Issue1 by COGIC UK Luton Assembly Newsletter

CH UN : 1 -LA No RE SUE IS

C O G I C - UK

LUTON N E W S L E T T E R website: www.cogic.co.uk

A S S E M B L Y

email: lnews@cogic.co.uk

September – October 2013

WHO WE ARE & WHAT WE DO IN LUTON

Inside this first issue: Greetings from Bishop Alvin Blake

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Cover Story – About Us

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A testimony from Missionary Carol Thompson

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Our Youth Dept’s 9 Petitions

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COGIC

Plus

UK Website

QR Reade

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Church Notices

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Information on our church services – Including “Which Sunday is Which”. So you’ll never be caught out again

Complimentary Issue

Psalm 27:4 – 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 inquire in his temple.

LNEWS WELCOME Issue No: 1

A bi-monthly newsletter Copyright © 2013 All material within this publication may not be used in part or whole without permission. Enquiries should be directed to COGIC UK HQ Address 127 Dunstable Road Luton LU1 1BW Telephone +44 1582 877 070 Website www.cogic.co.uk Email Newsletter Enquiries and Feedback lnews@cogic.co.uk General Enquiries office@cogic.co.uk Charity Registration Number: 1061869

IN THE NEXT ISSUE Cover Story

Watch this space

In Knowing You

Deacon Nigel Blackman Talks about being the Head Usher

ello to one and all, Greetings in the name of Jesus,

We hope you had a good Summer. Wow! we had some hot days even a period of heatwave. Well, you can start the Autumn with the relaunch of the COGIC UK Luton Assembly newsletter (LNEWS in short). It’s a new name and a new look. This newsletter is to keep you informed of things that have happened, things that will be happening at our church and for you to get to know more about our church. We aim for you to get to know the officers and members of the church a little better by having a “Knowing You” section. In each issue we will feature an informative, personal profile. We have some of the most exciting, unique people in our congregation, who are highly creative, some of whom are artistes in their own right. All our officers and members are of great importance. Please look out for this interesting section in each issue. The next profile could be yours...

CONTENT OUR PASTOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Greetings from Bishop Alvin Blake

COVER STORY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

About Us - Who we are and what we do in Luton

OUR YOUTH DEPT’S 9 PETITIONS . . . . . . 5

Inspired by Bishop Charles Blake The Luton Youth Dept Wrote Their Own Petitions

KNOWING YOU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Missionary Carol Thompson tells how she lost the pounds and gained a testimony

AUXILIARY SERVICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 REMEMBER TO PRAY FOR . . . . . . . . . . . 7 ANYTHING TO CELEBRATE . . . . . . . . . . 7 NEW MEMBERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 CHURCH NOTICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 SERVICE INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

In future issues there will be sections where you can share your testimonies, your recipes, simple tips on fixing simple computer problems, handling DIY , Gardening tips, etc. Each auxiliary will have the chance to express and promote their departments. There will be your prayer requests, something to celebrate, where we share birthdays, anniversaries etc. and church notices, so you can’t say “What did the church secretary say again?” Or “My pen has stopped working” or “My IPAD’s battery is low.” Read all the notices right here. Hopefully we will get them right - lol!

See Missionary Carol Thompson’s story on page 6

I hope you enjoy this newsletter. Please help us to grow by contributing and telling us what you think. Also a note of thanks to all who helped us get here. You know who you are. Editorial Team

“Remember to Pray For” Send us your prayer request and we will place them in this section

“Anything to Celebrate” Tell us and we will publish it 2

Colossians 4:6

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OUR PASTOR I

t is with great pleasure that I take the time to Praise Almighty God for this opportunity and for this relaunch of our COGIC UK, Luton Assembly Newsletter. I give God thanks for the Editorial team, every reader, contributor and distributor. As the Bishop and Jurisdiction Leader for the past fourteen years my time thus far has been a tremendous blessing and extremely memorable... A great songwriter “within our midst” quite recently penned, Hitherto has the Lord kept us, there is no shadow of a doubt that we have been kept and preserved. We are now in the Autumn of 2013 and with Gods grace and blessing we will move to the next phase of our journey. I pray every article in this Newsletter will inform you, uplift you, encourage you and bring you closer to God Almighty and the power of salvation. Enjoy reading and sharing as we wait on God for his leading and continued direction. God bless you all in abundance Bishop Alvin Blake DD.

