THE ANGELS REJOICE OVER JEREMY MUMMEL!

The angels in heaven rejoice because another one has come to Jesus Christ for salvation. Just about one hour ago Jeremy Mummel, husband of Delilah Mummel, prayed and asked Jesus to be his savior and Lord. Thank God for this new child in the kingdom of God. He said he is planning to come to church Sunday and is thinking about being baptized with Delilah and Austin. When I left, Jeremy and Delilah were still rejoicing and embracing each other.

We thank the Lord for this one that has come home to the Father. . . To God be the glory. . . .

WEDNESDAY EVENING

Thank God for a great time in Wednesday evening's service. Bishop James Ntezimana preached a great message from Matthew 24:13,14. He emphasized "enduring to the end" and also "this gospel will be preached in all the world." We were encouraged to be ministers of the gospel wherever we are involved in our daily lives. Brother James also gave us some overview of the work in Uganda and Sudan. He shared with us the struggle that Christians have in Sudan.

OVERSEER OF UGANDA & SUDAN TO MINISTER TONIGHT

Bishop James Ntezimana, National Overseer of Uganda and Sudan, Africa to minister here tonight. Bishop Ntezimana is the Overseer of over 11,000 members in these two countries. These countries are very dependent upon the Lord for their day-to-day sustenance. Thousands of children live on the streets begging for food. We look forward to hearing Bishop Ntezimana.

UPDATE - VISIT FROM UGANDAN/SUNDANESE NATIONAL OVERSEER

After the General Assembly, Karen and I came home for a few hours on Sunday to do some necessary things. Monday at 5:15 am we left for Nashville. After eating at McD's from 7:30-9:00 and reading, I did some studying and other work in the Nashville library (Metro Center Drive Looby Branch) . At 1:00 pm I went by McD's and got their special .39 & .49 hamburger and cheeseburger. I went to the Renaissance Hotel at 1:45 and picked up National Overseer of Uganda/Sudan. We went by farmers market next to the Bi-centennial Mall and got some fruit. Then we went and picked up Karen from school at 3:15 pm and headed for Huntingdon. . . .I have been with a very special guest this week. . .

This week we have a special guest, Bishop James Ntezimana, National Overseer of Uganda and Sudan, Africa. We are having a great time discussing ministry. I took Brother James by our new property and he prayed God's blessing on the property and ministry of church here. It was a special time with the Lord.

He is scheduled to minister here tonight and also on Sunday morning also. He is scheduled to minister at the Camden church on Sunday night, Sept. 3rd. and at the Paris church on Sept. 6th.
Bishop Ntezimana is a very special guest and I have learned some of the struggles and needs that many people in Africa have. We continue to pray for the people there and for the ministry. One thing Brother James said to me is, "we wonder why Jesus waits so long to come back because of the poverty and desperate needs of the people there, I guess he is waiting for the harvest." He also told me of the many children who wander aimlessly on the streets begging for food and the horrible poverty there. He tells of the difficulty of getting into Sudan because of Muslim radicals who steal and kill. One very positive note is that the President of Uganda is a Christian and supports the work of Christian ministries there. This was not always true because Iddi Amin was president in the 70's and was a horrible tyrant. We must continue to pray for and support these precious people.

MORE GENERAL ASSEMBLY PICTURES

Part of the the Tennessee delegation that met with State Overseer, E. C. McKinley for prayer at 9 am one morning. There was prayer each morning at 9 am being led by Overseer. The below picture is more of the TN delegation.

State Overseer, Bishop E. C. McKinley, led the state of TN in prayer each morning of the General Assembly. The prayer time was a highlight of the Assembly.

North American Presbyter, Sam Clements, preached a powerful message on Monday night. It set the precedent for each succeeding service around the "Spirit Driven" theme. The altar filled after the message.

Sister Kathy Howard speaking with some who attended her children's seminar. I was privileged to be in Sister Kathy Howard's children's seminar, "What's a Pastor To Do?" Sean McKinley was he facilitator. It was a great seminar with some very pertinent and useful information. I am a strong advocate of Children's Ministry and will continue to focus on having a strong ministry to children.

GENERAL ASSEMBLY PICTURES

The General Assembly has been awesome. The theme, "Spirit Driven" says much about what happened at this 94th General Assembly of the Church of God of Prophecy.

An awesome performance and worship by the General Assembly Mass Choir.

The Bible, Doctrine and Polity Committee. The items presented were all passed. With some very minor wording changes the Marriage Document presented to the Assembly was all accepted after being presented over a three-day period. The last two sections of Item III were accepted today.

