Rcogop 50th Anniversary Journal by Robin Balram

Rockville Church of God of Prophecy 50th Anniversary Souvenir Journal Table of Contents

3. Bishops Message 6. Honorees - Past Bishops 10. Honorees -

Founding Members

12. Honorees -

Early Supporters

11. Congratulatory Letters 23. Prayer Warriors Ministry 26. Program 28. International Assembly 29. Baptism/Feet Washing 30. Children’s Ministry 31. Youth Ministry 32. Women’s Ministry 33. Men’s Ministry 34. Worship Dance 36. Love & Marriage 37. New Life 37. Easter Celebrations 37. Christmas Celebrations 38. Concerts 40. International Day

43. Church Picnic & Sports Day 45. Church History

Bishop Robin Balram Bishop Robin Balram was born in the Island of Trinidad and Tobago. At the tender age of 12 years he accepted Jesus as his savior and at the age of 17 accepted the call to ministry. Bishop Balram has been involved in Sunday Schools in Rambert, Phillipine, La Romain and Bamboo Villages. After completing three years of Bible school in Port of Spain, Trinidad, He accepted the call to Bishop the Gasparillo Church of God of Prophecy in 1981 after serving as mission leader at Phillipine for many years. In 1990, his wife and family relocated to Maryland in the USA. Bishop Blaram has served at an Assistant Pastor at Ellicot City COGOP and the Frederick COGOP for one year and nine years respectively, before accepting the Pastorate at Rockville COGOP. In the 13 years he has Pastored at Rockville COGOP, the membership has increased from 11 to 104. Bishop Balram became a Bishop in 2006 at the International Assembly of the Church of God of Prophecy, held in Nashville, TN. He has been married to Indra Balram for 36 years and from this union the couple has four children, Nicole, Daryl, Denzyl and Devin. Nicole is married to Alex Barsuk and lives in San Jose, CA. and has blessed Bishop Balram and First Lady with two adorable grandchildren, Eva & Ella. Daryl lives in Frederick, MD. Denzyl is married to Shannon and they currently reside in Santa Barbara, CA. Devin is in Cleveland TN.

Bishop Balram’s Anniversary Message Luke 2:13–14 “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!’” “Celebrating 50 Years of God’s Faithfulness” is the motto for Rockville Church of God of Prophecy’s 50th anniversary celebration—a week filled with activities that reminds us of our roots, celebrated today, and inspires us to march into the future. The week is anchored by three nights of revival service, a celebration banquet and our anniversary services. A famous comedian was asked what he would like people to say about him in 100 years... and he answered, “I’d like them to say, ‘He looks pretty good for his age’” As we look back over the past 50 years of ministry to the City of Rockville and the surrounding community... As we look at the wonderful people who have served so faithfully down through the years... As we look at the spiritual victory that has been won around the altar... As we look at the lives that have been changed... As we look at the marriages that have been saved… As we look at the babies that have been dedicated... As we look at the the prodigal children that have come home... As we look at the bad habits that have been broken by the power of Christ... As we look at the sacrifice of those Christians in the early days of our church... We can only say, “To God be the Glory...Great Things He Has Done”!!... We have to admit...we look pretty good for our age...all glory to God!! This celebration brings three precious truths into my mind. First, it is a VICTORY for Rockville Church of God of Prophecy; a victory that reminds us of our humble beginning. The work was started with no financial support from churches but from a simple act of faith to the faithful God, a complete trust to His precious promises and a wholehearted obedience to His perfect will. Indeed, God proved Himself and honored our faith by sustaining us with His grace and supplying our daily needs from start up to the present. I Thessalonians 5:24 says, “Faithful is He that calleth you, who also will do it.” Second, this celebration calls for VIGILANCE. Our victory in the past and victory today is no guarantee of victory tomorrow. We cannot afford to lower our guard against the enemy and be complacent for what we are now. I know the enemy is not happy to see souls getting saved and believers growing in their faith. We should therefore be fervent in our prayers, circumspect in our walk and faithful in our service. Third, a VISION. “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” (Prov.29:18) I firmly believe God has a wonderful plan for Rockville Church of God of Prophecy. We need to be determined, devoted and disciplined in order to reach this goal. (Philippians 3:14) Someone has well said, “Expect great things from God; attempt great things for God.” In other words, dream big, step big and do big things for God. (Mark 9:23) There is a great challenge ahead of us. Let us therefore continue to grow deeper, aim higher and serve better until we become the church God intends us to be. To God be the glory!

