Worship at the National Tabernacle in Haiti
Springfield, MA
NORthEaST LUCAS LEYS
february febrero 17-19, 2012
Mass Mutual Convention Center 1277 Main Street Springfield, MA 01103 (800) 291-5879
JAVIER BATISTA
WILLIAM MCDOWELL
MICHAEL FERNĂ NDEZ
SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS
ROJO
CHRIST FOR THE NATIONS
SHERWIN GARDNER
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1/16/2012
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SCHOOL OF WORSHIP
SIDEWALK PROPHETS
COFFEY ANDERSON
RIDGECREST, nc
Southeast
ALL 4 CHRIST
march marzo 16-18, 2012
Carolina To RIDGECREST, order a bundleNorth subscription, use the form on (Near Asheville) page 31 or visit www.whitewingmessenger.org. Lifeway Ridgecrest Conference Center One Ridgecrest Drive Ridgecrest, NC 28770 (800) 588-7222
Contents w w w w February 2012 • Volume 88, Number 8
Bringing honor to the WORD by the printed word, the White Wing Messenger strives to inspire Christian thought and practice as it imparts the “good news” of the Gospel while serving the connectivity needs of our church community.
Calendar of Events For more information, visit www.cogop.org February 2–4, 2012 CBL School of Practical & Advanced Studies I Macon, Georgia (English)
page 18
February 8–10, 2012 CBL School of Practical & Advanced Studies I South Carolina
Features
February 17–19, 2012 Northeast Youth Conference Mass Mutual Convention Center Springfield, Massachusetts Operationomega.org
7 SEVEN For Young Readers 10 We Are There! by David Bryan
page 7
12 Going Forward in the Power of the Holy Spirit 14 New Church Plants in North America
22 Women: A Turning Point: Turks and Caicos Islands
by Sam N. Clements
18 Sherman Allen: An African Memorial 23 An Opportunity for growth 21 Youth-Led Revival in Hawaii
February 20–24, 2012 CBL School of Practical & Advanced Studies II Campeche, South Mexico
Editorials
February 22–26, 2012 CBL School of Practical & Advanced Studies II Chile
by Randall E. Howard, General Overseer
by Gary Langley
31 Messages: Remembering Who They Are
24 More Than Tongues by Fred S. Fisher, Sr.
by DeWayne Hamby, Managing Editor
25 The Battle Lines by Valerie Moreno
Updates
27 Stories of Sharing Jesus by DeWayne Hamby
5 Worldview
Ministries 8 Children: Nurturing a Heart for Missions in the Hearts of Our Children
February 17–19, 2012 Pacific Islands Ladies Retreat Waikiki, Hawaii
by Norma Francis-Hewitt
4 Facing Forward: Blessed to Bless
by Ben Feliz
February 22–25, 2012 CBL School of Practical & Advanced Studies III North Carolina
Culture–Giving–Ethiopia– Giving–Local Church–Malaysia– Testimony–Worship
30 In His Presence
by Kathy Green
Visit us online—www.whitewingmessenger.org
White Wing Messenger Editorial Board: Londa Richardson, Chair; H. E. Cardin; Daniel Chatham; Hanny Vidal; Cervin McKinnon; Perry Horner; Tapio Sätilä; Brian Sutton; Shaun McKinley; and Adrian Varlack
Executive Editor/Publisher: R. E. Howard, Managing Editor: DeWayne Hamby, Copy Editor: Marsha Robinson, Editorial Assistant: Pamela Praniuk, Graphic Artists: Perry Horner and Sixto Ramirez, International Offices (423) 559-5100, and Subscriptions (423) 559-5114 Please submit all material to the White Wing Messenger; Managing Editor; P. O. Box 2910; Cleveland, TN 37320-2910; phone (423) 559-5128; e-mail us at Editorial@cogop.org.
March 15–17, 2012 CBL School of Practical & Advanced Studies I South Carolina March 16–18, 2012 Southeast Youth Conference Ridgecrest, North Carolina Operationomega.org March 16–19, 2012 CBL School of Practical & Advanced Studies II North Mexico March 30–April 1, 2012 Niagara (Canada) Ladies Retreat Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada April 13–15, 2012 Pacific Southwest Ladies Retreat Ventura, California April 27–29, 2012 Atlantic Northeast Ladies Retreat Newark, New Jersey White Wing Messenger (ISSN 0043-5007) (USPS 683-020) is published monthly as the official publication of the Church of God of Prophecy, 3750 Keith St NW, Cleveland, TN. Send all materials for publication to Editorial Department; PO Box 2910, Cleveland, TN 37320-2910; e-mail: editorial@cogop. org, fax: (423) 559-5121. For subscription rates, visit wwm.cogop.org; call (423) 559-5114; e-mail: subscriptions@cogop.org. Subscription rate: $18.00 per year, payable to White Wing Messenger by check, draft, or money order. Periodical postage paid at Cleveland, TN 37311 and at additional mail office. Donations for the White Wing Messenger may be sent to the above address. All scripture references are from the King James Version unless otherwise indicated. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to White Wing Messenger, PO Box 2910, Cleveland, TN 37320-2910.
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FACING FORWARD Blessed to Bless As we talk about our Global mandate in this issue, it might be good for us to remember that this mandate has always been with the people of God. It did not begin with the Great Commission on the lips of Christ as recorded in various forms by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. It predated all of those—showing us that this has been the heart of Father God since the fall of man. Psalm 67 is one of those beautiful passages where the call to bless The Church the peoples and nations of the world can be seen so clearly. The has most often prayer is a petition for blessing, but it is blessing for a purpose, felt that God’s the purpose of world impact. Consider a few segments here. blessings were In verse one, the writer asks for God’s blessing. Then in verse for them and two he announces the reason for those blessings: “That thy way may them alone. be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations.” Clearly the purpose of seeking God’s blessing is so that the people of God may be empowered to: a) demonstrate the favor and enhanced life under God, and b) carry this news to all the people of the earth. In a nutshell, God always has a greater purpose for blessing His children. He loves us, of course. He wants good things for us, of course. But His wider interest is to have a people that are so favored in blessing, that the people and nations of the world take note and want to participate with this God over all the earth. Someone has coined the phrase that we are blessed to bless others. If we look at the remaining verses of this Psalm, each verse contains some hint of this “ultra goal” for God’s blessings. All the people will praise God and all the nations will sing. The earth shall increase and all the ends of the earth shall fear God. It would be powerful if the entire Christian family all over the world would catch hold of this precept: we are blessed
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for a purpose—to bless others. Through the ages the Church has suffered from one huge problem, self-centeredness. The Church has most often felt that God’s blessings were for them and them alone. Like an egocentric child, where any toy is “MINE” and for no one else to enjoy, so the Kingdom of God has enjoyed the blessings of God, yes, and even hoarded them. But the bigger purpose of God has been overlooked and lost through this mentality. God has never lost sight of the world while He has been blessing His people through the ages. Today it is time for the Kingdom of God to once more pray Psalm 67. Not just the first verse which we have been expert at praying for centuries. But the people of God must now arise to pray the entire Psalm, asking for blessings, yes! But with full understanding that we passionately want these blessings not for ourselves, but that we will be empowered to reach out to the world and that they will see a gracious God and come to His abundant life. Let our hearts burst with zeal to pray verse two as we cry out verse one; “God be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause his face to shine upon us; Selah. That thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations.” Randall E. Howard General Overseer
GIVING
Charitable Giving Shows Strong Increase The Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA) announced today that cash charitable giving to ECFA members continues to be very strong, totaling $9.38 billion last year, a 5.8 percent increase from the 2009 level of $8.87 billion. “It is very significant that this segment of the giving world continues to receive strong support during a difficult economic time,” said Dan Busby, ECFA president. “Our report demonstrates a strong commitment of givers to the Christian faith and the generosity of God’s people.” 2010 – 9.38 billion ECFA’s second Annual State of Giving Report (http://ecfa.org/ 2009 – 8.87 billion stateofgiving) showed charitable contributions held up especially well among larger charities. Donations to ECFA-member organizations with more than $10 million in annual revenue increased 6.7 percent in 2010, compared with 2009, while organizations with less than $10 million in annual revenue increased 1.6 percent during the same span. Non-cash giving decreased 13.5 percent in 2010, compared with 2009, according to the ECFA analysis. Busby noted that there is a significant ebb and flow of non cash gifts based on the timing of natural disasters. Recent reports indicated stagnant donations to large charities and nonprofits nationwide. The Chronicle of Philanthropy reported last month that cash donations to the nation’s 400 charities that raise the most funds from private sources were virtually unchanged in 2010, compared with the previous year. The ECFA report breaks down giving into 29 segments, including organizations, churches, rescue missions, missionary-sending ministries, colleges and universities, and camps and conferences. Ministries focused on children showed four of the largest increases in total 2010 giving, compared with 2009—cash donations to foundations gained 69 percent, child sponsorship 24 percent, orphan care 20 percent and adoption 15 percent.
CULTURE
Mega Church Findings Leadership Network, along with the Hartford Institute for Religion Research recently released research data about mega churches (churches that average more than 2,000 attendees) in America. Some of the more prominent findings suggest growth among younger attendees in particular:
• • • • • • •
Average growth among mega churches as a whole is at 8 percent over the past five years. Mega churches continue to draw youthful, middle class, family-oriented people, as 70 percent of attendees are under the age of 50. Nearly 50 percent of the mega churches in America are located in the southern states (Texas to Virginia). A dramatic decrease occurred in the number of churches claiming a specific denominational affiliation. Over half (54 percent) are nondenominational; however, 70 percent claim to be connected to a network, fellowship, association, or denomination. Not surprisingly, 80 percent of the churches are still led by the pastor under whose tenure the most dramatic growth occurred. These churches continue to be regional draws as only 60 percent of attendees live less than 15 minutes away from the church. The gender balance in mega churches is closer than smaller churches (55 percent women, 45 percent men).
On a whole, mega churches were not as affected as media reports made it seem. While some were affected greatly, the percentage of churches reporting serious financial struggles decreased in the past five years.
