Thursday, October 13, 2011
RECENT CONNECTIONS
PRESBYTERY CHANGE:
The Denver Metro South Section met yesterday, October 12th to select a new Presbyter following the departure of Jon Hamp from that position. Paul Church, Pastor of Dakota Ridge Assembly in Littleton, CO was elected to this position and Gene Roncone was elected to take Paul’s place as a Sectional Committee Man. Thank you, Paul and Gene.
RECENT CONNECTIONS:
One of the most enjoyable aspects (normally enjoyable) of serving as Superintendent is the opportunity to connect with our Pastors and churches sometimes to minister and sometimes to simply be present to encourage and support. In my three and one half years I have been able to worship and often minister in over 75 of our churches on the weekends.
On August 28th my responsibilities took me into a heartbreaking church scenario as I met with a pastor who confessed to a moral failure and then participated in a meeting with the leaders of the church where he confessed to them. Thankfully God is at work in the life of this minister and the church.
On September 4th I ministered together with Fran Vernaza (interim Pastor) at Discovery Church in Parker CO. Discovery Church is one of our open churches. The church was planted two years ago by Jon and Angie Hamp and God has done wonderful things in the short life of this church. Raising up new churches is challenging and I appreciate Jon and Angie’s work.
On September 8th Loretta and I visited Dave and Hope Taylor and their counseling ministry at Ranch of Hope near West Cliff, CO. They have a very effective ministry to couples and families that serves people in our district and from other parts of the nation as well. They are a terrific resource to help marriages in trouble.
On September 11th I ministered at Lighthouse Worship Center in Walsenburg, CO. Albert Lopez has been serving as Pastor for about one year and the church is doing very well. God bless you Albert.
On September 15 our Executive Presbytery met in Delta, CO to conduct the business of the district. Then we met at Camp Cedaredge on the 16th to receive an update from Lee Terry on the camp. The camping ministry we are able to provide through this facility is serving our district and other organizations very effectively. The facilities and grounds are in great shape with many improvements made during the course of this year. RV Maps workers have made a great contribution to the improvements throughout the summer.
The internship program Lee instituted is working very well and provides several young people with training for ministry and hands on experience in the operation of the camp. This program has proven to also be a great advantage financially. In addition to the benefit of the internship program is the addition of several new clients enabling the camp to operate in the black even with the many improvements that have been made. Churches in the area have also contributed money and workers in the effort.
Lee and Renae have done a great job administering the camp and have done so without interruption to Lee’s work as our DYD. Thanks Lee and Renae.
On September 18th Loretta and I visited Abundant Life Community Church in Arvada, CO. Pastor Dyran Deer is doing a great job leading this church forward. Thank you
Dyran and Lesli for your ministry.
On September 21st our Department Leaders met via phone conference and reviewed the Rocky Mountain Ministries Conference held Friday and Saturday, August 19-20 at Praise AG in Pueblo, CO. Because of the success of this first conference it was decided to present a conference next year as well.
Pastor Ted Miller and Victory Life Church in Fruita, CO have graciously agreed to host our next Rocky Mountain Ministries Conference August 24-25, 2012. The conference will be designed to conclude mid afternoon Saturday allowing participants to rejoin their home church Sunday morning. Our hope is that presenting this on the West Slope of CO will make this resource available to congregants who could not attend the event this year due to distance.
On Friday September 23th I had the privilege of meeting with Herminio Gonzales the Secretary Treasurer of the AG in Cuba. It was humbling and inspiring to hear his story of imprisonment for Christ and his faithfulness through persecution. The AG church in Cuba is flourishing!
On September 25th I ministered at Church at Briargate in Colorado Springs, CO following the resignation of Pastor Randy Popineau. Randy is the founding pastor and led this church for 11 years before accepting the position of District Secretary Treasurer. This church was planted out of Radiant Church when Rob Cowles was Pastor and has done very well. Randy and Joan we appreciate the work you have done to raise up another church for Christ in CO. Randy is now fully engaged as our District Secretary Treasurer.
Sunday evening September 25th through Wednesday morning the 28th Loretta and I hosted the District Superintendent’s from the Southwest Region of our nation at the Glen Eyrie retreat center in Colorado Springs, CO. The retreat was enjoyable and enriching as we fellowshipped and learned from one another.