Reverend William Jolley

Photo Not Available

1963 to 1965

Reverend William Jolley was appointed as the first Pastor of the church. the first members were Teresa Brown Stadler, Gail Ellis’s, the Brown’s, Ellis’s, and Lewis’s. In 1963 the church was housed in two locations. It was temporarily set up in a small store front in Rockville, then later that year, the church relocated to Cedar Ave in Gaithersburg, where we fellowshipped for five wonderful years.

Reverend Harold Aiken 1965 to 1966

Reverend William Harold Aiken served the church in the early years in the Cedar Avenue Location. He was a passionate pastor who truly loved God.

Photo Not Available

Reverend Joe Hughes 1966 to 1968

Reverend Joe Hughes served the church in the early years in the Cedar Avenue Location. He provide spiritual leadership, he preach the Gospel, lead members to so trust and love God that they desire to serve Him, lead the members to love one another and their neighbors and encouraged stewardship and world missions support.

Reverend David Tollison 1968 to 1974 Reverend Tollison was well known for teaching the doctrines of the Church to those present in the congregation. Possibly one of the largest revivals in the history of the Church was during his ministry. It was a three weeks of revival with at least 18 saved. The mighty power of the Holy Ghost was in our midst. Reverend Tollison was a worker and a leader. He was the one to get the new Church building started. He was great with fund raisers, such as donut sales, candy sales and many dinners were sold. Delivery was available! Reverend Tollison and his wife Mildred has four children.

Reverend Paul Littleton 1974 to 1985 Reverend Littleton could be called "'a man after God's own heart". He was a very gentle man, not only did he care for the sheep in his flock, he also cared about all those around him. One could say his second ministry was visiting the sick in their homes or in the hospital. He was the Pastor that saw the completion of the new Church building. It was during his ministry that a new parsonage was added to the Church property. Pastor Littleton was indeed a true laborer for the Lord. His words of encouragement were a true blessing to the Church. Reverend Paul Littleton and his wife Dorothy has two children.

Reverend Phillip Wallen 1985 to 1987 Reverend Wallen was the shepherd at Rockville for two years. He was a pastor with great love and kindness. He was from a large family. Members of his family were also a blessing to the Church at Rockville. His messages were uplifting and seasoned with the love of God. He was one who would travel many miles to be with someone in the hospital. He could be seen standing behind the pulpit looking directly at each one present as he delivered God's word. He reached out, with all of his heart, to the saved and the unsaved. Reverend Phil Wallen and his wife Louise has a large family.

Reverend Tony Pittman 1987 to 1990 Reverend Pittman traveled a long distance to arrive at the Church parsonage, where many of the members were waiting to welcome and to lend a hand with unpacking the trucks. A man with a big smile, curly hair and a hardy laugh. It seemed he was always looking for something to fix up. Him and his wife were a blessing as they would minister to us in song. He was also known as a good cook. Reverend Tony Pittman and his wife Faye has two children.

Reverend Ronald Hitchcock 1990 to 1993 Reverend Hitchcock will definitely be remembered for his singing and playing his guitar. His love for West Virginia was very obvious, saying so often, "Almost Heaven, West Virginia". He would talk of his enjoyment of reading, his love for the outdoors. God had called him to be a "fisher of men" but he also liked to fish for fish. And like any grandparent his grandchildren were a joy to his life. Reverend Ronald Hitchcock and his wife Shelva has three children.

Reverend Robert Hagy 1993 to 2000 Reverend Hagy started his journey with the Lord in a revival at Rockville Church of God of Prophecy. He was involved in many areas of the Church work. It was at Rockville he received the calling from God to preach His word. After his marriage to Debbie they ministered as a team. He was appointed as a pastor and in 1993 after a few years of ministry he returned to Rockville to become the pastor. In his ministry the fellowship hall was added and the parsonage was paid off. A gentleman that the church had been praying for more than 25 years was saved and added to the Church. Reverend Hagy spent much time in prayer and studying God's word.

The Ellis’s, Brown’s, & Lewis’s Families Founding Members

Church of God of Prophecy International Offices Dear Rockville Congregation, It has, indeed, been my pleasure to be a minor instrument over the years with assisting your church to facilitate and help guide your Mission Giving. What an incredible blessing you have been to so many nations. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Although 50 years have passed since the Rockville Church came into existence, I’m certain that some aspects haven’t changed but, most likely, have become even stronger through the many smiles and tears that have been shared by this congregation. May this be a very special jubilee anniversary as you look back on cherished memories that have brought you to this place today, and as you move forward in God’s plans. And, may His unfailing grace continue to smile upon each and every one as you continue to hear the voice of the Lord directing your hearts to bless those He has called you to become a part of within this vast Harvest. Thank you again for your faithfulness, love, encouragements, and tremendous support for the mission network. Only heaven will surely be able to reveal the impact you have made on the lives of so many…

