This past Sunday I attended a church other than my own in order to hear a friend preach. The church where he was speaking was a predominately African American congregation. It was a joy to participate in this powerful time of worship.
When it came time for the collection of the offering, I was struck by the reverence and true act of worship the process became. The ushers began the collection process by passing the plate from the rear of the sanctuary and working towards the front as the organ gently played. Once all the offering had been collected, the ushers and pastor gathered in a small circle and prayed over the gifts that had been given. It was a simple act, but the entire process truly reflected the importance of this act of worship and stewardship. And oddly enough, I was more than just amazed. I was a bit ashamed.
You see in my home church (and many others I have attended) the collection of the tithes and offerings has doubled as a time for ‘commercial’ announcements, the showing of videos and slides from other activities, or a time for special music. It never occurred to me that in doing these alternate activities during the passing of the plate that my home congregation was unintentionally diminishing the importance of the offering as an act of worship.
As I reflected, I wondered how my congregation (or others) might react if during another act of worship, say during the sacraments of Communion, we showed a video of the latest youth activity. Would people be offended or think we had diminished the importance of the communion worship experience? Why is giving of the tithes and offerings, another Spiritual discipline, any less important?
So I ask, shouldn’t we then focus our efforts in the planning and implementation of the collecting of the offerings to be a true worship experience that recognizes the importance of the act of giving instead of trying to multi-task other activities into the same segment in order to save time?
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Friday, September 11, 2009
9/11 Remembrance
8 years ago at about this time our world changed. Many of you probably vividly remember where you were when you first learned of the attacks on the World Trade Towers. I was in eating oatmeal as I watched the second jetliner slam into the second tower. It was obvious then that the first tower hit by a plane was not an accident. Throughout the morning we learned of the attack on the Pentagon and the plane crashing in a field in Pennsylvania, unable to reach its devious objective.
Yes our world changed that day. But for the families and loved ones of the nearly 3000 innocent people killed that day, there lives were truly changed. Fathers, sons, mothers and daughters, husbands and wives, and friends of many, all innocent people who were going about their daily business that day, just as you were. Only, they were taken by a brutal act of hatred and cowardice.
With the possible exception of the Pentagon, the victims of the attack were civilians, considered non-combatants. Attacking them was not a military strike but an act of terror perpetrated by people filled with intense hatred and a disregard for the sanctity of human life.
You may have known people who were killed that day. I lost several friends in the attack on the Pentagon. So as we mourn the loss of those murdered that day, let us also remember their families and friends. And with the Love of Christ in our hearts, let us remember also those who perpetrated and supported the attacks.
We live in a sick and dying world. Terror continues, wars are waged, humans are trafficked as commodities, people are hungry and children suffer. We live in a lost world, but we have the answer of hope.
I ask that you pray with me in silence as we remember those who were taken, remember their families, remember the perpetrators and pray for a boldness in our hearts to share the message of Christ to this lost world.
Yes our world changed that day. But for the families and loved ones of the nearly 3000 innocent people killed that day, there lives were truly changed. Fathers, sons, mothers and daughters, husbands and wives, and friends of many, all innocent people who were going about their daily business that day, just as you were. Only, they were taken by a brutal act of hatred and cowardice.
With the possible exception of the Pentagon, the victims of the attack were civilians, considered non-combatants. Attacking them was not a military strike but an act of terror perpetrated by people filled with intense hatred and a disregard for the sanctity of human life.
You may have known people who were killed that day. I lost several friends in the attack on the Pentagon. So as we mourn the loss of those murdered that day, let us also remember their families and friends. And with the Love of Christ in our hearts, let us remember also those who perpetrated and supported the attacks.
We live in a sick and dying world. Terror continues, wars are waged, humans are trafficked as commodities, people are hungry and children suffer. We live in a lost world, but we have the answer of hope.
I ask that you pray with me in silence as we remember those who were taken, remember their families, remember the perpetrators and pray for a boldness in our hearts to share the message of Christ to this lost world.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Work on 5th Street has begun
A couple of pine trees dropping to the ground were the first tangible signs of the road construction along 5th Street in Anderson in front of Reardon Auditorium on the Campus of Anderson University. Road closure signs are at the ready to shut off vehicular traffic along this section of street. The excavation of the sidewalks and street will begin soon as the limit markings have been painted along the ground flanking each side of the road.
Students made their exodus just in advance of the programmed road construction. But, those coming in for the numerous summer camps and the North American Convention of the Church of God will have to cope with the dust, dirt and road noise as the needed improvements to this small section of street materialize throughout the summer.
It will be beautiful once complete but the process will be a bit unpleasant. But of course, that is often the price of progress.