GREETINGS FROM BISHOP ALVIN BLAKE LNEWS

COVER STORY

Home

About Us

Visit Us

WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO IN LUTON

Home COGIC Centre, 127 Dunstable Road, Luton, LU1 1BW

About Us Welcome to the Calvary Church of God in Christ (COGIC), we’re here just for you! We are a Pentecostal Holiness Church, with a long history and a burning desire to see all people of all nations, worshipping the one true God in the beauty of holiness. Based in a magnificently refurbished grade II listed, 1930’s Picture House; located within easy access from all areas of the Town via bus, car and rail. We hold regular weekly services and meetings that will cater for your needs (details on rear cover). Additionally, we have a number of auxiliaries, and we encourage all of our members to play an active role in at least one of their choice. Our Sunday services are very vibrant and uplifting, led by the Holy Spirit as we share together in worship; taking encouragement from the inspired words of the Psalmist “…Praise Him with the timbrel and dance: praise Him with stringed instruments and organs. Praise Him upon the loud cymbals: praise Him upon the high sounding cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord…” Praise Him we do! We have three Church Choirs, one of a mixed generation, a youth choir and also The Luton COGIC Male Voice Choir Ministry who are now broadcast Worldwide on Radio and TV. Our Sunday morning services have a prayer session, praise and worship, whereby the congregation worships with the choruses and songs, collection of tithes, offering and sacrificial giving, A sermon for the day, A call to Christ otherwise known as an altar call, prayer and blessing. At the end of each Sunday service the Church notices are read. God has blessed us thus far and in this era of technology and advancement, we pray that our relevance will meet the spiritual need of everyone that attends.

Visit Us Well, now that you know our “home”, how to “contact us” and “about us” come and join us in fellowship and make COGIC UK Luton your spiritual home. 4

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OUR YOUTH DEPT’S 9 PETITIONS

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INSPIRED BY BISHOP CHARLES BLAKE THE LUTON YOUTH DEPT WROTE THEIR OWN PETITIONS

Baptism Of The Holy Spirit ather, Your Word says in John 7:38, "He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water". We ask that you would fill all that believe, with the Baptism of the Holy Ghost and fire, according to Acts 2:4; so that we are anointed with Pentecostal power to witness to the lost. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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Love

ather your word says in Matthew 22:37-40 "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: "Love your neighbour as yourself.” We pray that you would help us to love you completely with all our heart, soul and mind and that we will love everyone that we meet as ourselves without partiality. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Fear

ather we pray that every young person will know that you will be our “security and protection from harm” (Proverbs 19:23). Although it is easy to let fear rule, we pray that when we are afraid we’ll be able to put our trust in You (Psalm 56:3). We pray that when we feel fearful we’ll remember that you haven’t given us the spirit of fear (2 Timothy 1:7) and have given us “peace of mind ” (John 14:27). Let us not be afraid of people's faces (Jeremiah 1:8) because “God himself will fight for you” (Deuteronomy 3:22). Lord, help us rely on you because we know that you are with us (Joshua 1:9). In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

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Miracles and Signs

eavenly Father, your word says in Mark 16:17-18 "these signs and wonders shall follow them that believe; in my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents and if they drink any deadly thing it shall not hurt them. They shall lay hands on the sick and they shall recover". We ask that you would strengthen our belief in you so that we can step out by faith and perform the miracles you have said we have the ability to do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Identity

ord God, thank you for making us all individuals, unique and in the image and likeness of you. Your word says in 1 Peter 2:9 "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood , an holy nation, a people belonging to God that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light" As your Word describes our identity in you we pray that we never live below the standards of greatness you

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envisioned for us. We proclaim as young people that we will praise you and acknowledge you for the wonderful things you have done for us. Seeing us through sad times as well as happy times. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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Unity

ather your word says that we are one body (1 Corinthians 12:12-14) we ask that you help us be of one body and one accord, just like the body being perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgement (1 Corinthians 1:10). We pray that we will all be "like minded, sympathetic and love one another" ( 1 Peter 3:8). We pray that the young people will be "eager to maintain the unity of the spirit" (Ephesians 4:3) in your church so that they can be examples of Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Leaders

ighty God we ask that you would pour out your blessing on the leaders of the youth department and the church. We pray that you will empower them and Photo courtesy of Youth Dept fill them with your spirit so that when they teach, Lord it will move the hearts of the youth and your people. Give us an ear to hear, so that as your word says in Luke 6:40 we can aspire to be perfect. These things we ask in Jesus' name, Amen.

