RECENT CONNECTIONS

RECENT CONNECTIONS:

On Good Friday evening, April 3^rd Loretta and I had the opportunity to attend the “Every Thought Captive” community event at The Cliff House in Manitou Springs, CO sponsored by Living Hope Church and Pastor Phil Steiger of Colorado Springs.  Dr. Craig Blomberg from Denver Seminary spoke to the subject “Are the Christian Scriptures Reliable”.  Dr. Blomberg recently published the book entitled “Can We Still Believe the Bible?”.  This event and periodic ones like it are designed to present the gospel as reasonable, winsome, and true to the community outside the walls of the church.  You can view this event at www.everythoughtcaptive.org.  God bless you Phil in this unique outreach.

Saturday, April 4^th Loretta and I attended the Sarah’s Home Gala at Spruce Mountain Ranch, Larkspur, CO.  Sarah’s Home is moving forward with a recent shift in leadership.  Dr. Scott Bottoms Pastor of Church at Briargate, Colorado Springs, CO is the new chairman of the board and Vicki Proffit is the new Director.  We appreciate the work of founding board chairman Phil Steiger and Director Lincoln Smith.  This strategic ministry is lifting girls out of human trafficking and into God’s salvation and plan for their lives.  May we continue to financially support and pray for this vital ministry.

On April 9^th our friend, Pastor Chris Acquah passed away.  Chris pastored Hope AG in Aurora, CO, a Ghanaian church.  I joined the church Sunday morning, April 12^th to mourn with them and to affirm our hope in Jesus Christ as we worshipped the Lord together.  The church is solid with sound theology and mature leadership which is a tribute to Chris’ ministry.  We are praying for and working with the church to find the Pastor of God’s choosing moving into the future.  The memorial service for Chris Acquah will be May 30, 2015 at Haran & McConaty Funeral Home, 11150 E. Dartmouth Ave., Aurora, CO 80014 at 10:00 a.m.

Tuesday, April 14^th I opened the Colorado Springs City Council meeting with prayer.  I mention this to talk about the President of the City Council, Keith King.  Keith and his wife Sandi are outstanding followers of Jesus Christ.  They moved to Colorado Springs in 1977 just a few weeks after Loretta and I arrived to pastor what was then called Nob Hill Assembly of God; later relocated and renamed Radiant Church.  They became faithful members of the church and started a retail furniture business in Colorado Springs which multiplied into several stores stretching across several states.  Keith also started and continues to serve as President of “Colorado Springs Early Colleges” Charter High School.  Keith and Sandy have faithfully worked in the church in leadership and teaching roles, and have been ardent supporters of missions.

As time went by Keith ran for political office and was elected as a Representative to the Colorado state legislature.  After he was sworn into office he shared with me that one of his goals was to witness to at least one person a week while in office.  He became very influential and rose to leadership within the legislature.  Later Keith was elected to serve as a state Senator.  Following his career in the state legislature Keith was elected to the Colorado Springs City Council and then to President of the Council.  He has served the citizens of Colorado Springs and the state of Colorado for over 18 years in an elected office.

Keith is a tremendous example of a Christian serving Christ in the church and through his career.  The scripture he uses for his City Council service is Ps 71:14-18; verse 18 says “Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me O Lord, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come.”  I thank God for Keith and Sandi who advance the cause of Christ with the gifts and opportunities God gives them.

Thursday, April 16^th Loretta and I joined Cary Coffey, new Executive Director for Teen Challenge of the Rocky Mountains (TC), Daniel Patruska, Director of 180 Ministries (TC’s men’s program), and the men at 180 Ministries for lunch at the South Broadway location in Denver, CO.  Cary shared an update on the Teen Challenge of the Rocky Mountains ministries and their vision for the future.  I thank God for Teen Challenge and their three primary arms of ministry; 180 Ministries, House of Promise, and New Hope House.  God bless you Cary and TC leadership team as you move the ministry forward.

On Sunday, April 19^th I visited Northland Church in Monument, CO and Pastor Jerry Cassell.  I thoroughly enjoyed the friendliness of the congregation, the worship, and Jerry’s message.  Jerry and Susan started this church a few short years ago and have developed a solid congregation that continues to grow and minister effectively in the community.  God bless you, Jerry and Susan!