Annette Taylor, Liaison Harvest Partners Ministry Church of God of Prophecy International Offices

Church of God of Prophecy International Offices Dear Rockville Congregation, I consider it a special honor to extend a word of congratulations to Pastor and Sis. Balram, current and former leaders and members of the Rockville Church of God of Prophecy as you celebrate the 50th anniversary of this wonderful congregation. Celebratory moments are excellent opportunities to revisit your past, recount the unique journey God has taken your church on, and give thanks as you stir your memories of the people, the places, the challenges and the victories of the last fifty years. I hope that the spirit of those who made significant sacrifices to begin this church and to nurture it through all its phases of development continues to permeate you, the present members and leaders. I pray that the best of your foundations have been fully embraced and are being built upon as you wait to see what God will do in the days ahead. The promise of our Lord is particularly relevant as you remember your unique history: "â&#x20AC;Śon this rock I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it" (Matt. 16:18). May the Lord's favor continue to rest on you so that you will become that Christ-exalting, Spiritfilled, disciple-making, all-nations community of people who are extending God's kingdom through your holy lives and faithful proclamation of Jesus. Going forward in the harvest, David Bryan Executive Director | Leadership Development and Discipleship

Oak Meadows Community Worship Center It is an honor for us to write a congratulatory message to you, Brother and Sister Balram, and the wonderful people at Rockville. We are so proud of what you and the Lord have accomplished there. We hear good things and know you are progressing for the Lord there. There will always be special place in our hearts for Rockville. After all, our daughter, Tonya, was married in the church at Rockville and we never will forget how you folks pitched in and helped us with the wedding since we were pretty new at that time. Joan Steele and Eleanor Vanhoozer saved the day for us. We are so proud of the way you are progressing and may God bless your good Pastor, the Balramâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, for following the Lord and building His kingdom. I wish we could be in attendance but we have our hands full as Pastor of Oak Meadows Community Worship Center in Houston. God bless you and love to all!

Pastor Tony and Faye Pittman

The Daniel Family Early Supporters of the Church

The Hagy Family Early Supporters of the Church

Fukuoka Church of God of Prophecy Congratulations and Salutations!

Greetings from Japan! It is so good to hear of the coming celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Rockville Church of God of Prophecy. I was pleased to receive an invitation to attend this auspicious gathering by means of a written greeting. Our paths only crossed briefly during a visit to Washington DC a few years ago. My long-time friend David Winters made contact with Pastor Robin Balram and arranged for me to share our testimony of the missionary work in southwestern Japan. What a joyous and thoroughly enjoyable time of worship and fellowship took place that night. Since then Pastor Balram and I have stayed in touch through the Facebook and LinkedIn networks. The congregation and ministry in Rockville COGOP are covered in prayer on an ongoing basis being on my intercessory prayer list. May God greatly bless all the activities planned including the revival services, anniversary service and banquet service! I shall be praying for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit that will help celebrate the past blessings of 50 years while launching the congregation into a brand new area of spiritual conquest. May Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s richest blessings be yours,

Daniel Corbett National Overseer Fukuoka, Japan

The McCurry Family Early Supporters of the Church

East Sunnyside Church of God of Prophecy The Brethren at the Rockville Church of God of Prophecy, Greetings to you in the precious name of our Lord Jesus Christ. My wife, Agnes, and I rejoice with you on the occasion of your 50th Church Anniversary. To have reached such a milestone reminds us of the Lordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s faithfulness and mercy that abounds for His people. I applaud the Rockville Church of God of Prophecy for its many years of service and fellowship.

Your congregation is a shining example of what it means to love one another and give cheerfully to those in need, and I am confident that your legacy of ministry and compassion will long grace the Rockville community and the Mid-Atlantic Region. We praise God for the life and fellowship of your congregation and the great witness you have been in that area for these many years. I applaud your Bishop and my friends Robin and Indra Balram for their faithfulness and dedication as servants to this wonderful congregation. May the Lord grant you a blessed celebration as you commemorate what the Lord has done. Happy Anniversary!!! Yours Truly, Bishop Daryl & Agnes Clark Houston, Texas

Chance, Maryland Church of God of Prophecy Greetings in Jesus Name! May God bless your 50 years Celebration at Rockville. You are a beautiful family of believers and my love and prayers to all the saints for this blessed occasion. Love & Prayers, Pastor Beaty Johnson, Maryland, USA