Bishop Randy Howard and wife Bess as he gives his acceptance address to the General Assembly as the next General Overseer.

The General Presbyters pray for Bishop Howard after his acceptance by the General Assembly as the next General Overseer.

This band from Canada "brought the house down" as they played with great fervor and skill.

WE ARE HOME & UPDATES

What a glorious General Assembly. From the first night with the message by North American General Presbyter, Sam Clements until the closing address by newly installed General Overseer, Bishop Randy Howard, the Assembly was true to its theme - "Spirit Driven." God truly blessed as we worshipped and uplifted the blessed One who died on the cross and rose again to live for ever more.

Karen and I got home about 3:30 pm. There was a baby shower in progress in the fellowship hall and Karen went over for a few minutes to greet the ladies.

I had called Delilah Mummel about visiting with her husband, since he is asking for me to come and share the gospel of salvation. He has been gone most of the day and we will continue to pray for him, that God will do the work in his heart and life. He says, "I am ready."

I called to check on Jimmie Davis who has been sick with a stomach virus. I ask if I could come by and visit and was given a very cordial invitation. I took a prayer cloth from the General Assembly and had a good visit and prayer time with Brother Davis. He stated that he is feeling much better. We had a good time of fellowship and also some discussion about the ministries of the church - especially the children's ministry. I assured them that I am praying for this ministry and will be asking God to do a miracle in this area for keeping the children involved in getting ministry. We agreed that this is a very important ministry of the church.

Later after arriving back home. Delilah called and suggested that it will be another night that will be scheduled for me to come and visit. She also requested to be baptized along with Austin. I am looking forward to this time.

Tomorrow I am supposed to travel to Nashville and pick up James Ntesimana the Overseer of Uganda and Sudan for a few days visit with us before he flys back to Africa. We will be planning some speaking engagements for him.

It is time for heading to the sack. . .its been a long but very enjoyable week. Good night and God bless. . .

BISHOP RANDY HOWARD CONFIRMED

Bishop Randy Howard was confirmed by the General Assembly as the next General Overseer of the Church of God of Prophecy. He gave an impassionate acceptance address and emphasized prayer all through the brief statement to the Assembly. He is to address the Assembly again on Sunday.

I believe God is going to do great ministry through Bishop Howard and all the leaders throughout the church as we come together in greater unity of purpose - as Christ commands us to continue in the harvest.

PRAYER REQUEST

Donna Crossno called and asked prayer for Jeremy Mummel, her son-in-law. Jeremy is asking for prayer to be saved. He has asked that I come visit with him after the General Assembly. Pray that the Holy Ghost will bring Jeremy to salvation. I don't have to be there. God can save him anyway, but I certainly will go visit with him. Continue to pray for him.

Passage of "Deaconness" Recommendation

In an historic decision, the 94th International General Assembly of the Church of God of Prophecy passed a recommendation to broaden the office of deacon to include the ordination of women.

The final recommendation by the Church's Biblical Doctrine and Polity (BD&P) Committee said:"Given there is Scriptural evidence that supports having female deacons, called 'deaconesses,' we recommend women who qualify as 'deaconesses' be set forth by the local church in the same manner and according to the same requirements as their male counterparts."

"I am thrilled to see our church organization working in cooperation with the Holy Spirit to position people, male or female, to do the work that God has called them to," said Cathy Payne, International Women's Ministries Director for the organization. Payne will address the Assembly delegates tonight.The recommendation, in its entirety may be accessed to download by visiting http://www.cogop.org/ and select "BD&P."

GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Karen and I are here in Nashville. I am sitting inside the General Assembly Auditorium at the Gaylord Entertainment Center. The committee for the advancement of Tomlinson Center has just finished their report. We have been challenged to give $250,000.00 to match a person who will give the same amount if the church constituents give the amount. This person has already given $250,000.00 and will give that amount again when the church matches it. Georgia Overseer, H. E. Cardin, just presented $10,000.00 from Georgia toward the amount.

Last night a powerful message was preached by Sam Clements, North American Presbyter. He challenged the church to be "Spirit Driven."

GENERAL OVERSEER SELECTION BY INTERNATIONAL PRESBYTERY

Bishop Randy Howard has been selected by the International Presbytery of the Church of God of Prophecy to serve as the next General Overseer. Bishop Howard will be presented to the General Assembly for confirmation Wednesday.

Bishop Howard is the son of Elva Howard, long-time Women's Ministries Director for the Church of God of Prophecy. He is a graduate of the Church of God Theological Seminary. Bishop Howard currently serves as the International Mission Director. He and his wife Bess reside in Cleveland, Tennessee.Brother Howard is one of the finest men and ministers I know. The church will be served well by his leadership.

