that I have removed the email list of our churches in Tennessee from the state website for privacy reasons. If you need to make contact with any of our churches, please feel free to email me, and I can help direct you. We have a policy in the State Office that we do NOT share email lists with any organization. I hope you will understand, and I pray this is not too much of an inconvenience.

I spoke with Pastor Geneva Carter a few-minutes-ago, and she reports that her son is doing better. The doctors will still do some tests tomorrow, and there is the possibility he will be released. Thank you for praying and please help us pray for total recovery. God bless.

I just learned a few-minutes-ago that Jeff Slaten, son of Pastor Geneva Carter (Livingston, TN) has been rushed to the hospital. He was recovering from a shoulder surgery when an event took place. I don't have any further information right now, please help me pray for Jeff.

(CLICK ON IMAGE FOR A LARGER VIEW) Each pastor in the Church of God of Prophecy has received a promotion from our North American General Presbyter's office concerning an initiative called "EVERYONE CAN." In these two photos, you will find a copy of the mailer that was sent to each local church. One of the great needs in church planting is the funding to help with rent, utilities and operational expense. This is a great end-of-the-year opportunity for you or your church to give to a needed project. All funds should be sent to: Church of God of Prophecy North American General Presbyter P.O. Box 2910 Cleveland, TN 37320-2910 Together, we can!

This morning, Debra and I joined our daughter Lindsey at the Bellshire church in Nashville. In this morning's service, the church hosted its annual Christmas service, which was well-directed, inspiring and hopeful. Jeff and Kimmy Jones did a great job of organizing and directing the program, and as always, the people were so warm and friendly. Pastor Shannon Bowdoin and his family were honored by their congregation shortly after the communion service. Special thanks to all who did a great job!

Just a quick update on Carolyn Kephart (Pastor E.C. Kephart's wife) who has been replaced from hospital and is recovering at home. Please continue to pray for her recovery.

This week, we began a new format of sharing Tennessee news on our electronic format of the W.H.I.T. newsletter. I am including a sample of the email here for your information. If you would like to be added to the email list, please send an CLICK HERE and type subscribe. Thanks and God bless. CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO ENLARGE

A One day Training just for YOU: The Local Children's Minister. If you work in Sunday School, Children's Church, Vacation Bible School, or have a desire to make a difference in the life of a child, please join me at Lakeside Church in Westmoreland on Feburary 9th. It is $25 per person for advanced registration. Make an investment in the Children's Ministry of your local church today. Sis Kathy Creasy, Children's Ministry Director from International Offices will be in Westmoreland sharing with us. This is a wonderful opportunity. Hope to see you there.

Friends, Recently, a station in North Carolina carried a nice story about Fields of the Wood, featuring former Tennessee Overseer, Bishop H. Wayne Hall. To see the video CLICK HERE Perhaps the next time you see Bishop Hall, you can ask for his autograph! Great Job Bishop Hall!

This morning, Carolyn Kephart, wife of our Slayden Pastor, E.C., underwent knee replacement surgery at St Thomas hospital in Nashville. I was with Brother Kephart for about three hours and was able to visit with her after she was moved to a regular room. She seemed to be doing well when I left this afternoon. Please join me in prayer for her today, and for a rapid recovery.

This morning, Debra and I ministered at the Liverworth Church where Bishop James Huff serves as pastor. After the morning service. the church had their annual Christmas lunch. The food was great and the fellowship was even better. We appreciate the warm welcome, and the Presence of the Lord in the services. Special thanks to Brother and Sister Huff and the entire congregation for such a special day!

Our 2008 Tennessee Marriage Retreat is just around the corner. CLICK HERE to download a PDF file to complete and return to our office. We are looking for a great retreat. The registration deadline (to insure a room) is January 10, 2008. Bishop Mike & Ann Willingham will be our guest ministers this year and I am sure they will be a real blessing to you.

I learned this morning that Sister Carolyn Kephart, out Slayden pastor's wife is scheduled for surgery next week at St. Thomas. Will you please join me in prayer for her? God bless.

This evening, Debra and I joined pastors in the McMinnville district for a nice dinner. The fellowship was rich and the food was great. Special thanks to Bishop A.J. and Norma Coalter for helping to organize the event.

February 15-17, 2008 (Click on the Image for Full-Size Poster)

Attached you will find details of an upcoming conference. I am planning to attend this conference and it is my understanding that Bishop Howard and some of the International Office Staff may be attending as well. The SYNERGIZE! Pastors Conference will be held January 29-31, 2008 in Atlanta , Georgia at the Mount Paran Church . Over 35 pastors and teachers will present strategies for building churches and reaching the lost. These presenters represent over one million congregation members and some 400,000 churches worldwide. A complete list of presenters, as well as other conference details, is available online at http://www.synergize.tv . If this sounds as if it would be beneficial for you and possibly some of your key pastors you may want to share this information and the above link with them. You will notice early registration cost is just $79.00 (plus additional fees for premium parking and/preferred seating). In addition, of course, will be the hotel costs. Ple...

This morning, Debra and I joined the worship at the Gallatin Church of God of Prophecy. There, we received a warm welcome by the church, and enjoyed the choir, music and ministry. Afterwards, we had a nice lunch with Pastor Windell and Myrna Moore. At 3:00 pm., we participated in the dedication of the new parsonage, recently built and almost ready for occupancy. The home is beautiful, almost 3,300 square feet, in a new subdivision and is valued at close to $250,000 although the net cost will be well below that. Congratulations to Pastor Windell and Myrna Moore and the congregation on this great achievement! NOTE: Pictured above is Pastor Windell Moore and builder Ron Jones

This evening, Debra and I were with Bishop Robert & Sister Ledford and a group of the ministers, deacons and pastors and their companions for a Christmas dinner at the Knoxville (Arrowhead) church. The Ledford family did a wonderful job of preparation and serving of the meal. The dinner was followed by a time of fellowship, fun and laughter. We are so thankful to have such great leaders in Tennessee.

This morning, Debra and I were privileged to be with the pastors in Bishop A.J. Coalter's district in the Chattanooga/Cleveland area. It was such a blessing to share the fellowship and a good meal at the Holiday Inn (on the hill). Special thanks to Bishop A.J. & Norma Coalter for organizing the event, they did a wonderful job (as always) and the breakfast was well attended. The final count was 29 pastors/companions and we are so grateful, and blessed to work among such wonderful ministers of the Gospel. As I write, Debra is doing a little Christmas shopping, while I am posting. Tonight, we will be with pastors of District one and two (Upper East Tennessee) at the Knoxville (Arrowhead) church, and we look forward to the good food and fellowship. May God bless you!