—Source: Leadership Network, leadnet.org WWM F E B R UA R Y 2 0 1 2
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WORLDVIEW (continued) CULTURE
Five Myths about Church Dropouts For the past five years, the Barna Group has studied the patterns of young adults leaving the church, discovering some new insights for leaders hoping to stem the tide. The book You Lost Me by Barna Group President, Dave Kinnamon (Baker Books) goes into detail about the findings. Among the highlights, are five myths about young adults leaving the church and evidence confirming why they are not true: Myth 1: Most people lose their faith when they leave high school. “Some have estimated this dropout in alarming terms, estimating that a large majority of young Christians will lose their faith,” Kinnamon says. “The reality is more nuanced.” Myth 2: Dropping out of church is just a natural part of young adults’ maturation. Reality: First, this line of reasoning ignores that tens of millions of young Christians never lose their faith or drop out of church. Thus, leaving church or losing faith should not be a foregone conclusion. College experiences are the key factors that cause people to drop out. Reality: College certainly plays a role in young Myth 3: Christians’ spiritual journeys, but it is not necessarily the “faith killer” many assume. Myth 4: This generation of young Christians is increasingly “biblically illiterate.” Reality: The study examined beliefs across the firm’s 28-year history, looking for generational gaps in spiritual beliefs and knowledge. When comparing the faith of young practicing Christians (ages 18 to 29) to those of older practicing Christians (ages 30-plus), surprisingly few differences emerged between what the two groups believe. Myth 5: Young people will come back to church like they always do. Reality: Some faith leaders minimize the church dropout problem by assuming that young adults will come back to the church when they get older, especially when they have children. However, previous research conducted by Barna Group raises doubts about this conclusion. “Churches, organizations and families owe this generation more,” Kinnamon says. “They should be treated as the intelligent, capable individuals they are—a generation with a God-given destiny. Renewed commitment is required to rethink and realign disciple-making in this new context. Mosaic believers need better, deeper relationships with other adult Christians. They require a more holistic understanding of their vocation and calling in life—how their faith influences what they do with their lives, from Monday through Saturday. And they also need help discerning Jesus’ leading in their life, including greater commitment to knowing and living the truth of Scripture.” For more information on the book You Lost Me, visit http://youlostmebook.com
Is “Sexting” Occurring Less? “Sexting,” which refers to the recent troubling trend of youth and young adults sending nude photos through their cell phones, is occurring in 1 percent of young people ages 10–17, says the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). In a report filed in the organization’s Pediatrics Journal, 2.5 percent of those surveyed admitted to sending nude or partially-nude photos with 1 percent admitting to sending explicit nude photos. The group said the number is lower than what is being characterized in popular media, giving hope to parents and leaders concerned with the trend. The AAP believe their findings suggest a decline in risky youth behavior: “Sexting has been greeted in many media portrayals as yet another sign of the hypersexualization of youth and extreme risk-taking. In fact, however, many indicators of youth sexual behavior such as teenage pregnancy and the number of youth with multiple sexual partners have been improving in recent years, in spite of such concerns. It is incumbent on youthserving professionals not to respond or abet media portrayals that promote alarm. Sexting may not indicate a dramatic change in youth risk-taking or youth sexual behavior. It may just make some behavior more visible to adults and other authorities.”
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—Source: Pediatrics, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
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WORSHIP New COGOP Worship Leader’s Network The Church of God of Prophecy recently launched a new resource for local church worship leaders. With Everything is a new worship leader e-newsletter available at the Church’s web site. The free monthly resource is full of inspirational ideas for meaningful, experiential worship specifically designed to provide leaders with proven principles, tips, and practices to help lead a healthy and thriving worship-filled congregation. Kris Dockery, worship leader at St. Mary’s Church in St. Mary’s, Georgia, is the coordinator of the e-newsletter and the administrator of the network’s new Facebook page. To sign up for the e-newsletter, visit http://cogop.org/resources/newsletters.html.
WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
When we don’t know what something means, we look for it in a dictionary, but have you ever looked for a definition in a Bible instead? I’ve come to the conclusion that, ‘Why bother asking a dictionary what beauty is? I’ll ask the one who created beauty—God.” In 1 Samuel 16:7 it says, “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but God looks on the heart.’” God’s mind is greater and wiser. From childhood, we are taught what beauty is. Fashion magazines, TV shows, and the media in general has controlled our self-esteem for too long. But it’s time for us to stand up and realize what beauty really is. Beauty doesn’t come from pretty clothes, nice hair— those things may please the mind, but they won’t get us into heaven. God is looking for beauty on the inside: “Do not let your adorning be external—the raiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious” (1 Peter 3:3,4 NIV). Have you ever looked in the mirror and couldn’t go a moment without hating what you see? A lot of people have dealt with this their entire lives. They have forgotten that there is this awesome God who has made you in His image. God made us a reflection of His being. God loves us the way we are, and because He has loved us we should love ourselves: “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:37-39 NIV). We have to understand that looks fade away, but true virtue stays fresh. Anyone can tell you that you’re beautiful and they love you, but only Jesus Christ died on the cross for your sins. Even the “best looking” people feel ugly at times, the happiest people cry, and sometimes the most independent people feel alone, but if we have God, we lack nothing; “Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame” (Psalm 34:5 NIV). —Nessa Hernandez, Paxton, Massachusetts
“. . . How I feel about my relationship with Jesus Christ is that it is the most important thing in my life. So any time I get an opportunity to tell Him that I love Him or given an opportunity to shout Him out on national TV, I’m gonna take that opportunity.”
—Tim Tebow, Denver Broncos Source: ESPN’s First Take Photo by Jeffrey Beall
Silly Song-A-Palooza! For nearly 20 years, Bob the Tomato and Larry the Cucumber have not only entertained kids but teens, young adults, and adults through clever storytelling and unforgettable songs such as “Where is My Hairbrush?,” “The Cheeseburger Song,” “The Stapler Song” and more. The new If I Sang a Silly Song compiles all of the fun into one 21-song collection, including a brand-new fan-written “Silly Song”.
DVD GIVEAWAY!—Visit the White Wing Messenger Facebook page to connect with other Silly Song fans and for a chance to win If I Sang a Silly Song on DVD. www.facebook.com/whitewingmessenger WWM F E B R UA R Y 2 0 1 2
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MINISTRIES MINISTRIES
Nurturing a H in the Hearts
One of my favorite candies is M&M’s. It’s chocolate, it melts in your mouth and not in your hand, and it sums up the kind of worldview I want to have and pass on to my children and grandchildren. M&M’s remind me to be missions- minded. My first look at missions was observing my grandmother raise her $100 missions pledge each year. She may not have been intentional about mentoring me to be missions-minded, but she did. Back in the days of $100 missions pledges, Grandmother made crafts to sell to meet her goal. I remember one day I accompanied her to the craft store. I watched as she carefully chose plaster of Paris, flowers, and green floral tape to use in her masterpieces. Once at home, she took an empty juice can that Granddad had cut a large oval hole in the side of, laid it down on its side, and as she added the plaster of Paris to the outside of the can, it began to look like a log. After drying, the log was painted brown and flowers were added to the opening. Her beautiful flower arrangement was ready to be sold to help “send the light.” When I was 10 years old, Grandmother died of cancer. Her last year was spent in a hospital bed in her living room. Sitting on the table beside her bed was one of her log flower arrangements and 8
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a jar for her missions offering. As visitors came to comfort and pray with her, she invited them to give to missions. That year Grandmother raised her $100 pledge. What motivated my grandmother to raise money for missions? Was it only to fulfill a faith promise? I don’t think so. I believe it was because she wanted to do her part in fulfilling the Great Commission, of going into all the world and sharing the Gospel with every person. Her commitment to missions turned my heart towards missions as well. Her actions helped me to become missions-minded, even as a child. Missions-minded is not just for those who are called to go to distant lands. It’s the way ordinary people, like me, live each day to help fulfill the Great Commission of going and making disciples of all nations. As we live missions-minded lives, we will nurture a heart for missions in the hearts of children as well. In Acts 18 we see an ordinary family, Aquila and Priscilla, living a missionsminded life.