The Steele & Shupe Families

Mid Atlantic Region Church of God of Prophecy Greetings Bishop Balram and the Rockville Family, This is wonderful, truly celebration worthy news. Fifty years of worshiping God and serving the community. Congratulations Bishop & Sister Balram and the Rockville family. I have a lot of good memories of the Rockville Church. And remember when the parsonage was built, modular. This is a wonderful milestone, so many churches aren't doing so well, it is refreshing to hear of one still weathering the storms for 50 yrs. Congratulations for your watch, and may our Lord's favor continue to rest upon you. Minister Joyce & Charles Foye" Women’s Ministry Director New Jersey, USA

Everlasting Gospel Church Greetings Bishop Balram and the Rockville Family, Giving thanks unto Almighty God for allowing his church, Rockville Church of God of Prophecy to be able to celebrate 50 years of solid gospel witness. Indeed God has been faithful and He will be faithful until the very end. Along the journey you were able to share, serve and strengthen others in your walk with the Lord Jesus. We are very honored to have been part of this great work that God through divine providence has raised up as a standard bearer and as a witness too of His glorious Gospel. We are also grateful for the opportunity to share your altar in our visit 2 years ago .To God be the Glory great things He has done. 1 Corinthians 15:58, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” In His Royal Service, Pastor Simon Siewsaran Cunupia Trinidad and Tobago

The Vahooser Family Early Supporters of the Church

Nicole Ballosingh Ministries CONGRATULATORY REMARKS TO Rockville Church of God of Prophecy That fiftieth year shall be a jubilee to you ... (Leviticus 25:11) Used approximately three hundred times in the Bible, fifty is the number of jubilee or deliverance. Fifty points to deliverance and restoration. According to Leviticus 25:8-55, special instruction was given concerning the fiftieth year. It was the year for the Israelites to rejoice and be jubilant. Therefore, the fiftieth year is known as the Year of Jubilee when the Israelites were told to "proclaim liberty throughout all the land." Debts were considered paid in full, slaves were released and land was returned to the proper owners. The Year of Jubilee was a year for neither sowing nor reaping. God established the Year of Jubilee for people to be liberated and to start over. God wants people to be free. Jesus spoke these words: "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim RELEASE to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind to set FREE those who are downtrodden, to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord" (Luke 4:8-9). To the Leadership and congregation of Rockville C.O.G.O.P I decree and declare that this milestone will cause you to experience supernatural restoration, revival, deliverance and liberty. Therefore, "where the Spirit of the Lord is, there IS liberty!" (2 Corinthians 3:17) Rev. Nicole Ballosingh Holder

Princes Town Church of God of Prophecy Greetings Bishop Balram and the Rockville Family, I want to congratulate Bishop Robin Balram, his family and the Rockville Church of God of Prophecy on this 50th celebration and may the good God of heaven bless you all. As you all celebrate this Jubilee, may many come to the house of God and be free. Your brother and friend in Christ Pastor Dr. Dexter James Trinidad and Tobago

Meet Us On The Battlefield Rockville COGOP “Prayer Warriors” team meets every Monday night from 7:30pm to 9pm to engage in strategic prayers for our church, our ministers in Christendom, our nation and its leaders, and for solutions to personal issues. Above all possessing our souls by deploying the hand of our Lord , in our bid to live authentically which means to be what Jesus desires for us to be. We understand that the soul is worth fighting for, so every Monday we come armed to the teeth to do battle against the accuser of the brethren, whose purpose in life is to lure souls into hell. We do not only pray and throw the “kitchen sink” at our adversary and his agents, but we also do a lot of “watching”. We ask the LORD daily to teach us to have our spiritual and physical eyes wide open to detect every intrinsic and extrinsic weapon fired in our direction and aimed at causing us to lose our souls. Remember JESUS cautioned: “And what shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world but lose his own soul?” Is anything worth fighting for more than your soul? Your soul houses your mind, will and emotions. GOD gifted your soul with what we know as the “Five Senses” to enable you to discern things in the earth realm. He also gifted you with his Spirit to enable you to discern things in the spiritual realm. Unfortunately we are attempting to commit the act if we have not already done so, of discerning things in the spiritual realm, with our “Five Senses” instead of the Spirit of GOD. No wonder Christians are said to be the most depressed people in the world today. Jesus declared “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven” (Mathew 16:19). Armed with this assurance, our “Warrior team” has learned not to be intimidated but to confidently download their God given authority and open fire through strategic prayers to “loose every bond of wickedness, undo every burden and break every yoke” (Isaiah 58:6). ARISE soldiers of the cross and like David ask JESUS CHRIST (Yeshua Hamashiach) to teach your hands to war and fingers to fight (Psalm 144). —By Pastor Sam Addy

