Voice of Hope

As 2011 ends, we look forward to a new year filled with anticipation of the great things God will do for His people. The Church of God of Prophecy is entering 21 Days of Seeking. I invite you to join this world-wide movement in prayer for a fresh outpouring of God's Spirit. From my family to yours, Happy New Year!

As I write this, the clock will soon strike midnight in the Eastern Time Zone. By the time you read this, Christmas will be here and hopefully you will be surrounded by people who love you. This Christmas has me doing what I've done for so many Christmas days of years gone by. I am thinking of my father and mother who died too young and after too many years of struggle and heartbreak. It is during the special holidays that people often think back and not only reminisce, but also wonder, "what might have been." Surely by now you are wondering, "why so melancholy for a Christmas day post?" Well, it was during my daydreaming that I looked around the room at my family. Children and grandchildren gathered around me laughing and enjoying the holiday season. I saw a brightly decorated Christmas tree with presents piled around it and the smells of the holidays wafting through the air. Through the years I've thought about my parents and even said to Debra, ...

You can't help but notice the heavy traffic in front of the malls. The people are in a rush running to and fro and wearing themselves out. Nerves are frayed and it isn't uncommon to see tempers flare among shoppers and store employees. It was pretty much the same way in Bethlehem that night...everyone was gathering back to their ancestral homes and the traffic was heavy with all the crowds coming home. As we coast into the last hours until the celebration of Christmas, I pray that we will all take a deep breath, relax and remember the real reason for this season...Jesus! He is the Prince of Peace and I pray that His peace will rule in your hearts. God bless you.

Revival, January 8th-11th Evangelist Johnny Carver Service schedule: Sunday morning 11am, Sunday night 6pm, Monday - Wednesday 7pm Lebanon Church of God of Prophecy 1001 West Spring Street Lebanon Tn. 37087 Pastor Larry Meadors

Children’s Ministry Training coming to your area in January! January 14th: Sparta Church: 9am to 3pm 213 Lum St. Sparta, Tn. 38583 $10 per participant. Every 4th member of your team will be free. Lunch will be provided. January 21st: Jackson: 9am to 3pm Harvest Fellowship Church: 237 Jack Exum Lane, Jackson, Tn. 38305 $10 per participant. Every 4th member of your team will be free. Lunch will be provided. There will be no charge for Pastors to attend. To register, please contact Kim Batson at kim.batson@comcast.net Hope to see you there.

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Pastor Brian Sutton to serve as the new Senior Pastor of the Peerless Road Church in Cleveland, Tennessee. Brian comes to us from the Cliff Haven Church in Sheffield, Alabama. We welcome Brian and his wife Renee and their two children, their daughter Tayler and their son Will. I know you will give a warm Tennessee welcome to them.

From time-to-time, I have used this forum to share death announcements of ministers (active or retired) and their families. So, it shouldn't be surprising that I am making another death notice. So here it is.... Last Sunday night, six-days-ago I died, and it couldn't have been a more welcomed event. Now, before you think I've lost my mind, let me explain to you about my death. For the last ten months I have struggled with multiple problems in churches and faced situations that I simply did not have the answers for, and could not solve. I struggled so desperately with these issues that I found myself drawing inward and dreading the rise of the sun each morning. I went to sleep with these problems on my mind and I woke up with them on my mind. All through the day I thought of nothing else, and that made me unproductive and distracted. You might say there was an internal storm that was raging which didn't seem to have an end in sight. All through this time, people w...

I received a copy of an email that Pastor Mike Jennette sent to David Bryan, Global Outreach Director. Pastor Jennette is always so kind to copy me with such correspondence and I have received his permission to share this with you. ===== Hello Bro. Bryan, I hope you are doing well and I wanted to share the great mission experience we just had @ Empowered going to Haiti. Myself and 9 other men left for Haiti Nov. 5th to meet up with Bro. McCaleb. I believe I was the only one who had been on a foreign mission before and I had only been to Kenya in 2004. The trip was absolutely amazing and life changing for me and the others. We started preparing in July of this year and raised money several different ways. Also, we scheduled Bro. McCaleb to speak one Sunday morning and everyone who was committed to going went to lunch with him. He prepared us for our arrival into Haiti, which was a very different experience, told us what tools we would need and how much money it would take. This luncheo...

Mary Kathleen Hagood, 90, of Chattanooga, died Saturday, November 26, 2011 in a local hospital. Mrs. Hagood was a member of Oakwood Church of God of Prophecy and has been a licensed minister since 1955. She worked for the Children’s Home in Cleveland from 1968 to 1974. She was the wife of the late, Freddie Welch Hagood and was also preceded in death by a son, Robert Hagood, seven brothers,and parents, Porter and Emma Reynolds. Survivors include her daughter, Miriam ( Harry) Gossett, Chattanooga; seven grandchildren, Holly (Justin) Kitchens, Rick Gossett, Debra (Randy) Stallings Kathy Madert and Cindy Green, eleven great grandchildren, Riley Kitchens, Madeline Kitchens, Sophie Stallings, Ashley Cooper, Zachery Cooper, Misty (Stephen) Potter, Caleb Gossett, Phillip Gossett, Sarah Gibson, Daniel J. Kitchens and Christopher Kitchens, several nieces & nephews. Services will be held Thursday at 12 Noon in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Mitchell officiating. Interment will be ...