On October 2nd we worshipped in our home church, Living Hope Church in Colorado Springs, CO. It is always great to join the worship of this fine church and take in the preaching of Pastor Phil Steiger (no prejudice here).
October 7-8 I joined Loretta in Keystone, CO as she attended the Colorado Women’s Ministry Retreat. The attendance was very good and the ministry exceptional. Thanks to Peggy and her team for their fine leadership.
On October 9th I had the privilege of ministering at Abundant Life Church in Silverthorne, CO and installing Jeff McElhattan as their Pastor. Jeff and Cheryl are already deeply engaged with the community having led the Elements church plant in the area. Several unchurched friends of Jeff were present and the service was designed with them in mind.
Elements Church is going forward under the leadership of Leila Ojala. I met with Eric Ojala while in Keystone and I believe God has orchestrated the development of Jeff pastoring Abundant Life, and the Ojala’s and their team moving forward with Elements. These two churches will be able to reach out to two different demographics of people. It is a blessing to see the mutually supportive and complimentary relationship these two churches have.
Congratulations to Eric and Lelia Ojala on the birth of Aspen. Aspen is a beautiful healthy girl.
On October 18th I met with the ministers of the Denver Metro South Section to elect a new Presbyter. We followed the business with lunch together and it was exciting to hear the reports of what God is doing in South Denver.
PRAYER NEED:
Lynn Wickstrom has a serious infection that has settled in his eye. Please pray for Lynn’s healing and for Becky as she administers constant care and is vulnerable to infection.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
GIVING THANKS
We are nearing the Thanksgiving holiday and it causes me to reflect on all I am thankful for. Life is so imperfect there are always things to complain about. However, God has given good gifts to us all and a focus on gratitude is good for the soul and energizing to ministry.
Acts 16 gives us the account of Paul and Silas being unjustly beaten and thrown into prison at Philippi. In prison “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.” (Acts 16:25). “About midnight” refers to the literal time of day, but the context makes that statement rich with spiritual meaning. At a very dark hour in their lives they prayed and worshipped. They were able to see beyond their immediate circumstances and reach up to their transcendent God.
God then produced a violent earthquake that caused the prison doors to fly open and everybody’s chains to come loose. As a result of those dramatic events the jailer and his household listened to Paul and Silas share the message of Christ and placed their faith in Him. In turn the jailer ministered to Paul and Silas by washing their wounds and providing a meal.
I wonder how different that midnight experience would have been for Paul and Silas if they had chosen to obsess on the injustice and pain instead of focusing on God. It would have been common fare for the prisoners to hear them speak of how unjustly they were treated and how angry they were with the perpetrators. A litany of complaints would have fit right in with a worldly perspective. But Paul and Silas were not your ordinary victims of hardship. They were men of faith and divine perspective so they prayed and worshipped. And the prisoners were listening to them. People can’t help but notice the uncommon person who lives with a faith-filled and grateful attitude.
Paul and Silas tapped into the abiding presence of Christ and in so doing received the help they needed from God and ended up ministering effectively to others. Prayer and worship is a good antidote to difficulties. I think the prayer part comes easily as we unburden our hearts with the needs we are facing. The worship part, however, may be overlooked. It requires us to focus on who God is and all He has done for us. It requires a grateful heart.
When I was growing up my church would often sing “count your blessings name them one by one”. That’s good advice for us all
Acts 16 gives us the account of Paul and Silas being unjustly beaten and thrown into prison at Philippi. In prison “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.” (Acts 16:25). “About midnight” refers to the literal time of day, but the context makes that statement rich with spiritual meaning. At a very dark hour in their lives they prayed and worshipped. They were able to see beyond their immediate circumstances and reach up to their transcendent God.
God then produced a violent earthquake that caused the prison doors to fly open and everybody’s chains to come loose. As a result of those dramatic events the jailer and his household listened to Paul and Silas share the message of Christ and placed their faith in Him. In turn the jailer ministered to Paul and Silas by washing their wounds and providing a meal.
I wonder how different that midnight experience would have been for Paul and Silas if they had chosen to obsess on the injustice and pain instead of focusing on God. It would have been common fare for the prisoners to hear them speak of how unjustly they were treated and how angry they were with the perpetrators. A litany of complaints would have fit right in with a worldly perspective. But Paul and Silas were not your ordinary victims of hardship. They were men of faith and divine perspective so they prayed and worshipped. And the prisoners were listening to them. People can’t help but notice the uncommon person who lives with a faith-filled and grateful attitude.