Students made their exodus just in advance of the programmed road construction. But, those coming in for the numerous summer camps and the North American Convention of the Church of God will have to cope with the dust, dirt and road noise as the needed improvements to this small section of street materialize throughout the summer.
It will be beautiful once complete but the process will be a bit unpleasant. But of course, that is often the price of progress.
Friday, April 24, 2009
An Unsettling Mistake
Regrettably, due to some internal errors, the wrong text copy for the May–June 2009 issue of the Communion newsletter was provided to the printer. Consequently, the publication inaccurately reported that this would be “the last issue of Communion as we have known it.” It was further stated that Communion would be replaced by a publication to be launched this June during the North American Convention of the Church of God. This is not the case.
It is true that Church of God Ministries has been in the process of developing a new publication to serve the church. This new publication will seek to provide the church with better resources for ministry and tools for leadership and ministry development while further enhancing our relational connectivity. The coverage will span the whole church, from the local church on through our collective global outreach efforts, with the intent to connect you globally and empower you locally.
Once fully developed, this new publication will replace Communion and also provide news and information about our missionaries and their projects. However, the new publication is still in the development stage and will not be ready for release for some time.
In the interim, Communion will continue to be published every other month and will be expanded to include coverage of our Global Missions outreach efforts. In the near future, we will provide you with more information about the exciting new publication being planned.
The corrected version of this issue of Communion can be found by clicking here. Please accept our apologies for any confusion this may have caused.
It is true that Church of God Ministries has been in the process of developing a new publication to serve the church. This new publication will seek to provide the church with better resources for ministry and tools for leadership and ministry development while further enhancing our relational connectivity. The coverage will span the whole church, from the local church on through our collective global outreach efforts, with the intent to connect you globally and empower you locally.
Once fully developed, this new publication will replace Communion and also provide news and information about our missionaries and their projects. However, the new publication is still in the development stage and will not be ready for release for some time.
In the interim, Communion will continue to be published every other month and will be expanded to include coverage of our Global Missions outreach efforts. In the near future, we will provide you with more information about the exciting new publication being planned.
The corrected version of this issue of Communion can be found by clicking here. Please accept our apologies for any confusion this may have caused.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
NAC Changes
Church of God Ministries recently announced the change in location of the primary venue for the AM and PM services at NAC. (Release below)
Many have questioned the decision. Let me address a few of the questions:
Some question if a deterioration in the relationship and agreement with AU is the primary issue leading to the change - not true! Our relationship with AU remains strong and they have and continue to be a great host. The move from the Wellness Center was made out of financial considerations that have nothing to do with AU. The cost associated with us converting the field house into an auditorium (sound, lights, stage, chairs, etc.) has become prohibitive in this time of constrained budgets. The decision was made simply to be better stewards of the resources provided.
Some are concerned that people staying on the convention grounds will not be able to get to/from the PM services at Madison Park Church of God. Shuttle service to/from the grounds will be provided.
Some are concerned Madison Park will not have sufficient seating to accommodate the number of attendees. We will be using both the main sanctuary and have over flow into the youth auditorium. Seating won't be a problem. Plus, it will be vastly more comfortable than the folder chairs used in the Wellness Center or even the old Dome.
Some are concerned the conferences will be moved. Most conferences will remain on the convention grounds.
Bottom Line. We are seeking to be the best possible stewards of the resources we have been provided. We have had to evaluate closely how we spend the dollars provided. It seems prudent for us to cut expenses at NAC this year and move to another location that offers better amenities and will save us THOUSANDS of dollars. Those saved dollars can and will support the continued ministries of the church.
Convention to Celebrate Missions Centennial, Venues Change
The North American Convention of the Church of God, (June 26–July 1, 2009) is rapidly approaching, and the plans are being finalized for what will truly be a spectacular convention as we celebrate one hundred years of the Church of God’s sending missionaries out to reach the world for Christ. The theme for this year’s convention is Live out the Love of Christ. Come be part of the gathering in Anderson, Indiana, as together we celebrate our missions history, worship through the spoken word and lift our voices in songs of praise to our Lord and Savior. But please be aware that there will be a few changes from previous years.
The locations for some of the primary venues have changed for this year. Instead of meeting in the Kardatzke Wellness Center, the evening services will be held at Madison Park Church of God located on the south side of Anderson.* The morning worship services will be held at Park Place Church of God.
“Anderson University has been a gracious host for these many years, and we have truly appreciated their spirit of partnership,” said Dr. Ronald V. Duncan, general director for Church of God Ministries. “But the cost associated with renting chairs, platforms, sound equipment, and lighting necessary to transforming the Kardatzke Wellness Center from a field house into an auditorium for worship has become a cost we just cannot afford at this time. We are grateful that AU will continue to make their beautiful campus available to our guests; providing space for conferences, residence hall room rental and the management of the camp sites.”
