Victory Tabernacle

Greetings...

“Then Samuel took a stone, and set it between Mizpeh and Shen, and called the name of it Ebenezer, saying, hitherto hath the Lord helped us.”

(1 Samuel 7:12 KJV)

Samuel served as judge over Israel for many years. He led the children of Israel to victory over the Philistines. Due to Israel’s constant failings, they suffered many defeats at the hands of the Philistines. Samuel challenged the Israelites to return to the Lord with all their hearts, “then put away the strange gods and Ashtoreth from among you, and prepare your hearts unto the Lord, and serve Him only: and He will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines.”

(1 Samuel 7:3 KJV) The stone Samuel placed between Mizpeh and Shen served as a memorial for the victory assured them through God’s help. He named it Ebenezer.

Victory Tabernacle started its journey with uncertainty lying ahead. With no money, no place of worship, mixed emotions, and several other challenges, we embarked on a journey of faith that was rooted in the God of

Heaven. In 1 John 5:4, we read, “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” (Emphasis added) We began the journey with faith which was the motivation for the name Victory Tabernacle.

Today we celebrate the goodness of God who has carried us over these past twenty years. Like Samuel, we establish a stone, a memorial, Ebenezer, for hitherto hath the Lord helped us. We dedicate this year, the previous years, and the future of Victory Tabernacle to the Lord Jesus Christ, as the Head of His Church.

We express our gratitude to you, our fellow laborers in the kingdom, who have supported the ministry of Victory Tabernacle over these twenty years. Together we can do exploits for the Lord. Let us strive to build

God’s kingdom.

Together we can! Together we will! Together we must! God is our Ebenezer!

Kingdom Servant Leaders, Pastor Wayne and Lady Arlene

Well Done

Brenda Gray Retired Avon Park City Councilwoman

4110 East Lakeview Drive

Avon Park, FL 33825

RE:

Sincere Appreciation

Dear Bishop Williams and First Lady Williams,

It is my sincerest gratitude and honor to express certitude for a job well done. Thank you for your many days and nights of labor and love and deep kindness and unselfishness you bring as well as the love you have spread to your congregation and the community of Avon Park.

Your willingness to use your gifts and abilities has strengthen and brought togetherness within the community; love and sacrifice have been at the forefront of your message as a Pastor. Victory Tabernacle Apostolic International has offered and served up bountiful blessings, which serves as exemplary leadership.

For all your time, efforts, hard work, and prayers, please accept this token of appreciation and thanks from the community of Avon Park and myself, along with its leaders.

Congratulations to the body in the celebration of your 20th Anniversary.

With Sincere Gratitude,

Brenda Gray, Retired Avon Park City Councilwoman

A MESSAGE FROM

THE CHAIRPERSON OF VICTORY TABERNACLE GALA COMMITTEE

It is indeed an honor to have been asked to serve as the Chairperson for Victory Tabernacle Apostolic International 20th Year Anniversary Gala celebration. I would like to personally thank Bishop Wayne Williams for entrusting me to lead this momentous celebration. The task of planning and executing this event could not have been accomplished without the hard work of my fellow committee members and the extended team members, all of whom worked tirelessly in making this day a special event. I would also like to thank all of our volunteers who also contributed to executing the plan. Please accept my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your diligent and steadfast work.

Additionally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank our sponsors for their support. Thanks to Ms. Peggy Sue, Facility Manager and her team at the Genesis Center for their kind hospitality in meeting all our needs at the location.

To Bishop Wayne Williams and First Lady Arlene Williams of Victory Tabernacle, thank you for your leadership, faithfulness and steadfastness to the work of the Lord and for serving the Avon Park community. God has set your foundation in the community and kept you through these 20 years, for the purpose of advancing His Kingdom. We pray God’s continued blessings, as you continue to move forward in faith doing the work of the Lord.

Victory Tabernacle , “Thank You!!!!” you are the cornerstone of this celebration. God bless you all. Our Gala culminates our 20th year Anniversary celebration, let us enjoy this whole experience as we honor the Lord!

Wallie Sharpe

Gala Committee Chair

Gala Committee Members:

Lady Arlene Williams

Minister Rashaud Williams

Sis Britanya Williams

Minister Michael Isaacs

Evangelist Joan Garrick-Isaacs

Sis Rosalee Lewis

Sis Barbara Benjamin

Sis Jacquie McLennon

Salute

to a Matriarch and a Patriarch

Neville and Peggy Fletcher are two of the founding members of Victory Tabernacle. They are affectionately known in the church as Mother Fletcher and Deacon Fletcher. The journey of salvation in this family started when Peggy went on vacation, back to her hometown Naplerston, in Manchester, Jamaica, in August 1995.

When she became an adult, her mother accepted salvation at the Shiloh Apostolic Church and later her youngest sister, Valerie, did the same. She greatly admired their steadfastness and faithfulness. They would always encourage her that she needed to be baptized in Jesus’ name. She

got baptized in Jesus’ name at a Youth Convention held at the Kendal Shiloh Apostolic Church, Manchester. It was at this Convention, the then Minister Wayne Williams, preached the Word of God. It is simply amazing how the Lord works, as Minister Williams, now serves as her pastor, and the Bishop of Victory Tabernacle Apostolic. What a God!

As Mother Fletcher continued in the faith, her conviction spread to her husband Neville and her daughters, Carlyne and Delsie, and several other family members.