Verses 1-4: They showed hospitality. Being missions minded is caring for others. They opened their home to Paul and invited him to work with them in their tent-making business. Verses 18-19: They were willing to go where God led them. Being missionsminded is praying, then listening to God and doing what He says. They left their tent-making business in Corinth to go on a mission trip with Paul and then relocated in Ephesus. Verse 26: They mentored others in the Good News of Jesus. Being missionsminded is sharing the Good News. Apollos was an eloquent speaker and accurate in everything he taught about Jesus up to a point, but he only went as far as the baptism of John. Aquila and Priscilla took him aside and told him the rest of the story. Although they were never recognized as leaders, Aquila and Priscilla were instrumental in spreading the Good News in their world. Here are a few ways you can be more missions-minded and help the children WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
Heart for Missions of Our Children
in your family and congregation develop a heart for missions as well: Pray for missionaries. And pray for a different country each week; buy a food in the specialty aisle of the grocery store and pray for the country it is from; watch the world news evening report and pray for a country mentioned in the newscast; develop a prayer calendar, listing countries and needs that you are aware of in the world. Read stories about famous missionaries. Google the words, “famous missionaries” to find links to many interesting stories; sign up for Connections, the e-newsletter for the COGOP, and read reports from around the world of the work that God is accomplishing through our indigenous leaders. As a family or ministry, adopt a missionary family. Let your children communicate with this missionary through letters and e-mail. Help children develop a worldview. Study geography, world history, and the situations of people across the globe together; use mission resources, such as the Helping Hands for Kids Project
Guide, to teach children about a specific country and their needs. Support missions financially. Being a good steward of our money includes giving to spread the Good News. Teach children that it’s not the amount but the intent of the heart that matters to God. Decide as a family or ministry what mission projects to support. Regular monthly giving to support a country (Harvest Partners) will help ongoing ministry; special projects, such as Helping Hands for Kids sponsors a yearly project that helps kids around the world know Jesus. Make giving fun for kids. Lost change around the house can change a lost life. Bake global cookies (sugar cookies with blue and green icing), sell them and give the money to missions. Share your faith. Show kindness and friendship to everyone so when the opportunity arises you will be able to share about Jesus; develop your testimony and help children to develop theirs. Entertain missionaries. Invite missionaries to stay in your home or
host a meal for them; take them out to dinner if you can’t host them in your home. Make sure your children are present to learn more about the missionary’s life and work. Go! In your community you can volunteer at soup kitchens, visit nursing homes, or after-school programs; arrange to help a mission church with a special service and take your children along to help minister; have a children’s booth at community events and let your children help share the Gospel with other children. Go! While you may not be able to go to far-away places, go with your children to places in your community where they can serve others—senior citizens’ centers, homeless shelters, hospitals. If you can travel, plan a short term missions’ trip that allows children to be involved. Affirm and nurture qualities in your children that will prepare them for the work God has purposed for them. Encourage them to think about how they can use the knowledge and skills they are learning to help others to know Jesus as their Savior. Most of all, pray every day that your children will develop a heart for God and mirror His compassion and love for people around the world. —Kathy Green, Cleveland, Tennessee WWM F E B R UA R Y 2 0 1 2
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ess to o acc n n i r h t e i t of h toget ural w 40 percen a road n. r e o s i ti m a a a r i c n ric have who n d insp ss tha of Af thin areas l t dow , aders raining an ty. Le i a a e c l r s i ns wi r u 0 o e t r s c t w a a n 15 e i l r n e n e s. living bia fo l day whe g all s rgenti home durin a s of A ador, Africans Colom r r n n i e fi e e e p h e s g th a is r of t ays o l over a, Ecu Durin la that st uarte ng in Afric tiona e ombi q l a u he a o n z e C d e i , th an and t ile Ven urr e h c y l d t i c C i n o , with n m l a l i a a a az . In guay, hristi reviv ia, Br there l and , Uru bal C , the a u o s t Boliv r l i r e g u e y Y t P c g c e the in uck stru uay, after Proph sform in str f d n a o Parag on critical n a g r a d t a of o e rk bia is I was befor he middle h of G m c a o r l d u o n to wo ip issues, h a t C een ght. C ierra re. In ke Rw rsh has b l thou like S ces li e the t u r leade a a s f l a r e h p on t e c e a r w ond ation igeria ed pl cide, N h ers fo rd t s o , i r a r n a by a w ple of a n j e e u u v g b we a dq impo am . In A lism, s I he y e r hea l a e r o b g t j e i n r n a h r an ex t m va te era e are great lim e exub n as a f the ne, w es of Mus o o know tels. I was e s L u ind t lin li, car e fron rd rem ormed Ca the drug a h t om in s, w o of nsf pH re. he ro a o t e e r er t h h n d s t s o i n B en verse are rou t ha d e o a a n b n h d A t d e e . l a e ship a world here; I look a, at thirt reviv mber hich h e e w h m , t a t c i t i n s od b e fr si ecy is , in h of G e larg uth A h c Colom lent place r h o p t u S o r h g z P C n o, a vio od of esenti ent in the urkina Fas n La P nt. i r G , p most f a e o t r B c Bogo ontin ntine hurch ana, ocrati uth any c the C otsw res, in oss the co vision f m i B o e A : D y s c , t So cr d eno rophe vory Coas eria, P d all a l giving an b in Bu i f n L o a , h , I a of , rt y ia aulo ss No eroon ongo, Ken s. Because crific o a r m Sao P a s c a c a i e C ther the gh th Amer c of C rches any o publi outh re, in Throu rs and chu e S m e R t h n o t s i s e st d v re re sto a har e the harve ca, an ners, we a r i t o r a of pa t s f . e n e t A i t n grea ines part ica, w oving is contine Amer erge of m ithful of the en the fam lks, h a t f e n s s o o a ev . Wh le of g acr ria st on th midd world lodin mala ure t , p e c x e i h e d t p o a s l v in pti n that i globa els in e re. areas corru e b e h m e d ce, t r h o n t t h e a re is s, ’s gra , th e ok a a t d e o n l k a i o i t We a h r G s o t h s deva that C mporary re. By ue to ose w note /AIDS e e the ontin t r V Th y c I n t a a l i l o H e i e n c r w t a s is ristia des, w help, we ifican amic ulnes a f n n r h g y g i t of Ch i d e s a r t d f s st is h you ontinued d mo e mo world d wit econ e to th c n s re. h r a t e u n h n h o a yt e .Y ric l. T ty i a f e i a t r v A s v e i ti e v h n c t h g be re rit a we ca untin ere. T ly Spi al, so t are th ies, not co by i v e of Ho o w s untr . And ized 52 co cogn Africa e s r a n s g h i a nent ich w overe conti n, wh as a new s 011. The a d u S s of 2 . South ed Nation ndum countries e t r i e n f e U r 8 e 3 e h t in th es after esent ew church r n p o s ti i na od ve f hile h of G ces we ha a ive, w ing Churc l v p r r u e s m recto In som truggle to s clai ve Di atin i L ti u f m c o s s e i s t l x e ur ome an, E ange nistri gmen and o an and s id Bry treach Mi es ev m c v ge se c i o a r u a l d e D h n p g r er kin l Ou zuela th Am d eve othe in oth ds for the Globa ns an e Sou from Vene An e h t t s e n i a h f t ica hing ost o tip of thous ship is in Amer stretc southern s, ds. M r r , d n e t e a b n e s e s u m r n e e rishe me conti to th of tho pove h try ov s c h n m t a d i r u e e o e r o v n a e m -c ar hund hey h rs fro tries in the a. The ten t o n cent t h t u s g u o a u c o y per yp tin ho ab se ft e t i n f l e k F e a o h . t g w y s r p l u A al a fe ource e gro omic with al res ed th r econ s u i t r along a p m ive n n, co mass natio
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GOING FORWARD IN THE POWER OF THE
The Caribbean DOMINICA Testimony of Good Hope Words are inadequate to express the mighty power of God at work in the community of Good Hope, St. David, Dominica. Only the accounts in heaven bear the true records of the various powers of darkness that have been broken so that lives could be transformed.
Miracle Tabernacle
The Church of God of Prophecy Miracle Tabernacle on Mountain View Avenue in Kingston, Jamaica is a church whose focus is to win the lost and to offer to people the care and cure as promised by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Bishop Joseph Thompson served in this church and community for more than 40 years and made his transition at a ripe old age in 2009 to be with the Lord. Now the general membership of 133 believers with a vibrant ministry team, led by Pastor-Minister Doreen Allen, is committed to bringing about a positive change in this community where there are numerous challenges. Pastor Allen has led the church into very concentrated times of intercessory prayer and fasting, study, and application of the Word of God. This yielded great results. For the first time in our history a burst a fresh wind blew and the membership responded first, followed by the community. We saw new additions to our membership and baptisms become something to look forward to as conversions took place— confirming the work of the Holy Spirit through our evangelistic efforts. We have experienced numerous challenges but the Lord is with us. Achievements and Current Happenings Conversions of new souls and additions of members continues to be an eye opening experience as we are humbled constantly by the hand of the Lord at our meetings. In March of this year, the Lord added 18 souls to our fellowship; 10 though baptism and eight who came requesting membership from other fellowships. Presently our membership has increased by nearly fifty percent.
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In November, 2009, my family and I took an “Abrahamic”, journey from our native land, Jamaica, to the island of Dominica and a small village called Good Hope. That name stands in stark contrast to the various symptoms of sin that are manifested daily. The people are easygoing and not in much of a hurry. This could be a result of the mountainous terrain that they have to traverse daily to their farms and back to their homes. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on the east coast of the island, the district is home to nearly 400 residents, with its major religion being Catholicism. As we “footed” across mountainous terrains and at times hitchhiked to meet with the people, we discovered that the community suffers from various social ills such as unemployment, teenage pregnancy, drug abuse, sexual immorality, child neglect, and poverty. We further uncovered that some of these problems were caused by the cloud of witchcraft that hangs over the community suppressing the spirit of the people.
Continuous Prayer The first seven days of each month is set aside for intercessory prayer. The community is invited to pray alongside us. This is ongoing. Parenting Workshops The church facility is used periodically by community organizers for training of parents in vital techniques of child rearing. This helps nation and community building. Street Meeting An evangelistic outdoor meeting was held in the lower Burger community. This event served to encourage the community that the way is still available and to maintain our presence as a light. Focus On the Young Harvest A children’s ministry crusade was held on May 27-29, 2011. The speaker was Sister Dawn
Betton. This crusade saw approximately sixty children attending over the three nights. Ten came forward and expressed the need for Christ. Followup visitations have been scheduled to further disciple these young souls for the Lord. Leadership Training Empowerment A training event was held on June 10th, 2011 at our local church—which can only be described as transformational as all in attendance were challenged to be effective and transparent leaders who would positively affect our communities. Facilities Our buildings are in need of repair. There were days when it seemed impossible but what we thought was impossible, we’ve seen our God do! His Word is true; He is definitely able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we could ever ask or think, according to the power that worketh
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HOLY SPIRIT Given the nature of the situation, our only recourse was to appeal to the “Hall of Justice.” We started prayer walks, praying at strategic points, engaging church leaders, binding and loosing in the name of Jesus Christ. We had purposed in our hearts that we would continue to PUSH (Pray Until Something Happens) against the force of darkness regardless of the outcome. The atmosphere began to change. Souls that were enslaved to sin are now being liberated. Translation from the kingdom of darkness to the Kingdom of Light has started. God’s ears were not heavy, neither was His hand too short. He blessed our effort by increasing the membership from four to 21 members (with 13 souls to be added) with an average attendance of 52 individuals in attendance on a Sunday morning. God continues to work in the area of common-law relationships; the number existing in the community is staggering, with parties living together for over 20 years and not wanting to get married. The power of God has broken the back of common-law living. We have, to date, one couple who was saved together and are now married and another to be joined in holy matrimony in August of this year. One case exists where a young lady moved out of the common-law home, for the sake of Christ. In addition, those who have not thought about marriage are now thinking about it. Hallelujah! Also, God has healed one marriage that was broken due to drug abuse on the part of the husband. Now the husband is saved, a member of the church, and is drug free. The wife exuberantly testifies, “These are the happiest days of my life.” in us. Most of our ministries are in operation, with the most recent being our Teens’ Ministry. The young people are a true representation of the planted seed and Word in action. Our most recent initiative is the re-aligning of ourselves to the evangelistic call of winning our communities through the power of the Holy Ghost supported by preaching, teaching, and making our church relevant to the Mountain View community. To God be the glory, great things He has done and will continue to do.