On November 18th, close to 350 youth and youth workers arrived at Camp Hickory Hills for POWERHouse. This years challenge was SaltLight. Friday night's opening service focused on the challenge to be catalysts for revival and how God had created us for such a time as this. In particular, focus was given to the call to repentance spoken by the LORD through the prophet Joel (Joel 2: 12-17). We were reminded to "Return to the LORD with all your heart", "Rend your heart and not your garments", "declare a holy fast" and for the leaders to call out to the LORD to "Spare your people". A final challenge was give to be the church that added thousands to the church daily. Saturday opened with classes focusing on being the kind of church Christ can use. Classes covered our response to current events (David Brown), our Identity in Christ (Jay Johnson) and Holiness (Lindsey McKinley). Jason Dasher brought the message challenging the youth to be the ...

Friends, Debra and I have posted a Thanksgiving greeting to you. CLICK HERE

Please join me in prayer for Jean Thornton who is undergoing surgery today at Baptist Hospital in Nashville. Jean serves alongside her husband pastoring the Pelham Valley church.

This weekend, Camp Hickory Hills hosted the annual PowerHouse event sponsored by the Tennessee Youth Ministries Department.  Well over 300 teens and young adults gathered for a time of worship, sharing of the Word and fellowship. As usual, Jeff and Kimmy Jones led their staff to a successful event.  Special thanks are in order to al the teachers, ministers, staff and the musical guest, “One the Bright Side,” from Knoxville, Tennessee. The Church of God of Prophecy is dedicated to raising up the next generation of leadership and preparing them for the future.

As a reminder, the new income tax year will begin on January 1, 2012. The IRS does NOT allow churches to set a parsonage allowance for their pastor retroactively. That means between now and January 1, 2012, this amount should be established by the local church conference and passed in regular order. A copy of this action must be kept as a part of official church records and the minister should keep a copy of the action in his/her personal records. The amount of parsonage allowance should be reviewed at regular intervals throughout the year to make sure it is set as close to the actual amount possible.

I am saddened to share the news that our General Presbyter for Africa, Bishop Sherman Allen has passed away after a battle with cancer. This was a great leader in the work of God, and an effective encourager. He was a blessing to me personally, having known him a little better the last few years working with the Administrative Committee. Please join me in prayer for his family tonight.

A few-days ago, I made a quick post about the declining health of Bishop Allen Davis, former State Overseer and father of our Chief Financial Officer, Sister Londa Richardson. I have seen him twice in the last three days, but because of my need to return to the state office, I am unable to visit today. I just ended a conversation with Londa a moment ago to get an update. Londa spent the night with him at the hospital and was unable to get much rest because of the constant interaction with the medical staff and her father. She needs sleep. During this time of uncertainty with Brother Davis, I am asking you pray for Londa and the rest of the family. They have been an outstanding example of caring for aging parents, first with Dwight's parents, then Sister MIldred Davis and now Bishop Allen Davis. Would you please take a few moments today and pray for strength for their bodies, and courage to their hearts and minds? Would you pray for the Presence of the Holy Spirit, whom the sc...

As we near the end of pastoral appreciation month I have found myself looking back over the last thirty years of ministry. I have been blessed to serve three churches as Senior Pastor before assuming the responsibilities of a Presiding Bishop, a role that I have been serving in for fourteen years. I still feel like I am a pastor at heart. This is certainly not an exhaustive list of everything I've learned, but I think you will get the idea: I have learned that I don't have all the answers. It seems inherent with the work, you are often called upon to answer the most troubling questions of life...some that don't have clear answers. So, I have learned that sometimes you don't have to say anything...just be there. I have learned that I am not always right, and I have learned that others are not always right either. Our perception of things may not always be reality and we must never make decisions without as much information as possible. Often, that information doesn...

Folks, Londa's father is in the hospital tonight with pneumonia. Would you please join me in prayer for Bishop Davis and for his family as they provide care for him. Bishop Davis is one of our retired Bishops who served our church for many, many years. Thanks and God bless. E.C. McKinley

This morning, our Sister-in-law Lori underwent cancer surgery in Kentucky. Lori is a true survivor in every sense of the word and is much lived by our family. Please pray for Lori and Greg and for their children. We know the Lord is able to touch her and that you cannot have a testimony with a test.

I just received word that retired pastor and evangelist Jim Hutchins passed away at about 2:00 p,m. today. I will share information on services when I receive them. Please join me in prayer for Hutchins family.