Paul and Silas tapped into the abiding presence of Christ and in so doing received the help they needed from God and ended up ministering effectively to others. Prayer and worship is a good antidote to difficulties. I think the prayer part comes easily as we unburden our hearts with the needs we are facing. The worship part, however, may be overlooked. It requires us to focus on who God is and all He has done for us. It requires a grateful heart.
When I was growing up my church would often sing “count your blessings name them one by one”. That’s good advice for us all
Monday, September 12, 2011
FROM THE HEART
In the commemoration of 9-11 we were all reminded of the horrible acts of terrorism our nation experienced September 11, 2001 and we continue to mourn the resulting loss of innocent American lives. Let me turn my thoughts to a form of spiritual terrorism carried out by Satan in his attacks on the church of Jesus Christ.
“Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” (1 Peter 5:8-9).
Recently, two of my friends in the ministry (one in our district and one in another district) suffered moral failure. The consequences are huge in damaged marriages, heartbroken kids, loss of ministry, loss of employment, and hurting churches. In these last days Satan has increased his efforts to damage God’s servants, smear the church, and destroy ministries. Thankfully, still less than 1% of our ministers suffer moral failure each year, but even one is too many.
There are many factors that contribute to our vulnerability to temptation. An unbalanced life is often a problem. Overwork and burnout can weaken one’s resolve. On the other side of the coin boredom can lead to greater vulnerability. Drifting from God is always a danger. Drifting from marital commitment and enjoyment is another. Involvement in pornography is a morally debilitating trap. A willingness to entertain flirtations outside of marriage is like playing “Russian Roulette” with everything important. Thinking you have earned the right to a little sinful enjoyment is a deception leading to devastating consequences.
Subconsciously seeking a way out of the pressures of ministry sometimes underlies self-destructive behavior by spiritual leaders. Learning better ways to cope, or taking a sabbatical, or even resigning from one’s current assignment are far better avenues to address such issues than self destruction. On the other hand, thinking you are invincible brings pride into the equation and pride always goes before a fall.
Seeking help to overcome Satan’s ploys is always appropriate. Dr. John Gowins is available and the district helps underwrite the cost of counseling for our ministers. Just as our nation has heightened security to prevent successful terrorist attacks so we must remain vigilant and not give Satan an opportunity.
I am thankful for a redemptive God and moral failure is not the end of the story for repentant men and women. “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.” (Galatians 6:1).
These thoughts are born out of a lifetime of ministry and a sincere desire to see all of us as ministers of the gospel live overcoming lives and finish well. “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (Ephesians 6:10).
IN GOD’S PRESENCE
Bertha Barrett, a Licensed AG minister in our district, went home to be with the Lord September 8th. Her funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 16th at Next Step Christian Church, 12156 Grant Circle, Thornton, CO. We thank God for her years of ministry together with her husband Thurl. May God grant comfort to Thurl and their family.
“Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” (1 Peter 5:8-9).
Recently, two of my friends in the ministry (one in our district and one in another district) suffered moral failure. The consequences are huge in damaged marriages, heartbroken kids, loss of ministry, loss of employment, and hurting churches. In these last days Satan has increased his efforts to damage God’s servants, smear the church, and destroy ministries. Thankfully, still less than 1% of our ministers suffer moral failure each year, but even one is too many.
There are many factors that contribute to our vulnerability to temptation. An unbalanced life is often a problem. Overwork and burnout can weaken one’s resolve. On the other side of the coin boredom can lead to greater vulnerability. Drifting from God is always a danger. Drifting from marital commitment and enjoyment is another. Involvement in pornography is a morally debilitating trap. A willingness to entertain flirtations outside of marriage is like playing “Russian Roulette” with everything important. Thinking you have earned the right to a little sinful enjoyment is a deception leading to devastating consequences.
Subconsciously seeking a way out of the pressures of ministry sometimes underlies self-destructive behavior by spiritual leaders. Learning better ways to cope, or taking a sabbatical, or even resigning from one’s current assignment are far better avenues to address such issues than self destruction. On the other hand, thinking you are invincible brings pride into the equation and pride always goes before a fall.
Seeking help to overcome Satan’s ploys is always appropriate. Dr. John Gowins is available and the district helps underwrite the cost of counseling for our ministers. Just as our nation has heightened security to prevent successful terrorist attacks so we must remain vigilant and not give Satan an opportunity.