ANOTHER GREAT SUNDAY!

This morning and tonight were great times with the Lord. The Word of the Lord went forth with great liberty and victory. People sang, worshipped, wept and prayed as God sent healing, deliverance and power. We thank God for Walter Jones and son, Ivan, who came forward for prayer and for others who were praying in the aisles and in the pews. God wonderfully and powerfully blessed this morning and tonight. Brother Paul Rivera testified that God has brought him back from a time of drifting away. He expressed his desire to minister to the youth and also to see God move and bless. We pray that God will help us reach the youth in our families and community. To Him be glory for ever and ever. AMEN!

PRAYER REQUEST

Sister Ruth King called requesting prayer for her daughter Rita. Lets remember this prayer request.

UPDATE - RENAISSANCE CHOIR

The Bethel College Renaissance Choir was great as they have been the past couple times we went to hear them. Jason is in his second year with the choir. They are scheduled to travel to several states this year and to Japan next year. We are praying for you, Son. We love you! Mom and Dad.

The Choir sang their heart out. . .

Jason hitting a note. He sings second tenor and some of the high notes.

The Bluegrass Quartet singing as Mr. Jeffries looks on.

Peter Jeffries at the keyboard with the band. Peter has two gold records in his office. He has been on the Today Show, the Tonight Show and arranged for several artists. He encourages the best for the students and promotes a variety of worship music styles, including Country, Bluegrass, Contemporary, Acapello, etc. He says, "People often ask me what style is the right style to worship God with and I say 'yes' to all their styles as long as they are worshipping God."

JASON & BETHEL CHOIR

Jason started back at Bethel College last week. He is in music camp. Tonight is their first singing at the renovated McKenzie Old Cumberland Presbyterian church auditoriumwhere they present musicals and performances. Karen and I usually attend the first one each semester. This will be our third. We have been hearing some awesome worship music when we attend these. We are thankful that our son is attending there. We ask for your prayers for Jason as he continues in the Music Education field also for his health. His hip has mended well but he still has some pain and discomfort. He broke his hip in an auto accident on November 5th, 2004. Karen and I well remember that night and traveling the next morning. Thank God he is involved in singing with a Christian College Choir (despite all the temptations that are still there) and, prayerfully, he will continue as he feels this is God's calling upon his life.

PRAYER REQUEST

Sister Donna Crossno and Sister Delilah Mummel came by the church a while ago. Delilah's husband, Jeremy, has a very close friend in Illinois who was killed in a motorcycle accident this week. We had a time of prayer together for this family and for Jeremy. This is a very difficult time for Jeremy and for Jeremy's friend's family. Arrangements are being made and they request prayer for those who will be traveling and for family. Let us pray for this request.

REX & LORI WORMAN VISIT

Karen and I were invited to lunch today with Rex and Lori Worman at Mallards Restaurant. Rex is coming along with his recovery from surgery and is able to be out some. We enjoyed the lunch and the fellowship. Rex is almost two weeks post-quadrupple by-pass surgery and is doing well. This couple has been a tremendous blessing to us in supporting the ministry here - for which we are thankful to the Lord. We know God is blessing and will continue blessing them for their kindness to us and support of the ministry. We just thank God for those who have the gift of giving and for all who are using their gifts and talents for the Lord.

PRAYER CAPTAIN & PRAYER LIST FOR AUG. 20-26, 2006

Sister Peggy Heath has been asked to serve as a Prayer Captain. She will be receiving and compiling a weekly prayer list that will go in the weekly bulletin. The list will also be posted here as well. The list includes prayer requests for physical, financial, emotional, family and other needs. May God direct us in our praying. If you have someone you would want included on the list please call Sister Peggy or the Pastor's number. Sister Peggy's phone number will be included on the bulletin.

PRAYER LIST

1. Lillie Grooms

2. Ralph & Mildred Stacey

3. Marie Moore

4. Lennie Mae (Crossno) Sayles

5. Bonnie (Crossno) Curtis

6. Jennie Sanders

7. Susie Reynolds

8. Sue Reynolds

9. Alton & Donna Crossno

10. The Smiths, Donna Crossno's Father and Mother

11. Rex Warmon

12. Shiloh Coleman

13. Lois & Charley Berry

14. Kim & Chad Byars (& Children)

15. J. C. & Brownie Palmer

16. Tony Palmer

17. Milton, Karen & Jason Gordon

18. Virginia Davis

19. Lonnie Bush

20. Carolyn Spain

21. Louise Reed

22. Vera Gilbert

23. Peggy Heath & Children & Children's Families

24. Barbara Haley

25. Richard Davis

26. Jeremy Mummel (Good friend killed on Motorcycle)

27. Annie Ruth Volner

26. Prayer for General Assembly

UPDATE

Much of this week I have been with Karen helping her get started on a new year of school teaching. She moved to a brand new school about 2 miles from the other one and had to transport everything and get set up again. WHEW! She is teaching 5th grade this year. Thank goodness that is done. During the day this week, I did some posting and also continued the DMin. studies.

