Voice of Hope

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...

By now I am sure you have heard that a group from California has been insisting that today would be the end of the world. Once again, sincere believers have lost the art of living a balanced life and faith. Of course this is not the first time this minister has made such a prediction, his first public time was 1994. To me, the sad part is that these type of predictions give ample ammunition to heathen commentators and pagan philosophers to make light of the reality of the return of the Lord Jesus Christ. I DO believe Jesus will return in the clouds to catch His church away, but I don't believe it will be in this media-hyped way. He will come as a "thief in the night." The more pressing question for anyone should be the condition of their own relationship with God. Today will come and go, and the rapture will not take place...however, I can give you a 100% guarantee that death is coming. We will all, great and small stand before the Lord to give an account for our l...

THE CHURCH OF GOD OF PROPHECY AT 828 WEST TRI-COUNTY BLVD, IN OLIVER SPRINGS TN. IS HAVING A FISH FRY TOMORROW, SATURDAY, THE 21ST OF MAY TO BENEFIT OUR CHRUCH BUILDING FUND. MENUE INCLUDES FISH, HUSH PUPPIES, COLE SLAW, FRENCH FRIES, DESERT AND DRINK. PRICE: ADULT: $7.00 CHILDREN 4 TO 10: $3.00 CHILDREN 3 AND UNDER: FREE TIME: 3 PM TO 7 PM BROTHER LUTHER MASSINGALE IS FRYING THE FISH, AND AS MOST OF YOU KNOW, HE IS AN EXCELLENT COOK! PLEASE COME AND HELP UP OUT IF YOU CAN AND ENJOY A TIME OF GOOD FELLOWSHIP. FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE CALL PASTOR ROY MASSENGALE AT 435-5800 OR 368-0358. GOD BLESS! ROY MASSENGALE PASTOR

This last few days I have been in the State of Kentucky. I came here with my wife, whose father was having medical tests as of the results of a probable heart attack. He seems to be doing well (as of tonight) and is scheduled for one more test, then hopefully he will be released and further treatments to bring him to health. While this is a scary moment for my wife's family it has also been a time to step away from the daily work and observe others around us. Since Debra's father is a pastor (Church of God of Prophecy, Central City, KY) there have been visits from the State Presiding Bishop, Scott Gillum, area pastors and of course some of his church members. It is heartening to watch the love and concern that is show by those visiting. There has also been quite a few of Debra's extended family here, along with her younger brother and his family. I've watch the nurses and technicians at the Owensboro Medical Center demonstrate concern and what seems to be good care...

With a heavy heart, we announce the passing of Bishop Malcolm Linkous, former General Appointee and State Overseer. Please pray for the entire family, especially his wife of 70 years, Sister Hannah and his two sons Gary and Larry. -- Post From My iPad

May 13, 2011 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: 1) 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. 2) A recommendation will not be made to the Assembly to sell ...

Revival at GreenRidge COGOP, 1936 Greer Rd. (Hwy257) Ridgetop, TN, Steve Roberts special speaker. June 3 - 5. Services: Friday & Saturday 7:00pm, Sunday 11:00am & 6:00pm.

Bishop Mojica is the retired General Presbyter of South America. Just got a text saying that Mike Mojica died last night. I know we will be praying for Isabel and the the family. -- Post From My iPad

Dear friends, A friendly reminder...the Tennessee State Convention is scheduled for July 15-17, 2011 at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Convention Center in Murfreesboro. This week a letter was sent out with an incorrect date. We sent a follow up postcard with the correct information. Will you please help me by making sure everyone has the correct date? Thank you for your help. -- Post From My iPad

Dear friends, Excitement is beginning to build around the state offices as we prepare for the 2011 Tennessee State Convention. I understand there has been some conflicting information so this post is intended to help clarify that. DATE: JULY 15-17, 2011 If you go to the online reservations you will notice that a block of rooms have been reserved from the 14th to the 17th. The reason for this is quite simple. Because of the great distances some will travel to the convention, many of our folks prefer to arrive on the night before. This allows them extra rest. The first event is the Senior Pastor and State Staff and Companion luncheon which begins on Friday morning, followed by committee meetings on Friday afternoon. THE FIRST GENERAL SESSION IS FRIDAY NIGHT, the 15th of July. PLEASE CHECK YOUR CALENDARS!!!