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Evangelism

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Community

ord, we know that You came to this earth to save sinners (Luke 19:10) and that there is a great need for Your Word to be spread to the lost of this world (Romans 10:13-14). Therefore we humbly ask that you would give us the power to "go into the world and teach the nations". Help us dear Lord to have a heart of compassion for those we come into contact with on a daily basis and be witnesses for You. We declare that we will play our part in building up into Your Kingdom. In Jesus' name, Amen.

ather, as we endeavour to be lights for You, I pray that You will help us to shine brightly in our communities (Matthew 5:13-16). Lord we pray that you would heal the brokenness and hurt that many around us are suffering and restore our communities so we can live in peace (2 Corinthians 13:11, James 3:18). Help us to show hospitality to those around us and show forth your love to all people (John 13:34-35). Lord we pray for the huge diversity of people in our communities, that they would be drawn to know more about You and to fulfil Your purpose for their lives. In Jesus' name, Amen.

KNOWING YOU MISSIONARY CAROL THOMPSON TELLS HOW SHE LOST THE POUNDS AND GAINED A TESTIMONY

must first give honour to God for His goodness towards me and give God thanks for my Bishop, Mother Blake and Church family The last two years have been a time of achieving great goals and great losses. I will give you a brief testimony…. I was Born on the 3rd February 19** six weeks early and I weighed 5lb 6oz. I was a very small baby, the smallest of 7 siblings. My dad decided that he would put sugar into my formula milk, and by the

At the age of 17 I had my first trip abroad. It was a wonderful opportunity in that the choir was invited to sing in Switzerland, and from thereon I caught the “travel bug”. The Choir ministered quite often in Europe especially Germany, whilst I was still gaining weight, yet though very agile. I can recall on one trip to Koblenz in Germany, we went to visit the location where the River Rhine and the River Mosel meet. There were some stairs that led to the river, a friend and I decided that 6

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I have never let my size hinder or stop me, I taught myself to play the organ and became the church organist for many years. I am a Choir Director, Music is just one of my great passions in life.

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I loved sports when I was at School and was a shot-putter (3rd best in Luton in the 70s), a discus thrower, and loved to run the 100metres relay, I was fast for a person of size.

I had a desire to be married at the age of 25 which came and went, I had resigned myself to the thought that my size was putting men off. I got married at 34 years old to my wonderful husband Dorell, he helped me to see, though big, I am beautiful. Immediately after getting married I put on even more weight, “I think it’s called contentment!” :-)

Me in No

Before my weight loss in July 2010

time I was a year old I was the size of a two year old. My weight began to escalate and each year I put on a stone.

we would like to dip our feet in the edge of the water. On reaching the second to last step, my foot slipped, I fell backwards into the water. My friend and cousin were both screaming and all I could think was that there is no way anyone will be able to lift me out. One of our hosts came to help but he slipped, I did panic but God was on my side, it just wasn’t my time, Thankfully. With the help of God Almighty, our host eventually managed to hold my hand and pull me out of the water, he wasn’t a very big man, and yet that awful experience still did not encourage me to lose the weight.

I have had 3 pregnancies and 3 miscarriages and throughout that devastating time in my life my faith was severely tested but in God I will ever trust. He has seen me through. The doctors have no explanation as to why I miscarried, but had hinted on my size during pregnancy. In June 2011, I saw a bone specialist doctor, due to a crippling pain in my knee, I was informed that there isn’t any cartilage in my right knee and that I was too young for a replacement. They also informed me that my weight could be a hindrance ( which I have heard my entire life!) and a replacement knee would not last very long. I was encouraged to lose weight to ease the pain. I spent some time in hospital due to the increasing weight on my rib cage, and my ministry was being greatly affected. In July of 2011 a great friend of mine suggested that I go with her to Slimming World™. I had visited Slimming World™ many years ago © ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

and successfully lost a stone which I gained back and more after a vacation. In reluctance I went this time because deep down I knew this was a turning point. I don’t think the consultant believed I would stay the distance. I lost 8½lb in the

very first week which was the boost I needed to keep going. Over 2 years later and I have maintained most of my 5 stone weight loss, To God be the Glory for the unconditional love of Jesus Christ. If I can do it…..You can too!

Carolyn Thompson

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AUXILIARY SERVICES BIBLE STUDIES & PRAYER MEETING

Remember to Pray For Brother Trottman Deacon Hunter Sister Jenny Wilson Derek Spalding

Bible Study and Prayer is held every Wednesday evening at 8.00pm and in this time we have an in-depth study of the bible and spiritual topics. Our Bible Study is always followed by a time of prayer and intercession. The Bible Study is very informative and a good foundation upon which to build your spiritual life and walk. Also on Thursdays there is an additional prayer meeting between 11:00am 12:00noon.

