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International Assembly Concludes

Well, its over. The International Assembly of the Church of God of Prophecy came to a conclusion with a consecration service of the International Leadership of our movement. I have heard it said that this has been our greatest International Assembly in years, and I have to agree. I do not remember at time when there was more freedom of worship, and even in our business sessions a good spirit seemed to prevail.

I do believe that our General Overseer, Bishop Randall Howard proved himself to be a strong leader to the constituency of our movement. I was so proud of him and the plurality of leaders that we call the General Presbytery. Please join me in prayer for him and his family as they try to recover from their hard work.

I am also extremely proud of all of the people of Tennessee who made the International Assembly a success. Space does not provide for me to thank everyone by name, but suffice it to say that God knows the names and He has a special blessing for the servant leadership that was demonstrated by our wonderful staff.

As you may have heard, I was reappointed to serve as the Presiding Bishop of Tennessee at this International Assembly, and I am honored and humbled at the same time to be a part of such a wonderful people of the Lord. I know that there were rumors going around for months that I would be changing appointment this year, and that Tennessee would received a new State Overseer. I tried my best to share that these rumors were unfounded, but I have learned that our culture lends itself to this atmosphere. My hope and prayer is that we can once and for all move beyond such distractions and work toward a focus of building the Kingdom of God in our church.

I was reappointed to serve on the Administrative Committee, the Corporate Board of Directors for the Church of God of Prophecy, Inc. and as a member of the International Offices Ministerial Review Board. As well, I have served for some time as a member of the doctrinal review committee for the Sunday School literature, and this appointment will continue. Besides this, there is the "daily care of the churches."

I humbly request you pray for me for strength of body, but as well of spirit. I am consumed with a passion for lost people, but also to know the Lord in His fullness, and to lead with a servant's heart. I love all of you with my whole heart. God bless you.

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