Prayer Warriors - Food For Thought Only a man who knows what it is like to be defeated can reach down to the bottom of his soul and come up with the extra ounce of power it takes to win. - Muhammad Ali (Heavy Weight Champion) The soul is placed in the body like a rough diamond, and must be polished, or the luster of it will never appear. –Daniel Defoe Only one who devotes himself to a cause with his whole strength and soul can be a true master. For this reason mastery demands all of a person. –Albert Einstein Be careless in your dress if you will, but keep a tidy soul –Mark Twain Spectacular achievement is always preceded by spectacular preparation –Robert H Schuller You will not stroll into Christ-likeness with your hands in your pocket, shoving the door open with a careless shoulder. This is no hobby for one’s leisure moments, taken up at intervals when we have nothing much to do and put down and forgotten when our life grows full and interesting. It takes all one’s strength , and all one’s heart, and all one’s mind, and all one’s soul given freely and recklessly and without restraint. -A J Gossip

Pain insists upon being attended to. God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our consciences, but shouts in our pains. It is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world. –C.S Lewis Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase –Martin Luther King, Jr. By patience you will possess your soul –Lord Jesus Christ (Yeshua Hamashiach) Luke 21:19 Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead and Christ shall shine upon you and give you light –Apostle Paul (Ephesians 5:14 AMP) 26

Prayer Warriors

The Program Social Hour Master of Ceremonies

Sister Jasmine Daniel

Opening Prayer

Pastor Sam Addy

Convocation

Brother Ira Scatliffe

Bishopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Address

Bishop Robin Balram

Dinner with Music Interlude by Andre Gudgeon and Ira Scatliffe Award Presentations - Pastors

Sister Jane Morris

Reverend William Jolley Reverend Harold Aiken Reverend Joe Hughes Reverend Tollison Angela Littleton Miller for Reverend Littleton Reverend Wallen Reverend Pittman Reverend Hitchcock Reverend Robert Hagy Poetic Expression Gospel Medley

Brother Tristin Thomas Rev. Nicole Ballosingh Holder

Award Presentations - Founding Members The Ellis Family The Brown Family The Lewis Family 28

Sister Ingrid John

The Program Award Presentations - Early Supporters Sister Ingrid John Pastor David Daniel & Family The McCurry Family The Steele Family

The Shupe Family The Vanhooser Family Buford and Bridie Ridpath Dennis and Linda Mclemore Jasmine and Stephen Daniel Teresa Dehart Dolores Downey Curtis and Anita Langley Daniel & Pat Masden Juliet Morris Awards Presentations - Distinguished Service

Bishop Balram

Theodore & Vilma Turgott Verlin Meade Worship Dance

Sister Sascha Wilkerson

Special Song

Brother Andrew Gudgeon

Gospel Medley

Rev. Nicole Ballosingh Holder

Closing Prayer

Pastor David Daniel

The Year of Jubilee This Moment Rockville Church of God of Prophecy celebrates its first jubilee. Rockville has made it to 50 years, it has completed 7 cycles of 7 years. Rockville celebrates the Golden. This is a Jubilee celebrating God’s Faithfulness, celebrating Christ. Verses 8 to 55 of Leviticus 25 describe the year of Jubilee. The first few verses are as follows: ‘Count off seven sabbaths of years -- seven times seven years -- so that the seven sabbaths of years amount to a period of forty-nine years. Then have the trumpet sounded everywhere on the tenth day of the seventh month; on the Day of Atonement sound the trumpet throughout your land. Consecrate the fiftieth year and proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants. It shall be a Jubilee for you; each one of you is to return to his family property and each to his own clan.’ Like the day of Pentecost, the year of Jubilee is a sabbath of sabbaths. It is a special year among special years. The most unusual observance that God commanded the Israelites through Moses was the keeping of the year of Jubilee. For most people this celebration occurred only once in their life time, and for some not even that, as it occurred only once every 50 years. He commanded that slaves were to be set free, financial debts were to be forgiven, and you were given a fresh new start. The Birth of Abraham The first notable Jubilee that God (unknown to man) observed was the birth of Abraham. He was born exactly 40 Jubilees or 2000 years in Bible reckoning from Adam. The Exodus Most amazing for its timing is what happened in the year that was exactly the 50th Jubilee from Adam. A Jubilee itself is a very special year, being a sabbath of sabbaths. What then is a 50th Jubilee but a Jubilee of Jubilees or we could say a sabbath of sabbaths of sabbaths of sabbaths! So what happened in the year 2500 from Adam - this Jubilee of Jubilees or sabbath of sabbaths of sabbaths of sabbaths? This was the very year that the Israelites came out of Egypt! This event was a wonderful sabbath.

