RECENT CONNECTIONS

RECENT CONNECTIONS:

Sunday, January 5^th 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 12^th 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 19^th 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 20^th 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 25^th 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 26^th 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 2^nd the Denver Broncos play in the Super Bowl and much prayer will be offeredJ

SECTIONAL TOUR:

Sectional tour begins Monday, February 3^rd.  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.

FIVE LESSONS

Five Lessons from seven churches

Recently I have been reflecting on Jesus’ messages to the seven churches in Revelation 2-3.  Most of the seven churches had admirable qualities but 5 of the 7 needed significant correction in one area or another.  Three major characteristics of the church required by Jesus Christ are identified in the corrections and two are identified in the encouragement given to the churches which did not require correction.  These lessons are instructive to those of us who are responsible for the integrity of the church.

KEEP FIRST LOVE ALIVE:  The church in Ephesus was faithfully carrying out the work of the Lord and holding to orthodox biblical teaching.  But, they lost their first love and were admonished to remember, repent, and do what they did at the beginning.  This is important enough to Jesus that he said he would remove them as a church, if they did not repent.  Loving God supremely is a vital characteristic of the church.

PROTECT BIBLICAL TRUTH:  The church in Pergamum had a number of people in the congregation who believed that an immoral lifestyle and eating food sacrificed to idols could legitimately accompany the Christian faith.  They were instructed to repent.  The church in Thyatira went a step further and allowed a false prophetess to have direct influence in the church leading some to believe an immoral lifestyle and eating food sacrificed to idols was acceptable in the Christian life.  The Lord promised judgment on the false prophetess and those who followed her, if they continued to resist repentance.  Faithfully teaching the whole counsel of God is another vital characteristic of the church.

DEPEND ON GOD:  The church in Sardis received these convicting words “I know your deeds, you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead”.  The church in Laodicea was rebuked with these strong words “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot.  I wish you were either one or the other? …You say, I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.  But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.”

The blessing of effective methods and abundant resources can obscure the foundational need for reliance on the Holy Spirit in the life and work of the church.  Falling into this trap will result in a church with a façade of success but lacking in the presence and life of God.  It is in this context Jesus says, “Here I am I stand at the door and knock, if anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.”  Welcoming the presence of God in the gatherings of the church and persistently relying on God to do what only he can do is yet another vital characteristic of the church.

Two of the churches received commendation, no correction, and encouraging instruction.  From them we note the following two lessons:

DON’T BE AFRAID:  The church in Smyrna received commendation and the following instruction “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer.”  The words “do not be afraid” have various measures of impact depending on the speaker.  When Jesus says “do not be afraid” it dispels fear because He has overcome the world, he is always with us, and he is at work in each situation.  Don’t be afraid to lavishly love God in a world that resists Christian faith.  Don’t be afraid to teach biblical truth in love in a world that pressures the church to alter its message to suit political correctness.  Don’t be afraid to invite God’s presence into your gatherings though he is an unwelcome guest in the world.

ENTER THE OPEN DOOR:  The church in Philadelphia received commendation and the following encouragement: “See I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut.”  In spite of the spiritual darkness of the world around them God was at work in their community and changed the hearts of people as the church went about the business of ministry in partnership with God.  Prayerfully look for the open door God is setting before your church and enter in faith.

RECENT CONNECTIONS

CHRISTMAS:

Merry Christmas!  The Christmas season is a great opportunity for ministry.  For Pastors it is one of the busiest times of the year.  May the Lord grant you energy and his anointing as you encourage the body of Christ and share his good news with those who do not know the Savior.  I pray you will also be encouraged in the Lord as you celebrate his first advent.

RECENT CONNECTIONS:

Sunday, December 1^st I visited the early service at Plum Creek Community Church in Castle Rock, CO.  Plum Creek recently occupied their beautiful new facility and are experiencing significant growth.  The building was packed with people and excitement.  God bless you Pastor Doug Miller and your leadership team.  I then visited the second morning service at the Littleton campus of Red Rocks Church.  The house was full and Pastor Shawn Johnson’s message on forgiveness was powerful.  May God continue to use Red Rocks, and Pastor Shawn Johnson and his leadership team to reach and disciple many for Christ.

Friday, December 6^th Loretta ministered to a full house of women at Life Church in Salt Lake City, UT at their annual Christmas dinner.  Carrie Ayers leads the women’s ministry in this exciting, life-giving church.  May the Lord continue to bless and use Pastor Jim and Carrie Ayers and Life Church.

Saturday evening, December 7^th I had the privilege of sharing with Pastor Marshall and Rebecca Frasier, and the board members and spouses of Chapel of the Plains in Stoneham, CO.  Then Sunday morning I ministered to the congregation.  There seemed to be as many children and young people present as adults.  This is a wonderful church reaching this area of Colorado.  Marshall and Rebecca are a gift from God to this church and surrounding community of people.