Social Outreach Project at Clarendon South
The Church of God of Prophecy in Clarendon South, Jamaica constructed and handed over five houses to some disadvantaged persons in the area. The most recent was on September 10, 2010. The house was given to a disabled man in the
TOBAGO
In the midst of opposition from other church leaders in the village, we continue to see God’s favor. We were able to implement a few extra programs, such as: San Suave Primary School (located in one of our neighboring communities), lay minister Joycelyn Peart-Lawson assists children with voice and music lessons, a home-based work center distributes clothes and food items, and I serve voluntarily as the vice president of the Board of Directors for the Castle Bruce Cooperative Credit Union in a nearby community. In addition to these endeavors, we are hosting a public forum, “Drug Abuse and Its Impact,” and are presently in the process of forming a farmer’s cooperative to assist with the marketing of farmers’ produce in the church and the community. I also serve as a marriage officer for Good Hope and adjoining communities. Plans ahead are: a Bible school that is a collaborative effort with an organization named Child Fun and the church; a youth camp to include unchurched youths; a youth advocacy movement, where young people are given a voice to speak out on issues affecting them as well as taking initiative to effect change. In conclusion, I will quickly confess as did Peter in Acts 3:12, it was not by our own might that so many lives were changed. It was and is God’s power working through His Son, Jesus Christ, in us. To Him alone be all the glory, both now and forever. —Irving Lawson Pastor, St. David, Dominica
Gravel Hill area, where Minister Dorothea Lewin is currently pastoring. This project was featured on the Ray of Hope program on Television Jamaica, Monday November 8, 2010. Another house was built for a senior citizen who was living in deplorable conditions in the Wood Hall area. Other homes were completed in Sandy Bay and Hayes, respectively. In addition to those projects, the roofs of two dwelling houses were reconstructed with the assistance of two other charitable organizations, who donated building material. All of the above were done out of love and good faith. —William D. Hutchinson
Bethel Community Church
The name of this church is apt, particularly if we place emphasis on community. It is the newest church in the COGOP family in Trinidad and Tobago,
but it has been in existence for longer than two decades. The church was founded by its present leader, Pastor Derek Batson, a veteran of more than fifty years in ministry in the Caribbean and in Canada. Approximately two years ago, Pastor Batson indicated that the Lord led him to unite with the Church of God of Prophecy. Discussions and fellowship ensued until March 05, 2011 when Pastor Batson and 175 members of Bethel Community church joined the COGOP by covenant and the right hand of fellowship. This church operates a small business called Havens Book Store where Bibles, books, and a variety of items are sold. Many counseling opportunities have been provided for the pastor at the store. The church recently dedicated its well-appointed edifice which is located in a rural housing development in central Trinidad. Plans are being put in place to start an Early Childhood Care and Education Centre at the church. The soup kitchen is the major social outreach effort of this local church. Meals are distributed weekly to the less fortunate, not just in the immediate district, but in the neighboring borough of Chaguanas. Even in the cities of Port-of-Spain and San Fernando, the homeless benefit from the love and generosity of the Bethel Community COGOP by way of the soup kitchen. This initiative coupled with tract distribution resulted in several families attending church services and many souls receiving Jesus Christ as their Savior and joining the church. —Maurice A. Jones, National Overseer of Trinidad and Tobago
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New Church Plants in North America
Sam N. Clements
North American General Presbyter
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Since the 2010 International Assembly, 34 new churches have been organized in North America. The map (on pages 16–17) gives an overview of where these churches have been planted. Included also in this article are excerpts from various news reports that have been received along with some pictures. I want to take this opportunity to express a special thank you to the individuals and local congregations who have made contributions to “Everyone
Can” to assist new congregations in getting established in their communities. I also encourage you to pray for these areas daily that God will send an abundant harvest of souls. It is the mission and desire of the North America General Presbyter’s office to take the Gospel of God’s Kingdom to every city, town, and community in North America; to promote church-planting in order to provide a gathering place for the multitudes of restless and confused WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
dedicated church planting couple, Sergio and Olga Mendoza. This church is growing rapidly with a very young, talented worship team.” —Wallace Pratt, Regional Overseer
people across this land; to equip and train ministry to be more effective in the harvest; to promote unity in the body of Christ; and to encourage team effort among all Christians.
Great Lakes Region
March 13, 2011 was a day to remember! Excitement filled the air as worshipers gathered in Chicago, Illinois for the inaugural service of our newest congregation. Bishop Harper received seventeen new covenant members into the church. Others are interested as well, and the prospect of additional members is good. This congregation is our first French-speaking church in the Great Lakes Region. There are several young, emerging leaders in this congregation! Pastors Gestone and Marie Etrenne are the appointed pastors. Please pray for our newest church family addition. —Bishop Timothy Harper, Regional Overseer
IOU Region
(Idaho, Oregon, and Utah) There have been at least ten new churches organized in this region since the 2010 International Assembly. Here we share a brief report from Dr. Wallace Pratt about the new church, Camino Nuevo Centro Cristiano in Kearns, Utah. “I am very grateful to the Lord that He has blessed us to organize another new church; this time in Kearns, Utah. Although we already have an Englishspeaking and Spanish–speaking church in this city that uses the same new property, this new church will be moving to a new location by next year in a nearby city. What a special opportunity since this is a very young and talented group of about fifty. The organization of this new church plant was possible after a year of intense mission work by a
Northeast Spanish Region
March 26 in the city of Springfield, Massachusetts a new church was organized in District One, Tabernaculo de Gozo (Joy Tabernacle). This is the fortyseventh church in the Northeast Spanish region and was established thanks to the work and efforts of Pastor Henry Garcia and his family, who sowed God’s Word in hungry hearts and began meeting through Bible studies and services in homes with a small group of brother and sisters. In addition to Bishop Matos, Pastor and District Overseer Jose Ferreras was present along with several area pastors and representatives honored this celebration with their presence. A highlight of this event was the presence of Reverend John Richards and his wife, pastor of Christian Life Center in Springfield . Pastor Richards affirmed the importance of Hispanic churches in this city because 54% of the city’s total population is of this ethnic group. The Holy Spirit ministered to us in a wonderful way as we were led in worship by Geraldine Garcia. We hope to continue to see God’s grace in the lives of our pastor and the congregation at this new church in Springfield. —Rahadames Matos, Regional Overseer
Mid-Atlantic Region
On Sunday, May 29th, 2011 excitement ran wildly high as the saints from ‘Saved by Grace Ministries’ assembled for this history-making event. For the very first time we were going to see a church full of people, young and old alike, join the Church of God of Prophecy. In fact, 112 people stood to join the church by covenant on this day. It was indeed a sight to behold this most remarkable and momentous occasion.
Needless to say were all blessed by the presence and ministry of our North American Presbyter, Bishop Sam Clements and his wife Linda. During the induction service Bishop Clements preached with great anointing on the Early Church outlining reasons for success and rapid advancement. Regional Overseer Bishop Leroy Greenaway administered the covenant for membership. It was moving to see how many stood to receive the right hand of fellowship extended to the leadership of the new congregation by our General Presbyter and Regional and District Leadership. The Church of God of Prophecy joyfully and enthusiastically welcomes Pastor Dennis Moreno and this outstanding body of believers to its growing and ever-expanding family.” Also, from the Mid-Atlantic Region, House of David Full Gospel Fellowship was organized October 30, 2011 by Bishop Greenaway. Following a brief overview of the Church of God of Prophecy worldwide emphasizing that we are a Bible believing and practicing church and that there is a covenant of obligation for membership, Bishop Greenaway administered the covenant to twenty-five new members. Zachery Madric is the senior pastor. —Leroy Greenaway, Regional Overseer
Texas
On February 18, 2011 a new church was organized in El Paso. State Overseer, Bishop Jerry Schall, extended the church covenant to thirty-eight members. Pastor Tomas Melendez and his wife have done an outstanding job in leading and teaching the congregation about the Church of God of Prophecy. District Overseer, Ernesto Rodarte, has been of great assistance. It was a great time of celebration and praising the Lord. On Saturday, there was a dedication service at the local church property. It was a glorious weekend. To God be the glory for our new church family! —Source: Texas State Courier (continued on next page)
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Tabernaculo de Gozo
1590 Sumner Avenue Springfield, Massechusetts Pastor: Henry Garcia
Casa de Dios Vida Nueva 1007 E 1100 N Ogden, Utah Pastor: Jonas Garcia
Olivehurst
4257 Fleming Way Olivehurst, California Pastor: L Corado
Mt. Union
Templo Belen
Ocala
Camino Nuevo Centro Cristiano
Miami
12414 E Burnside Street Portland, Oregon Pastor: Sol Mondragon 5496 S 4220 W Kearns, Utah Pastor: Sergio Mendoza
New Ch
2251 NW 2nd Street Ocala, Florida Pastor: Celide Rodriguez
Chicago, Illinois French congregation
2742 SW 8th Street Miami, Florida Pastor: Ariel Lazo
3167 John F. Kennedy Blvd. W North Bergen, New Jersey Pastor: Florentino Brito
Iglesia Christiana Conexicon De Vida
5759 Samaritan Lane SE Salem, Oregon
Capilla de la Victoria
Northfield, New Jersey congregation
4995 N Lee Highway Cleveland, Tennessee Pastor: Omar Velazquez
El Paso
3649 Las Quintas Drive El Paso, Texas Pastor: Tomas Melendez
Casa de Misericordia
10445 SW Canterbury Lane Tigard, Oregon Pastor: Byron Rodas
Central COGOP
217 Iron Avenue SW Albuquerque, New Mexico Pastor: Rosa Valdovinos
Ministerio Sanidad a las Naciones
894 N Valley View Bulevard Las Vegas, Nevada Pastor: Cesar Bardales
Cleveland COGOP
1004 S Fenner Avenue Cleveland, Texas Pastor: Hector Vara
Puerto del Virlo IDP 1001 S Clay Street Denver, Colorado Pastor: Felipe Gonzales 16
Victory Chapel, Cleveland, Tennessee Omar Velazquez, pastor
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Bethel Ministries International
urches West Valley I.D.P.