NEW BELIEVERS & DISCIPLESHIP CLASSES Class is held on a Sunday Afternoon at 5.00pm. This class is mainly for those who have an interest in being a Christian and being baptised and also for those who have been newly converted and baptised. The class is a basis for spiritual development as in what it means to be a Christian, to be baptised and how to begin and maintain a new walk with God. Even though it is aimed at new believers, anyone is welcome to come and visit the class and even join in the teaching/discussion.

MEN’S FELLOWSHIP Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD - Isaiah 1:18 Discussions on: Current Affairs, Everyday Issues, Health Issues, Building Confidence, Having a voice and using it. Develop your Christian life and become better Husbands, Fathers, Brothers, Mentors, based around biblical principles EVERY 2ND & 4TH FRIDAY OF THE MONTH, STARTING AT 8:00PM

SUNDAY SCHOOL Our Sunday School is every Sunday morning at 10.00am. There are classes based on different age groups beginning with the very young and an adult class also. The teaching is very vibrant, and the pupils are always enthusiastic about the different activities and studies that take place. We are following in a great traditional line of brilliant teaching and Sunday School is a great start to any young child’s life, the bible urges us to train up a child in the way that they should go, so that when they are old, they will not depart from it. Be encouraged to bring or send your children to Sunday School

WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP These meetings are open to all women; whether you are a member, visitor, well wisher or friend please join us as we share fellowship together. MEETINGS TAKE PLACE ON EVERY SECOND SATURDAY OF THE MONTH BETWEEN 8:00AM - 10:00AM

YOUTH MEETING Youth Group Activities Such As: Youth Ministries, Biblical Discussion, Quizzes, Networking, Prayer and more.

Provide us with your prayer request and we will publish it for you. You don’t have to give the full details just one line will do.

Anything to Celebrate Birthdays 7th September - Alana Haye 15th September - Rebekah Morgan 18th September - Luke Ryan 18th September - Sister Patrick 27th September - Wesley Chard 20th October - Sister Sandra Ryan 25th October - Sister Rhonda Byam 26th October - Elder Andrew Maddix Marriages Ben & Dionne Franks Luke & Jessica Francis-Chambers

New Members Sister Roxana Delia Tavolara Sister Andrane Ayeesha Beckford Sister Wendy Elizabeth James Brother Cameron Emil Jarvis Brother Granville Ramsay Sister Sophia Tyra Kerr Sister Denise Casandra Kerr

EVERY FRIDAY, STARTING AT 8:00PM LNEWS

CHURCH NOTICES Local Meetings: Friday 20th Sept. 2013 Saturday, 14th Sept. 2013 & 12th Oct. 2013 at 8.00am

Youth Department’s Awards Day Women’s Fellowship

Friday, 13th & 27th Sept. 2013, 11th & 25th Oct. 2013 at 8.00pm

Men’s Fellowship

National Meetings: Friday 13th - Sunday 15th Sept. 2013 Saturday 21st Sept. 2013 Friday 4th - Sunday 6th Oct. 2013 Saturday 12th Oct. 2013 Saturday 26th Oct. 2013

Midlands District Convention - Superintendent Spencer End of year Ministers’ Meeting Annual Women’s Convocation - Mother Reynolds Appreciation Service for Bishop Alvin Blake National Sunday School Day - Missionary Fenty

See church secretary for further details regarding the above

SERVICE INFORMATION Service Times Sundays

Prayer Meeting (Every 1st & 3rd Sunday of the Month) Sunday School Morning Service New Believers & Discipleship Classes Evening Service

Start 7:00am 10:00am 11:00am 5.00pm 6:00pm

Finish 8:00am 10:50am 1:00pm 6.00pm 8:00pm

Wednesdays

Prayer Meeting & Bible Studies

8:00pm

9:30pm

Thursdays

Prayer Meeting

11:00am

1:00pm

Fridays

Youth Meeting Men’s Fellowship (Every 2nd and 4th Friday of the Month)

8:00pm 8:00pm

9:30pm 9:30pm

Saturdays

Women’s Fellowship (Every 2nd Saturday of the Month)

8:00am

10:00am

Which Sunday is Which First Sundays

Communion Sunday

Second Sunday

Sisters’ Sunday

Third Sunday Fourth Sunday Fifth Sunday

Pastor’s and Elders’ Sunday Deacons’ Sunday Youth Sunday

A SUNDAY SERVICE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED IN THE CASE OF A COGIC UK NATIONAL MEETING OR OTHER EVENTS