Please be in prayer for Brother Tim McCaleb, I received the notice below concerning the passing of his mother: Dear Roberts Tabernacle and Friends:   Sister Thelma McCaleb died last night.  She is Pastor Tim McCaleb's mother.  The arrangements are as follows:   Bass Funeral Home Gordonsville, TN   http://www.bassfh.com/fh/home/home.cfm?fh_id=11069   Visitation:  Friday - 3-8pm   and     Saturday - 11am-1pm          Funeral Service at Bass Funeral Home   1:00 pm

Retired U.S. Army Chaplain (LTC) Jerry Moates, originally from Etowah, is appointed as the Interim Pastor of the City Park Chapel Church of God of Prophecy, S Matlock  in Athens.  Chaplain Moates currently lives in Cleveland.  The former Pastor Curt Aukerman and his wife Donna left their Athens pastoral ministry after serving the Church for 8 years in order for Reverend Aukerman to pursue his studies full time in the Medical Profession.      Chaplain Moates served 27 years in the U.S. Army and 15 years in the Tennessee Army National Guard prior to his retirement. He served in the TNARNG in Etowah, Sweetwater, Athens, Nashville and Smyrna serving as an Enlisted Soldier for 5 years and Officer for 10 years prior to going on Active Duty as a Chaplain endorsed by the Church of God of Prophecy.   He pastored Churches of God of Prophecy in Birchwood and Athens and served as a District Youth Director and National Evangelist prior to going on Active...

  The Roberts Tabernacle church located at 1801 Fairfield Road, Westmoreland, TN will be in revival services October 2-5, 2011 with Evangelist Phil Minter from Tryon, Georgia. Services times are as follows: Sunday Morningr 11:00 am Sunday Night 6:00 pm Monday through Wednesday 7:00 pm For more information, please call (615) 644-3824

As you may know, October is a month set aside across the United States to honor those who are serving in the pastoral leadership ministry.  I am offering this post as a source of information for congregations to ponder and for pastors to ingest.  PLEASE DO SOMETHING SPECIAL IN OCTOBER TO HONOR YOUR UNDERSHEPHERD. According to a 1992 survey that was published in a prominent journal, the pastoral family has some unique challenges.  When giving reasons for divorce among pastors, note the statistics from “Is the Pastor’s Family Safe at Home?,” by David Goetz: 81% insufficient time together 71% use of money 70% income level 64% communication difficulties 64% congregational expectations 57% differences over use of leisure 53% difficulty in raising children 46% sexual problems 41% pastor’s anger toward spouse 35% differences over ministry career 25% differences over spouse’s career As you can clearly see, the pastor’s family faces the same pressures of other fami...

These last few days Debra and I have been blessed to attend this conference hosted by the Church of God of Prophecy’s International Ministries.  The site of the conference was the Ridgecrest Conference center located just outside Black Mountain, North Carolina. The churches of Tennessee were well represented by children’s ministries workers from across the state.  Also this year, one of our Pastors, Larry (Bubba Meadors) from the Lebanon church attended and was a great blessing to his folks.  State Children’s Ministries director, Kim Batson represented us well as she ministered throughout the weekend.  I hope that next year more of our pastors will be able to attend the conference. As always, Kathy Creasy our International Director and her staff put together a conference that will be remembered for it’s excellence, and in the final session our General Overseer Bishop Randall Howard a challenge that was both inspired and anointed. Special thanks to all the local c...

This past week I met with the state staff and District Presbyters to go over the calendar of events for the next year.  I am working on a way to present an online calendar to make this readily available for all interested parties. Please check back in the next few days for the calendar information.

  Have you ever felt like you were so far behind you just couldn’t catch up?  Well I have been there, done that and have the t-shirt to prove it.  Here is an announcement that I just found that hadn’t been posted.  It is better late than never and I beg forgiveness for missing this announcement from the pastor of our Big Sandy, Tennessee church.   “Bro. McKinley Just want to let you know that our grandson has arrived. Joshua Caleb Stockdale was born August 30, 2011. He weighed 7 1/2 pounds and is 21 inches long. I now am learning how you feel about grandchildren. Donnie Kirby”   MY CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WHOLE FAMILY

I am posting a message I have received from Bishop Rick Lee, the Presiding Bishop of the Northwest Territories Region (MT, ND, SD, WY). From time-to-time churches ask about Level two harvest partners giving. While we want to be totally supportive of work outside of the United States, we also have needs at home that are worthy. This is one I can support, knowing the people involved, and the confidence I have in Bishop Lee for proper accountability. If you would like more information, please email Bishop Lee or me personally. Greetings I hope everyone is having a good day. Many have asked about the Minot situation and this is the latest update I have received. This information is from Rose Rector, the wife of Interim Pastor, Jason Rector. The clean up is completed. The parsonage had to be gutted from 4 1/4 feet down on all walls. All plumbing and furnace, duct work, appliances, carpet, subfloor, all matting and carpet, doors, fireplace and numerous other things had to be tor...