3721 S 4400 W West Valley City, Utah Pastor: Rosa Lara
Winfield
Templo de Restauracion 814 N 2nd Street Silverton, Oregon
Franklinton
County Highway 173 Winfield, Alabama Pastor: Cecil Smith
Vineland
802 Cambridge Street Vineland, New Jersey Pastor: C. Capron
1610 Greenlaw Street Franklinton, Louisiana
New Hope Community 4115 W Sams Bulevard Salt Lake City, Utah Pastor: Anthony Roberts
Saving Grace Fellowship 1400 Birch Street Buhl, Idaho Pastor: Casey Knudson
8044 N Richmond Avenue Portland, Oregon Pastor: Cherian Pillay
World Harvest Church 181 E Commercial Street Weiser, Idaho Pastor: Robert Mora
Victorious Living Christian Fellowship 12415 James River Drive Hopewell, Virginia Pastor: G.H. Gohanna
Shiloh Outreach Ministries Kearns, Utah Spanish congregation
3678 Story Drive SW Marietta, Georgia Pastor: Kernal Cole
Sunrise Worship Center 6800 Sunset Strip Sunrise, Florida Pastor: Vernell Everett
Chicago (French)
2301 W Lunt Avenue Chicago, Illinois Pastor: Gestone & Marie Etrenne
Snowmass Chapel Iglesia de Dios de la Profecia 5307 Owl Creek Road Snowmass Village, Colorado Pastor: Alejandro Medina
Northfield Spanish 113 Fabian Avenue Northfield, New Jersey Pastor: Dennis Moreno
House of David Full Gospel Fellowship 4106 New Castle Avenue New Castle, Delaware Pastor: Zachery Madric
Iglesia de Dios de la Profecia 423 Hilda Drive Tupelo, Mississippi Pastor: Fermin Castillo
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An African
B
Bishop Sherman O. Allen began his long ministry in Africa with evangelistic ministry forays. He was appointed national overseer of Ivory Coast, where he lived for almost 20 years, by Bishop M.A. Tomlinson in 1982. He continued to serve in this role until 2000. He also served as national overseer of Ghana and Sierra Leone at the same time (19821990). His responsibilities increased even more when he was appointed Africa Mission Representative in September 1988. He worked as overseer of Benin from 1991 to 1996 and Burkina Faso from 1991 to 1998. His many experiences in African leadership culminated in his selection as Africa General Presbyter in 1998, a position he held until his death in November, 2011. A significant portion of the fruit of Bishop Sherman Allen’s legacy was in a conference room in Springs, South Africa in November 2011. Just prior to Bishop Allen’s glorification, I looked around the room at the 13 African overseers and three field secretaries representing 38 nations and more than 500,000 members scattered across the African continent. It was the first leadership gathering at which Bishop Allen’s imposing presence was absent. The leaders of Africa share here their remembrances of an “African” giant. 18
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“In June 1989, as a young minister, I had an opportunity to leave my country (Kenya) for the very first time accompanied by the late Bishop Machogu and Pastor Elijah Wandera for a trip to Tanzania to be in their National Convention. It was in this convention that I would have the opportunity to meet Bishop Sherman O. Allen. He arrived three days later with the late Bishop Barclay who was the National Overseer for the Great Lake Region (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Zambia), his wife, and Pastor Paulina Odongo (then Paulina Duncan). He was on a familiarization tour of our region since he had just been appointed the leader of the Church of God of Prophecy in Africa. “After being introduced to him and hearing him minister, we young ministers were alone and began analyzing this new African leader (Bishop Allen). We interpreted his choosing of Tanzania to mean he wanted to stand on Mount Kilimanjaro so he could view the spiritual, economical, and social challenges facing Africa from a vantage point. With his height, he could see from Morocco to Lesotho, Free Town to Nairobi, through and above Africa. We saw a man full of fire, with a zeal and enthusiasm for God and His Church. “It was not until 2003, when I joined the African Finance and Administration Committee that I would have a closer encounter with Bishop Sherman Allen. I had several opportunities to travel with him within the continent and discovered that Bishop Allen was a man full of life and humor. I found him very dedicated but humble, never afraid to make hard decisions and stand by them. Bishop Allen had a big heart for Africa and the harvest in Africa, and all of us knew WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
it—hence the name ‘Papa Africa.’ He was a symbol of unity and through him the leadership of the Church of God of Prophecy in Africa became one big family. “In Kenya we looked at his complexion and height and felt he was one of our own, so much so, that many thought that he was a brother to the late Bishop Joseph Machogu. Hence in Kenya they still call him ‘Machogu’s brother.’ “Surely, Bishop Allen was a leader, an evangelist, a teacher of the Word, an advisor, a friend and conqueror of the African continent for the Kingdom of God and His Church. Africa will
“In the quest to pursue His Spirit, Bishop Allen’s departure has created a vacuum. We shall remember him. May the Almighty God, whom he served in Christ Jesus while on earth, give him peace. “Papa, rest in peace!”
—George Asante-Boateng National Overseer of Ghana
“Truly, the death of Bishop Sherman Allen is a huge loss. We are all going to die, but his death is too early; because Bishop Sherman O. Allen was always a hundred percent
Memorial Compiled by David Bryan
miss him. Kenya will miss him greatly. Rest in peace ‘Papa Africa,’ our General Presbyter.”
—Cyril Odendo National Overseer of Kenya
“The family, friends, and affiliates of all walks of life, were seized with moments of coldness and disappointment when the official announcement was made of the sudden passing on to glory of Bishop Sherman Allen, General Presbyter for Africa. “Papa Africa, as he was affectionately called by the Africans, was a leader and missionary with a passion. The Church and family have lost a leader of leaders, spiritual father, teacher, and a good husband. Papa Africa twice had oversight of Ghana’s Church. He was respected and loved for his service. He shall be remembered for his input establishing the sound foundation he laid for Ghana’s Church. “The vision to project Christ and His Church led him and his AFC (Africa Finance Committee) team to envision leadership training and development on the continent of Africa. The last period of his leadership as National Overseer of Ghana in 2000-2004 was profitable. His interest to improve the Bishop McCalla School led to acquiring plots to enhance church development. His commitment to good administration and accountability led to getting an office for the Church in Ghana. “Papa Africa earned the name of an Ashanti king, Kweku Dua I, in the 2009 leadership conference in Accra. Papa Africa was very influential to the Church in Ghana and throughout Africa at large.
available to win the people of Africa to faith in Jesus Christ. The devastating poverty of the poor Africans was a huge burden on his heart and there was no sacrifice too costly that he was not willing to make for the well-being of all of us, the African people. His leadership was filled with rigor and grace. He always gave a second chance where punishment should be applied. His heart was passionate for the love for others, and also for the salvation of the lost. His character was untarnished and pure. He loved to invest financially and spiritually in many of us, and even beyond us, who are leaders. “He personally took me as his son, treating me like a father and his son. He loved my family and all those who loved me. I had never had such strong support from my own father as I had from Bishop Sherman Allen. He greatly loved his wife (our African Mother) and his children. Truly, Bishop Sherman O. Allen has been more than a model. Until now, I have had a hard time to find myself. I know what I am talking about and God is my witness. The people he helped, trying to transform their lives, are too many. “Truly, it is a considerable loss for Africa in particular and the whole world in general. His vision for the ministry is large, and goes even beyond his denomination. He had a spirit of unification for the Body of Christ. In reality, I have a hard time understanding why people like Bishop Allen do not live longer. I still have a lot to say about the man, but I will stop here for the time being. “May the Lord Almighty keep his soul with Himself, so we can see each other again on the resurrection day. Thank you.” —Richard Kadato National Overseer of Benin and Togo WWM F E B R UA R Y 2 0 1 2
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“A giant has been promoted to glory. On behalf of my family, many friends, and the Church, not only in the south but in the entire continent of Africa, I would like first of all to convey our heartfelt sorrow to Sister Flowers and the children. Your loss is our loss, your grief is our grief and, Mama Africa, we express our deepest sympathy to you, your son, and your two daughters. “Bishop Allen was a father, friend, and mentor to me. I have worked very close to him in the past twelve years—since 1999— when I was selected to work as an assistant to his office. I grew to love and respect him over these years as a passionate visionary and an astute administrator who called a spade a spade, yet he was very sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. “He loved sharing the good news of the Gospel and always took preaching as a very serious business. One small boy in South Africa came to him after one sermon, pulled his jacket, looked at him in the eyes and said, ‘I want to preach like you one day.’ “It is very difficult for me to come to terms with the fact that he is no more. However his passing on has brought to an end the dreadful suffering that he had to endure this past year. Thank God that he has been relieved of this discomfort and he is now in a place where there is no more pain and suffering. His departure from the earth will leave a void that will not be easy to fill, but fortunately his smiling, friendly face will console us until we meet again! “I have gained a lot from watching him work through difficult situations and transitions on the continent, without fear or favor but with great wisdom from above. These are the experiences that would have been a great resource for the work on the continent. It is all gone but his legacy will linger on. He had a dream for a victorious, strong, and selfsufficient continent for such a time as this, and to face north of the continent. He strongly believed in prayer and was a man of faith. “I remember calling him in Jamaica during his last visit, just briefing him about the progress on the recent conference. He said to me, ‘Stephen, you should have taken another day with the committee to pray for the conference. You will not pull it together without God’s help.’ “I will always remember him for the great sense of humor. When all seemed down and lost, Bishop Sherman Allen would find the humorous side of every situation and would make us laugh after long hours sitting in Africa Administrative Committee. One book will not be enough to tell the stories of his experiences on the continent. We survived near plane crashes but also shared moments of joy in other parts. He has been a great diplomat of the Most High God, one that I will greatly miss. “It is now time for us to remember that, for all these virtues, Bishop Sherman O. Allen has not gone unrewarded by his sudden death. Death is, after all, only the side of life that we can’t see from earth’s shores. Who knows what God has in store for His child? I pray that the Lord will comfort his family and the entire Church family at this time.
—Stephen T. Masilela National Overseer Interim Chairperson Africa Finance Committee
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“Our leadership, ministers, and congregation were shocked last Saturday morning when the news about the sudden passing away of Bishop Sherman Allen (Papa Africa) was announced. Moments of fears and confusion increased, telephone enquiries of how true the sad news could be. The global Church and the continent of Africa has lost a gallant soldier, a worthy leader, and eminent missionary. He was twice the National Overseer for Ghana’s Church; we shall remember him and the legacy he worked for. “On behalf of the leadership, congregation, and on my own behalf, we express our condolences, especially to our dearest mother, Mama Africa and our siblings. “Bishop Sherman Allen (Papa Africa), rest in peace.”
