Wednesday, November 26, 2014

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 25th Loretta’s mother passed away then on October 26th 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 9th 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 16th 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 20th 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 22nd and Sunday, November 23rd 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 9th 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 12th 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 18th 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 19th 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 23rd 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 100th 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 17th, 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 23rd 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 23rd and Sunday August 24th 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.

Sunday, July 13, 2014

REFLECTIONS


 
July 1st I officially returned from a two month sabbatical granted by the Presbytery per our district policy.  Over the years I have experienced the value of periodic sabbaticals.  It provides time for rest, reflection, prayer, study, clarified perspective, and renewal for ministry.  In our district policy provision is made for our full time Executive Officers to take a sabbatical every six years and I recommend sabbaticals for lead pastors and associate pastors in long term pastorates.

REFLECTIONS:  In the last few weeks Pastor Charlie Stoumbaugh’s wife, Miranda and Pastor Terry Broadwater unexpectedly lost their lives.  We grieve with the families and at the same time give thanks to God for their faith in Jesus Christ and consequent entrance into the presence of God.  Also, on Wednesday, June 25th Loretta’s mother, Arwana, passed away after a long period of physical decline.  She left this life with the assurance of her salvation and great anticipation of entering the Lord’s presence.  In these significant life moments the work of Christ on our behalf becomes even more meaningful and the need to keep spreading the gospel even more urgent.  Your work to fulfill our Lord’s great commission is so important and deeply appreciated.  I pray the Lord of the harvest sends more laborers into the harvest fields of Colorado and Utah so more souls can hear the good news of God’s love and provision of salvation.

TRANSITION:  At District Council we announced Peggy Vawter’s plan to retire as our District Women’s Ministries Director effective December 31, 2014.  Peggy has done a wonderful job as our WM Director and we appreciate her faithful and effective 22 years of service.  The Presbytery subsequently appointed Linda Bottoms to serve as our District WM Director effective January 1, 2015.  Linda accepted the appointment and will continue as our District Girl’s Ministry Director through the end of December.  We are currently working on the selection of a new Girl’s Ministry Director to start January 1, 2015.

Thursday, April 3, 2014

LEADERSHIP AND CONFLICT


When a team of leaders/workers are embroiled in conflict it may be the result of poor leadership.  Healthy teams will disagree at times and debate issues.  However, the debate should not be combative or adversarial.  Rather it should be a healthy exchange of ideas shared in an atmosphere of mutual respect.  We are often tempted to make disagreement on an issue personal and attack the disagreeing person rather than tackling the issue to discover the best way forward.  It is an imperfect world so conflict cannot be avoided entirely, but wise leadership will mitigate an atmosphere of conflict and create unity accompanied by mutual respect.

I believe a healthy, happy, and united team is largely the product of the example of the primary leader, a shared vision, and good communication.  Dismissal or resignation from a team becomes necessary for the good of the cause when one lacks respect for the primary leader, won’t support the vision, or refuses to communicate and cooperate.

A good leader will model a respectful attitude toward others in general and their team in particular.  They are humble, willing to listen, and willing to change when they are wrong.  They correct in private and compliment publicly.  They have “the back” of their team members.  They also exemplify a steady spirit that allows team members to function without anxiety.  They welcome and create opportunities for laughter and wholesome bonding in team relationships.  On the other hand an angry or erratic leader will foster conflict and thwart progress.  Furthermore, a spiritual leader must lead the way in their relationship with God and impart confidence in the team they are seeking God’s direction in all they do.

Effective leaders have a clear vision accompanied with values that when accepted by a team fosters unity in direction.  For example, when an Associate Pastor begins to chafe under a Lead Pastor’s vision that is an indication the Holy Spirit is nudging him/her into another role where they can fully express their vision.  Paul and Barnabas parted ways to do what each thought should be done when they could not agree on whether or not to take John Mark on their second missionary journey.  That is far better than trying to sustain a diverging working relationship.

Wise leaders keep communication open.  Conflict on a team often is the result of surprises or lack of communication.  Planning ahead, anticipating questions, preparing people for the future, and having periodic meetings with key people, will help keep the organizational machinery well-oiled and everyone on the same page.  An important ingredient in a healthy, effective ministry is united leadership.  Where unity in the work of God prevails God commands His blessing (Psalms 133:1-3).