Jer. 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

In 2003, Mother and Deacon Fletcher were two of the founding members in attendance when the ministry of Victory Tabernacle Apostolic started. They both played integral roles in the ministry; Both serve as members of the ministerial staff and Deacon is a member of the executive board. Their home became the home for many of the saints. On Sundays, their home was the place where many would

gather to partake of the buffet prepared by the Fletchers. For the weary traveler or minister, their home was always available for rest, refreshing, and restoration.

They were always involved in ministry. Deacon Fletcher was later appointed as an Elder. On occasion, Elder Fletcher volunteered as one of the drivers for the Foodbank Ministry. Mother Fletcher served in several areas of the ministry such as the leader of the Prayer Wall Ministry, the Prison Ministry, and the Pastoral Aide committee. Additionally, she took care of the baptismal supplies, the lord’s supper supplies, and other basic needs as deemed necessary.

Elder Neville (Deacon) and Deaconess Peggy Fletcher (Mother Fletcher), even though not able to function as they did previously, due to health issues, are still concerned about the growth and development of the Church. They remain prayerful and supportive of their pastor and the ministry.

Victory Tabernacle Apostolic International salutes these two giants of the faith. Their contribution to this ministry is recorded in the lives that have been impacted and with our God who keeps good records.

GREETINGS FROM BISHOP CARTER

“One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in his temple.” (Psalm 27:4, KJV)

The blessings and favor of the Lord, Most High, be upon Bishop and Lady Williams and the Victory Tabernacle Church family in celebration of twenty years of Kingdom service! Bishop B. F. Carter, Jr., and the Bethel Church family!

GREETINGS IN THE NAME OF OUR LORD AND SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST!

It gives me great joy to send special greetings and to congratulate my friends, Bishop and Lady Williams, and the congregation at Victory Tabernacle. The celebration of the 20th Anniversary of your founding and establishment as a beacon of God’s light in the Avon Park community, is a great milestone that the Lord has bought about through you and the wonderful Saints at Victory Tabernacle. God has truly been faithful, and we want to give him all the glory, honor, and praise.

My family and I and the Saints at Heaven Bound, wishes you all continual blessing from the Lord and many more years of service to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Joshua 13 verse 1, states that, Joshua had accomplished a lot but was old and advanced in the years and there remained much land to possess. Likewise, you have accomplished a lot over these past 20 years; many souls have been delivered through your ministry, but there are many more to be won. The good news is that you are in a much

better position than Joshua, you are not old. Therefore, my brother, after these celebrations are over, you are expected to pick up your weapon and continue the fight for the souls of men.

May God continue to bless and keep you all and cause His face to shine upon you and give you “Victory.”

Pastor Wayne Johnson, family, and Saints at H.B.P.C

VICTORY TABERNACLE APOSTOLIC INTERNATIONAL MINISTERIAL STAFF

Victory Tabernacle is blessed with a few men and women who have committed their lives in service to the King. The apostle Paul said, when Jesus Christ ascended on high, He gave gifts unto men. “So Christ Himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip His people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the

fulness of Christ” (Eph. 4:11-13, NIV). Equipping the body of Christ is a monumental task entrusted to leadership. With the help of Christ, this mission of His is possible. With the daunting challenges facing the modern Church today, leadership is no mean task to engage in. With the wisdom of Christ and the knowledge afforded us, we endeavor to move forward in this God-given assignment to conduct with integrity and noble character our responsibility.

We are first called to be Christ’s disciples to exhibit the disciplines befitting our call. Then we engage the world as we preach Christ’s gospel, and help to disciple those who answer the call.

We continue, with God’s help, to serve the body (the Church), while we make our calling and election sure. As leaders, we consider it a privilege, not a right, to be called to the service of Jesus Christ. What an honor!

Victory Tabernacle Apostolic is blessed with a vibrant Christian Education Ministry. The Lord has blessed us with young people of all age levels. The following represents the different class levels of the ministry:

1. Pre-K and Kindergarten –Teacher: Sis. Remona Morris; Assistant: Sis. Nicola Frazer

2. Primary – Teacher: Sis

Rosalee Lewis; Assistant: Sis. Nicola Frazer

3. Teen/Youth – Teacher: Sis. Samantha Johnson

4. Life Application Class/Young

Adult – Teacher: Lady Arlene Williams

5. Leadership Class (Adults and Seniors) – Teachers: Elder Elisha Singh and Min. Michael Isaacs

Our dedicated teachers are in obedience to the Great Commission to “Go and

Christian Education AT VICTORY TABERNACLE

make disciples of all nations… teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you,” (Matthew 28:19-20); they continue to impart the Bread of Life to God’s people. The referenced text calls attention to both the significance of teaching as well as the primary content of what that teaching should be. The teachers continued diligence in studying and correctly exegeting the Word of the Lord, has proven invaluable. In Proverbs 11:25, the Preacher said, “The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.” When the teacher freely and willingly gives to God’s people, undoubtedly blessings will in turn be received from the Lord. It is worth mentioning that our teachers, even during the pandemic, made efforts to keep students engaged through virtual (Zoom) classes which

were held at various times. Our students, some more than others, faithfully attend classes each week. They are given quizzes, assignments, research topics, and at times play the role of teacher. With careful and intentional efforts of both teachers and parents, we are anticipating that our youngsters will soar to new heights. They are the future of Victory Tabernacle.