—George Asante-Boateng National Overseer of Ghana
“We, the members, lay ministers, ministers, and the whole leadership of the Church of God of Prophecy in Tanzania, East Africa, join you to mourn the demise of the great general, Sherman Allen. “Tanzania is missing him greatly and our minds do not hold that capacity to think how the gap created by the death of this great man/servant of God can be filled. Brother Allen was always present to intervene in any ministerial problem in Tanzania. We held him as our problem solver, comrade-inarms, mentor, and real fellow minister in this great harvest of our Lord Jesus. “I have labored with him for 30 years and have much ministerial experience with him. He was open-hearted when I made mistakes and was there to correct me without reservations. I’ll miss him so much. He was the ‘Ambassador of the Most High God.’ “On the other hand, it is a consolation to know that we have lost nothing when we know that what we think we have lost is somewhere: heaven!”
—Bishop Eric Mwambigija National Overseer of Tanzania
“It is with deep sorrow that we learned his Excellency, Bishop Sherman O. Allen, General Presbyter for Africa, went to the presence of the Lord. The Church of God of Prophecy in Congo-Brazzaville, my family, and I present our deepest sympathy. “Bishop Allen was not only a great man of God to our eyes but also he became—through years of service in the continent—‘Papa Africa.’ We know that he went back home to be with God and we will all see him someday. “May the Lord, the Almighty God, comfort you at such a time. We keep the family in our prayers.”
—Bishop Jean-Pierre Israel M’Bitchy National Overseer of Congo-Brazzaville
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For the past few years, the Hawaii Church of God of Prophecy has made leadership development a primary focus. Overseer Gary Langley has emphasized the urgency of securing the future of the organization by identifying, training, and empowering emerging leaders, especially young leaders. A Hawaii Ministry Development Center was established for the ongoing, in-service education of existing and future leaders. We have seen two new ministers ordained this year with several more pursuing the process of ordination. As young leaders have begun to rise up and take the lead, a true spirit of revival and renewal has gripped our Honolulu REUNION Church. Some of our young adults have been on mission trips. Tori Langley served in Bulgaria with the Institute for Children’s Ministries and encountered the Holy Spirit in a new dimension. Upon her return, she planned a worship and arts night. It was attended by students from the nearby college who sang, prayed, and created visual art expressions of worship. Another young lady, Christianne Kawamata, went through Discipleship Training School with Youth With A Mission. On her mission trip to Nepal, her faith was increased as they prayed for people in the streets and witnessed healing and the miraculous taking place. Upon returning home to Hawaii she enlisted a few others and began to put into practice what she had experienced in YWAM. They began to pray for merchants and shoppers in the local mall and saw people come to faith in Christ there. On one occasion, the small group was in the center of
the mall and spontaneously began to sing and worship as a crowd gathered and the security guards stood aside and watched. A young man who plays guitar in the worship band was filled with the Holy Spirit while praying alone in his bedroom—no evangelist, no series of meetings—just a young man hungry for intimacy with God. Christianne Kawamata felt led to start our own Discipleship Training School to provide the kind of intense discipleship she had experienced at YWAM, and the DNA DTS was initiated under the covering of the Hawaii Ministry Development Center. A cadre of leaders was recruited and trained in a season of intense prayer, and the Discipleship School was launched by this 23 year-old young lady and staffed by others of her generation. REUNION entered a 21-day period of prayer and a Daniel fast that coincided with the launch of the DTS. We have
seen remarkable breakthrough in many areas. We recently experienced our largest single day of tithes and offerings ever and there has been a fresh wave of freedom in our worship. During the twice-weekly DTS sessions, several of the participants have been Spirit-filled and are experiencing God in ways they never have before. This entire revival has been youth-initiated, youth-led and is ushering in a fresh wind of the Spirit in Hawaii.
Gary Langley, State Overseer, Hawaii
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Annual National Ladies Retreat in the Turks and Caicos Islands The ladies of the Church of God of Prophecy from the length and breadth of the Turks and Caicos Islands met in Grand Turk on the weekend of October 14–15, 2011, for the Annual National Ladies Retreat. The ladies came with expectancy and hearts opened to experience their Turning Point. Friday, October 14 heralded the beginning of the Turning Point. The presence of the Holy Spirit was so intense that programs and schedules were forgotten as the congregation followed the leading of the Holy Spirit. It was an awesome start to a Spirit-filled weekend of fellowship, food and fun, a meet and greet, Talk and Pray (TAP), games, and a tour of Grand Turk which contributed significantly to the camaraderie. We were well-fed physically and spiritually with the Holy Spirit being ever-present. Devotions, greetings and even songs of worship and praise, were led by the Holy Spirit. Language was no barrier, even though there were Spanish and English sisters. The congregation was truly blessed. The various sermons were also very timely and well-received. Ernestine Forbes affirmed that NOW is the time to trust the Lord. She also encouraged us that whatever we ask of the Father in the name of Jesus will be done. Sonia Williams, speaking on “A Divine Encounter,” exhorted us that in order to make an impact we must follow God’s plans, programs, and agendas for our lives. We can follow Moses’ example as written in Exodus 33:12–13. Gwen Harvey of the Salem Baptist Church inspired and challenged us on “Women Making Ends Meet in Today’s Economy.” She reminded us that we need God’s manual to direct our lives. We are to stand on His promises in Matthew 6:31–34 but we must be faithful in some things—such as tithing. Rev. Nancy Hamilton brought her sermon on “A Turning Point for Today’s Women.” She admonished us to be bold enough to take a firm stand for the things of God and charged us with the words of Isaiah 60:1 and Ephesians 5:14. Dianne Grant focused on the beautifully bedecked, “Sweetly Single” ladies. She was militant in her declaration that single women can serve God, whether widowed, divorced, or never married. Several biblical examples were cited, as well as the practicality of real life situations. The guest speaker, Karen Myers of the Blue Hills Church of God of Prophecy in Providenciales, who was charged and fired up, spoke as the Spirit led. She emphasized the theme “Turning Point” and declared that our purpose, individually and collectively, was to be like Paul and carry out the mandate 22
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in Acts 26:18. She highlighted the powerful promise of God in Acts 1:8 and Ephesians 6:19–20, so we should be bold in spreading the good news of the Gospel. Our circumstances in life should not be a deterrent. We should follow the example of Rahab, Ruth, and Esther—whose turning point changed the course of their lives and fulfilled the prophecy of the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Her closing message was unforgettable as she gave each sister a lighted candle challenging them to carry their candle so the world can see the change in their lives. What an awakening! Sisters in Christ, having enjoyed the retreat, are now spiritually fortified to “rise and stand upon their feet” to spread the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Spirits of fear, doubt, uncertainty, and timidity have been rebuked and the ladies are totally charged to go to the people “to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God.” Hallelujah! The Ladies’ Retreat was a truly fulfilling experience for the 54 ladies who attended. Friendships were forged, spirits renewed, faith rekindled. The sisters left with a determination to serve the Lord with gladness and to be witnesses across the length and breadth of the Turks and Caicos Islands evidencing their Turning Point. God be praised! —Norma Francis-Hewitt Turks and Caicos Islands
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What is the harvest progress for this area?
The area continues to grow. According to the last International Assembly statistics, 1.25 new churches are being planted in our area per week.
How are you helping to facilitate growth?
An Opportunity for Growth
An incentive program is in place to financially assist to plant new churches above and beyond a nation’s normal rate of growth. Many nations have already received grants for this program. Our goal for the 2012 International Assembly is to plant two churches per week in the area. Also, particular emphasis is being placed on the young harvest.
What are some areas of opportunity?
Cuba is a great opportunity. Our Church has grown significantly during the last four years. Many buildings are under construction and several churches are being planted currently. In February 2012, I will be visiting most local churches in Cuba to make an assessment of the needs in the island. Some North American pastors have expressed their burden for Cuba. I will try to coordinate through Harvest Partners a system whereby these pastors can adopt a Cuban church.
How can these new opportunities be approached?
I am personally implementing a direct mentoring program in the area. Six new bishops have been ordained in Nicaragua recently. Forty-five new bishops will be ordained in the near future in Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala and Costa Rica. Most of these nations have traditionally operated with one bishop (the national overseer). I met these 45 candidates and their wives in Guatemala.
Mexico, Central America and the Spanish-speaking Caribbean
How have you shared vision with area leaders? In November 2010, I conducted a meeting with 200 key leaders of the area in Santo Domingo. During this meeting we conducted an analysis of the area. The results are being addressed and communicated to the area churches. In September 2011, a pastors’ and pastors’ wives’ summit was conducted in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. The general overseer, four general presbyters, all executive directors, and most general appointees were in attendance. From the area, 800 pastors and 200 wives were there.
What are the most encouraging signs you see for the area in 2012?
We are encouraged by the response to 2020 Vision. More people are praying than before, leadership development has been embraced as a core value, and there is a great passion for the harvest, particularly church planting.
What have your leaders been the most enthusiastic about?
They are very enthusiastic about the sense of direction this church has as outlined in the 2020 Vision. Recently, we have had very good meetings in the area. One of them was about mentoring 45 new bishops.
How can the White Wing readers pray for this area? What are some highlights to pray for?