In spite of the venue changes, the convention will still offer high quality educational conferences, inspiring worship services, and opportunities to connect with brothers and sisters from across the movement. Most all of the conferences will be held on the Anderson University campus, Park Place Church or at the Church of God Ministries Center. Be sure to check the Web site (www.chog.org) or program book for exact times and locations.
This year’s convention will also launch a new era of intercultural ministry with new strategies and visions. Many of our missionaries will be in the United States to participate in the convention and celebration. To further enrich and represent the global presence of the Church of God, national leaders of the Church of God from countries across the world will also join us for the convention.
Plan also to attend a special town-hall meeting hosted by Rev. Robert Moss, chair of the General Assembly, and Dr. Ronald Duncan as they discuss the “The State of the Church.” Come with your questions and participate in this discussion on Monday, June 29, 2009, 3:30–5:00 pm, in Reardon Auditorium.
“I am confident the Convention will be a Spirit-filled time of celebration and worship,” said Duncan. “We may have had to change the locations for our services, but I know the presence of the Lord will be with us, lives will be changed, and we will be blessed.”
Come worship our Lord together. Come fellowship with brothers and sisters from across the country and around the world. Come grow in the Spirit. Come be a part of the global experience. Come live out the love of Christ.
You can learn more about this year’s convention and register online by visiting www.chog.org/NAC or calling 800-848-2464, ext. 2130.
* Shuttle service will be available to and from Madison Park Church for the evening services for those who will be staying in the dormitories or camping on the grounds.
Many have questioned the decision. Let me address a few of the questions:
Some question if a deterioration in the relationship and agreement with AU is the primary issue leading to the change - not true! Our relationship with AU remains strong and they have and continue to be a great host. The move from the Wellness Center was made out of financial considerations that have nothing to do with AU. The cost associated with us converting the field house into an auditorium (sound, lights, stage, chairs, etc.) has become prohibitive in this time of constrained budgets. The decision was made simply to be better stewards of the resources provided.
Some are concerned that people staying on the convention grounds will not be able to get to/from the PM services at Madison Park Church of God. Shuttle service to/from the grounds will be provided.
Some are concerned Madison Park will not have sufficient seating to accommodate the number of attendees. We will be using both the main sanctuary and have over flow into the youth auditorium. Seating won't be a problem. Plus, it will be vastly more comfortable than the folder chairs used in the Wellness Center or even the old Dome.
Some are concerned the conferences will be moved. Most conferences will remain on the convention grounds.
Bottom Line. We are seeking to be the best possible stewards of the resources we have been provided. We have had to evaluate closely how we spend the dollars provided. It seems prudent for us to cut expenses at NAC this year and move to another location that offers better amenities and will save us THOUSANDS of dollars. Those saved dollars can and will support the continued ministries of the church.
Convention to Celebrate Missions Centennial, Venues Change
The North American Convention of the Church of God, (June 26–July 1, 2009) is rapidly approaching, and the plans are being finalized for what will truly be a spectacular convention as we celebrate one hundred years of the Church of God’s sending missionaries out to reach the world for Christ. The theme for this year’s convention is Live out the Love of Christ. Come be part of the gathering in Anderson, Indiana, as together we celebrate our missions history, worship through the spoken word and lift our voices in songs of praise to our Lord and Savior. But please be aware that there will be a few changes from previous years.
The locations for some of the primary venues have changed for this year. Instead of meeting in the Kardatzke Wellness Center, the evening services will be held at Madison Park Church of God located on the south side of Anderson.* The morning worship services will be held at Park Place Church of God.
“Anderson University has been a gracious host for these many years, and we have truly appreciated their spirit of partnership,” said Dr. Ronald V. Duncan, general director for Church of God Ministries. “But the cost associated with renting chairs, platforms, sound equipment, and lighting necessary to transforming the Kardatzke Wellness Center from a field house into an auditorium for worship has become a cost we just cannot afford at this time. We are grateful that AU will continue to make their beautiful campus available to our guests; providing space for conferences, residence hall room rental and the management of the camp sites.”
In spite of the venue changes, the convention will still offer high quality educational conferences, inspiring worship services, and opportunities to connect with brothers and sisters from across the movement. Most all of the conferences will be held on the Anderson University campus, Park Place Church or at the Church of God Ministries Center. Be sure to check the Web site (www.chog.org) or program book for exact times and locations.