I am thankful for a redemptive God and moral failure is not the end of the story for repentant men and women. “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.” (Galatians 6:1).
These thoughts are born out of a lifetime of ministry and a sincere desire to see all of us as ministers of the gospel live overcoming lives and finish well. “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (Ephesians 6:10).
IN GOD’S PRESENCE
Bertha Barrett, a Licensed AG minister in our district, went home to be with the Lord September 8th. Her funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 16th at Next Step Christian Church, 12156 Grant Circle, Thornton, CO. We thank God for her years of ministry together with her husband Thurl. May God grant comfort to Thurl and their family.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
TRANSITION
IMPORTANT TRANSITION:
We are engaged in a significant change in leadership in our district with the passing of Virgil Illum who served as our District Secretary Treasurer for the last 10 years. On August 24th the Presbytery acting on our District Bylaw provision for filling a vacancy in this office appointed Randy Popineau to serve as District Secretary Treasurer going forward. Randy accepted the appointment and will begin this fall after processing his resignation from Church at Briargate.
Since Randy Popineau was serving as our Assistant Superintendent the Presbytery in accordance with our Bylaws appointed Lee Ponder to serve as our Assistant Superintendent going forward. Congratulations Randy and Lee!
Since Lee Ponder was serving as our West Slope Executive Presbyter the Presbytery is charged with the responsibility of filling that vacancy as well. We plan to have the West Slope sections each nominate a candidate this fall and the Presbytery will select from those nominations in our January meeting 2012. When terms for each of these offices expire elections will take place at our district councils as usual.
Our Credential Advance Team has decided to delay our first Credential Seminar originally scheduled for November 2011 to 2012. We will continue the preceding credentialing process using mentors rather than the seminar for ordination candidates in the coming months. I want to encourage our licensed ministers to move forward into ordination. If you decide to do this now, please contact Kim Phillips (our Secretary Treasurer’s Administrative Assistant) at our District Office. She will provide you all the information needed. Applications for Ordination have to be in by October 14, 2011 to be included in the Ordination class at our District Council, April 24-26, 2012. The transition to a new Secretary Treasurer will not delay the credentialing process.
GENERAL COUNCIL:
Some very significant decisions were made at General Council in August. Alton Garrison was returned to the office of General Council Assistant Superintendent, Jim Bradford was returned to the office of General Council Secretary, and Greg Mundis was elected to the office of Assemblies of God World Missions Executive Director. Also, the Council voted in favor of the consolidation of Central Bible College, Evangel University, and the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary. If you would like to view the services of the General Council, you can do so at www.ag.org.
ASSOCIATE PASTOR GARY AND NANCY LIPICH:
Sunday, August 14, 2011 Pastor Todd Hudnall and Radiant Church honored Gary and Nancy Lipich for 25 years of ministry on the Pastoral Team of Radiant Church. Congratulations Gray and Nancy; you are an inspiration to us all!
ROCKY MOUNTAIN MINISTRIES CONFERENCE:
August 19 - 20 we conducted our first Rocky Mountain Ministries Conference at Pueblo Praise Assembly of God. We had an enriching time of mutual encouragement and ministry instruction with 265 people from over 47 churches registered. For those who could not attend we have audio recordings of several lecture sessions that will be posted on our district web site at www.rmdc.org. I encourage you to consider these recorded sessions as a training or inspirational resource for leaders and workers in your church.
BOOK BY HOWARD AND BETTY SKINNER:
Howard and Betty Skinner are RMDC ministers living in Windsor, CO. They have written a book entitled “Secrets to Our Supernatural Walk with God”. From a lifetime of experience with God and Spirit directed ministry they provide insight and inspiration for followers of Christ, and ministers in particular. Thank you, Howard and Betty for this helpful and inspiring book. The book can be ordered from the publisher at www.westbowpress.com.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
CONNECTIONS
HEAVEN IS ENRICHED
Lois M. Hodges went home to be with the Lord July 1, 2011 at the age of 102 years. Her husband, Melvin passed away several years ago. Melvin and Lois Hodges are among the finest missionaries in the history of our movement. May God grant comfort to their family.
VIRGIL ILLUM
Virgil is now home and under hospice care. Your prayers are deeply appreciated. We saw God work powerfully on behalf of Virgil at Christmas time last year and pray He will do so again.