Please pray for our challenges. Our area is being affected by a wave of violence, which is unprecedented. So pray for peace in the land. This violence is affecting church attendance since it is very dangerous to walk in the streets, particularly at night. Ben Feliz General Presbyter
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The Holy Ghost came to enable the Church to preach and live this message before the world that they were commissioned to win. Fred S. Fisher, Sr. General Overseer Emeritus
In the 1950’s, a new phenomena swept the Christian world with a new word, glossolalia. The mainline liturgical churches began to speak with tongues. It was a fascinating experience, new to so many, that brought to the Kingdom of God new practices that classical Pentecostals were uncomfortable with. They saw very little change in people’s lifestyle, yet they could speak with tongues. Between the Great Commission and the Ascension, Christ gave His followers the command to “preach the gospel in all the world.” To enable them to go to the hostile world, they would need an endowment of power and the divine ability would come through the Baptism of the Holy Ghost. So, He sent them to the Upper Room to wait until the promise to come. The First Century Church did not go seeking “tongues”. But they were obedient to Christ’s command to go. Tonguespeaking came as the evidence of the promised Holy Spirit. It brought much 24
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more than tongues. They were baptized with POWER. The Church is to be a different society in a secular world that thinks, lives, and acts differently. Not to be odd, weird or strange, but to be different. This difference happens through the work done at Calvary. Although tongue-speaking is a glorious experience, we must never exalt that feeling above the work done at the cross by Jesus. There is no greater experience than salvation and sanctification made possible by the atonement from our High Priest, Jesus Christ. The baptism of the Holy Ghost as it occurred at Pentecost and other places is subsequent to the salvation and sanctification experience. Go to the Upper Room, but please do not bypass Calvary. This is where the Church finds the Redeemer and the holiness of God. It is the cross that separates and makes the Church of Jesus different. The Holy Ghost came to enable the Church to preach and live this message
before the world that they were commissioned to win. The following is a quote from Biblical Principles, Beliefs and Practices of the Church of God of Prophecy:“The Holy Spirit is come (has been sent by Christ) Acts 2:33 . . . to reprove the world of sin, of righteousness and of judgment, to serve as the Church’s guide and director and reveal the things of Christ..(John 16:7–15). As such, it is important for believers to seek both the baptism (Acts 2:38, 39) and His fullness (Ephesians 5:18) in order that they may become familiar with His leadership and guidance and cooperatively participate in His work, both for personal Christian maturity and for service in Christ’s mission to the world.” This indwelling of the Spirit is a definite, instantaneous experience described in the Scriptures, and is accompanied by the evidence of speaking in other tongues. Baptism with the Holy Spirit enhances all Christian virtues. The fruit of the Spirit-filled people brings a more complete and active work in our daily living when the Comforter has come. The fruit of love, joy, longsuffering (the list goes on), are to be more complete and active in the lives of Spirit-baptized saints. Love is the more perfect way. Tongue-speaking can be learned, imitated, but love cannot. It comes from God. Hence, the message of the Gospel must come from a Church with changed lives manifesting the holiness of God in the power of the Cross. The commission was not “go into all the world, speaking in tongues”, but rather the Gospel was to be empowered by the Holy Spirit to cause them to repent. From Calvary to the Upper Room; from the Upper Room to all the world—preaching the same Gospel that Christ Himself preached. It was to be done clearly so that the message could be understood in every man’s language. So, changed lives with Christ’s message can change lives through the empowerment and anointing of the Holy Spirit, which does more than cause one to speak in tongues. The Church shall continue to speak in tongues when in order and when it is appropriate, but we must remember at all times to preach the Gospel which will change the world. WWW.WHITEWINGMESSENGER.ORG
The Battle Lines
The 19-year-old preacher said, “We are in a battle and we can’t be relaxed about it.” Since hearing that, I have been confronted by it daily and am compelled to specifically take the time to identify the war. Yes, I have to fight the devil and principalities, my flesh, and the world. But how does that look for my generation? I know that my weapons are powerful enough to destroy principalities, but which weapon do I use when the subtleness of the attack makes me almost indifferent? After my first week of college, I got a clear picture of my battlefield. I was convinced that all teachers had gathered in a conspiracy against Jesus and wanted to crucify Him again, but this time with the intention of eradicating the faith in each student’s heart.
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My battlefield is my mind and the fight is between the faith acquired through years of discipleship at home and at church schooling me against relativism and the idea of the absence of “absolute truth.” Subtle whispers of doubt creep all over our minds saying: “Yes, Jesus is a historical fact but He was not God.” “How can you prove that Jesus is the only way to heaven?” “Jesus is just one among so many other gods and prophets.” “You can not be so arrogant to believe that your God is the only one.” “It’s all good as long as we have some form of spirituality.” “If God exists, why is the world so messed up?” “The Bible is a good book full of imagery and fairy tales but we can not seriously base our lives on that.” In the middle of the interesting and intricate jungle of philosophy, theories, and concepts being thrown at me daily, I had to make a choice to listen to the voice of truth. I have come to realize that God knew the battles I would have but still He chose to put me on this earth for such a time as this. The devil concocted a deadly potion to destroy this generation, suggesting labels like undisciplined, ungodly, unholy, confused, etc. Yet God has not changed in His desire to ‘pour out His Holy Spirit upon all flesh’ and has turned this ‘relativism’ scheme into an opportunity to
time that I understood the passages in 2 Corinthians 10: 3–5 and Philippians 2:9–1. The name of Jesus is above all names and at His name every knee will bow and all tongues will confess that He is Lord. There is no argument, no logic, and no eloquence that can overcome the power of Christ; He would not merely stay stuck to the pages of a book. I saw Him glorified in our morning prayers on campus, He was with us when professors started inviting us to their lectures so we could testify about Christianity. I had no more doubt. I had no more fear. I was no longer ashamed, I felt like an apostle in Acts ready to give it all for the Gospel. My parents or my pastor could not shelter me or filter what I was going to let into my mind but the God who was real to them became real to me. Adversity did not kill me, it made me stronger. I finished college but I am still very involved in a college and career ministry. I live close to a campus and have many college-age friends. This allows me to see that the battle continues. Every week, I am witnessing the awakening of hearts and young people taking sides. My generation is not lost; there is still a group that refuses to conform to the patterns of this age and of this world (Romans 12:2). There are still many to reach (a work in progress) but now that I named my battle; will you name and fight yours? Valerie Moreno Cleveland, Tennessee
show up on campus and miraculously open the spiritual eyes of atheists and agnostics through His Word and His Holy Spirit. It was during my time in college that I became radical for Christ. The attempts of the enemy to confuse me only gave me thirst for the truth found in the living Word and to avidly Southeast Retreat seek to experience the God of the Book. At first it was a theory, just like the “evolution” one but as I read the Bible, Gulf Shores Retreat “that Jesus” started coming out of the Book and began to show up in my dreams to speak to me. The God that once opened the Red Sea now was showing up in my history class so I could talk about Him with boldness to my atheist teacher, and He also started bringing our Muslim, Buddhist, and Catholic friends to His feet. It was during that 26
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Decoration or Proclamation? “Is it decoration or proclamation?” My question startled Ron, a grocery store coworker. Our conversation, which had centered on trivial matters between ringing up customers, took a pointed turn while I focused on the gold cross around his neck. It was a clever challenge I had recently discovered in a song, giving me the inroad I wanted to discuss faith. “Really what I mean is, ‘Is there anything to the cross you wear?’” I further explained. “Are you making a statement of what you believe or wearing it because it’s trendy?” “I don’t know,” he responded. Ron wasn’t quite sure what he believed and had never really been challenged to think about it. He was a twentysomething young man who had a kind spirit and whose existence consisted mostly of work. I was a college student who lived on a mostly self-contained Christian campus. What that meant for me was my evangelistic opportunities had seemingly diminished, being surrounded by believers or at least those familiar with the Gospel. My job in town was an opportunity to interact with people of different
backgrounds, often those who needed the hope of Christ. Ron needed to know that there was something better, a higher purpose than day-to-day drudgery. He needed to know of a Savior who loved him with a love like he’d never known, a Savior who’d never leave him. I shared all that with him, along with relating my own Christian journey. He listened intently but did not show any signs of emotion. We were at work and, being mindful of what we were being paid to do, I ended the conversation with an invitation: “Call me anytime if you want to talk more about this.” For most people, studying is the top priority in college, leading way out in front of socializing. For me, however, the two were in a neck-andneck race. I loved getting together with familiar friends and making new ones. One such night, an impromptu “hangout” was being put together. Some old friends and at least one girl I wanted to get to know were on their way to the apartment I shared with roommates. This was the “anytime” Ron chose to call. “I’ve been thinking about what you were saying and I would like to talk more about it,” he said. “I really could use a friend.” I knew I had to go, even at the expense of my little social life. I met my friends in the driveway, telling them I had to go speak to someone.
I didn’t spell everything out, because I was afraid it would spoil my good intentions. I was already practically fighting my attitude and the thought of telling Ron when I arrived, “you have about thirty minutes to accept Jesus as your personal savior.” I wish I could say that Ron accepted Jesus’ salvation and repented of his sins that night. That would tie this whole story up with a nice little bow. It certainly would have helped alleviate my concerns that I did something wrong, that I somehow fumbled the salvation football about ten yards from the spiritual goal line. “Thanks for coming over,” he said. “I’ll keep it in mind, but I’m not quite ready.” Ron listened intently and I gave it my best effort. He did not pray or accept Christ that night and to this day, I’m not sure if he has. I’d later come to realize that it wasn’t really my place to coerce him into salvation. That’s the Spirit’s job. “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him . . .” (John 6:44). On this side of heaven, I may not know the full impact of those conversations. What I do know, however, is in those intentional moments, I had an overwhelming feeling that it was exactly what I was meant to be doing. —DeWayne Hamby Cleveland, Tennessee WWM F E B R UA R Y 2 0 1 2
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CULTURE
Good News for the Poor “This generation is the first to look upon the dawn of a staggering possibility. For the first time in human history we are looking at the realistic possibility of ending extreme global poverty.”—Scott C. Todd, Ph.D. Dr. Todd’s hope isn’t without evidence, which he lists in his newest book, 58: Fast Living: How the Church Will End Extreme Poverty (Compassion International). Among his findings: • Over the past eight years, the number of kids dying from measles has declined by 78 percent—saving half a million children every year. Twenty-two countries have cut their malaria rate in half! And they did it in • only six years. • In the 80’s, 40,000 children died each day from preventable causes. Now it’s down to 21,000. The • spread of HIB has been curbed by 16 percent globally. • Average life spans across the globe have nearly doubled in the past 200 years. • In 1981, 52 percent of the world’s population lived in extreme poverty (living on less than $1 a day). As of 2005, that number is 26 percent. “We have cut the percentage of people living in extreme poverty in half. And we did it in one generation!” Todd said. He believes that Christians, by God’s grace and power, will bring an end to extreme poverty in the next 25 years.
For more information on ending global poverty or the book, Fast Living, visit www.live58.org.