The teachers and students of the Christian Education Ministry are grateful to God for allowing us to be a part of His plan to transform minds, hearts, and lives through the revelatory knowledge and power of His Word.

Rosalee Lewis - Director

OVER Faith Fear

In a large number of organizations, ranging from commerce and industry to church groups, the apparent survival rate is less than fifty percent. This alone makes the context of celebration more meaningful and praiseworthy. To God be the glory for all that He has done.

The Men’s Ministry records our congratulations to Bishop Wayne and Lady Arlene Williams (the pioneer visionaries), and those who have been with the ministry from inception, for staying the course. We pay tribute to the members of Victory Tabernacle for their role in keeping the ministry alive. How can we not mention the members of the Avon Park community for their support and contribution of twenty years of ministry.

Victory Tabernacle Apostolic International celebrates twenty years of ministry - 2003 to 2023. Twenty years mean different things to different people. At the outset, let’s place a disclaimer that this does not mean one year, repeated twenty times. In this celebration of twenty years, we celebrate those who did not see the way clearly; nevertheless, they were brave and courageous. With a keen sense of purpose and God’s call, they dared to challenge what may have seemed in the opinion of others, ‘give them time it will not work’.

Twenty years hence we all look back, faith having won over fear. We have learned that it takes just one person to make a difference; we join the chorus “…Ebenezer – Hitherto God has kept us”.

We join everyone in celebrating the many and varied forms of transformational occurrences, personal growth, and development facilitated by the Victory Tabernacle ministry. We give God thanks for the many lives which have been impacted and are being prepared for eternity. It is worthy of note that twenty years is more of a solid foundation on which to build as we cherish the past, embrace the present, and face the future. With God’s help we march forward to another twenty years - God’s willing.

Minister Michael Isaacs Men’s Ministry President

Women THE MINISTRY OF VICTORY TABERNACLE’S

What would our Churches be today without the ministry of the women? The Bible is filled with accounts of women who have made considerable contributions to the history of humanity. Factually, there would be no human existence without the womb to perpetuate our generations from one to the other. Jesus had women who supported His ministry in tangible ways. The apostle Paul frequently made commendations of several women: Phebe, Priscilla, Mary, and others in his epistles (Romans 16).

The Women’s ministry of Victory Tabernacle Apostolic has seen several leaders during the twenty years of ministry. These leaders have contributed to the growth and development of our women. From cooking, baking, keeping the home, organizing formal and informal settings, to being the Proverbs 31 virtuous woman. Our women have excelled in education, entrepreneurship, leadership, and have made indelible marks in the home, the church, and in society. They continue to serve the Church in unprecedented ways, such as Care Ministry, Hospitality, Food Distribution Ministry, Ushering, and several other areas where their skills are needed. They are challenged with the mandate to reproduce after their kind.

Victory Tabernacle is indebted to our sisters in Christ for their contributions and service in the Kingdom. They are precious and must be treated with care as priceless vessels of the Lord. The ministry of the women in Victory Tabernacle will continue to enhance its growth and functionality both locally and internationally.

Lady Arlene Williams

Youth Ministry

Media Ministry

VICTORY TABERNACLE A LIGHTHOUSE

On behalf of the music and praise & worship ministries, I would like to congratulate Victory Tabernacle Apostolic for 20 years of ministry. As someone who has been here from the inception of the ministry, I can see how God has blessed this assembly and its leaders.

This body has been a lighthouse in our community. The music ministry has changed and grown over the years, but one thing has stayed constant: Jesus is always the center of it all. I would like to thank the Shepherd of this house, Bishop Williams, for continuing to put

the music ministry in positions to excel and grow. From connecting us with experienced music teachers, to having trained singers to assist us, and even just popping in on practices, you’ve given us the opportunity to grow into our callings and gifts. For that, we are extremely grateful.

We are excited to see where the Lord will take the music ministry as we continue to expand and improve for the glory of God’s kingdom. I believe that we’ve only scratched the surface of all that the music and worship ministry can be. As we progress, we will make

ourselves available for what God has in store for us. We are blessed to call Victory Tabernacle our home; we give God thanks for carrying us this far, and we look forward to where He leads this ministry.

Minister Jumar Moffatt Music Director

Bishop & Lady Williams have taught us how to serve God’s people by their example. We are honored to be on this journey and for the privilege to serve as ushers at Victory Tabernacle. Twenty years is a milestone to be celebrated and as we celebrate, we give God thanks for His many blessings.

Victory Tabernacle Usher Ministry

The Pastor’s Aide Committee congratulates Bishop and Lady Williams on their exemplary leadership. We are committed to continue serving our leaders as they in turn serve us at Victory Tabernacle and the wider community of Avon Park. Pastor’s Aid Committee

Our brothers at Avon Park Correctional Institute were asked to share how our services have impacted their lives. As we read their responses, it reinforces the fact that they also continue to impact us. Mondays and Thursdays are spent sharing the word of God with men who are hungry for truth. These are only a few of those whom we have had the pleasure of meeting. Brothers and sisters, you may not have the privilege to witness to our brothers behind bars, but we hope these letters serve as a

MINISTRY The Prison

testament of what God is doing in their lives. Revival is in the air!

Bro. Scott, is a very good example and evidence of the power of God, and how the transformative power of God is working through him. The impact of that transformation in our brother is also influencing his immediate family. Brother Scott’s family is surely coming to the Lord. Thank you, Jesus!