RECENT CONNECTIONS
On June 20th it was my privilege to install Robert Schlipp as the Pastor of The Worship Center in Brighton, CO. Robert, his wife, Anna Yansi, and their two beautiful children began their ministry in Brighton earlier in June and we welcome them to the Rocky Mountain District.
The last week of June Loretta and I attended the Missionary Renewal in Springfield, MO. The sessions for district leaders were inspiring and our fellowship with several RMDC missionaries was wonderful. Congratulations to Todd and Leslie Stamps, who were commissioned to missionary service Thursday night, June 30th. Dary Northrup shared a great message in that service. It was refreshing to see such a strong representation of CO and UT ministers at this event celebrating our participation in the great commission.
Loretta and I spent time with Bob and Sherilyn Cook enjoying fellowship and mutual encouragement before returning home. Our relationships with one another in our ministry family are so valuable and I thank God for each one of you.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN MINISTRIES CONFERENCE (RMMC)
The RMMC is coming up August 19-20 at Praise Assembly of God in Pueblo, CO. This conference is a coming together of our district Women’s Ministry, Men’s Ministry, Youth Ministry, Children’s Ministry, Royal Rangers, and Girls Clubs departments.
This conference will take the place of the annual leadership seminars normally planned separately by each department. Workshops will provide training and inspiration for leaders and workers in these areas of ministry. There will also be the added dynamic of interaction with others involved in ministry from other churches.
This conference is for people already engaged in these areas of ministry and people who are interested in learning more about serving in the local church. Pastors are welcome as well. Registration before August 1st is $40.00 per person. Registration includes lunch on Saturday.
I believe this conference will strengthen these vital areas of ministry in the local church and I encourage you to promote this conference with your leaders and congregation. Please check our district web site for time, location, lodging, workshop, and registration information at www.rmdc.org.
Lois M. Hodges went home to be with the Lord July 1, 2011 at the age of 102 years. Her husband, Melvin passed away several years ago. Melvin and Lois Hodges are among the finest missionaries in the history of our movement. May God grant comfort to their family.
VIRGIL ILLUM
Virgil is now home and under hospice care. Your prayers are deeply appreciated. We saw God work powerfully on behalf of Virgil at Christmas time last year and pray He will do so again.
RECENT CONNECTIONS
On June 20th it was my privilege to install Robert Schlipp as the Pastor of The Worship Center in Brighton, CO. Robert, his wife, Anna Yansi, and their two beautiful children began their ministry in Brighton earlier in June and we welcome them to the Rocky Mountain District.
The last week of June Loretta and I attended the Missionary Renewal in Springfield, MO. The sessions for district leaders were inspiring and our fellowship with several RMDC missionaries was wonderful. Congratulations to Todd and Leslie Stamps, who were commissioned to missionary service Thursday night, June 30th. Dary Northrup shared a great message in that service. It was refreshing to see such a strong representation of CO and UT ministers at this event celebrating our participation in the great commission.
Loretta and I spent time with Bob and Sherilyn Cook enjoying fellowship and mutual encouragement before returning home. Our relationships with one another in our ministry family are so valuable and I thank God for each one of you.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN MINISTRIES CONFERENCE (RMMC)
The RMMC is coming up August 19-20 at Praise Assembly of God in Pueblo, CO. This conference is a coming together of our district Women’s Ministry, Men’s Ministry, Youth Ministry, Children’s Ministry, Royal Rangers, and Girls Clubs departments.
This conference will take the place of the annual leadership seminars normally planned separately by each department. Workshops will provide training and inspiration for leaders and workers in these areas of ministry. There will also be the added dynamic of interaction with others involved in ministry from other churches.
This conference is for people already engaged in these areas of ministry and people who are interested in learning more about serving in the local church. Pastors are welcome as well. Registration before August 1st is $40.00 per person. Registration includes lunch on Saturday.
I believe this conference will strengthen these vital areas of ministry in the local church and I encourage you to promote this conference with your leaders and congregation. Please check our district web site for time, location, lodging, workshop, and registration information at www.rmdc.org.
Monday, June 20, 2011
RECENT NEWS AND CONNECTIONS
MURRAY KEMPER IN HEAVEN:
On Saturday, June 18th, Murray Kemper passed away. Murray ministered in Utah and founded Christian Life Assembly of God in Payson where Pastor Mark and Pam Gering now serve. His funeral will be Wednesday, June 22nd, at Christian Life Assembly of God at 11:00 a.m. Please pray for the family.