The Year of Jubilee Continued The Dedication of Solomon’s Temple 500 years on from the Exodus came the high point in Israel’s national history. Solomon had the privilege of building the temple or house of God. How great and wonderful was the occasion when the temple was finally finished and the time came to dedicate it to God. The year (unknown to Solomon) was the 60th Jubilee from Adam and the time was the Festival of Tabernacles. On this most special occasion the Holy Spirit came down with great power, and the priests were unable to stand to minister because of the glory of the Lord (1 Kings 8: 11). The Return from Babylon It was a judgment and a consequence of sin. Most especially it was a judgment on the people of God for worshipping other gods. Daniel and Nehemiah fasted and wept and confessed their sins and the sins of their people, and God granted deliverance. Cyrus, king of Persia, issued a decree that the Jews should return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple (Ezra 1: 1-5). This decree was issued at exactly the 70th Jubilee from Adam. Once again we see the terms of the Jubilee fulfilled. The captives were set free and returned to possess their inheritance. The Death and Resurrection of Jesus 490 (reckoned as 500) years on from the Jewish return from Babylon we reach the times of the New Testament. This time period is clearly described in Daniel’s prophecy: ‘Seventy ‘sevens’ are decreed for your people and your holy city to finish transgression, to put an end to sin, to atone for wickedness, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy..’ (Dan 9: 24). Nothing less than the greatest event in all recorded history: the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ! Appropriately this occurred at the 80th Jubilee or 4000 years from Adam. This was an expression of Jubilee that exceeded all previous Jubilees. Jesus himself was set free from the ultimate imprisonment. He overcame death for himself and opened a way of deliverance for the whole creation. Final Jubilee Will there be a final Jubilee not just for the land of Israel but worldwide in its scope? Will this Jubilee be the beginning of the fulfilment of the wonderful words of Revelation 11:15: “The seventh angel sounded his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, which said: ‘The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ (Anointed), and he will reign for ever and ever.’” By Jasmine Daniel

Source: http:growingingod.org

International Assembly

Fields of the Wood The Fields of the Wood is a biblically-based themed park managed by The Church of God of Prophecy. The park is located in the Cherokee mountains of North Carolina in the United States. It covers a total area of 220 beautiful acres (89.03 hectares). From Prayer Mountain to the gigantic Ten Commandments the Word of God is declared through the use of marble and stone, preserved so that future generations are able "to come to the mountain and to receive the vision."

Water Baptism/Feet Washing

Acts 2:38 - Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Children’s Ministry  

To create opportunities to share the gospel To develop a program of challenging, teaching and exciting activities that inspire children to greater commitment  To deliver a leaders’ succession plan that results in continuity of provision and growth  To establish communication with parents that engages them in the Christian upbringing of their children and in Children’s Ministry

Youth Ministry Mission Statement The mission in youth ministry is to actively invite every youth to commit to a personal relationship and everlasting adventure with Jesus Christ, mentoring them towards wholeness within a supportive church community and empowering them to bring healing and hope to the world.

Vision: Healing & Hope God calls us to be followers of Jesus Christ and, by the power of the Holy Spirit, to grow as communities of grace, joy and peace, so that God's healing and hope flow through us to the world. To follow Jesus Christ more faithfully, we are called to mentor youth to love God with all their heart, soul, mind and strength.

Women's Ministry The Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ministry Mission is three fold, its purpose is to: i) To build intentional relationships by widening our circle of friendships among women. ii) To strengthen women by spending time in the Word of God, prioritizing time for worship and prayer. iii) Serving God by using our giftedness for the benefits of other women through coaching and mentoring

Women's Ministry Vision Verse - John 13:34-35 "A new command I give you, that you love one another. Even as I have loved you, you must love one another. By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

Men's Ministry Men's Ministry Vision Verse Philippians 2:1-3 – Connecting with and forming lifelong bonds with our brothers in Christ 1 Peter 4:10-14 – Reaching-out and touching our community with God’s love through service and various men’s activities