In his own words he said, “The brothers and sisters from

Victory Tabernacle have shown me how the word of God works in families, and the people they worship with. They have inspired me to live a godly life; while I am inviting everyone to join me in my walk with Jesus Christ. No matter what I have heard that they went through, they have always kept their eyes on Jesus. They are happy and a pleasure to be with. I thank God for people like them and pray they continue to inspire others.”

Lots of love, God bless them all!

Bro. Dwain, is our in-house Deacon; he is always ready to fulfill any request. He is always present and engaged. We appreciate him so much!

He said that, “Victory Tabernacle has not only shown me how to understand and apply the word of God to my life, they have also given me hope. The word of God has also helped to shape and develop my ministry. I can honestly say that I know how extremely important it is to sit under the tutorship of an anointed, Pastor and First Lady. Victory Tabernacle, and all of their volunteers are my family for life. I will forever be indebted to them for the impact of their ministry, through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

have been given. Work Camp is blessed every Thursday night by the abundance of the Holy Spirit being present in our midst. The scripture says in Romans 8:28, And we know that all things work together for good, to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Amen! The voice of the good shepherd beckons us all to Thursday night worship service, and for this reason, I thank God. John 10:1-18, 1 Peter 5:6, Isaiah 57: 15. I am truly, truly humbled! Amen!”

Bro. Freeman, is a talented writer, he is committed to the kingdom. The hand of God is upon him!

encouragement and conviction lingers. My heart can’t help but be enlarged and filled; still starving and yearning for more servings of Jesus. Thank God for VTA Ministry for providing spiritual interludes of “nice times”. Brother David is always joyful, attentive, ready to learn, and always comes with a spirit of expectancy. We can’t wait to see what God has planned for him!

Bro. Jessie, has a good knowledge of the word of God! He is always encouraging young people to stay with the Lord. God is certainly using him to do great things!

In his testimonial he had this to say, “Foremost, I thank God, quite often, through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, that the Holy Spirit flows through the stewardship of Bishop and First Lady Williams. I hope and pray that the brothers and sisters of Victory Tabernacle continually remain obedient to the Faith and the task they

He said that, “Long time since we have some nice time, do you ever think about….” (These are Lyrics from an old Reggae song written by Ken Boothe, and Bob Marley and the Wailers.)

“These lyrics come to heart, when I start to consider Victory Tabernacle Apostolic Ministry’s impact. They have truly been a familiar tasteful sampler of the West Indies - spiritual home cooked meals in which their anointed style and delivery of God’s word can permanently satisfy any authentic believer’s delight. Each outreach team member’s dish has the savor of blended sweets, hot spices, and saltness. After such consumption, words of

His response was “To my beloved brothers and sisters, at Victory Tabernacle, I speak blessings upon blessings of life, and life more abundantly in and over your lives, in the mighty name of Jesus Christ! May grace, peace, mercy, and love surround, and keep you all together as one in the body of Christ! You all, in your own unique ways, have brought and surrounded me with the love of family in my life. As the truth, Christ Jesus, the Holy Spirit, lives in and shines forth into my life and many others around me through your teaching and encouragement! I love the way that our heavenly father pours his love, his word out upon me when he speaks, sings, and moves through his faithful children.

The joy you all bring with you, as you all come to fellowship

with us is so real and so pure. Your presence makes a difference each day in our lives. I am learning so much from you all. The Lord is certainly revealing a lot to me through his Holy Spirit, and through your teachings. I constantly share with my wife and family about the amazing love of God and the great love you have shown towards us. It is a great blessing to have you all as loving brothers and sisters. We give thanks to you and to God for your unselfish love and sharing of the word of God with

us each week. May the Lord continue to bless you, provide for you, your families and the members of Victory Tabernacle Church. I love you all!”

in praying for God’s will to be done in their lives.

The Lord is doing a good thing!

Submitted by the Prison Ministry Team

We are enlightened by the revelations, the hunger, and desire of these men behind bars for a deeper life with Jesus Christ. We are encouraged by their willingness to be better persons, and to grow and develop in grace and favour of God. Please join us

Thanks We Give

Iwould like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to Bishop and Lady Williams and the entire membership of Victory Tabernacle.

I am indeed grateful for your continued prayers, concern, and kindness for my daughter, Antoinette, who has battled Cancer for the past 10 years. Your genuine care and love to my family is appreciated. The scripture declares; And may the Lord cause you to increase

and overflow with love for one another, just as we do for you.

(1 Thessalonians 3:12)

I cannot begin to express how honored I am to be a part of this fellowship. Your support has helped to strengthen me through these trying times. I pray that God will continue to bless everyone. Once again, thank you all with a grateful heart.

Sincerely, Sonia

Carter

Iwould like to express my deepest gratitude to my church family for all their beautiful prayers, sent out for me during my recovery stage. As you all know, I’m battling stage 4 cancer and it’s been a roller coaster that seems to never stop. However, with God in the vessel, every day seems much better.

I’ve learnt to be more grateful, thankful, and peaceful throughout this experience. Your continued prayers and encouragement helped me to not lose hope, but to have faith,

and speak my healing into existence. God is still working on and through me each day. I am constantly tested and so I stay prayed up and ready for what the enemy tries to throw my way.

Thank you all for your support and concerns. Prayers do move mountains.