RECENT CONNECTIONS:
On Saturday, June 11 Loretta and I attended Melissa Darnell’s wedding in Gunnison, CO. Her parents, Mike and Becky pastor River of Life Fellowship in Gunnison. Melissa married John Durham and will be living in Houston, TX where John serves as an Associate Pastor. Congratulations Melissa!
Then we traveled through Southern Utah to see with our pastors. It was my privilege to minister at Richfield AG for Pastor Willard Coleman. Willard and Betty planted this church 35 years ago and have developed a fine church in a challenging environment.
Sunday evening we visited with Michael and Jana Trail in St. George. They pastor New Life Christian Center and are doing a great job in the midst of a suffering local economy. God has directed them to several avenues of influence in the community.
Monday morning we met with Jerry and Emma Van Iwaarden, and Jonathan and Stephanie Holiman. Together they pastor Westview Christian Center in Cedar City. Jonathan and Stephanie planted a church there a few years ago and when the economy went south in the area several key families moved. The outcome has been a joining of the two churches. This has proven to be an excellent arrangement with each church providing strength in different areas of ministry.
Monday evening we met with Ray and Nancy Paschen in Moab. They have been faithfully pastoring First Assembly of God for several years. Most recently they have been improving the church facility as they continue to minister to the church family and reach out to the community.
Tuesday morning we met with Emil and Nancy Romero who pastor Faith Assembly of God in Blanding. With the help of work teams and finances from Pueblo Christian Center and Amazing Grace Fellowship of Pueblo, CO they have transformed the exterior of the building. It is now one of the most attractive and inviting buildings in the community. Emil has suffered physically in recent years but continues to faithfully build the church and reach out to the community.
May God abundantly bless the personal lives and ministries of all these wonderful people who have answered God’s call and serve in challenging places. Many are being added to the Kingdom of God because of their work.
On Saturday, June 18th, Murray Kemper passed away. Murray ministered in Utah and founded Christian Life Assembly of God in Payson where Pastor Mark and Pam Gering now serve. His funeral will be Wednesday, June 22nd, at Christian Life Assembly of God at 11:00 a.m. Please pray for the family.
RECENT CONNECTIONS:
On Saturday, June 11 Loretta and I attended Melissa Darnell’s wedding in Gunnison, CO. Her parents, Mike and Becky pastor River of Life Fellowship in Gunnison. Melissa married John Durham and will be living in Houston, TX where John serves as an Associate Pastor. Congratulations Melissa!
Then we traveled through Southern Utah to see with our pastors. It was my privilege to minister at Richfield AG for Pastor Willard Coleman. Willard and Betty planted this church 35 years ago and have developed a fine church in a challenging environment.
Sunday evening we visited with Michael and Jana Trail in St. George. They pastor New Life Christian Center and are doing a great job in the midst of a suffering local economy. God has directed them to several avenues of influence in the community.
Monday morning we met with Jerry and Emma Van Iwaarden, and Jonathan and Stephanie Holiman. Together they pastor Westview Christian Center in Cedar City. Jonathan and Stephanie planted a church there a few years ago and when the economy went south in the area several key families moved. The outcome has been a joining of the two churches. This has proven to be an excellent arrangement with each church providing strength in different areas of ministry.
Monday evening we met with Ray and Nancy Paschen in Moab. They have been faithfully pastoring First Assembly of God for several years. Most recently they have been improving the church facility as they continue to minister to the church family and reach out to the community.
Tuesday morning we met with Emil and Nancy Romero who pastor Faith Assembly of God in Blanding. With the help of work teams and finances from Pueblo Christian Center and Amazing Grace Fellowship of Pueblo, CO they have transformed the exterior of the building. It is now one of the most attractive and inviting buildings in the community. Emil has suffered physically in recent years but continues to faithfully build the church and reach out to the community.
May God abundantly bless the personal lives and ministries of all these wonderful people who have answered God’s call and serve in challenging places. Many are being added to the Kingdom of God because of their work.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
REFLECTIONS ON THE HOLY SPIRIT
REFLECTIONS ON THE HOLY SPIRIT
I like the way Paul concludes 2 Corinthians. “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” (2 Corinthians 13:14). Our relationship with God is complete when we relate biblically with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The dynamic of fellowship with God is experienced in relationship with the Holy Spirit.