From everyone at the Tennessee State Offices, we wish you a wonderful Mother's Day. We trust this day will remind all of us the blessing that God gives us through the special ladies in our life. May the Lord bless and keep you all!

Good morning A brief note regarding the email sent by me on the Hackleburg situation. I understand both of you have areas in your state that received damage and have great needs also. Brother Clint Knowles asked me to send the email with a "needs list" since both of you had spoken with him. Hackleburg needs a lot of help and it is receiving a lot. I was told approximately 20,000 arrived in town last Saturday to clean up. This Saturday will be another major work day. As soon as the insurance company gives the go ahead the church is prepared to proceed with removing the damaged buildings. According to Brother Knowles the church is giving their old property to the school. The old church (youth center ) and the parsonage were on this property. Everything will be rebuilt across the street on the 47 acres where their new church was located. The parsonage is first. They will build a larger facility and add a family center. A terrible ordeal. However, the latter wil...

Hello Empowered, Great corporate prayer time today at noon. God really blessed me being able to pray for Judge Burch, White Bluff Mayor Hayes and Dickson Mayor Rials. Incredible, when I asked these share their request @ individual prayer sessions, these 3 really open up and they are God fearing people. Their Main Request: Judge Burch - His wife Freeda who has pain and the Drug Court Rehabilitation Program. Mayor Hayes - Continued protection on the community from natural disasters and unity in government. Mayor Rials - (He showed great compassion and could barely speak) for sick county employees, the budget with massive shortages and for workers to be safe. *Please keep these confidential and do not forward. I will participate tonight @ 7pm in corporate prayer and support CR @ 10pm. In Christ, Pastor Mike Jennette - "Pursuing His Spirit" Empowered Ministries Church 1415 Hwy. 70 East Dickson, TN 37055 615-375-1364 www.empoweredministries.net

We are saddened to announce the passing of Ronald Harris, father of Cathy Payne, International Women's Ministries Director. Please be in prayer for this entire family. Below you will find the arrangements for Cathy Payne's father's funeral, Ronald Harris. Thanks for your continued prayers for this family. Family visitation Friday 6:00-8:00 pm Funeral Saturday 11:00 am reception to follow with burial in Suffolk. Altmeyer Funeral Home 5792 Greenwich Road Virginia Beach, VA 757-422-4000 Florist: Fenimore's Floral Design Studio Cleveland, TN 423-715-0030

. Dearest Brothers and Sisters, Just a few weeks ago, the Church of God of Prophecy family suffered one of its greatest losses when Tatiana Voznyuk, wife of Bishop Vitaliy Voznyuk, Overseer of the Ukraine, suddenly went to be with the Lord. She had struggled with heart and circulation problems and was treated in Intensive Care a few times just days before her passing, but somehow none of us were prepared for such a sudden loss. She was a central figure for Women's Ministry along with her sister, Larissa (wife of Gena) of Belarus, for all of the CIS. Tanya, as most of you knew her, was the co-pastor of the Emmanuel Church in Kiev and a backbone in local, as well as, national administration. She was a faithful wife and a wonderful, loving mother and example to all. We shall continue to miss her greatly. We are grateful for all who shared their love and sorrow at the time of the loss and the funeral. Bishop Howard and many other Overseers dropped everything and joined my wife Wanda...

Praise the Lord from whom all blessings flow, Praise Him all ye creatures below............... This is the Day the Lord hath made. I will be glad and rejoice in it. God has created the Day and all of us for His Worship. Every day is Worship Day. Every act by us in each day is our contribution of worship to our God. Going to church this morning is an act by us in this great privilege called Worship. This morning Hackleburg will assemble in a tent on their church property. Worshipping our God. What a witness. Sister Liz Knowles has communicated with me throughout the AM updating me on everything happening. Their first funeral is Wednesday. I plan to attend each one if at all possible. It appears everyone in the church is now accounted for. Five in the church are deceased. In the town ten are unaccounted for and 20 dead. Please do not send any mail to the church, parsonage addresses or the Knowles POB. The PO is holding all mail in Hamilton. Water service has been restore...