Antoinette

I

AM A OF THE Son Soil

Myname is Rashaud and I grew up in church. Whether it was Sunday school, Sunday morning service, Sunday night service, Wednesday night Bible study, or Friday night youth service, I was there. ‘Sword in hand’ was the game to play and it is the reason I know most scriptures today. I have often felt that this testimony of mine is not enough because it is not a ‘big testimony’. However, as I have grown, I have come to realize that my testimony is just as powerful!

I am a son of the soil.

I know that God can keep you if you want to be kept. Victory Tabernacle has watered and invested in my spiritual gifts and my walk with the Lord. The doors I have walked through and the lives I have impacted, are evidence of what God has done through His church. I am simply grateful.

I am the man I am today, not because I have been going to church all my life, but because I have become the church. Today, I am a husband, the youth president, an entrepreneur, and a minister of the Gospel. I am proof that God is a keeper.

Minister Rashaud Thomas Williams

VICTORY TABERNACLE 20th ANNIVERSARY GALA

Genesis Center Ballroom, Lake Placid

Menu

Cocktail @ 5:30pm in the Foyer

Fruit Tree Display

Passed Hors d’oeuvre

Ackee & Saltfish Mini Bites

BBQ Meatballs

Coconut Shrimp

Reception @ 6:30pm in the Ballroom

Main Course – Plated Dinner Service

Salad

Green Garden Salad with an Assortment of Dressings

Warm Rolls and Butter

Entrée

Sweet Chili Salmon

Herb Crusted Chicken

Vegetables

Steamed Vegetables

Starch

Rice and Gungo Peas

Roasted Potatoes

Drink

Fruit Punch and Infused Water

Dessert

Pineapple Rum Cake

Red Velvet Cake

Coffee & Tea Station

Assorted Teas and Coffee

TABERNACLE’S 20TH ANNIVERSARY GALA

Victory

PROGRAM

Time Warp Video

2003-2023: The Journey – Britanya Williams

How I Got Over

Welcome & MC’s Opening Remarks

Introduction of Ministerial Staff

We’ve Come This Far By Faith – Victory Tab Quartet

The Blessing – Bishop John Smith

Dinner/Entertainment

Remarks & Introduction of Keynote Speaker – Bishop Wayne Williams

Keynote Speaker – Bishop Dr. C. A. Holdsworth

Acknowledgments

The Goodness of God – Devyne Moffat

The Next Chapter – Britanya Williams

Our Future

Closing Prayer

Vote of Thanks & Dismissal – Bishop Wayne Williams

VICTORY TABERNACLE APOSTOLIC INTERNATIONAL INCORPORATED

Historical Reflections 2003 – 2023

At the core of the human experience is the longing for belonging. We need to be connected to the supernatural and a source from which we find answers to the vexing issues and questions of life. Nothing fills the void and emptiness created by the need to satisfy the spiritual hunger and longing in the human experience, than an encounter with Jesus Christ. The complexities and uncertainties of life are best unraveled and settled by the invisible guiding hand of God. Man has an innate need for spiritual guidance, stability, and direction. This helps people to find rightness with God. Proverbs 14:34 suggests that being right with God makes a nation great, but sin is a shame to any people (NLV).

In keeping with the commands of Jesus to go into all the world and preach the Gospel (Matthew 28:19), to facilitate rightness with God, Pastor Wayne Williams has responded well.

On the cool Sunday morning of January 5, 2003, a group of people gathered at the Avon Park Community

Center. Under the divine guidance of the Holy Ghost, brother Elisha Singh led the charge and delivered the message at the first service of the new church plant. A clear statement was made to the neighborhood that Avon Park and the surrounding communities would never be the same.

They were not exempt from the challenges which accompanied new church startups. They moved between the Community Center, the Quality Inn Hotel, and other places, for approximately one year. Equipment rolling off vehicles, while being transported to and from the temporary places of worship, were just some of the challenges the pioneer group encountered. Sometimes it appeared as if there was no end to the overwhelming challenges.

Influenced by the empowering impact of the Holy Ghost, the team of twenty were inspired by the challenges and obstacles. They were gifted, positioned, and focused. However, they lacked the immediate resources needed to purchase a place to call home for the newly established ministry.

On March 24, 2003, the assembly was registered as a Not-For-Profit organization with the name Victory Tabernacle International Inc. The name Apostolic was added later. By December of 2003, the dream of acquiring a permanent home for the church became a reality when property was purchased (off Highway US27), at 1008 Peel Street in the city of Avon Park, Florida. The pioneer group, along with members of the community, worked unselfishly to modify the old animal feed store building into an acceptable place of worship. The team spirit, commitment, and dedication of the group were evident as they labored. By January 11, 2004, the first service was held in the smaller section of the building. Worship

services were held there for approximately seven years. On March 20, 2010, the congregation moved into the current sanctuary which has a seating capacity of approximately 250. The total building occupancy is 400 persons.

Victory Tabernacle Apostolic International Inc. is a member of the global Apostolic family of the Christian Faith. The Apostolic movement has its genesis in the Acts of the Apostles, an unveiling of Old Testament types and shadows and the progressive revelation of Jesus Christ. The death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ is the central theme and focus of the movement. The fundamental tenet of the Apostolic Church is that Jesus Christ is the expressed image of the invisible God; meaning that God manifested Himself in flesh and was born of the Virgin Mary. The Church embraces the Bible as the unqualified, ultimate, and final authority on the existence of God, the birth of Jesus Christ, the forgiveness of sins through the salvation of sinners, the second coming of Christ, and the eternal punishment for unrepented sin.