It is the Holy Spirit who convinces of sin, righteousness, and judgment leading us to Christ. When we repent and place our faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior the Holy Spirit enters our lives. He then begins to develop our character, direct our steps, and empower us for ministry as we welcome and yield to his influence.
Zechariah records that Zerubbabel started construction on the Temple and for two years it remained unfinished. No doubt this was a discouraging and baffling time for Zerubbabel. In that season God reminded him that the Holy Spirit would insure the completion of the project.
Then God spoke to him through Zechariah “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty. What are you, O mighty mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become level ground. Then he will bring out the capstone to shouts of ‘God bless it! God bless it.’ Then the word of the Lord came to me: The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this temple; his hands will also complete it. Then you will know that the Lord Almighty has sent me to you.” (Zechariah 4:5-8).
When we try to do God’s work in our human strength we are soon discouraged and rendered ineffective. Reliance on the Holy Spirit for direction, empowerment, and influence over those things we cannot control is vital to sustained effective ministry.
May this Pentecost Sunday be a reminder of the Holy Spirit’s presence and work. Enjoy his fellowship, grow in his sanctifying work, and walk in his empowering presence. Be filled with the Spirit.
RECENT CONNECTIONS
I was honored to speak at The Worship Center in Brighton, CO Sunday, May 29th. Their new Pastor, Robert Schlip will began ministry there June 5th. Several of our open churches are being filled and I look forward to welcoming each new pastor to the RMD.
Sunday evening, June5th I conducted the business meeting for Broomfield AG in which David Williams was elected to serve as their Senior Pastor. God bless you Dave and Becky as you begin this new assignment.
POD CAST
On May the 25th Central District Superintendent Dennis Rivera, Pastor Isaac Oliveraz, Pastor Gene Roncone, and I recorded a podcast discussing the planting of a new AG church in downtown Denver. Our district is partnering with the Central District in the establishment of this vitally needed church.
I encourage you to learn more about this unique and needed project by listening to the podcast on our district web site at www.rmdc.org under resources then urban outreach center.
I like the way Paul concludes 2 Corinthians. “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” (2 Corinthians 13:14). Our relationship with God is complete when we relate biblically with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The dynamic of fellowship with God is experienced in relationship with the Holy Spirit.
It is the Holy Spirit who convinces of sin, righteousness, and judgment leading us to Christ. When we repent and place our faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior the Holy Spirit enters our lives. He then begins to develop our character, direct our steps, and empower us for ministry as we welcome and yield to his influence.
Zechariah records that Zerubbabel started construction on the Temple and for two years it remained unfinished. No doubt this was a discouraging and baffling time for Zerubbabel. In that season God reminded him that the Holy Spirit would insure the completion of the project.
Then God spoke to him through Zechariah “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty. What are you, O mighty mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become level ground. Then he will bring out the capstone to shouts of ‘God bless it! God bless it.’ Then the word of the Lord came to me: The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this temple; his hands will also complete it. Then you will know that the Lord Almighty has sent me to you.” (Zechariah 4:5-8).
When we try to do God’s work in our human strength we are soon discouraged and rendered ineffective. Reliance on the Holy Spirit for direction, empowerment, and influence over those things we cannot control is vital to sustained effective ministry.
May this Pentecost Sunday be a reminder of the Holy Spirit’s presence and work. Enjoy his fellowship, grow in his sanctifying work, and walk in his empowering presence. Be filled with the Spirit.
RECENT CONNECTIONS
I was honored to speak at The Worship Center in Brighton, CO Sunday, May 29th. Their new Pastor, Robert Schlip will began ministry there June 5th. Several of our open churches are being filled and I look forward to welcoming each new pastor to the RMD.
Sunday evening, June5th I conducted the business meeting for Broomfield AG in which David Williams was elected to serve as their Senior Pastor. God bless you Dave and Becky as you begin this new assignment.
POD CAST
On May the 25th Central District Superintendent Dennis Rivera, Pastor Isaac Oliveraz, Pastor Gene Roncone, and I recorded a podcast discussing the planting of a new AG church in downtown Denver. Our district is partnering with the Central District in the establishment of this vitally needed church.
I encourage you to learn more about this unique and needed project by listening to the podcast on our district web site at www.rmdc.org under resources then urban outreach center.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)