This year’s convention will also launch a new era of intercultural ministry with new strategies and visions. Many of our missionaries will be in the United States to participate in the convention and celebration. To further enrich and represent the global presence of the Church of God, national leaders of the Church of God from countries across the world will also join us for the convention.
Plan also to attend a special town-hall meeting hosted by Rev. Robert Moss, chair of the General Assembly, and Dr. Ronald Duncan as they discuss the “The State of the Church.” Come with your questions and participate in this discussion on Monday, June 29, 2009, 3:30–5:00 pm, in Reardon Auditorium.
“I am confident the Convention will be a Spirit-filled time of celebration and worship,” said Duncan. “We may have had to change the locations for our services, but I know the presence of the Lord will be with us, lives will be changed, and we will be blessed.”
Come worship our Lord together. Come fellowship with brothers and sisters from across the country and around the world. Come grow in the Spirit. Come be a part of the global experience. Come live out the love of Christ.
You can learn more about this year’s convention and register online by visiting www.chog.org/NAC or calling 800-848-2464, ext. 2130.
* Shuttle service will be available to and from Madison Park Church for the evening services for those who will be staying in the dormitories or camping on the grounds.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Community Reached with Dr. Seuss and Marriage Courses
A great article by our missionaries in New Zealand using different tools to reach the people of their community. Thanks Chad and Diane Davenport for sharing.
Auckland, New Zealand—The new creative arts team has been busy the past few months. Recently, we’ve presented some special outreach Sunday services that would connect with young unchurched families, including Dr. Seuss Visits Westside Christian Fellowship (WCF).
Our first “family service” was titled “The Mythbusters’ Challenge.” Children were given the opportunity to pose questions to a panel of somewhat-dubious “experts.” After hearing the answers, the children were then asked to pick the right answer. Although there were plenty of humorous moments, this helped to crack some common misconceptions about Christianity, even among some of the visiting adults who do not attend church.
Last month, the team produced a dramatic show called “The Gospel (According to ‘Horton Hears a Who’),” complete with puppets, a Who hunt, and a Who feast. Using scenes from the book and movie, the puppets explained how we can all be friends with God even when we can’t see, hear. or touch him. The youth group led the worship time.
Both these family services have helped to draw larger attendances of fifty to eighty people. Increasingly, WCF feels like it is starting to take shape as church of the community. We often find that our new visitors already know several members of the congregation as a result of just living in the area.
The Marriage Course: We are nearly finished with our third season of hosting the Marriage Course. This has been an effective tool in getting to know couples in the community and sharing Bible-based principles that promote healthy marriages. Because of our wonderful leaders and the great content, we already have people in the community wanting to participate in the next course in February.
One of the greatest transitions happened in the lives of a separated couple that had almost given up. On the opening night, we watched the wife practically drag her atheist husband in the door. On the second week, he smiled a lot more and engaged with others around the dinner table. As the weeks passed by, he began to put his arm around his wife and take much greater interest in the teaching.
While we are on the topic of marriage, Chad has had the opportunity to officiate three weddings this year. Being involved with the weddings has sparked some deeper conversations with couples and guests about God. The most recent wedding was particularly encouraging as we also see the wife taking conscious steps toward Christ. We pray that God will continue working miracles among couples like these.
Special assignment missionaries like Chad and Diane Davenport, extend the ministry reach of the local church to touch people for Christ in far away places like Auckland, New Zealand. “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Act 1:8 niv). The generous gifts from local congregations and caring individuals supporting the collective ministries of the church reach people for Christ in a variety of ways, sometimes using Dr. Seuss or marriage courses.
To learn more about the ministry of Chad and Diane Davenport, click here.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
JoAnn Tate, Special Assignment Missionary Unexpectedly Dies
It is with a very heavy heart that we inform you of the death of JoAnn Tate, Special Assignment Missionary to Trinidad.
JoAnn’s untimely death occurred December 20th at the Arima Hospital in Port of Spain, Trinidad shortly after returning there from overseas travel. The cause of her death is unknown at this time.
JoAnn and her husband Bob have served faithfully for nearly two years in Trinidad and Tobago. JoAnn worked as a teacher in the West Indies Theological College (WITC) and Bob used his expertise and knowledge of agriculture to assist the people there.
“The Tates have made a tremendous impact at the West Indies Theological College,” said Bob Edwards, coordinator for Global Missions at Church of God Ministries. “Their personal efforts have made significant enhancements in both the academics and the development of the physical plant for the school during these difficult and financially challenging times. During a phone conversation with President Clinton Providence of the West Indies Theological College, he told me they don't know what they will do without JoAnn; ‘this is a great loss to the students and school.’”
Earlier in their ministry career, the Bob and JoAnn served for ten years as para-missionaries in Peru.