Tuesday, March 4, 2014

RECENT CONNECTIONS AND REFLECTIONS





RECENT CONNECTIONS:


The month of February was exciting and full traveling about
2,500 miles throughout Colorado and Utah conducting our annual Sectional
Tour.  It was a joy to meet with so many
of our pastors and in the course of conducting business to experience the
fellowship and mutual support of each one present.  Along the way many shared exciting reports of
what God is doing in their churches and communities.


Amidst the travels I had the privilege of preaching at Life
Church in Salt Lake City, UT.  This is a
church aptly named for the life of God is evident in this growing joyous
congregation.  God bless you Pastor Jim and
Carrie Ayers in your continued ministry.


I thank God for every one of our ministers and pray He will
protect the integrity of each one and abundantly bless their ministry.  I felt the Lord gave me a word for our
ministers on this tour and below is a summation of what I shared.


FINDING JOY IN MINISTRY:


The advancing abandonment of Judeo-Christian values in our
American culture causes us to grieve and even grow angry.  Though these developments are very concerning
we cannot allow anger to fester or it will pollute our hearts and ministries.  Several years ago Dean Merrill wrote an
excellent book entitled “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry Church” in which he
exposed the counter-productiveness of an angry church trying to influence the
world.


The Greco-Roman dominated world Jesus lived in was even more
corrupt than the world we live in today.
Yet, the kingdom of God was ruling in His heart as He lived out His life
and ministry in the kingdom of this world.
The bible succinctly describes the primary characteristics of the
Kingdom of God in Romans 14:17 “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of
eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”


We live in two kingdoms.
The child of God resting in God’s imputed righteousness and doing things
God’s way reflects His kingdom in a world permeated by evil.  Furthermore, being at peace with God through
faith in Jesus Christ and at peace with others by living out the love of Christ
reflects His kingdom in a world filled with conflict.  Living in the joy of the Lord in a hurting
world is also a reflection of God’s kingdom.


Biblical joy is the feeling of gladness based on the
provision God made for us and His unchanging nature.  This is the joy of the Lord that He desires
in us (John 15:9-11).  It does not come
and go based on the immediate circumstances around us, as is the case in our
normal experience with happiness.  As
ministers of the gospel I believe we need to be immersed in the joy of the
Lord.  Healthy Christians experience this
undergirding joy and flourishing churches exhibit the characteristic of
joy.  Joy is a sustaining factor in one’s
faith and a needed commodity in our hurting world.  Joy brings magnetism to the gospel.


Indeed, we will experience the sorrow that is so abundant in
a world without God for it rains on the just and the unjust.  And, we will sometimes be called upon by God
to suffer for His cause.  But for the
Christian, when heartache in the kingdom of this world collides with the joy
resident in the kingdom of God, joy will ultimately prevail.  Suffering is temporary; God’s joy is eternal.


Biblical perspective and faith opens the door of our hearts
to God’s joy.  Consider the following:


SALVATION PRODUCES JOY:
   

“Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him
now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for
you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.”  1 Peter 1:8-9


DISCOVERING GOD’S PURPOSE PRODUCES JOY:

              Presence – “you will fill
me with joy in your presence” Psalms 16:11

              Transformation – “But the fruit
of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
gentleness and self-control.  Against
such things there is no law.”  Galatians
5:22

              Obedience – “If you obey my
commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s
commands and remain in his love.  I have
told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be
complete.”  John 15:10-11

                Suffering – “…we also
rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces
perseverance, perseverance, character, and character, hope.  And hope does out disappoint us, because God
has poured his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given
us.”  Romans 5:3-5

                Relationships – “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.”  Philippians 1:3-6


ETERNAL HOPE PRODUCES JOY:

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ!  In his great mercy he has given us new birth
into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and
into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade – kept in heaven for
you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the
salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.  In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a
little while you may have to suffer grief in all kinds of trials.”  1 Peter 1:3-6


“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of
our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its
shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne on God.  Consider him who endured such opposition from
sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”  Hebrew 12:2-3


Rejoice in the Lord for “the joy of the Lord is your
strength” (Nehemiah 8:10b).