April 21^st and 22^nd we gathered for our 98^th District Council at Highpoint Church in Aurora, CO, Pastor Gene and Rhonda Roncone.  There was a wonderful spirit of unity and encouragement that permeated our time together. 

In the business sessions Randy Popineau was returned to the office of Secretary-Treasurer, Jerry Cassell was elected to serve as the East Slope Executive Presbyter, the Sectional Presbyters who were selected during Sectional Tour were ratified, Sid Casillas was elected to serve one year as our under 40 representative to the General Presbytery, and Madlyn Tombs was elected to serve one year as our female Ordained representative to the General Presbytery.  The Council also voted to adopt the doing-business-as name of “Rocky Mountain Ministry Network of the Assemblies of God” and to change the title of Superintendent to “Superintendent aka Network Pastor”.

Nate Banke, Dick Hardy, Randy Popineau, Gene Roncone, and Don Steiger shared ministry.  The messages were recorded and are now posted on our web site at www.rmdc.org.

On Tuesday, April 28^th Loretta and I attended the memorial service for Doris Anderson at Calvary Assembly of God in Brush, CO, Pastor Chris and Kathy Russell.  Doris and her husband, Mervin (previously deceased) pastored in Cope and Campo, CO in years past.  In addition to pastoral ministry Doris was a tremendous influence for Christ in the Brush community and as a faithful worker in Calvary AG.

On Thursday, April 30^th it was an honor to participate in the memorial service for Cliff Kornmueller at Friendship AG in Colorado Springs, CO, Pastor Jim and Mary Lou Hagan.  Cliff pastored in Ordway and Colorado Springs, CO and served for 17 years as the Secretary-Treasurer for our District.  The memorial service focused on the anticipated “well done” we believe Cliff will hear from His Lord.  He left a legacy of fine leadership and ministry.  May God grant comfort and strength to Cliff’s wife, Marlene.

May 1^st and 2^nd I attended the Utah Men’s Ministry retreat near Wanship, UT.  Bob Cook was the main speaker (hard to beat that) and I “mopped up” in the last session.  Attendance was strong and I believe each man received something of value from the Lord.  Thank you, Dane Wead, Utah Men’s Ministry Director, for providing this excellent men’s retreat.

The same weekend Randy Popineau attended the West Slope District Men’s Retreat near Gunnison, CO featuring Dave Roever as guest speaker.  The registration was filled to capacity and the ministry was outstanding.  Thanks to Chris Peterson, CO West Slope Men’s Ministry Director, for planning a fine retreat.

May 3^rd I had the privilege of speaking at New Life Northview Church in Farr West, UT, Pastor Seth and Katy Koetitz.  This church started three years ago as a PAC of New Life Fellowship in Logan, UT, Pastor Dane and Beverly Wead and has since moved to General Council status.  The church is strong and growing and now has two morning worship services.  God bless you, Seth and Katy!

Sunday, May 10^th Army Chaplain, Ric Brown was promoted to Lt. Colonel in a ceremony at Church at Briargate, Colorado Springs, CO Pastor Scott and Linda Bottoms.  It was exciting to celebrate this significant advancement in Chaplain Brown’s military and ministry career.  Congratulations Chaplain Brown!

On Sunday, May 17^th I plan to be with Hope Assembly of God in Aurora, CO as they continue on their journey following the death of Pastor Chris Acquah.  Prayer for this church family is appreciated.

MINISTRY INTERCESSIONS

 

 

Ministry Intercessions

There are several personal prayer requests recorded in the scriptures by the Apostles.  These requests give us insight into many of the important issues in vocational ministry.  Following is a brief synopsis of eight of these requests plus one from Jesus.

Pray to live an honorable life:  “Pray for us.  We are sure that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way.” Heb 13:18.  Effective ministry is grounded in a consistent honorable life.  Live a biblical life for the sake of Christ, the church, and yourself.  When ministers live holy lives they experience the abundant life Jesus promised, they protect and build the church, and they bring honor to the name of Jesus Christ.

Pray for God’s protection:  “And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men, for not everyone has faith.  But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.” 2 Th 3:1-2.  Effective ministry requires eagerness for the fray.  Spiritual warfare is a reality; especially for those who are leaders in the church.  Resist the devil by clothing yourself with the armor of God and living in prayer.