The Vision Statement of Victory Tabernacle captures the essence of the command of Jesus in St. Matthew 28:19 to go and preach the gospel to all people.

Vision Statement

“To reach the world with the gospel of Jesus Christ, to develop and bring to maturity those who believe in Him, so that we

may realize our life’s mission on earth and ultimately our eternal purpose, in order to bring Glory to God’s name.”

“Focus on Jesus” is the central theme of the assembly.

There are six strategic focus areas of the assembly’s operations:

Faith, Worship, Evangelism, Fellowship, Ministry, and Discipleship

The assembly seeks to inculcate in members, the principles of the following Lifestyle Statement, with the hope of influencing the daily interactions of congregants.

Lifestyle Statement

V Victory is our name and nature

I I must decrease

C Christ is the head of my life

T Tithe and tell others of Christ

O Our purpose is to fulfill God’s Purpose

R Read and obey the Bible

Y You are an important part of God’s plan

Victory Tabernacle is a member of the Central Florida Apostolic Kingdom Alliance. The assembly has joined forces with five other Apostolic Churches in fellowship, evangelism, and other endeavors. Victory Tabernacle also maintains a strong bond of fellowship and cooperation with Pentecostal Tabernacle of North Miami. The entire congregation, and more specifically our youth, have benefitted from our affiliation with Apostolic Camp International

(ACI). Each year a large contingent of our members have attended the residential camp and have returned edified, empowered, and energized for service. The assembly has also been very supportive of other Apostolic Ministries in the state of Florida, Jamaica, and other parts of the United States. Through these strategic collaborative efforts, we have learnt to function as a ‘Body Fitly Framed Together’.

In addition to the foundation members, the Victory Tabernacle Ministry is supported by a team of dedicated volunteers whose unwavering commitment has facilitated the timely growth and development of the ministry.

The following individuals lead the various ministries of Victory Tabernacle:

Christian Education

Sister Rosalee Lewis

Ushers Ministry

Sister Thelma Ramsey

Pastoral Aid/Hospitality Committee

Sister Remona Morris

Youth and Media Ministries

Minister Rashaud Thomas Williams

Music Ministry

Minister Jumar Moffatt

Marriage Ministry

Elder Elisha and Sis Ilett Singh

Men’s Ministry

Minister Michael Isaacs

Women’s Ministry

Evangelist Arlene Williams

Prayer Ministry

Minister Michael and Evangelist Joan Garrick-Isaacs

Prison Ministry

Evangelist Arlene Williams

Food Pantry and Care Ministry

Sister Clair Samuels

Prayer Tent/Evangelism

Elder Albert Morris

Pastors

Bishop Wayne and Lady Arlene Williams

Victory Tabernacle’s Ministry has experienced significant growth over the twenty years of its operations. Since the first meeting in January 2003 of approximately twenty members, including a core leadership team of Pastor Wayne Williams, Deacon Neville Fletcher, Deaconess Peggy Fletcher, Minister Elisha Singh, Missionaries

Jacqueline Myrie and Janet Russell and Sister Carlene Dixon, the number of congregants has steadily increased.

Over the twenty years, more than two hundred and eighty persons were baptized in Jesus’ name. Approximately one hundred and twenty persons received the Holy Ghost. Over sixty babies have been blessed. The assembly continues to focus on meeting the spiritual and some of the social needs of congregants as well as outreach programs to the community. The ministry includes the preaching and teaching of The Word of God, in keeping with

the mandate of the Church to help persons establish rightness with God through repentance, baptism in Jesus’ name and the infilling of the Holy Ghost. The assembly facilitates pre-marital and post-marital counseling, other forms of Pastoral counseling, conducts weddings and funerals, and blesses babies. Victory Tabernacle provides a haven for the expression of faith, worship, and fellowship to enhance personal growth and development of members. The Prison Outreach Ministry is a significant and growing part of the Church’s programs.

The number of congregants has fluctuated over the years for various reasons. Some have moved to other states or towns, others were seasonal residents/ visitors to our city and assembly, and others may have left the fellowship for various reasons. It may take some time for attendance to return to pre-Covid 19 levels of capacity. However, we are grateful to God that our doors remained open during most of the pandemic, even if it meant having worship services in the huge parking space at the rear of the Tabernacle. We are also grateful to God that none of our members lost their lives as a result of the pandemic. Today, we also give thanks that our doors remain open as the assembly remains on the path of continuous praise and worship to the Lord.

We wish to place on record our deepest thanks and appreciation to Almighty God for twenty years of ministry in Highlands County and more specifically in Avon

Park - the City of Charm. We place on record our appreciation to our team of dedicated ministry workers, congregants, and community members for their continued support.

As we forge ahead, the history of Victory Tabernacle is still being written to the glory of God.

Apostolic Temple Int’l congratulates Bishop Wayne Williams, Lady Arlene Williams and their leadership team on this their 20th year of faithful service to the Kingdom of God.

In retrospect, this mission started physically, in the Avon Park Civic Center, where the Lord opened the door, and the Fire of God fell. Those were great times in the Lord! Thank God that the world has had the privilege to see the work He started in you all become the beacon of hope for this community.

