RECENT CONNECTIONS

RECENT CONNECTIONS:

September 27 – October 6 Loretta and I took a road trip through southern Utah to visit with churches and pastors, and then meet with South West Region Superintendents in Las Vegas, Nevada.  Willard and Betty Coleman planted and pastored Richfield Assembly of God in Richfield, UT for the last 35 years.  Willard has been recovering from a serious stroke for the last several months.  After seeing Willard a few days earlier I was able to meet and pray with key leaders of the Richfield church Saturday the 27^th.  I thank God for Willard and Betty and the sacrificial work they have done to reach the Richfield area with the good news of Jesus Christ.  Please continue to pray for Willard and the church as they navigate through this season.

On Sunday, September 29^th I had the privilege of speaking at New Life Christian Center in St. George, UT and meeting with the board.  Jonathan Holiman is serving as interim pastor while the church seeks a new permanent pastor.  Jonathan serves as Associate Pastor at Westview Christian Center in Cedar City, UT and teaches at the University in Cedar City.  God has given Jonathan great favor with the University and the community.  God bless you Jonathan and Stephanie as you lead the church through this important transition.

Monday, September 30^th Loretta and I met with Pastor Jonathan and Lisa Hendren.  Jonathan is the new Pastor at New Beginning Christian Fellowship in Washington, UT (adjacent to St. George).  New Beginning recently joined the Assemblies as a PAC of Westview CC in Cedar City and is making its way to General Council status.  This church is experiencing significant growth.  Welcome to the district Jonathan and Lisa and may God richly anoint your ministry in Washington.

Tuesday, October 1^st Loretta and I met with Pastor Jerry and Emma Van Iwaarden.  Jerry pastors Westview Christian Center.  Jerry was instrumental in the adoption of New Beginning Christian Fellowship into the AG and the calling of Jonathan Hendren as pastor.  It is exciting to see how God is using Jerry and Emma in Cedar City and the surrounding area.  Jerry has become a pastor to the entire community of Cedar City. 

Then we traveled to Las Vegas for a two and a half day meeting with the South West Region Superintendents.  Dr. George Wood was present and the interaction was enriching and enjoyable.

On our way back to Colorado Springs I had the honor of speaking at New Life AG in Avon, CO for Pastor Dan Matney.  The congregation was delightful and populated by a large percentage of children.  Loretta commented to me that this church has some of the most beautiful children in our district.  God bless you Dan and Belinda as you lead this congregation forward.

October 8-9 we conducted our fall Presbytery meeting.  Among the many decisions made was approval to initiate a District School of Ministry (DSOM).  Randy Popineau, our Secretary/Treasurer is leading the research and planning for the launch of this educational resource.  This school will provide classroom teaching and be an avenue of preparation for ministry for those who cannot attend one of our AG colleges.  It will also provide an opportunity to equip congregants who serve in teaching and leadership roles in the church.  We will be sharing more about this initiative at our sectional tour meetings in February.

October 13-16 Loretta and I enjoyed a short vacation to Branson, MO.  I know, we have reached the age when a trip to Branson (the senior’s tour of the entertainment industry) is appealing.  We had a good time with my brother and sister and their spouses – but I digress.

October 19^th I attended the funeral of Pastor Stan Arias in Vernal, UT.  Stan and Karen went to Vernal 34 years ago to pastor what is now called World Vision AG.  This is the only church Stan pastored and he did a great job reaching out to the community and developing a strong congregation.  Along the way they constructed an attractive building and it was packed with people expressing their love and appreciation for Stan.  He had a significant impact on this community of 10,000 people.  Stan is an inspiration to stay faithful in our walk with God and the ministry to which God has called each of us.  May the Lord grant comfort to Karen and Stan’s family.

On the way back to Colorado Springs I joined Loretta in Keystone, CO at the CO WM district retreat.  Loretta spoke Friday night then several workshops were provided on Saturday morning followed by services Saturday night and Sunday morning.  Over 630 ladies were present and it was an enriching time of ministry and encouragement for all who came.  Thanks, Peggy Vawter and leadership team for providing this meaningful event.

Jesus is building His church in Colorado and Utah!  May God abundantly bless you in your place of calling.

PRAISE REPORTS:

Paul Scholtz received word from his Doctor that the cancer has stopped growing and he should have 10 more productive years ahead.

Many came to the aid of victims of the recent flooding in Northern Colorado.  Convoy of Hope came and worked together with Rever AG in Longmont, Pastor Zac Wilkinson and Timberline Church in Fort Collins, Pastor Dary Northrup to provide assistance.  Many from our AG churches in the surrounding areas volunteered time and resources to help under the umbrella of Convoy.  A total of $6,655.84 was given by churches and individuals through the district for flood assistance.  We gave $5,655.84 directly to Convoy of Hope for Colorado flood assistance and $1,000 to Glad Tidings AG in Greeley (Pastor David Meek) to help replace a church van damaged beyond repair in the flooding.  I am grateful our pastors and churches did not suffer significant loss in the flooding.