TESTIMONY
Why Would He Ever Love Me? My salvation as a young person was just an assumption, a supposition, a collection of other people’s memories. I walked around believing I was a Christian because I had heard so many stories from relatives and fellow church folks about the ways God had blessed them and how He had proved Himself real in their lives. I knew all the right things to do. But I had no testimony of my own. It was as if I carried around a photo album filled with pictures of other people, trying to pass it off as my own life. The emptiness of my heart began to dawn on me the day I was pulling out on a bus bound for boot camp. I heard a distinct voice say, “You don’t have what it takes to make it.” This thought was a constant, nagging torment as my four-year tour began in the Air Force during the Vietnam conflict. One lonely night, while stationed at Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines, I 28
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was overwhelmed with the sad condition of my empty heart. Looking at the sky filled with stars, I said out loud, “God, do you even love me?” There was no response. The cold, silent heavens mocked me. I felt rejected. With tears running down my face, I answered the question I had asked God. “Why would He love me? There is not a reason in this world that He should.” And then, a strange thing happened. I felt as if something touched the top of my head in one little spot, almost as if someone had taken one finger and gently tapped me. What followed was a tingling sensation like thick oil pouring down my head, onto my shoulders, down my arms and body, all the way to my legs. As this was happening, the absolute certainty that my heavenly Father loved me, lavishly and unconditionally, filled my being. After some time, the physical and emotional sensations stopped. But the realization
that God loved me, just for me, did not leave me and never has. And although I did not “get saved” that night, as strange as this may sound, I knew it was inevitable. God’s love invaded my life that night and was “shed abroad in my heart.” My confidence in His love for me has been a rock solid reality every moment since. Now, when I am out at night and look up at the stars, I say to Him, “I remember.” Every person needs at least one moment in life when the realization that God loves you personally, as an individual, is placed deep down into your heart. If you are longing for that truth to become real to you, cry out to God and see how He responds to you. His Word promises, “He who comes to me, I will never reject” (John 6:37 NLT). —Perry Horner, Cleveland, Tennessee
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LOCAL CHURCH Pastor Appeals for Help Our local church building has had a mold issue due to a flood in the basement a few years ago. We have been meeting for these past few years in the building next to the church that we used as a Fellowship Hall. After much prayer and seeking the Lord’s will, we have decided to build onto the front of the current Fellowship Hall. The addition will be the location of the new 150-seat sanctuary, pastor’s office, three classrooms and restrooms. The cost is estimated at $300,000.00. Our hope is that the contractor could start building the facility in April of 2012. This gives us about five months to raise the funds. We are counting on your help for us to achieve this goal. $300,000.00 is not easily obtained with a congregation our size. There is currently an average attendance of 50 people on Sunday mornings. Our desire is to see our congregation grow to an average of 125 by summer of 2012, 300 by summer of 2014, and 500 by summer of 2016. Abingdon, Illinois has a population of approx. 3,000 so 300 would be us reaching just 10 percent of our population. We are in desperate need of the new addition to be able to be the vibrant local body God has called us to be. We are asking you to put this need before the Lord and ask Him to move on your heart with what you could send financially to support the ministry here in Abingdon. There is no amount too small and no amount too great. We just ask that you give according to what you are blessed with and are able to give. If you do have any questions please feel free to call me at 309-368-6357. You can also email me at jjbarker83@ hotmail.com. Please send your offering made payable to The Church of God of Prophecy to Pastor Jeremiah Barker, 802 North Monroe, Abingdon, Illinois 61410.
LOCAL/STATE/INTERNATIONAL
ETHIOPIA
The Church Advances
We are targeting February through April of 2012 for great strides in advancing the cause of the Church in many areas, including leadership development, accountability, and a greater understanding of our biblical authority. I will be spending much time visiting our districts and providing inspirational and instructional leadership. It is my hope to have other anointed teachers to come and assist me in this endeavor. In many of the areas in which our church serves, there are opportunities to increase our influence while providing financially for the churches. In Nekempt, a task force has been established to develop a plot of land we own to be used as a cemetery for the community. Someone has already donated funds to serve as seed money for this cause. We are partnering with town leaders in Gudaya Jare to provide a library that will bless the many children of the community. In many other areas, we are encouraging our churches to develop farming in order to help the Church and the community. Some are calling this year’s drought affecting many East African nations the worst in 60 years. It is complicated by political unrest, financial disarray, and rising food prices. In spite of it all, our hope is in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We appreciate every prayer that is lifted up on behalf of these people.
—Fekadu Ayele, National Overseer
MALAYSIA
Ministering to Outcasts
The Church of God of Prophecy in Malaysia is ministering from the streets of the outcast to rehabilitate and restore citizens and to see them redeemed by the blood of Jesus. We have ministered to some destitute children and youths from Precious Children’s and Precious Youth Home respectively. A number of youths have since graduated. A few are serving God voluntarily, while others have started to learn how to make a decent living. Once deserted, now a dignified somebody. All glory goes to God! Sarah’s Inn Women’s Drug Rehabilitation Center is another outreach avenue of ministry for the Malaysia COGOP. Some of the women had prostituted themselves trying to find a quick fix. But it is with great joy that we report these women can now fix their eyes upon Jesus Christ, our Redeemer.
—Bishop Dennis Huang National Overseer
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WORLDVIEW (continued) EGYPT
Doors Opening in Difficult Times I am sure you are hearing about all the things that have been happening in our country of Egypt. It has been very difficult times for all of us because we live very near to these situations. Many bad things happened around us, but we thank our Lord for His protection for our family, and all our churches, ministers, and members. In the midst of these situations, the Lord opened many doors for our church’s work in many different areas. As I told you before, our God is fulfilling what He said in His Word in Isaiah 19:19, 21, “In that day shall there be an altar to the LORD in the midst of the land of Egypt, and a pillar at the border thereof to the LORD. And the LORD shall be known to Egypt, and the Egyptians shall know the LORD in that day, and shall do sacrifice and oblation; yea, they shall vow a vow unto the LORD, and perform it.” On April 11, 2011, I went to Asyut to see the place for the new work and made the official documents for that work. It is not finished, but we prayed together to ask the Lord to use that place for His glory. On May 10, 2011, they began to make the different meetings there. Now they have Bible study meetings, Sunday school for children meetings, youth meetings, and general meetings. Last July 14–18, we had our ministers’ convention. Bishop Clayton and Bishop Wilton attended that convention and we had some leaders’ training in that convention. Early one morning, at six o’clock, we had the water baptismal service in the Mediterranean Sea. The four new ministers were baptized in water by Bishop Clayton Endecott and we certainly give God all the glory for what He is doing throughout Egypt. In the midst of all these situations this year, the Lord gave us three new churches. We give our thanks and glory to the Lord. We added five new young ministers, three of them working in the new churches and the other two ministers are working in other churches. Four ministers joined our church in April and the other one joined in October. In October 2011, I visited some churches in Asyut; it was a wonderful time to see the new ministers who are working very hard in the Church. They are rebuilding their churches and securing additional parcels of land to enlarge them. —Samir Shehata Rizk National Overseer
In His Presence
New Churches
MINISTERS
Snowmass Village, Colorado organized on September 17, 2011; Pastor Alejandro Medina.
Keith Strickland; Fayetteville, North Carolina; December 3, 2011; Pastored the Grantham, Taylor’s Chapel and Clement churches. Mary Kathleen Hagood; Chattanooga, Tennessee; November 26, 2011; Licensed minister for 56 years. Billy Gene West; Troutville, Virginia; October 30, 2011; Licensed minister for 44 years. Richard Lee Puckett; Gainesville, Georgia; December 2, 2011; Licensed minister for 65 years.
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WWM F E B R UA R Y 2 0 1 2
Caserio El Guaycumen, El Salvador organized on November 25, 2011; Pastor Benito Reviera. Finca Los Melendez, El Salvador organized on November 19, 2011; Pastor Jorge Coreas Guillen.
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MESSAGES
“In Christ’s family there can be no division into Jew and non-Jew, slave and free, male and female.
DeWayne Hamby, Managing Editor
Remembering Who They Are I had hurt my grandmother’s feelings. And I felt terrible about it. It was not intentional. She was our precious family matriarch, who covered us all in prayer and love. As a teenager and young adult, I spent some cherished weekends relaxing at her home and helping her run errands. She was proud when I was able to join her for church, sometimes encouraging me to join the children’s choir singing even after I’d passed the appropriate age. She wanted everyone to know that her grandson was visiting. So I was floored when I learned of my small offense toward her. I had always thought that if there was possible tension between every other member in the family, Granny and I would always see eye-to-eye. It gave me confidence that she held the highest respect and she loved me. You mess with me and you’re messing with Granny. So what had I done to betray that confidence? In a moment of frustration, with her listening on the phone, I had expressed dissatisfaction with my father. He was my dad and, as children sometimes do, I found myself at the other end of a
parental struggle. Since I’d known and lived with him my entire life, I had little reservation that I was able to speak with authority about him. Like the saying goes, “I can talk bad about my family, but you better not.” I was his son, so I felt entitled. But I forgot a major element—he was her son. Whatever level of expertise I had assumed, she had her own history. She had given birth and raised him from a baby to a young man. She witnessed the first steps, the falls, the victories, and the heartbreaks. She loved with a deep love that I’m only beginning to understand as I raise my own child. I saw him as my dad. She knew him intimately as her baby boy. “In Christ’s family there can be no division into Jew and non-Jew, slave and free, male and female. Among us you are all equal. That is, we are all in a common relationship with Jesus Christ. Also, since you are Christ’s family, then you are Abraham’s famous ‘descendant,’ heirs according to the covenant promises” (Galatians 3:28, 29 The Message). Granny is now waiting for us in heaven and my momentary offense was quickly forgotten, but I still return to that moment every now and again. It reminds me that I’m not just living among human beings I can treat whatever way I want, but among
sons and daughters of God. They are His babies. I do not have a special, exclusive inroad to God that no one else does, so I can’t act like He and I have our own program going. God loved me so much that He sent His only begotten Son to die on a cross so that I may have eternal life. I have a heavenly Father who notices when I wake up and when I go to sleep. I have a special purpose that He has designed just for me. So does the man sitting beside me at the Department of Motor Vehicles. So does the woman standing in front of you at the grocery store. So do your pastor, your hairdresser, and your mailman. We sometimes lean on the “Golden Rule” of doing unto others as we would have them do unto us. However, in his book The Forgotten Commandment: Have We Missed What Jesus Really Wants?, Dave Greber reminds us of John 13:34: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.” That really changes things, because it takes us from a point of self-preservation to a point of self-sacrifice. We are God’s children who live in the glory of His unlimited love. He asks us to model that same love to His other children, our own spiritual brothers and sisters.
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