It doesn't quite seem real. Ten-years ago, terrorists attacked the homeland of the United States and spread death and destruction in New York, Washington, D.C. and a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. September 11, 2001 has become this generations Pearl Harbor. The events of that day set off a global war on terror which have included the deployment of thousands of servicemen and servicewomen and the near loss of civil liberties long cherished in the United States. Things changed that day...no clear-thinking person can think otherwise. We were living in Montana at the time of the attacks, and there are some images that have not left my mind. Like the assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Robert Kennedy, I can clearly remember where I was when I heard the news. I remember the gut-wrenching feeling that struck me and I knew that our nation would never be the same again. During this time frame of ten years, a lot has changed....they changed in our nat...

From Bishop Randy Howard: The COGOP world family of ministry has just lost a wonderful Mother of the Faith in Egypt. Sister Eatedal Rizk, wife of our Bishop and Overseer of Egypt, Samir Rizk, has passed away after struggling with illness these last few months. She was a saint found always at the side of Bishop Samir. Please pray for the family and the national church of Egypt. -- Post From My iPad

Pastor Rick Brogden is currently at Erlanger Hospital in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He is facing surgery. Please join me in prayer for him and his family. -- Post From My iPad

This week, Debra and I were scheduled to minister at a Pastor’s Retreat in South Dakota.  This was our first visit to the area since we moved from the Northwest Territories Region (MT, ND, SD, WY) in 2002.  We have been looking forward to seeing the people we worked four years with and also looking forward to meeting the new ministers and companions who have began ministry since we left nine-years ago. Our flight was to leave on Saturday afternoon with a plane change at Denver, Colorado.  Storms had moved through the mid west earlier in the day which wreaked havoc with flights all over, but at check in we were informed that the backlog was clearing up and we would make our flight to Denver with just enough time to spare to get to Rapid City, South Dakota on time. We had just returned home from Washington, D.C. the day before and were so worn out from the travel. It was a relief that we would make our flight, and to be quite honest with you, I had plans to sleep on t...

This past Saturday the Childrens Ministries Department in Tennessee had a wonderful training event at the Lebanon Church of God of Prophecy where Larry Meadors serves as pastor. I received a this report from Kim Batson today: “We had a great Children's ministry training at Lebanon today.  We had 52 children's ministers from 16 churches represented.” I am so thankful for Kim Batson’s vision for ministry and for the commitment and dedication to children that is growing throughout our churches. 

Greetings Overseer, The dates for the International Presbytery Meeting and Assembly have changed! We have decreased the Assembly by one day, with it starting a day later than usual. The new dates for the Assembly are July 25-29, 2012 (Wednesday through Sunday). The timeline now looks something like this: Wednesday, July 25 – Opening of the Assembly Sunday, July 29 – Close of the Assembly Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. SHAUN MCKINLEY Administrative Liaison to the General Overseer | Director of Communications ___________________________________________________ CHURCH OF GOD OF PROPHECY INTERNATIONAL OFFICES OFFICE OF THE GENERAL OVERSEER Glorifying God through Prayer, the Harvest, and Leadership Development Randall E. Howard, General Overseer P.O. Box 2910 Cleveland, TN 37320-2910 Receptionist: (423) 559-5100 Direct Phone: (423) 559-5103 Fax: (423) 559-5108 E-mail: smckinley@cogop.org Web: www.cogop.org Become a COGOP Facebook Fan... http://www.facebook...

When I was a child growing up in the church, it was a common practice to hear on a regular basis the basic prominent doctrines taught by our church.  Along with these 29 important truths, I also was constantly reminded of what was known as “Advice to Members.”  One quick way to find out who has been around the Church of God of Prophecy for any length of time is to used that term and watch their reaction. As a child I thought the “advice” was right up there with Moses on the mountain and surely the apostles themselves read them at the Jerusalem council of Acts 15.  Later, when I entered adulthood, I began to think of them as “foolish.”  As a young minister, I agreed to abide by them and even teach them to others.  Now please understand, I didn’t totally embrace all of them, but because I wanted to be a good minister I followed them.  You see, there is a principle of submission that is necessary, especially when we are new converts. After I had been in th...

Just a few-weeks-ago at the 2011 Tennessee State Convention, we honored six of our ministers who made the decision to retire from pastoral ministry.  I am taking the opportunity to mention each by name, as another way of honoring their service to our churches. Bishop C.C. Winchester has served the church in many ways over the time of his ministry, most notably as a State Overseer and then as a pastor. Bishop Richard A. Neal, Sr. has served as a pastor, District Presbyter and campground manager and coordinator.  He continues to serve as a State Trustee for the Church of God of Prophecy and will be assisting with further implementation of our mentoring program in Tennessee. Bishop Richard Lovvorn has served as a pastor in Tennessee, and before that as a deacon in the local church.  Bishop Vernon Caruthers has served as a pastor in Tennessee, most recently at the Campaign church. Bishop Lamar Dotson has served mostly in the Manchester area of Tennessee. Bishop ...