Worship Dance

Easter Celebrations

Christmas Celebrations

Concerts & Celebrations & Events

Concerts, Celebrations & Events

International Day

Picnic & Sports Day

History of the Rockville Church of God of Prophecy Our blessed church has undergone many phases, and we give God thanks for this beautiful building and dedicated members. The Rockville Church of God of Prophecy started in 1961 with just a Sunday School in the home of Lois Ellis on Travilah Rd, Rockville, Maryland. Brother Sullivan was the State Overseer and Sister Bellis his assistant. There members were the Brown’s, Ellis’s, and Chapman families. During the summer months, between 1961-1962, services were held in a big tent set up in the Brown's back yard on Piney Meetinghouse Rd., in Rockville. The State Overseer at this time was Brother Hartley and Brother Hutchinson the assistant. In 1962, the Sunday School moved to an upstairs apartment located above a store called Pargas Co. on 355 Fredrick Ave, Rockville, MD. In 1963 the church was housed in two locations. It was temporarily set up in a small store front in Rockville, with Reverend William Jolley as the first appointed Pastor and Teresa Brown stadler, Gail Ellis’s, the Brown’s, Ellis’s, and Lewis’s as the first members. Later that year, the church relocated to Cedar Ave in Gaithersburg, where we fellowshipped for five wonderful years. In 1968 the church moved once again. This time to a house at 14180 Travilah Rd., until a permanent structure was constructed in 1970. The co-signers to secure this undertaking included Doug Routh, Leonard Brown, Ruey Lewis, and Don Lewis. In 1976 under the leadership of Reverend Paul Littleton the church parsonage was constructed In 1998 under the leadership of Reverend Robert Hagy and with a substantial donation by Pat Masden, the fellowship hall was built. In 2001 under the leadership of our present Bishop, Bishop Balram the parking lot was paved. Throughout the last thirteen years, there have been numerous projects that includes the church sign, the new chairs, new carpet, new ceiling, remodeling the entire sanctuary, new sound system, new instruments, computers and purchasing a bus that was eventually given to Ghana Church of God of Prophecy as a gift. The church has given much to missions around the world and we are always grateful to those who feel the call of God to help. The membership of the Rockville Church of God of Prophecy crossed the 100 mark for the first time in 2011. Overseers from 1968 to the present include Bishop Day, Bishop Decker, Bishop Risch, Bishop Vickers, Bishop Brantley, Bishop McGee, Bishop Cagle, Bishop E. L. Jones and Bishop Leroy Greenaway.

Vision Statement Vision   

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To have a church of every age, race and color putting their relationship with God first, meeting together regularly to worship Him and becoming one in Christ To equip every member of Rockville COGOP to share their faith effectively To develop a plan to reach every household in our surrounding area with the good news of Jesus Christ To identify those with the gift of evangelism and deploy them effectively To devise and promote a program of seeker-friendly services and events

Discipleship   

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To enable Rockville COGOP members to grow in their Christian faith through teaching on maturity and membership of the body of Christ To enable Rockville COGOP members to identify, understand and deploy their spiritual gifts To encourage personal Bible study and prayer through the provision of resources as appropriate To provide opportunities, resources and stimulus for corporate prayer and further study to deepen personal faith To provide a program of courses for training in Christian living, within an annual framework

Mission To motivate practical, prayerful and financial support of Mission through regular Bible teaching and News events from mission areas everywhere  To ensure the visibility of Rockville COGOP - supported mission partners  To continue the practice of mission giving 

Worship To enable every person attending Rockville COGOP regularly to gain a thorough understanding of the Bible  To provide biblically sound teaching that has clear application and motivational impact on the daily lives of the congregation of Rockville COGOP and our visitors  To facilitate a range of worship styles that is appropriate to the ages, traditions and nationalities represented in the Rockville COGOP congregation  To ensure that our Bible study sessions including our education hour session on Sunday's become more relevant to the needs of our people 

Beliefs The Church of God of Prophecy (COGOP) is a Christian, Bible-believing, Spirit -filled fellowship that has been in existence since the late 1800s. Our headquarters are located in Cleveland, TN, but our vibrant churches extend all over the world. Our Commitments We will worship God with all our being by: Acknowledging Him as the Sovereign of all creation Submitting to the headship of Christ over the Church Practicing fervent, Spirit-led corporate worship Allowing the full manifestation of spiritual gifts in our lives Modeling personal worship through sacrificial living We will evangelize the lost with all our resources by: Utilizing every available means to take the gospel to all people Depending on the Holy Spirit to empower our witness

Dedicating ourselves to a lifestyle of evangelism Cooperating with other Bible-believing Christians in outreach efforts Examining every major corporate decision in light of the Great Commission We will equip believers, using all our gifts by: Faithfully preaching and teaching the whole Word of God Providing a loving environment for individual spiritual growth Fulfilling the command to "bear one another's burdens"