Loretta and I spent Saturday night in Fort Morgan, CO in a hotel across the road from The Sanctuary pastored by Gary and Billy Meadows.  They are nearing completion of a very attractive new church building.  The Sanctuary congregation worships in the hotel where we stayed on Sunday mornings till they can occupy their new building.  It was a joy to connect with Gary and Billie that morning and see the people assembling for worship before we left for Stoneham.  I thank God for the growth and life happening in this church.  God bless you Gary and Billie.

Sunday evening, December 15^th I was able to attend and participate in the dedication of new facilities for New Life Fellowship in Logan, UT.  Growth in the church has required the development of this much larger facility.  The church building is beautiful and inviting.  Congratulations Pastor Dane and Bev Wead on this important step forward for the kingdom of God in Logan.

It is exciting to see what God is doing throughout Utah and Colorado and Pastoral leadership is critical to the building of his church.

PRAYER NEEDS:

Claire Davis who was shot in the face at the Arapahoe High School shooting in Centennial, CO is the granddaughter of RMD minister Allen and Leona Davis.  Her father was part of the Youth group at Radiant Church several years ago.  She is in a coma and critical condition.  Please pray for Clair and her family.

RECENT CONNECTIONS

RECENT CONNECTIONS

Sunday, October 27^th I installed T. J. Roberts as the new pastor of The Worship Center at Brighton, CO.  The church was charged with excitement and looking forward to the future.  Welcome T. J. and Jill.  May the Lord bless your ministry in Brighton.

November 1^st Loretta and I travelled to Newport Beach, CA for a CEP board meeting followed by the Assemblies of God Executives conference which ran through Wednesday November 6^th.  It was tough duty to meet in Newport Beach, but we survived joyously.

Sunday, November 10^th I was honored to speak for Pastor T. J. Harris at Mosaic Church in Englewood, CO.  They have two Sunday a.m. services and will soon be adding a Saturday night service to handle the growth they are experiencing.  Compassion ministry is a building block of this church and they are having a great impact on the Englewood area.  God bless you T. J. and Robin!

On Thursday, November 14^th I met with Kim Harvey who is a representative for Rural Compassion an arm of Convoy of Hope.  Rural Compassion will come to an area and conduct a low cost seminar for rural church pastors.  Recently our Southeast Section hosted this seminar with excellent results.  Presbyter Don Henderson is a source of information, if you are interested in learning more about this ministry. 

Rural Compassion is intent on encouraging rural pastors and equipping them for ministry.  They will also work with individual rural churches in outreach efforts to their community.  Recently, Pastor Chris Russell and Calvary Assembly in Brush, CO partnered with Convoy of Hope in an outreach project to the Brush community.  Convoy of Hope does great work.

Friday, November 15^th Loretta and I attended the Sarah’s Home Gala in Colorado Springs, CO.  It was an excellent fund raising event for a strategic ministry to trafficked girls.  Sarah’s Home was birthed in the heart of Peggy Vawter, facilitated by the grant of a church campus by the District Presbytery which was renovated with the help of several churches under the guidance of Sidney Redd, shepherded into reality by board chairman Phil Steiger, and now led by Lincoln Smith the Executive Director.  Thanks to each and every one involved in the creation and sustaining of this important ministry.

Saturday, November 16^th we drove to Montrose, CO and met with Pastor Cordell and Erin Hines.  Sunday the 17^th I had the privilege of ministering at Olathe AG and participating in a business meeting with the membership following the service.  Cordell Hines will soon celebrate 21 years pastoring in Olathe, CO.  Congratulations Cordell and Erin!

Sunday afternoon we traveled to Grand Junction and joined Bob Cook, Pastor of Victory Life Church and Rex Townsley, Pastor of Still Water Cowboy Church for the ground breaking of the new Cowboy Church property.  About three acres of well-located land in Loma, CO was given to the church for future development.  Still Water Cowboy Church is a PAC of Victory Life Church and is experiencing exciting growth.  Also, Bob and Rex have been instrumental in helping our church in Parachute, CO as they engage in a pastoral search.  God continues to give Rex physical strength in spite of colon cancer and we are praying for complete healing.  God bless you Rex and Debbie as you lead Still Water Cowboy Church forward!

Congratulations to Pastor Doug Miller and Plum Creek Community Church in Castle Rock, CO as they worshipped for the first time in their new building, Sunday, November 17^th.  It was an exciting launch at the new site with nearly 2,000 people in attendance!

Tuesday, November 19^th we enjoyed a Christmas dinner with our office staff and Departmental Leaders and spouses.  Then Wednesday we conducted our annual calendar planning meeting with Department Leaders.  Good things are in store for 2014.  We are truly blest to work with such a fine group of people.

Have a happy Thanksgiving and a merry Christmas!