Children's Ministry Training Lebanon Church:  1001 W. Spring Street in Lebanon Registration begins at 8:30am Training will be 9am to 3pm $10 per participant.  Every 4th person from your team is free. No charge for Pastors or local churches who currently do not have an active children's ministry.+ To register please email Kim Batson at kim.batson@comcast.net I need everyone to contact me by August 15th so I can know to plan for food.  Thanks so much. Kim Batson

I am so pleased to announce that our we are undergoing a much-needed facelift to our website. Shaun McKinley, a communications expert is helping to make the site more navigable and adding new features. I am thankful for his help and I know you will be pleased too. I encourage you to check back often. The address is www.tncogop.org

I am sad to announce the passing of retired minister, Roy Martin. Grissom Funeral Home is in charge of services. UVisitation is from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Saturday with the service at 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home -- Post From My iPad

I am pleased to announce that Brother and Sister Harold Batson will be serving as the pastoral team for the Liverworth church. This appointment was actually made at the convention, however, I inadvertently left the church name off of the names called. I am praying for God's best for the Liverworth congregation and for Brother and Sister Batson. Please join me in prayer for their success and for many souls

From General Overseer Randall Howard: "We mourn the loss of our dear Brother and Bishop John Doroshuk. He was carried across Jordan's river last night while the family sang around his bed. He was a great Missionary Apostle and God used him to reap an awesome harvest in the revival lands of the former Soviet Union. Our prayers go out to Sister Ruth and the Doroshuk family." -- Post From My iPad

Hey Bishop I would like to ask a fovor of you. My little sister had her baby monday, the baby has anencephaly, she has no skull just skin covering her brain, she has no eye sockets, and she has a open place in the top of her head where you can see her brain. The dr.'s give her no chance to live, she was born on 7/18/11 monday at 5:30 and she has lived for 5 days now. They said she would not eat, she is nursing, they said she would open her eyes, she has opened her eyes, she sucks her thumb, she tries to raise her head up, she just amazing. What I would like you to is ask the COGOP of TN to be in prayer for her, her name is Finley. I would like them to not just to pray for her to live but that God make her whole.... With love, Jason..., thanks so much. God bless and have a great day.

Sermons from the 2011 Tennessee State Convention will soon be available online. Because of post-convention activities, I have been pressed for the time to convert the files. I invite you to check our state website for more details. www.tncogop.org -- Post From My iPad

Bro. McKinley, I was asked to send you a message letting you know of the birth of Elijah Alexander George at 12:20 am this morning at Hendersonville hospital. He weighed 8lb 3oz, and is 21 inches long. The proud parents are Robby and Beth George. The proud grandparents are Charlie and Sandy Erickson. God Bless, Sandy Erickson - Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

I am pleased to announce that our website will undergo a major overhaul. Shaun McKinley has volunteered to help serve as the webmaster, and his excellent abilities will add a new dimension to the outreach of the Tennessee State Office. I invite you to check in from time-to-time to see the major improvements. www.tncogop.org

Thank you to the State of Tennessee and all of the Churches that I have had the opportunity to pastor. It has been an awesome adventure. I have had a blast in every position, as Pastor, Campground Manager/Coordinator, District Overseer, etc. But most of all, Thank You to all of the Special People who I have had the privilege to serve. I love you all! Please pray for me as I enter this new phase of ministry. A huge part of my position as Director of Bethesda Mission Inc. will be to search for money to help the needy of Houston County pay utility bills. If you would like more info please email me at rnealsr@peoplestel.net . Richard Neal

On Sunday afternoon, delegates and friends returned home still glowing from a marvelous experience. It seemed as if the Lord showed Himself strong in such a special way, ministering to thirsty souls. In each session the Spirit brought such unity and peace. In subsequent posts I will be sharing highlights for those who we're unable to attend. I personally thank everyone who made this a convention to remember. -- Post From My iPad

Earlier I posted about the passing of Pastor Bary Ray's sister, Shirley Lambert. I just received the funeral arrangements and am sharing them for your benefit. Also, please join me in prayer for Bary and his family. Visitation, Wednesday from 2:00 to 9:00 p.m. Memorial Service, Thursday at 11:00 a.m. Woodard Funeral Home 5591 New 31E Westmoreland, TN 37186 (615) 644-5200 www.rwoodardfuneralhome.com

The Cleveland Daily Banner has printed a great article about Sister Elva Howard. I encourage you to read and share it. CLICK HERE -- Post From My iPad

Shirley Lambert (Bary Ray's sister) passed away around 12:30 today. I don't have any details yet, but will post them when available.