JoAnn is survived by her husband – Bob; six children with their’ spouses and children; and JoAnn’s parents – Tom and Lois Shields.
While we grieve for the loss of JoAnn, we can rejoice knowing she will be there in heaven with the Messiah as we here on Earth celebrate his birth this Advent Season.
Please pray for comfort and peace for the Tate family during this difficult time.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
CGM Calls for Days of Prayer and Fasting
Let me applaud the leadership of General Director Ron Duncan for taking action by requesting the employees of Church of God Ministries participate in a dedicated time of prayer and fasting to take our petitions concerning the economy to the Lord. Thank you for the leadership. I hope our pastors and congregations will also join in and support this effort.
CGM News Release:
Days of Prayer and Fasting for Economy
The headlines scream recession, layoffs, plant closures, bailouts, record unemployment, failing economies. What is a Christian to do? What is the church to do? Church of God Ministries is taking action by bringing the concern to the Lord.
Beginning January 21 and continuing for the next five months, the staff of Church of God Ministries (CGM) will have a dedicated day of prayer and fasting to lift up the financial crisis facing the United States and other countries of the world.
“We seek to rally the disciples of Jesus Christ and lift our petitions through prayer and fasting to the Lord,” said Dr. Ronald V. Duncan, general director of CGM. “Our staff will pray together and individually through out the day specifically for the financial crisis facing the people of the world.”
Duncan hopes others will join them on the third Wednesday of each month. “We invite people from our local community to join with us here in our offices,” said Duncan. “But we hope others from across the country and around the world will also join us in united prayer.”
To help those wishing to participate, CGM is producing a guide to assist individuals focus their prayer. The resource will be available for download off the CGM homepage.
The CGM employees will gather from 7:30–8:00 am (EST) and then again from 4:30–5:00 pm, all on company time, for a period of united and focused prayer. Throughout the day they will also have the opportunity for individual prayer in the chapel.
“People are hurting, lives are being affected, and we want to help, said Duncan. “Taking it to the Lord is one thing we can do. Please pray with us.”
To learn more about the Days of Prayer and Fasting click here or contact Church of God Ministries, e-mail dfarlow@chog.org or call 765-648-2182.
CGM News Release:
Days of Prayer and Fasting for Economy
The headlines scream recession, layoffs, plant closures, bailouts, record unemployment, failing economies. What is a Christian to do? What is the church to do? Church of God Ministries is taking action by bringing the concern to the Lord.
Beginning January 21 and continuing for the next five months, the staff of Church of God Ministries (CGM) will have a dedicated day of prayer and fasting to lift up the financial crisis facing the United States and other countries of the world.
“We seek to rally the disciples of Jesus Christ and lift our petitions through prayer and fasting to the Lord,” said Dr. Ronald V. Duncan, general director of CGM. “Our staff will pray together and individually through out the day specifically for the financial crisis facing the people of the world.”
Duncan hopes others will join them on the third Wednesday of each month. “We invite people from our local community to join with us here in our offices,” said Duncan. “But we hope others from across the country and around the world will also join us in united prayer.”
To help those wishing to participate, CGM is producing a guide to assist individuals focus their prayer. The resource will be available for download off the CGM homepage.
The CGM employees will gather from 7:30–8:00 am (EST) and then again from 4:30–5:00 pm, all on company time, for a period of united and focused prayer. Throughout the day they will also have the opportunity for individual prayer in the chapel.
“People are hurting, lives are being affected, and we want to help, said Duncan. “Taking it to the Lord is one thing we can do. Please pray with us.”
To learn more about the Days of Prayer and Fasting click here or contact Church of God Ministries, e-mail dfarlow@chog.org or call 765-648-2182.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Transformation from Death to True Life, One Pastor’s Journey
This is a great story that talks about how one pastor, following the leadership of the Spirit, turned a congregation around and in to an effective ministry for the Lord. Enjoy and many thanks to Carl for the article.
By Carl Stagner,
It’s a scene all too familiar in many churches across the country: plenty of pew space but only a few occupants. New Beginnings Church of God in Meadville, Pennsylvania, was a church struggling to see Sunday morning attendance reach twenty. In the face of certain demise, God stepped in and showed he’s still active in the local church today. As is often the case, he used an unlikely character to lead a major turnaround at New Beginnings. Once a congregation on the brink of defeat, New Beginnings Church of God now sees regular attendance in excess of one thousand. Like a giant, the enemy was set to declare victory over this church; like David, Pastor Harold Ferraro obeyed God’s call and took a stand.
In March of 1993, the Church Growth Team of the Church of God in Western Pennsylvania asked Pastor Harold Ferraro to lead a revitalization effort at New Beginnings Church of God in Meadville. At first, Pastor Harold was reluctant—he said no three times. It became clear, however, that this was where God was leading.