Pray for a healthy relationship with the church:  “I particularly urge you to pray so that I may be restored to you soon.” Heb 13:19.  Effective ministry requires love for the church.  Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.  The church is a spiritual hospital and is a bit messy.  Don’t allow the “patients” who don’t get well, or the “patients” who injury you, or imperfect co-workers to rob you of Christ’s love for the church.

Pray for open doors:  “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.  And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains.” Col 4:2-3.  Effective ministry requires obedience to God.  Entering the open doors God sets before you is critical to fruitful ministry.  Paul was in chains when he sent out this prayer request.  He didn’t ask to be delivered from prison; rather that God would open doors to him to share the message.  John Wesley’s following Covenant Prayer (modern English version) embodies the desired attitude of every minister:

“I am no longer my own, but yours.  Put me to what you will, rank me with whom you will; put me to doing, put me to suffering; let me be employed for you, or laid aside for you, exalted for you, or brought low for you; let me be full, let me be empty., let me have all things, let me have nothing:  I freely and wholeheartedly yield all things to your pleasure and disposal.  And now, glorious and blessed God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, you are mine and I am yours. So be it.”

Pray to declare the message clearly:  “Pray that I may proclaim it (the message) clearly, as I should.  Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders, make the most of every opportunity.  Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” Col 4:4-6.  Effective ministry requires wisdom.  Speaking the truth in love, using terminology understood within the culture where you minister, and earnestly praying to be led by the Spirit in your presentation of the gospel is essential.

Pray for courage to declare the message:  “Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains.  Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.” Eph 6:19-20.  We live in an increasingly post-Christian culture and courage is required to proclaim God’s word.  Furthermore, God’s call stretches us beyond our normal abilities and requires a deep dependence on him.  As we seek his guidance and by faith obey him, he will provide the courage we need to do what he has called us to do.

Pray for the message to spread rapidly and be honored:  “Finally, brothers, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you.”2 Th 3:1.  We plant and water, but God makes it grow.  It is the Father who draws people to himself and as co-workers with God we must be faithful to our task trusting God to convince men and women of sin, righteousness, and judgment, and draw people to himself.  Paul ministered in places like Thessalonica where the message spread rapidly.  And, he ministered in places like Athens where it did not.  Apply yourself to God’s call, pray fervently for the message to spread rapidly and be honored, and abandon the outcome to God.

Pray for more ministers:  “Then he (Jesus) said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.  Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.’” Mt 9:37-38.  The work of the ministry is not a solo; it is a symphony.  One voice, one passionate emphasis, one paradigm of ministry is not nearly enough.  Pray for more workers and welcome the addition of others to the army of God in your part of the world and around the globe.

“May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever.  Amen.”  Heb 13:20-21

EFFECTIVE MINISTRY LEADERSHIP

The beginning of a new year can mark a new chapter in one’s life and ministry in the pursuit of God’s very best for us individually and for His church.  As we begin 2015 let me share some biblical bullet points of key elements for “lay” and pastoral leaders in the local church.

First of all one must be a sincere follower of Jesus Christ, if they hope to be an effective leader.  Not just a casual Christian but one who is deeply committed to Christ and demonstrating mature Christ-like characteristics.  Effective ministry leadership requires obedience to God, and a dependence upon Him resulting in his favor.

Second, effective ministry leaders discover and live in the will of God.  Square pegs in round holes don’t work very well.  Service in God’s kingdom usually involves a progression from working where there is an immediate opportunity moving toward one’s sweet spot of natural and spiritual giftedness.  The body of Christ is very diverse and each member has a God given contribution to make.  Finding one’s place in God’s plan requires preparation and discovery.

Third, effective ministry leaders are united with the church.  Arrogant, self-serving attitudes diffuse effective ministry.  Effectiveness in God’s kingdom requires a humble spirit, respect for authority in the church, and a perspective that we all are working together to achieve one purpose.  They seek the success of other ministries within their church as well as their own.

Fourth, effective ministry leaders honor the body of Christ.  They lead with a servant’s heart, and treat people with love and respect.  They understand that each member of the body of Christ is equally important to God and do not make the mistake of projecting their gift set and passion for a specific ministry on others.