Pastor Williams, real Ministry takes real work, and we are so glad you answered the call to build this Church and its people, “Jeremiah 26:6”

We salute you and all the co-laborers who help to make this Ministry materialize. We pray that you will continue to be faithful to sound Biblical Doctrine and principles as you prepare the people, their families and the Church for the soon coming of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

In Him, Pastor Paul A Dean Apostolic Temple Int’l

Bishop Wayne and Lady Williams, Congratulations on your 20th Church Anniversary!

It is with much joy that we join you in celebrating this significant milestone in the life of your church. Over the past 20 years, Victory Tabernacle has grown and thrived under your leadership.

You have inspired many people to come to know Christ and walk in His ways through your dedication, commitment, and faithfulness. Your passion for the Gospel is evident in all you do, and we are grateful for your impact on our ministry and the community.

As you reflect on your journey and strides, we pray that you will be encouraged and strengthened. The road has not always been easy, but through it all, you have remained steadfast in your commitment to God and His people. We are confident that as you continue to trust Him, He will lead you to greater heights.

The scripture that comes to mind is Philippians 3:14, which says, “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” May this verse remind you that the journey is not yet over and much work still needs to be done. May you continue to press on, knowing that God is with you every step of the way.

Once again, congratulations to all the saints on this momentous occasion. We look forward to the remarkable things God will continue to do through the Victory Tabernacle and your ministry.

Blessings,

Pastor Rudolph, Lady Marlene Hyde and the Saints

AHistory

OF THE CENTRAL FLORIDA KINGDOM ALLIANCE

The Central Florida Kingdom Alliance was birthed in April of 2011 when Bishop Wayne Williams, then Pastor Williams, and I, had our first joint Women’s Conferences and later that year our first joint Men’s Conference. The vision of forming an Apostolic Fellowship Alliance was to support each another in the Central Florida area, harnessing our collective resources and minimizing travel to multiple events which can take a toll. At the outset, the Alliance was TOGAC, Victory Tabernacle Apostolic International, Bethel Pentecostal Holiness, and later Heaven Bound Pentecostal Church. We were later joined by Pastor Rudolph Hyde and Faith Temple in Eagle Lake, Florida.

by Pastor Robert A. Young Senior Pastor TOGAC – Alliance President

From TOGAC and Victory to Bethel to Heaven

Bound to Faith Temple and now Pastor Daniel Maxwell Lighthouse of Christ who supports the alliance we have grown into a faithful, supporting Alliance of Apostolic churches. For a season, we also had Emmanuel Apostolic and Bishop Keith Stephenson from Lakeland Florida.

Over the 11 years since we have been an Alliance, we have partnered in supporting each member church in celebrating their major services. For six (6) years under the leadership of the Alliance President, we started the Alliance Bible Challenge Quiz Competition for the Youth in the six churches.

The winners over the years were:

1. TOGAC 2013 Champions –Heaven Bound – Runners up

2. HEAVEN BOUND 2014 ChampionsTOGAC – Runners -up

3. TOGAC 2015 Champions –Heaven Bound Runners -up

4. HEAVEN BOUND 2016 ChampionsTOGAC Runners- up

5. FAITH TEMPLE 2017Champions –Victory Tabernacle Runners -up

6. TOGAC 2018 ChampionsFaith Temple - Runners up

One major benefit of this competition was the passion displayed by these young people as they studied the Word of God. They gained a deeper appreciation for the scriptures and were also spiritually impacted. They thoroughly enjoyed the competitive nature of the Bible Quiz games in the competition. Another outcome of the interaction between the quizzers was that two of the quizzers got married a few years later after the competitions. They Minister-elect Jaaquan Thorpe from TOGAC got married to Debresha Clarke of Faith Temple. Glory!!

Sometime ago the Alliance started a fund to purchase a tent to facilitate Tent Revivals. The project has been stalled for a few years and was heavily impacted by Covid19 pandemic. By God’s help we intend to have the project completed and purchase the Tent, by Fall of 2023. The goal is to raise $10,000.00 to purchase a Tent in support of for Evangelism for the “End Time Harvest of Souls”. The fund now stands at a little over $3,000.00 and we are soliciting further contributions.

We believe that now is the time to evangelize and take this message to the world of a savior who died for lost humanity. NOW IS THE TIME! As an Alliance, our chief goal is to harness our collective resources for the spreading of the Gospel. We have not met this goal, but are determined through intentional planning and strategizing, to mobilize the willing and motivate the able to reach a lost world in need of a Savior.

We wish to congratulate our Alliance Vice President Bishop Wayne D. Williams on his recent elevation to the bishopric and for 20 years of Outstanding and faithful service to the Highlands County Community and the world at large.

Your ministry has been impactful, life changing and inspirational. On behalf of all the Alliance pastors and affiliates and their spouses, Bishop Benjamin Carter – Bethel, Pastor Wayne Johnson & First Lady Sandra Johnson - Heaven Bound, Pastor Rudolph Hyde & First Lady Marlen Hyde - Faith Temple, Pastor Daniel Maxwell & First Lady Kay Maxwell - Lighthouse of Christ Apostolic Church, Winter Haven, we celebrate you and Associate Pastor Arlene Williams on your excellent example of true ServantLeadership. May God continue to prosper your ministry and efforts in His Kingdom until he returns.