The New Beginnings Church of God in Meadville was established in 1939. In recent years, the church had begun to experience significant decline. Pastor Harold explains that the church’s recent history is marked by not having full-time leadership—and only a fill-in pastor, who commuted on weekends from out of town. When Pastor Harold arrived, he recognized the effects of inconsistent leadership. He also observed a serious lack of purpose and an absence of community outreach. He remarks that the church needed change from the bottom up. “God’s Word doesn’t change, but methods have to,” he notes. He also observed a poisonous mindset among the small congregation: “Many churches expect pastors to do all the ministry,” he says. “My job is to equip the congregation to do the ministry.”
With the support of the Church Growth Team, Pastor Harold moved in and presented the church with a plan—one that would test the resolve and ultimate desire of the church. New Beginnings was dying and needed complete renewal. Pastor Harold explained to his new congregation that he would fill the pulpit and provide consistent leadership if the church would agree to give up control to the Church Growth Team. The church agreed. In order to start afresh, New Beginnings had to ensure there was no chance that the “we’ve-always-done-it-that-way” mindset would slow progress. They scrapped their bylaws and dissolved their boards. Pastor Harold describes his role as that of a “benevolent dictator,” yet accountable to God and the Church Growth Team. After three years of growth and a sense of freedom from the church’s history, the pastor’s steering committee would establish new and relevant bylaws.
Pastor Harold grew up in Meadville. When he returned to the pastorate at New Beginnings, local news publications ran headlines such as “Local boy comes home.” These articles, as well as advertisements and mailers announcing to the community that New Beginnings Church of God was having a grand re-opening, contributed to an immediate rise in Sunday morning attendance to fifty-four. The church experienced rapid growth from the start: the following year, attendance in services was averaging ninety-four people, and by the third, it had risen to several hundred.
Pastor Harold stresses the importance of clear communication with the local church. He says that during these years especially, changes were communicated well. Whether in print or via a regular “state of the church address,” the congregation was kept completely in the loop about what would be taking place. They set clear goals and were not surprised. For example, each year, they asserted, the attendance would average that of the previous Easter Sunday service.
Pastor Harold says that from the beginning, New Beginnings experienced rapid growth. When the size of the congregation exceeded the capacity of the original facility, the church began holding midweek services in a nearby retirement center. The retirement center allowed them to meet for no charge. For the first couple of years, the Church Growth Team’s budget took care of Pastor Harold’s salary. These were only a couple of the numerous ways in which God provided for the church’s ever-increasing financial needs.
After four years of meeting in the original facility, and with attendance averaging 385 with four weekly services, the church relocated to a new building. The church bought seventy-three acres only a mile away from the original site. In order to gain more press coverage and more awareness in the community, the congregation planned to make a mass exodus from the old facility to the new. That Sunday morning in 1998, police escorted the congregation as they walked the victorious mile to the new church. With much anticipation, they opened a new chapter in the history of New Beginnings Church of God.
Over the past sixteen years, Pastor Harold has seen his church grow and reach out deeper into the community. Nearly fifteen hundred people have been saved or restored. Pastor Harold says that more than 40 percent of the church’s growth has come through the counseling services the church provides to the community. Through Mercy House, which was founded along with the rebirth of the church, countless souls have received help for addictions, habits, and struggles. The growth promoted by the counseling center fueled additional growth in the church because, as Pastor Harold explains, the “greatest evangelists are new Christians.”
For Pastor Harold, things weren’t always so pleasant. For many years as pastor, Harold Ferraro worked long hours, dedicating much time and energy to the ministry. He found that he was taking care of his flock and family but not ensuring that his own health was up to par. Eight years ago, after a fierce struggle with cancer, which sent him into a deep depression, Pastor Harold discovered a need to take better care of himself. Doctors had given him little hope for survival, but today Pastor Harold is cancer free. He explains that this experience gave him a passion not to waste time with those things that are unimportant to God’s big picture. Pastor Harold had also suffered a car accident after which doctors also gave him little chance that he would walk again. Today, he’s walking just fine. Pastor Harold has seen God provide even in the darkest times. Now he wants to spend the additional time God has given to him building the Kingdom.
What can pastors and churches do to experience revitalization in their communities? Pastor Harold suggests that much of the problem among churches today is a lack of vision and little sense of purpose. He stresses the importance of strong leadership that seeks to please God first, ahead of the needs of the congregation. He emphasizes that contrary to popular opinion, the church is not a democracy; it’s a theocracy. Democracy in the church doesn’t necessarily lead to God’s ultimate plan. He says the church needs to be constantly casting vision while at the same time engaging in clear communication with the congregation. He asserts that people adjust to change much more smoothly if they aren’t surprised by it. He adds that “congregations have to be to the point where they’re willing to die before they can come alive again.” Let go, and let God lead.