Fifth, effective ministry leaders are visionaries.  They have a God given passion for and are students of their area of ministry.  They can picture the desired results of their ministry and develop a plan to achieve the objective.  They are collaborative in the fine tuning of the plan welcoming the input of others engaged in leadership with them.  They develop a vision for their ministry that is harmonious with the mission and vision of their church.

Sixth, effective ministry leaders administrate diligently.  They engage and develop others in the work.  They are accountable.  They communicate with those in authority over them and with those under their authority.  They listen and learn; remaining flexible so as to move the ministry forward efficiently.  They pray – a lot – for the work they are doing.

Seventh, effective ministry leaders overcome the perils of leadership.  They learn how to successfully deal with criticism, disappointments, change, spiritual opposition, burn out, and success.

“It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, and become mature attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.”  Ephesians 4:11-13

REFLECTIONS ON THANKSGIVING

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!  I read of a North Dakota Pastor (I am from ND) who was late getting to church one Sunday morning because of a nasty snow storm.  He was known for always expressing gratitude for something and the congregation wondered what he would thank God for that Sunday.  When he entered the pulpit he said “I thank God not every day is like today.”  What a great attitude. 

The child of God always has something to be thankful for.  This year here in Colorado Springs on June 25^th Loretta’s mother passed away then on October 26^th Loretta’s sister-in-law at the age of 55 years unexpectedly passed away.  Both their deaths caused sorrow, but they were both ready to meet God.  So, in the midst of the sadness and questions we still give thanks for their entry into heaven and for the promise that “God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.”

A healthy, thankful attitude does not deny the reality of trials and heartache.  Rather, it is a balm for the pain we often experience in life; a healing discipline rooted in our faith in God - His past and present realized blessings, and His promised blessings yet to be experienced in the future.

“Be joyful always, pray continually: give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Th 5:16-18

RECENT CONNECTIONS:

We began the month of November at the annual Assemblies of God Executive Conference in Sarasota, FL.  It was a very positive event imparting encouragement, insight, and inspiration.  It didn’t hurt that it was on the warm, sunny coast of Florida.

On Sunday, November 9^th I visited Abundant Life Church in Silverthorne, CO.  The church is in transition with Kay Robinson serving as interim pastor.  May the Lord use Kay and the church board to sustain and lead the church into God’s plan for the future.

Sunday, November 16^th Loretta and I visited Calvary Assembly of God in Brush, CO, and Pastor Chris and Kathy Russell.  The church is growing, and marked by a spirit of excitement and anticipation.  God bless you Chris and Kathy in your leadership.

It was a privilege to meet with Pastor David Goerzen and key leaders of Parker Christian Center in Parker, CO November 20^th to talk about effective church governance and ministry as they continue to reach out to the community and minister to a growing body of believers.  It was invigorating to be with such a healthy team of leaders united in their love for the Lord, their love for each other, and their leadership of the church.

On Saturday, November 22^nd and Sunday, November 23^rd it was my honor to preach in the three weekend services at Mosaic Church in Englewood, CO for Pastor T. J. and Robin Harris.  Mosaic Church continues to grow with a strong emphasis on compassion ministry to the community.  Their platform was filled with 110 Thanksgiving meal baskets which were distributed to the neediest families in Englewood that Sunday afternoon.  God bless you T. J. and Robin.

As the scripture says, “I thank my God every time I remember you.  In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Ph 1:3-6

 

 

CONNECTIONS AND REFLECTIONS

RECENT CONNECTIONS:

Since my last Ebulletin Peggy Vawter and our District Women’s Ministry conducted the Colorado District Woman’s retreat, October 3-5, in Keystone, CO with outstanding attendance.  Peggy is resigning as our WM Director effective December 31, 2014 after 24 years of leadership.  Thank you Peggy for your dedicated and effective ministry!

On Thursday, October 9^th Tuusolo Sua, Pastor of Samoan First Assembly of God in Colorado Springs, CO for 28 years was laid to rest.  It was an honor to join with the congregation plus many friends and family to express our love and appreciation for Pastor Sua in the memorial service.  I think he is receiving a hero’s welcome in heaven for his service to the Lord Jesus Christ.