THE IMPACT ON MY LIFE

Congratulations to Victory Tabernacle Apostolic Church for twenty years of service to our community. I have served many years under the leadership of Bishop Wayne Williams as a member of the Choir, Praise Team Member, Care Ministry Member, and

THE IMPACT OF VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Special greetings and congratulations to my Victory Tabernacle Apostolic family. My association with this ministry began at Vacation Bible School over 20 years ago. Since then, my life has been and continues to be enriched, favored, and blessed by the Lord. My husband Oshane, daughter Gianna, and myself are thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the Victory Tab family. Many blessings and love.

Rochelle Brown

Scholarship Committee member. I attended many Leadership Seminars which have positively impacted my life and enhanced my spiritual growth and development. The church has had a great impact on my life. The teachings of Bishop Williams have helped me to understand the purpose and power of prayer and serving in the kingdom. I give God thanks for his leadership. Jeremiah 3:15 says, “and I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.”

I am happy that I have been able to serve in my community because of the training I received from Victory

Tabernacle. Acts 20:35 says, “I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, it is more blessed to give than to receive.”

I was blessed to receive an award, as a Child Advocate for Highlands County, from Champion for Children. Truly, my life is a living testimony of the goodness of God. All the praise belongs to God who is the head of my life!

Andrea L Fennell-Samuels

THE IMPACT OF Family

Congratulations to Victory Tabernacle Apostolic Int. Inc. on the twentieth anniversary of service to the Avon Park community.

Ephesians 4:16 says that Christ is the source from whom the whole body is joined and held together by every supporting ligament. The body grows, and builds itself up in love, and each part does its work.

We are grateful for the growth and development of the assembly over the years.

My family is very honored to have been under the leadership of Bishop Wayne & Evangelist Arlene Williams. I am privileged and blessed that God

saved my husband John, daughter Keshia, sons Jovan & Tevin and our granddaughters Ashanti and Anaya.

All these family members were baptized in Jesus’ name at Victory Tabernacle.

Each day we strive to be salt and light in this world. We seek to honor God by the way we live. By God’s help we make every effort to ensure that our speech and personal conduct are reflections of our faith and our desire for purity.

These are just some of the values we have learned from Victory Tabernacle.

May God bless the assembly as we continue to work together.

Carol (Pam) Singh Pratt

My encounter with God at Victory Tabernacle has changed my life completely. The Lord knew me so well before I surrendered my life to him, yet he loved me so much. My life has been changed in so many ways. St. John 14:25 says that when the Holy Spirit comes into our hearts, He will teach us ALL

TRANSFORMATION

things. I am a better person; I have learned to be a lady!

I have learned the power of transformation by the renewing of my mind (Romans12:1-20). So many times, when it seemed there was no hope, I learned to trust God and proved His will by the renewing of my mind and how I think and speak to myself. This is transformation from the inside out.

We have been taught to live a life of separation from sin and to live holy. We have been taught that we are set apart for God’s purpose. While our outward appearance is important, holiness works from the inside out. Holiness comes

out in our attitude to self, the way we treat others and also in all of our daily actions. Holiness is more than attending Sunday worship!

Practical holiness is shown in:

1. How we think

2. What we say

3. What we do

4. How we dress

5. How we respond to others

6. How we demonstrate love

As we celebrate twenty years of ministry, let us seek to be pure in our hearts and be clear in our motives.

Consulla Caldwell

MY LIFE HAS CHANGED

me with the Holy Ghost. Since then, my life has been totally transformed. I give God thanks for those who prayed for me before I gave my life to Jesus.

Ifeel a deep sense of joy and thanksgiving to express congratulations to Victory Tabernacle Apostolic Church on twenty years of ministry in the Avon Park Community. Victory Tabernacle has been my home church and place of worship since August 30, 2013, when I surrendered my life to God and was baptized in Jesus Name. Having been born in America the first time, my second birth was complete when God baptized

My experience with God, through this assembly, has impacted my life tremendously. I feel a sense of home and I can say that my life has been better for being a part of the Victory Tabernacle congregation. I am a better person, a better father, and leader as a result of the Word of God which is being taught and preached.

The assembly has been involved in several community outreach programs. I am a part of some of these programs. I am Vice-President of the Men’s Ministry, a member of the

Prayer Tent Ministry, and the Environmental Team. I have also experienced growth in my personal development. I can never forget the day Sister Arlene Williams asked me to give my first exhortation. I told her I couldn’t do that. She insisted that I could. She told me that God has put “something” inside of me and I could. Today I give God thanks for her encouragement, and for believing that God can use someone like me.

I am thankful to God for placing me in the Victory Tabernacle congregation.

Eddie Hipps

MEETING NEEDS

It gives me great pleasure to express congratulations to Victory Tabernacle Apostolic Church on the celebration of our twentieth year of the goodness of God in our community.

“Hitherto hath the Lord helped us”. We could not have made it this far without the goodness of God!

During our twenty-year journey we have encountered many challenges and disappointments; but, through God’s grace and mercy we have overcome. Great things are happening, and greater things are yet to come.

Let us stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free and be not entangled in the yoke of bondage. Victory Tabernacle has strived to meet the needs of the members and the community in all areas of life. The church has become a source from which the spiritual, mental, emotional, and other needs of the community are met consistently.

We implore you, Victory Tabernacle, to continue the mission: shine, stand, preach, fulfill, pray, counsel, provide, and to do what God has anointed you to do.

The Singh Family