Thursday, January 30, 2014

RECENT CONNECTIONS


RECENT CONNECTIONS:

Sunday, January 5th Loretta and I worshipped with Restoration Church in Colorado Springs, CO.  This is an exciting and growing church under the leadership of Pastor Paul and Melanie Aragon.  May God grant a new year of health and fruitfulness for the Aragons and Restoration Church.
On Sunday, January 12th we visited the launch of Radiant Church’s new Liberty High School campus church in Colorado Springs, CO.  Over 300 people were present and an exciting environment of worship, gospel proclamation, and fellowship was palpable.  God bless you Pastors Todd and Kelly Hudnall, and Campus Pastor Patrick and Lanitha Tanton as you move forward with this expanded ministry.
Sunday, January 19th we visited The Sanctuary in Fort Morgan, CO and Pastor Gary and Billie Meadows.  They are now worshipping in their beautiful new facility.  The facility is wonderful and the church is flourishing.  Congratulations on the new building, Gary and Billie, and may God continue His blessing on you and The Sanctuary.
The week of the 20th we conducted district budget and finance meetings with Department Leaders and Executive Presbyters plus Ordination candidate interviews and a special Ordination banquet.  Then our Presbyters met for our January meeting.  God has given us excellent people in leadership and I thank Him for each and every one.
Our Presbyters considered many important matters and among the decisions made are the following:
The application for New Community Church in Lehi, UT to become a General Council church was approved.  Congratulations Pastor David and Melissa Nicholson on this significant step forward.

Elements Church in Summit County, CO, Pastor Lelia and Eric Ojala, was also approved as a General Council church and we congratulate the Ojalas on the progress of Elements Church.
Peak Life Church in Woodland Park, CO, a replanted District Council church, was approved as a Parent Affiliated Church of Radiant Church in Colorado Springs, CO.  Pastors Ken and Kim Hellmer of Peak Life Church, and Pastor Todd Hudnall of Radiant Church will now move forward in ministry partnership.  An expanded and enhanced ministry is already underway in Woodland Park as a result.
Boulder County Community Church (BCC) in Louisville, CO, a new District Council Church which will publicly launch Easter Sunday, was approved as a Parent Affiliated Church of Rever AG in Longmont CO.  Pastor Samuel and Melodie Scalf of BCC, and Pastor Zac and Lisa Wilkinson of Rever will now go forward in ministry partnership to establish BCC.

On Saturday, January 25th it was my honor to preach the Memorial Service for Herb Jones.  Herb was 89 years old when he entered the presence of our Lord.  He was an Ordained AG minister and served as an evangelist, pastor, radio bible teacher, and missionary.  He and his family were residents of Colorado Springs for over 30 years during which time he worked as a pastor, missionary, and bible teacher.  Herb is much loved and left a rich God-honoring legacy.

Sunday, January 26th I had the privilege of installing Pastor Stan and Gevena Rutkowski as the new
Lead Pastor of Living Waters Ministries in Salida, CO.  Welcome to the RMD Stan and Gevena.  I pray for God’s abundant blessing on you and Living Waters as you assume this new ministry assignment.


Sunday, February 2nd the Denver Broncos play in the Super Bowl and much prayer will be offeredJ

SECTIONAL TOUR:

Sectional tour begins Monday, February 3rd.  We have a number of elections to conduct, pertinent resource information to share, a ladies session with Loretta, and an enjoyable meal together with a time of encouragement from God’s word. 
In the minister’s session we will be “rolling out” the District School of Ministry (DSOM) which is slated to begin this fall. Randy Popineau will be providing information on the classes to be offered, locations, dates, and registration.  I believe this will be an excellent resource for those preparing for
credentialed ministry, and also for church leaders and workers wanting to expand their understanding of the scripture and their proficiency in ministry.  I look forward to seeing you in your section.
MARRIAGE AND FAMILY SEMINAR RESOURCE:

We are blessed to have several astute Christian counsellors in our RMD credentialed ministry family.  At the risk of forgetting one they are:  John Gowins, Gary Bruegman, George Stahnke, Randy Stanko, David Taylor, and Jared Pingleton.  Dr. Pingleton recently moved to Colorado Springs to serve as Clinical Director for the Counseling Department of Focus on the Family.  He is the author of the excellent book entitled “Making Magnificent Marriages”.  He is a gifted and popular speaker and is available to conduct weekend marriage seminars.  You can contact him at jared.pingleton@fotf.org or at 719-533-6793.

PRAYER NEED:
Glenda Veliquette, Paul’s wife, is facing vascular surgery after discovering blockage in both carotid
arteries.  Please pray for God’s protection and healing.