October 10-11, Loretta and I attended the Utah ministers retreat in Park City, UT.  It was a wonderful gathering marked by laughter, encouragement, and instruction.  We have a great team of ministers in Utah!

On Sunday, October 12^th it was my privilege to speak at Abundant Life Assembly of God in North Salt Lake, UT for Pastor Alex Lucero.  That same Sunday Alex, as Assistant Superintendent, was in Farr West, UT to set in order New Life Northview Church as a General Council church.  Northview began under the leadership of Pastor Seth and Katy Koetitz as a PAC of New Life Fellowship in Logan, UT and Pastor Dane and Bev Wead.  Congratulations to Seth and Dane!

On Saturday, October 18^th I met with the congregation of the Samoan First Assembly of God in Colorado Springs to discuss the way forward following Pastor Sua’s death.  They are a wonderful body of people with an excellent spirit.  I pray for God’s comfort and sustaining grace in the church, and for His will to be done in the selection of a new Pastor.

Sunday, October 19^th I spoke for Pastor Phil and Heather Steiger at Living Hope Church in Colorado Springs.  They are planting a PAC in downtown Colorado Springs under the leadership of Pastor Ryan and Cortney Ragozine.  May God bless this expansion of ministry.

On October 23^rd Loretta and I traveled to Waxahachie, TX to meet with students from our district and speak in the Chapel service Friday morning.  I am excited about the many young people in the RMD who are dedicated to Jesus Christ and pursuing His plan for their lives.

PRESBYTER DECISIONS:

October 14-15 we held our fall Presbytery meeting in Colorado Springs, CO.  Among the many decisions made were the following:

A total of $64,700 was allocated from our district church planting funds to assist with four church planting efforts,

New Beginning Christian Fellowship (Pastor Jonathan and Lisa Hendron), a PAC of Westview Christian Center, (Pastor Jerry and Emma Lee Van Iwaarden) was recommended to the General Council to receive General Council status,

John Vandenberg was appointed as Pastor of New Hope Community Church in Golden, CO and,

Shawn Reine was appointed Fit Pastors Representative for our district.  Shawn will be an advocate and resource for physical health and fitness to our minsters.

STAYING ON TARGET IN A RAPIDLY CHANGING CULTURE:

The decision of the Supreme Court not to overturn lower court decisions on same-sex marriage has validated same sex-marriages in many states including Utah and Colorado.  Recently civic authorities in Houston demanded five local pastors turn over sermons in which they spoke about homosexuality.   These pastors are involved in an effort to overturn an ordinance which allows among other things transgender people to use restrooms of their choice in businesses and public buildings.  Thankfully, the demand to turn over sermons has been withdrawn, but the effort is an indicator of things to come.  These events together with many other developments over recent years make it clear we are entering a post-Christian era in America, and the church is becoming increasingly alienated from our culture.  Though it may seem new to us in our nation the circumstance of alienation was the norm for the New Testament church and to a much greater degree than we are experiencing.

Writing to the church of his day, Peter said, “Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul.  Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” 1 Peter 2 11-12

HOLINESS:  So, as “aliens and strangers in the world” how should the church respond to a culture moving away from Judeo/Christian values?  Peter’s brief comment on the subject provides excellent guidance.  First of all live a HOLY life.  Living for Christ often means living in a manner contrary to societal norms.  The instruction of God’s word isn’t altered by current cultural norms neither should the message of the church be altered.  One of the most encouraging words I received from a member of Bethel Church in San Jose, CA was “you make holiness cool”.  True biblical holiness is beautiful and uplifting; not ugly and destructive.  Being cool is not the product of conforming to the world around us, but rather being transformed into the likeness of Jesus Christ.

HEALING:  Second, live a HEALING life.  Living according to the wisdom of God’s word translates into living a good life which in turn accrues to the benefit of those around us.  When Israel was in Babylonian captivity God instructed them through Jeremiah to “Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce.  Marry and have sons and daughters, find wives, for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters.  Increase in number there; do not decrease.  Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile.  Pray to the Lord for it because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” Jeremiah 29:4-7.  They were to live “the good life” in the midst of an alien culture, and seek peace and prosperity for all.