The full program for the 2011 Tennessee State Convention program is available for download and printing. Simply CLICK HERE . -- Post From My iPad

6:30 p.m. Main session in Mirabella F-J Opening of the Convention Introduction of Special Guests Appointment of Convention Committees Worship by the Convention Worship Team Offering Special music by Jacob Young Message by Kay Horner

9:30 a.m. Main session in Mirabella F-J Committee Reports Finance & Stewardship Business Committee Worship by Convention Worship Team Special Music by Lindsey McKinley Convention Address by Dr. E.C. McKinley

12:00 Noon All Ladies are invited to join us for the fourth bi-annual State Convention LADIES LUNCHEON, Saturday, July 16th, from 12:00 noon - 2:00 p.m. GRACE & GLORY is this year’s theme. Featured guest will be Candy Hemphill Christmas, Christian recording artist and founder of “Bridge” ministries. This is a ticketed event with limited seating. Ticket information can be secured by contacting Londa Richardson. Doors open at 11:45 a.m. (Oakleigh A/B)

2:30 p.m. Special session for all pastors, ministers, local church leaders, laity directed by Presiding Bishop: Childrens Ministries Youth Ministries Womens Ministries International Director of Communications (Mirabella F-J)

6:30 p.m. Worship led by Youth Ministries Special music by Youth Mass Choir under direction of June Gordon Offering Message by Dr. Tom Renfo, M.D. There will be special prayer for the sick and for prayer cloths during the altar service by all pastors/state staff and convention delegates. Come expecting your miracle!

9:30 a.m. Pastors we request you, your companion and children sit in the reserved seating area for this entire session. This seating will be in the front left and right sides. We ask the families of deceased ministers please be seated in the front/center section. Honoring our Ministers Special Music by Glynis Varlack Allgood Special Music by Joshua Dasher Special Tribute to Deceased Ministers Special Tribute to Former State Overseer, Bishop M. Eugene Weakley Ordination Service Consecration

On Friday night, July 15th the first general session of the Tennessee State Convention will be called to order at 6:30 p.m. Located in the beautiful facilities of the Embassy Suites Hotel and Convention Center just off I-24 (Exit 76) you will find ample free parking and comfortable surroundings. Josh Dasher and the Keith Street Ministries Worship Team will lead the convention attendees in the opening session. This team is a powerful and anointed group of musicians and vocalists who are dedicated to leading worshipers into the Presence of the Lord. Jacob Young an extremely talented vocalist with a Southern Gospel sound will be ministering in song. Kay Horner of "Reflections of the Heart Ministries" will be our keynote speaker and evangelist for the night. Kay has served in a variety of ministry roles including Executive Director of New Hope Pregnancy Care Center, Associate Pastor of Peerless Road Church, Administrator for Voice of Salvation Ministries, and Christian Educati...

Dear friends, It has been quite a while since I've posted. Above everything thing else, the times of prayer and preparation for the Tennessee State Convention has been weighing heavy on everyone on the state staff. With the youth camps finishing up this week (we were able to visit all of them) the level of activity for all of the staff will ramp up a little more. I am so blessed to have such a capable group of people to work alongside in Tennessee, and there is no way to show the gratitude I have for them. The convention will convene next week, Friday, July 15th at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Convention Center in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. We look forward to the ministry of Kay Horner, Dr. Tom Renfro and a powerful worship team. With anticipation we look to see a special move of God among His people gathered there. In the next few days, I will be posting highlights from each session of the convention on this blog. I will be pointing to it from our Facebook accounts, on the Sta...

Please pray for the city of Minot, North Dakota. They have sounded the sirens to evacuate for flooding. Our church parsonage is in the flood section. They are predicting 7 feet of water in his section. Pastor David Lee is safe with a member and they were able to get some of his belongings out. However, the storage units are all full and there are no trucks (uhauls, etc) to be rented. Some of the members did get some of his stuff out and when they went back for more they made them leave. There are thousands of people, including church members, that are displaced. Please pray for a miracle and that the waters will recede quickly. Thank you all for your prayers. If you would like to have more details please go to kx news minot and tap into the live feed -- Post From My iPad

Friday, July 15 12:00 PM Senior Pastor/State Staff luncheon 7:00 PM Evening Session Special Guest Minister, Evangelist Kay Horner Children's Church Saturday, July 16, 2011 9:00 AM Morning Session Committee Reports/Business Session Address by the State Bishop, Dr. E.C. McKinley 12:00 PM Ladies Luncheon Hosted by Women of Grace, Londa Richardson Director Special Musical Guest Candy Hemphill Christmas 2:30 PM Afternoon Session for ALL pastors and local church leaders IMPORTANT: This is a special session for everyone where vital information will be shared. ALL PASTORS, LICENSED MINISTERS and DEACONS are expected to attend with the LAITY. 7:00 PM Evening Session Worship and Youth Focus Special Guest speaker, Dr. Tom Renfro, M.D. This message will be followed by a special time of prayer for healing for the sic...