Carl Stagner is a mass communications major at Anderson University
Russian Church Gives in Thanks to India
This story is a great example of how one church community can support another community, even if it is in another country.
Enjoy, Dave
By Dwayne & Kara Goldman
Chelyabinsk, Russia—Although Thanksgiving is a traditional American holiday, there is a Thanksgiving or harvest celebration that the church in Russia celebrates each year. Usually held the last week of September, everyone is invited to bring a representation of the bountiful harvest from their gardens. Apples, potatoes, carrots, beets, greens, gourds, and flowers decorate the front of the auditorium. With such a representation of the bounty God provides from nature, the day is very festive and full of rejoicing and praise.
This year, the Chelyabinsk church held a unity service with another church to celebrate Thanksgiving together. The Open Heaven Church is a small church of about thirty, full of many young people and families, and very solid in faith. The two groups planned the service together, and both brought from their harvests and shared in leading parts of the service. It was a wonderful day of worship, enriched by not just celebrating a harvest but experiencing the bounty of fellowship as the body of Christ with other believers.
Because of the joint service, the pastors made a decision that the offerings for that day should also be part of the Thanksgiving. The churches in Russia, as many around the world, have been praying for the believers in India who have been martyred, displaced, and persecuted. The Russian pastors and leadership chose to take the combined tithes and offerings from the Thanksgiving unity service and send it to the church in India, where lives, homes, and churches have been lost.
At the conclusion of the service, the ladies gathered to pray over the offering box, for the funds to be useful and multiplied, for the believers in persecution to remain strong, for God to uphold, bless, and keep them. The ladies pray every week over the offering box, but this week was very special because these funds will literally carry the prayers and blessing to those persecuted believers. The amazing part is that the offering totaled $800! People gave sacrificially because they knew the offering was going to India.
Is there a better way to celebrate Thanksgiving? Celebrate the blessings of provision and of fellowship with the body of Christ and then giving generously to those who are in need. These churches have need of that weekly offering, but they chose to sacrifice in praise to God. There are very real needs present at these two Russian churches, but they also have learned that God is faithful. Giving with willing and cheerful hearts, in view of God’s blessings, they fully trust him to provide for their needs. What a wonderful economy we have in the family of God!
As we now prepare for the American celebration of Thanksgiving, we are so thankful to be part of this church and witness such events. May our perspectives deepen and thanksgiving be enriched because of the difficulties surrounding us. The worship of the Russian believers was enhanced as they gave thanks for their freedoms even while remembering the sufferings of others. May it be for us all that as we give thanks, we are also challenged to do something practical to help those all around us in need. There are some very real difficulties in all our towns, states, and countries, but allow those to deepen your praise this Thanksgiving. The Lord is good; he will supply our every need, freeing us to give to those in need around us. In the current climate of fluctuating economies and political uncertainties, may such difficulties and instabilities only point our attention more to our never changing God. As this is done, our faith will deepen and our praise will be more joyous. Give thanks!
Learn more about the Goldmans, career missionaries to Russia, by clicking here.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Remembering a fallen Christian and commrade in arms
A few minutes after 8 am on August 8, 2003, he left the gate along with 3 others. They were new to the area and had asked Ron (Staff Sergeant Ronald Richardson) to ride along with them one more day. Ron didn't have to go with them that day. Technically, he was done.
Our military police company had transitioned all of our duties and responsibilities to our replacement unit. We would be leaving that hell-hole of Somalia in a few days. Our unit's mission was complete. But the new soldiers who Ron had been training up for their new duties had asked if he could do one more day of patrols with them - to help them feel a bit more comfortable. The answer from Ron was of course yes. He was that kind of a guy.
In fact, Ron was a great Chirstian young man known for his cheerfulness and willingness to help others. Ron lead a small Bible study for other soldiers in the unit. He had told me a few days before this dreadful day that he had decided not re-enlist in the Army. Of course i was dissappointed. Ron was a great troop with a bright future in the Army. But when he told me why he elected not to stay in the Army, i completely understood. He was answering a higher calling. Ron felt the Lord calling him to be a missionary. And to my suprise - back here in Somalia.
But, for reason I still do not understand this wonderful young leader of men, father of two small boys, husband to a young wife, and son to proud parents was killed shortly after 8 am on the streets of Mogadishu when the Humvee he was riding in was blown to bits by a command detonated bomb. Ron, along with 3 other soldiers in the vehilce died that day for their country in a far off land were the people would rather kill each other than work together for a common good.