As pastors we are often conflicted over how the church should influence the world.  I think Tim Keller in his book Center Church provides an excellent overarching perspective on this matter.  He says “…it is best to think of the organized church’s primary function as evangelizing and equipping people to be disciples and then sending the ‘organic church’ – Christians at work in the world – to engage the culture, do justice, and restore God’s shalom. … We teach Christians to integrate their faith and their work so they can be culture makers, working for human flourishing – the common good.  The ‘already but not yet’ of the Kingdom keeps us from a utopian, triumphalistic vision of cultural take over on the one hand, and from pessimism or withdrawal from society on the other.”

HOPE:  A healing life is not only the product of exemplary living, but also a product of ministry to people who do not know Christ.  So, we should also live HOPEFUL lives.  Pointing people to Jesus Christ is the best thing we can do to minister to the hurting world around us. “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.  But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.” 1 Peter 3:15-16.  When God visits us there should be people who will give glory to God because of our good deeds.  On that day every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord.  May as many as possible make that declaration as redeemed children of God who received the message of God’s grace through us.  So, keep sharing the good news of Jesus Christ.

“…I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God – this is your spiritual act of worship.  Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.  Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.”  Romans 12:1-2

Don’t lose heart or accept false guilt because of the deterioration of the culture in which we live.  There will be a great falling away in the end times, but there will also be many – from every tribe and nation – who will come to Christ.  And, His grace is sufficient for His church in troubling times.

 

TRANSITION

MEN’S MINISTRY:  We are moving forward with a new paradigm of District Men’s Ministry.  The Presbytery appointed the following four district Men’s Ministry area leaders: 

Dane Wead for Utah, (North and South Utah sections),

Chris Peterson for the west slope of Colorado, (San Juan, Mountain, West Central, and Northwest sections),

Paul Church for the front range of Colorado, (Denver Metro North, Denver Metro South, Northern, Pikes Peak, and Southern sections), and

Darryl Johnson for the eastern plains of Colorado (Northeast and Southeast sections). 

I want to thank these men for accepting the appointment.  These Men’s Ministry Directors together with a committee of their choosing will be planning a district men’s retreat for their respective areas in 2015 and also be available to consult with churches in their areas regarding men’s ministry.  The objective is to provide retreats that will be better focused on the unique cultures of each area and more accessible to men in our local churches.

CHURCH PLANTING:  Thus far in 2014 the following four new churches are being planted in Colorado and Utah: 

Radiant Inglesia Church, Campus Pastor Geraldo Perea, Colorado Springs, CO a PAC of Radiant Church, Colorado Springs, CO, Pastor Todd Hudnall,

Living Water Church, Campus Pastor Reuben Adame, Syracuse, UT a PAC of Lakeside Community Assembly of God Church, Clearfield, UT, Pastor Lonnie Campbell,

Living Hope Church Downtown, Campus Pastor Ryan Ragozine, Colorado Springs, CO a PAC of Living Hope Church, Colorado Springs, CO, Pastor Phillip Steiger

Go Church, Pastor Nick Callaway, Denver, CO (Stapleton area), a District Affiliated church.

If you have or are now planting a Parent Affiliated Church (PAC), please consider chartering that church as a PAC with the AG.  Chartering a PAC does not change the relationship to the parent church or the governance of the campus church.  Chartering provides recognition for potential referrals, and in the case of new PACs access to church planting resources from the General Council and District Council. 

If you and your church are not planting another church, I encourage you to consider helping a new church plant.  Sharing financial support, personnel, equipment, encouragement, and/or prayer can put a new church over the top.

RECENT CONNECTIONS:

August 1-10 Loretta and I travelled to Springfield MO for various AG administrative meetings followed by the International Church Planting conference and the 100^th Celebration of the Assemblies of God.  It was inspiring to see people from 120 nations come together to give thanks to God for the world-wide ministry of the Assemblies of God over the last 100 years.  And, to humbly seek God’s wisdom and favor going forward to fulfill His mission to reach the world with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

On Sunday, August 17^th, Randy Popineau and I had the privilege of participating in the dedication of the remodeled sanctuary of Hope Assembly of God in Aurora, CO pastored by Chris Acquah.  This is a growing Ghanian church alive with God’s presence.  Congratulations Pastor Chris and Eunice Acquah.