Administering the scriptural ordinances Applying biblical church discipline with love We will prepare for Christ's return with all our hearts by: Covenanting to the inerrant Word of God Committing ourselves to lives of biblical holiness Being agents of reconciliation in a fragmented world Modeling and promoting unity among all God's children Helping to take the gospel to every people group on earth

Beliefs Continued From its beginning, the Church of God of Prophecy has based its beliefs on the "whole Bible rightly divided." We accept the Bible as God's Holy Word, inspired, inerrant, and infallible. We believe the Bible to be God's written revelation of Himself to mankind and our guide in all matters of faith; therefore, we look to the Bible as our highest authority for doctrine, practice, organization, and discipline. It was a strong desire to rely solely on the Bible that led the early pioneers of the church to declare their willingness to be free from all man-made creeds and traditions, to take the New Testament as their only rule of faith and practice, and to give each other equal rights and privileges to read and interpret the Bible as their consciences might dictate. These basic tenets remain intact today; however, as the church grew and spread throughout the world, it was seen that there was safety in a "multitude of counselors" when making doctrinal decisions. Thus, today, all doctrinal matters are agreed upon in one accord by the General Assembly. The Church of God of Prophecy is firm in its commitment to orthodox Christian belief. We affirm that there is one God, eternally existing in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We believe in the deity of Christ, in His virgin birth, in His sinless life, in the physical miracles He performed, in His atoning death on the cross, in His bodily resurrection, in His ascension to the right hand of the Father, and in His personal return in power and glory at His Second Coming. We profess that regeneration by the Holy Spirit is essential for the salvation of sinful man. We believe that sanctification by the blood of Christ makes possible personal holiness. We affirm the present ministry of the Holy Spirit by whose indwelling we are able to live godly lives and have power for service. We believe in the ultimate unity of believers, as prayed for by our Lord Jesus Chris in John 17. We believe in the sanctity of human life; we are also committed to the sanctity of the marriage bond and the importance of strong, loving Christian families. Furthermore, the church makes prominent other biblical doctrines that have clear New Testament support but may not always be espoused by modern Christianity. These "Important Bible Truths" constitute some of the doctrinal beliefs and practices that enable the Church of God of Prophecy to be named among those organizations that preach the fundamental principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ. These truths are an indication of our continuing commitment to walk in the light of God's Holy Word to the best of our knowledge and ability.

Important Bible Truths Repentance: Mark 1:15; Luke 13:3; Acts 3:19; 2 Corinthians 7:10 Justification: Romans 3:23-26; 5:1; Titus 3:7 Regeneration: John 5:24; Ephesians 2:1, 4, 5; Titus 3:5 Born Again: John 3:8; I Peter 1:23 Sanctification: Subsequent to justification; Romans 5:2, 6:6, 7; 1 Corinthians 1:30; 1Thessalonians 4:3, 4, 7; Hebrews 13:12, 13; 1 John 1:9 Holiness: Luke 1:74-75; 1 Thessalonians 4:7; Ephesians 4:24; Hebrews 12:14; 1 Peter 1:15, 16 Water Baptism: Matthew 28:19; Mark 1:8-10; 16:15, 16; John 3:22, 23; Acts 10:47, 48; 16:33; Romans 6:3-5; 1 Peter 3:21 Baptism With The Holy Ghost: Subsequent to cleansing, the endowment of power for service; Matthew 3:11; Luke 11:13; Acts 1:4-8; 19:2 Speaking In Tongues: THE EVIDENCE OF THE BAPTISM WITH THE HOLY GHOST; ACTS 2:4; 10:44-46; 19:6; 1 CORINTHIANS 12:10, 11; 14:2, 4, 15 Full Restoration Of The Gifts To The Church: Romans 12:6-9; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; 1Corinthians 12:28-31; Ephesians 4:8-13 Signs Following Believers: Mark 16:17-20; Romans 15:18, 19; Hebrews 2:4 Fruit Of The Spirit: Galatians 5:22, 23; Ephesians 5:9 Divine Healing: Provided for all in the atonement; Psalms 103:2, 3; Isaiah 53:4, 5; Matthew 8:17; James 5:14-16; 1 Peter 2:24 The Lord's Supper: Luke 22:17-20; 1 Corinthians 10:16, 17; 11:23-30

Address 14180 Travilah Road, Rockville MD 20850 Phone 240-246-6568

301-279-2878

Email rcogop@gmail.com Bishopbalram@gmail.com http://rockvillecogop.com/blog/ 55