As we approach our state convention, the days get busier and longer around the state office. This week has been especially busy as we pull together the program and all that God is speaking into our hearts. On Sunday, I had the distinct privilege to present Courtney Jones to the Lord in dedication, while Bishop Tim McCaleb dedicated Jaden Jones. After a nice reception, Debbie and I jumped in the car and traveled to the campground to visit the Big Shot camp. On our way there I received a text message that the Empowered church was having a baptismal service at the Crossroads church, so, we altered our course a little and got there in time to see several new converts follow the Lord in baptism. What a joyous event! We left the Crossroads church and made our way to Camp Hickory Hills. We found a group of happy campers and staff, and as always, it is such a joy to see the Lord minister to the youth and children of our state. We spent the night and enjoyed a nice lunch with the staff and...

I just learned this afternoon of the passing of Sister Lottie Beecham, a retired pastor in Tennessee. Here is a portion of the email notification I received from Pastor Donnie Giles of the Lewisburg Church: ========== "Brother Mckinley: I don't know if you have already been notified, but Sister Lottie Beecham has passed away from here to glory. Sister Betty Andrews called last night about 10:30pm to tell about it, and let me know this morning about 8am to let me know when the visitation and funeral is. She said Visitation is today Monday 13th from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, and funeral is Tuesday at 11:00 am. The funeral will be held at Plunk Funeral Home in Camden TN." Here is the relevant information concerning services: Plunk Funeral Home 160 S. Forrest Avenue Camden, TN 38320 Please join me in prayer for the family. -- Post From My iPad

Click on image for a printable poster

Bishop Harper Hunter, a general in the army of the Lord, slipped the surly bonds of earth and took his flight to the Celestial City of God on Monday, June 6, 2011. A resident of Cleveland, the Rev. Hunter was 89 years old and spent the last few weeks on this earth in the Life Care Center of Cleveland. Harper Hunter Jr. was born Jan. 8, 1922, in rural Dickson County, Tenn, to Harper Herbert and Edith Hunter. After graduation from high school, he attended George Peabody College for Teachers and Vanderbilt University in Nashville before launching his ministry in 1941. With his guitar in hand, he soon became an evangelist-in-demand as he traveled the country holding revival services along with his brother-in-law and sister, Charles and Helen Batson. He and Charles were appointed as Church of God of Prophecy co-state overseers of Maine in 1943 by General Overseer A.J. Tomlinson, the last year Tomlinson moderated the General Assembly of the Church of God of Prophecy. As of June 2011, Harper ...

Funeral Arrangements for Bishop Harper Hunter are as follows: Visitation with the family and service will be Friday, June 10, 2011 at Peerless Road Church of God of Prophecy in Cleveland, Tennessee. Visitation with family will be 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM with the service beginning at 2:00 PM.

As I write today, we are making preparation to attend the first of our youth camps, the Senior Camp. We know that the campers and staff are traveling today, and will begin a special time of worship, fellowship and the preaching/teaching of the Word of God to the participants. At these camps, people will make life-time friendships and our local churches will be strengthened. I am especially grateful to Jeff and Kimmy Jones for their hard work in preparation and to all of our directors who make this all happen. Once the youth camps end, we will be headed straight into the Tennessee State Convention at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Convention Center in Murfreesboro. We will be blessed with the ministry of Dr. Tom Renfro, Evangelist Kay Horner, and Shaun McKinley and a large group of our own ministers and worship leaders. If you have not secured your room reservation at the Embassy Suites, time is running out and the excess rooms (which is a shrinking amount) will be released and those...

AN OPEN LETTER TO TENNESSEE PASTORS May 31, 2011 Dear Tennessee Pastor, I am so thankful the Lord has allowed me to serve you for the past seven years. Debra and I have counted it an extreme privilege and honor to be with you. Some-time-back I wrote to all Tennessee Pastors requesting their feelings concerning their present appointment. Some have indicated a need for a change and some have indicated their desire to stay. The deadline for your feelings was to be by June 1, 2011 IN WRITING to me at a special email address or by U.S. Postal mail. I have heard from most of you, however, it seems we always have some who wait until the last minute to submit such requests. I understand that there can be emergencies or at times a lack of clear conviction that might hinder your response, however, in that I am faced with multiple changes this year, it is imperative that I hear from you immediately. I do not want anyone inadvertently changed due to a lack of response. Again, I requested thi...

Congratulations to Terry and Heather Swaw and big brother Andrew on the birth of Sarah Grace Swaw this morning. Everyone is doing fine. I think they took my challenge seriously....win one or have one.