On Saturday, August 23^rd Loretta spoke at a women’s retreat for River of Life Assembly of God in Rye, CO.  River of Life has outgrown their facilities and are now in the process of adding two prefab buildings to accommodate the people.  God bless you Pastor James and Ann Naron, and River of Life Assembly.

On Saturday, August 23^rd and Sunday August 24^th I was honored to preach at the three weekend services of Restoration Church in Colorado Springs, CO.  This is an exciting church and may the Lord continue his blessing on Pastor Paul and Melanie Aragon, and Restoration Church.

RECENT REFLECTIONS

 

JULY PRESBYTERY MEETING:  Our Presbytery had a productive meeting July 8-9.  One outcome of this meeting is a reorganization of our District Men’s Ministry.  We decided to go forward with four area men’s ministry directors serving the eastern plains of CO, the front range of CO, the west slope of CO, and UT.  Selection of the four area directors is under way.  Their primary assignment will be to create a district men’s retreat for their area in 2015.  The reason for this change is to provide retreats that are designed around the interests and needs of men in our churches in those unique areas of our district.  More information will be shared as this takes shape in the coming months.

Also, the Presbytery approved the appointment of Melanie Aragon as our new Girl’s Ministry Director effective January 1, 2015.  Melanie’s husband, Paul is pastor of Restoration Church in Colorado Springs, CO.  Congratulations, Melanie and thank you for accepting this important ministry assignment.

New Life Northview church, Pastor Seth and Katy Koetitz, in Far West, UT was recommended for General Council status pending General Council ratification.  This church was planted in 2012 as a PAC of New Life Fellowship, Pastor Dane and Beverly Wead in Logan, UT and is thriving.  Congratulations Seth and Dane.

My report to the Presbyters included the upcoming church planting effort in the core of Denver by Steve Pike and his Urban Islands Church Planting project.  The Denver urban area is in need of more churches and I am excited about this development.   Also, John Palmer, Executive Director of Emerge, will be bringing regional Healthy Ministers Seminars to the RMD in 2015.

CHRUCH MULTIPLICATION ESSENTIAL:  The Essential boot camp was conducted at Red Rocks Church in Golden, CO July 14-18.  A large number of church planters, core team members, and pastors planting PACs were present.  Thanks to Pastor Shawn Johnson and Red Rocks Church for hosting this conference.  Also, thanks goes to Jerry Cassell and all the coaches he coordinated from the RMD to serve during the conference.

Church planting remains an essential ingredient in reaching people for Jesus Christ.  I pray the Lord helps us increase the number of churches in CO and UT.

CAMPS AND PK RETREAT:  Lee and Renae Terry conducted the PK retreat at Copper Mountain, July 21-21.  This is a meaningful event for ministers’ kids and it was exciting to see so many come.  We have had a very good summer of camps for children and teenagers.  Thanks to our Royal Ranger Director, Jack Marshall, Girl’s Ministry Director, Linda Bottoms, Children’s Ministries Director, Jay Risner, and Youth Director, Lee Terry, and all their team members who provide these wonderful ministry experiences for our young people.

DENVER DREAM CENTER:  Bryan Sederwall formally started a Dream Center in downtown Denver.  Bryan has been working in pastoral ministry in the downtown area for several years and has already developed several ministry efforts in cooperation with Denver civic leaders to address many of the needs in urban Denver.  Some of the ministry underway includes ministry to men coming out of prison, Adopt a Block at several sites in partnership with the Denver Housing Authority, after school programs, Sunday night services at Step 13, and administering Friday night recreation for youth with the City of Denver, and Parks and Rec. 

The Denver Dream Center is about “Rescuing People…Rebuilding Lives…Restoring Dreams” and welcomes church mission trips to assist in the ministry.  If you are interested and would like to learn more, their web site is www.denverdreamcenter.org.

NEW BOOK BY TODD HUDNALL:  Pastor Todd Hudnall, Radiant Church, Colorado Springs, CO recently authored the book “Church Come Forth” published by CrossBooks a Division of LifeWay.  Todd presents a “biblical plan for transformational turnaround” in this practical and helpful book.  I believe this book is an excellent resource for every pastor.  Congratulations, Todd and thanks for this helpful resource.