AN ENCOURAGING EXAMPLE

 

On October 19, 2013 Pastor Stan Arias’ physical body was laid to rest.  Stan was 58 years old when he died and spent the last 34 years of his life pastoring World Vision Assembly of God in Vernal, Utah.  When Stan and the congregation renamed their church World Vision AG several years ago I must admit it startled me.  But I came to realize it reflected the vision Stan had to reach Vernal and support missions around the world.  He had a big, joyful heart with a resilient love for people.

Of course, his life was defined by more than his pastoral ministry.  He was a much loved husband, father, and active citizen in his community.  And, by the way, he had one of the sharpest motorcycles I have seen.  In the totality of his life he lived for Christ.  The church sanctuary (I think it seats around 250 people) was packed for his funeral and the outpouring of love and respect from the church, the community, and his pastoral colleagues was clearly evident.

Vernal is a community of 9,089 people according to the 2010 census.  The average church attendance of World Vision AG in 2012 was 130 people which is very significant in a community this size especially when you factor in the Mormon population which comprises 86% of the community. Yet, Stan’s influence reached far beyond the congregation.  He loved his community and spent his pastoral life ministering to Vernal.

Stan grew up in Denver, CO.  Often city people find it difficult to adjust to smaller communities and vice versa.  But God called Stan to Vernal and accompanied that calling with love for the community.  He was known to say he would rather live in Vernal than anywhere else.  Isn’t that just like God; we need not fear his call because he puts the desire in our heart needed to fulfill his plan.

Though Stan’s ministry did not show up in church journals or lead to preaching before massive crowds he faithfully fulfilled the call of God.  That obedience and joyful service in the place of God’s call transcends any human recognition in value to God and his kingdom.  Thank you, Lord, for Stan Arias and may he enjoy the wonder of your fully revealed presence and all the treasurers he laid up in heaven during the course of his life here on earth! 

Be encouraged to remain faithful to God’s calling and at the end of life’s journey you will hear Jesus say “Well done, good and faithful servant”.  What could be better than that?

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.

RECENT CONNECTIONS

Since my last ebulletin Loretta and I had the joy of joining with Austin Bluffs Community Church on August 24^th as they honored John and Cheri Pauls for 25 years of pastoral ministry.  Congratulations John and Cheri, and thank you for your persevering and prevailing ministry!  This is a significant achievement for Christ and His Kingdom.

Sunday, August 25^th Loretta and I had the privilege of visiting Passionate Life Church in Sheridan, CO.  Pastor Andrew and Dawn Thurber planted this church within the last two years as a PAC of Timberline Church.  The church is growing and doing well.  God bless you Andrew and Dawn as you continue this vital work.

Sunday, September 1^st, I was honored to speak at Bridge to Life Church in Canon City, CO as they celebrated their 75^th anniversary.  Pastor Larry and Marilyn Kettle planned a service that included songs from years ago and reminders of ministry through the years.  I thank God for this enduring church.  Eternity will reveal the many life-changing results from the ministry of this church.  May God use this church to His glory till Jesus comes.  We appreciate you and your ministry, Larry and Marilyn.

Sunday, September 8^th, I spoke at Lakeside Community AG in Sunset, UT for Pastor Lonnie and Pam Campbell on the occasion of the 10^th anniversary of the church.  Lonnie and Pam planted this church and developed it into a strong healthy church.  Now they are nearing the launch of a PAC in a nearby community.  God bless you Lonnie and Pam. 

Sunday evening Loretta and I enjoyed connecting with Pastor Ernie and Lisa Fonseca of Victory Fist AG in Brigham City, UT.  They are a great couple doing the work of God.

Though I was unable to attend I want to extend congratulations to Pastor Charlie and Miranda Stoumbaugh who were married Friday, September 13^th.  Charlie pastors Cornerstone Church in Buena Vista, CO and also serves as our Presbyter for the Mountain Section.

Friday, September 20^th Loretta and I traveled to UT where Loretta spoke at the District WM UT retreat.  This retreat set a new record attendance and was enriching to all who came.  Thanks Peggy Vawter and WM leadership team for providing this meaningful event.

During the retreat Randy Popineau and I visited Pastor Matt and Candice Roberts Friday evening to take in the ministry of Genesis Project in Ogden, UT.  Their ministry includes a Friday night service designed to reach the lost and three Sunday morning services.  Matt and Candice started Genesis Project 5 years ago as an independent church and then became a PAC of Timberline Church this year.  This church now runs a Dream Center in Ogden which they started in conjunction with Alfred Murillo. 

Matt and Candice grew up in Radiant Church in Colorado Springs and have a relationship with the AG through myself, Rod Cowles, and Randy Popineau from their years at Radiant.  The evening ended with Matt introducing me to a couple who have been in the church for one year.  After hearing Matt share his history at Radiant at the end of the service, the husband told Matt he gave his heart to the Lord and was baptized in Radiant Church several years ago while serving in the military in Colorado Springs.  I had to throw that in because it meant so much to me.  Our labor for the Lord is not in vain.