So, today I pray for Ron's wife and two boys. I salute him as a soldier -he was a good one. But I praise the Lord for Ron and the Christian example he dispalyed every day in spite of the challenges of combat and the stresses of being away from his loved ones. I am a better man for knowing him in life and death.
God Bless Staff Sergeant Ronald Richardson and the family he left behind.
Our military police company had transitioned all of our duties and responsibilities to our replacement unit. We would be leaving that hell-hole of Somalia in a few days. Our unit's mission was complete. But the new soldiers who Ron had been training up for their new duties had asked if he could do one more day of patrols with them - to help them feel a bit more comfortable. The answer from Ron was of course yes. He was that kind of a guy.
In fact, Ron was a great Chirstian young man known for his cheerfulness and willingness to help others. Ron lead a small Bible study for other soldiers in the unit. He had told me a few days before this dreadful day that he had decided not re-enlist in the Army. Of course i was dissappointed. Ron was a great troop with a bright future in the Army. But when he told me why he elected not to stay in the Army, i completely understood. He was answering a higher calling. Ron felt the Lord calling him to be a missionary. And to my suprise - back here in Somalia.
But, for reason I still do not understand this wonderful young leader of men, father of two small boys, husband to a young wife, and son to proud parents was killed shortly after 8 am on the streets of Mogadishu when the Humvee he was riding in was blown to bits by a command detonated bomb. Ron, along with 3 other soldiers in the vehilce died that day for their country in a far off land were the people would rather kill each other than work together for a common good.
So, today I pray for Ron's wife and two boys. I salute him as a soldier -he was a good one. But I praise the Lord for Ron and the Christian example he dispalyed every day in spite of the challenges of combat and the stresses of being away from his loved ones. I am a better man for knowing him in life and death.
God Bless Staff Sergeant Ronald Richardson and the family he left behind.
Can a designated gift be considered a tithe?
As Christians, we are called to give a tithe (10%) of our income to the Lord.
Leviticus 27:30 (NIV) “A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD.
For those who might argue that a tithe is not actually 10% I suggest Leviticus 27:32 (NIV) “The entire tithe of the herd and flock—every tenth animal that passes under the shepherd's rod—will be holy to the LORD."
But my focus is not on the percentage given but whether designating the gift to a specific project, event, activity would still qualify it as a tithe.
We are to freely give our tithe to the storehouse (the church) Malachi 3:10 (NIV) "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house...."
But if the gift is designated or specified how it is to be used (i.e., to buy a new piano, for the building fund, to support a specific mission project, etc.) and not given to the general expenses of the church, can it be considered a tithe? A designated/specified gift comes with a string attached. A string called personal control.
Isn't a designated gift just another method for the giver to decide how God is to use the money? Is such a gift in the spirit of a tithe where the first fruits are to be brought into the storehouse?
I am challenged to find a Biblical example of a designated gift being considered as a tithe. Perhaps I just haven't researched with enough diligence.
In my review of the scriptures it appears to me that a designated gift would better fit under the category of an offering - something given in excess of a tithe. But the tithe - the first 10% is to be given to the church for the leadership anointed by God to determine its use.
I hope this causes you to question your own giving to the church. I welcome the thoughts of others on this issue and encourage the use of scripture to validate your point.
Blessings,
Leviticus 27:30 (NIV) “A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD.
For those who might argue that a tithe is not actually 10% I suggest Leviticus 27:32 (NIV) “The entire tithe of the herd and flock—every tenth animal that passes under the shepherd's rod—will be holy to the LORD."
But my focus is not on the percentage given but whether designating the gift to a specific project, event, activity would still qualify it as a tithe.
We are to freely give our tithe to the storehouse (the church) Malachi 3:10 (NIV) "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house...."
But if the gift is designated or specified how it is to be used (i.e., to buy a new piano, for the building fund, to support a specific mission project, etc.) and not given to the general expenses of the church, can it be considered a tithe? A designated/specified gift comes with a string attached. A string called personal control.
Isn't a designated gift just another method for the giver to decide how God is to use the money? Is such a gift in the spirit of a tithe where the first fruits are to be brought into the storehouse?
I am challenged to find a Biblical example of a designated gift being considered as a tithe. Perhaps I just haven't researched with enough diligence.
In my review of the scriptures it appears to me that a designated gift would better fit under the category of an offering - something given in excess of a tithe. But the tithe - the first 10% is to be given to the church for the leadership anointed by God to determine its use.
I hope this causes you to question your own giving to the church. I welcome the thoughts of others on this issue and encourage the use of scripture to validate your point.
Blessings,
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