I received this message from Pastor Gene Dasher of the Union Grove Church. "At 5:35 am my precious mother Lois Viola Lee Dasher went to glory. Praise the Lord she has finished her course. I did want she would want went on to church took care of church and had a wonderful service at Union Grove today. Arrangement will not be known until tomorrow afternoon some time. Thanks for your prayers. All is well"

Today was a day of reflection of great ministry. It began as we gathered to honor the home-going of a great saint of God, Sister MIldred Davis. Many of you know that she is the mother Londa Richardson of our Chief Financial Officer in Tennessee. She is also the wife of retired Bishop Allen Davis. Together Brother and Sister Davis served in pastoral ministry and as State Overseer of Missouri, Ohio, Virginia and Georgia, as well as serving a multitude of General level ministry and as evangelists. I was so blessed to be included in the services along with Bishops A.J. Coalter, Lanny Carter, Ray C. Wynn and Ron Bryant. Sister Londa Richardson shared a beautiful remembrance of her mother along with her Brother "Junior" Davis and the music of Tyler Davies Richardson, Jeremi LaFate and Amy Richardson, Debbie Shewbridge Freeman and Karen McDonald brought the service to perfection. After the services, Debra and I traveled to Erlanger Medical Center to visit Sister Elva Howard wh...

Here are the arrangements for Sister Mildred Davis: Visitation 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Thursday, May 26, 2011 Grissom Funeral Home Cleveland, Tennessee 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., Friday, May 26, 2011 Peerless Road Church Funeral Service 2:00 p.m., Friday, May 27, 2011 Peerless Road Church Cleveland, TN 37312

We are saddened to share the news of the passing of Sister Mildred Davis of Cleveland, Tennessee. Many of you now that Sister Davis is the mother of Londa Richardson, the Chief Financial Officer for the Church of God of Prophecy in Tennessee and spouse of retired General Appointee, Bishop Allen Davis. Sister Davis was well known for her sweet spirit and musical ministry. Arrangements are pending at this time, but more information will be posted here once finalized. Please join us in prayer for the Richardson family.

Bishop McKinley, Please help me get the word out to our local churches in the surrounding areas. I am excited to announce that the Lebanon Church of God of Prophecy will be hosting a one day Children's Ministry Training here at the church on August 20th, 2011 from 9:00am - 3:30pm. Sister Kim Batson will be our instructor for this training and, as you well know, she has a BIG heart for the Children's Ministry. Lunch will be provided by the local church. God Bless, -- Pastor Larry Meadors Lebanon Church of God of Prophecy 119 Clearview Dr. Lebanon, Tn. 37087 Hm# 615-547-4855 Cell# 615-633-1691

Dear Members and Friends: Since the release of the ARKS Report in October 2010, we have been involved in an ongoing period of prayer and dialogue. I would like to thank all who participated in that dialogue through the ARKS survey, calls, e-mails, letters, etc. I would also like to express my appreciation to the many pastors that I have been privileged to share with face-to-face during these months. Your voice and prayer support are an important part of this process. I want to take the opportunity to share with you the results of the ARKS Survey and bring you up-to-date on where we are in this period of discernment: Considering the current market conditions, the prospects of finding a suitable buyer for the International Offices building seems unlikely. In this economic environment, we would be better served to renovate the existing building over a three-to-five-year period, as funds are available. A recommendation will not be made to the Assembly to sell Fields of the Wood. Presently,...

Keynote Speaker & Evangelist Reflections of the Heart Ministries Kay has served in a variety of ministry roles including Executive Director of New Hope Pregnancy Care Center, Associate Pastor of Peerless Road Church, Administrator for Voice of Salvation Ministries, and Christian Education Minister providing insight segments for the World Impact television program. She was blessed to serve as ministry projects coordinator for the International Center for Spiritual Renewal, the spearhead organization for the Azusa Street Centennial. She completed her BS degree in Christian Ministries/Bible at Lee University and currently is serving as Keynote Speaker and Evangelist with Reflections of the Heart Ministries based out of Cleveland, Tennessee. When she is not traveling and ministering in conferences and local church events, Kay's ministry includes leading Bible studies in her church and the county's federal prison along with involvement in ecumenical prayer initiatives. Kay is ma...

Dr. Thomas Renfro was diagnosed with Mantle Cell Lymphoma in November of 1997. Having been trained at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, Dr. Renfro understood the gravity of the diagnosis. Mantle Cell Lymphoma is considered to be incurable and untreatable. Of the many types of lymphoma, it is one of the worst. At the time of his diagnosis, Dr. Renfro was an active member of The Freedom of Worship Church in Norton, VA. His church family would prove to be critical to him during the worst days of his battle. In fact, every time Dr. Renfro would find himself being overwhelmed by his experience he would turn to them for strength. Thomas E. Renfro, MD was born February 7, 1955 in Norton, VA to Ed and Mildred Renfro. Growing up his parents were (and still are) active members of The United Methodist Church in Norton, VA. He graduated from J.I. Burton High School in Norton in 1973 and then he attended Clinch Valley College in Wise, VA (now known as UVA's College at Wise). He gra...