I received emails from Delilah Mummel about Sunday's bulletin and sent back info to her by email. She is doing a great job with the bulletin and also helping with the church Web Site.

WEDNESDAY EVENING PRAYER MEETING

The prayer meeting at the R. B. Wilson center was great. Sister Jennie Sanders lives there. The attendance was down some from the past but this is the first one in about 3 months. We plan to have the meeting there monthly. Thank God for His presence and for allowing us to pray. There were several requests. We also prayed for the upcoming General Assembly. Sister Jennie Sander's friend Pauline was there. She said, "Mrs. Sanders is a mother to me." She also testified of how God has kept her healthy for so many years. We were glad to have Teresa back with us. She is requesting prayer having been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Let us continue in prayer.

PRAYER REQUEST AND REPORT

We are continuing to pray for Rex Warmon as he recovers from quadrupple bypass surgery. Also for Sister Peggy Heath as she continues to get reports on what is causing her to be dizzy and lose some function of her arms. Let us continue to pray for these. Sister Peggy informed me that the tests results are incomplete at this time. She desires continued prayer.

PRAYER REQUEST

Sister Susie Reynolds will be going to the Memphis Hospital for some tests. She is requesting prayer. There is a cyst pressing her lower spine that is causing pain and discomfort. Tests are to be run to determine the extent of this cyst. Let us pray for God to be with her and Brother Leon. God still heals. We are joining together in prayer for Sister Susie.

WEDNESDAY'S PRAYER MEETING - AUGUST 16, 7 PM

We are having meetings on Wednesday's outside the sanctuary a couple Wednedays each month. Wednesday's (16th) prayer meeting will be at the R. B. Wilson building in the front entrance. We enjoyed being there a couple times back in the Spring. There were several there and we are looking for a great time of prayer, fellowship and worship again with the folks there and with our people. Make plans to attend and be in this time of prayer.

QUOTE

"Have a positive attitude and spread it around, never let yourself be a victim, and for goodness sake - have fun." Jack Welch, Former CEO of General Electric

LADIES MINISTRIES MEETING

Karen informed me that the Women's Ministry Meeting went well last night. There were several there and the ladies had fellowship, food and did some planning. Sister Susie Reynolds and Assistant, Josie Rivera did a fantastic job in this meeting. The next scheduled activity for the ladies is a Mother/Daughter/Grandaughter/Relative Banquet, scheduled for sometime in September. More information will be coming later.

I applaud the women and their ministry in the kingdom of God and the church of God.

PRAYER

Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed by thy name. Thank you today for your love, protection, and for Who You are - an awesome, mighty, holy God. Today I come to You to ask Your guidance and protection for all those who are traveling to the General Assembly. Bless the Overseers, Pastors, Ministers, Leaders and members who are going to be in the Assembly. May what is done in the business of the Assembly be to Your glory and may it please you, I pray. Bless the General Overseer as he moderates and bless all the Assembly staff with wisdom, stamina, patience, and discernment to know what and how You want things done. Bless the Presbytery in their deliberations of selecting the next General Overseer. May Your will and presence be utmost in that process. I'm not sure who You want but I know that You are sure. Make Your will knows to the church, I pray. Guide and direct us in the business decisions that are vital for the furtherance of the kingdom of God and Your work in these very last days before Your Son returns. Continue to show us your direction and bear us on in the power, unction and function of the Holy Ghost. Bless those who are getting things ready for the Assembly and for those who are working on the many tasks that need to be accomplished before the Assembly. My State Overseer has asked for prayer as he works to get things ready for the Assembly. I pray for him today and all others that are involved in that process. I ask for widom, extra strength and grace to do that which is needed - in the Wonderful, Powerful, Name above every name - Jesus Christ.

QUOTE

"The pastor is a simple person. She gains by giving. He leads by being. Yours is a difficult, impossible, frustrating profession if practiced without simplicity and freedom. Practiced with simplicity it is a noble, rewarding, delightful dance with the Spirit of God and with the souls of people." William C. Martin

MINISTRY SITES

Creative Pastors

Church Web Site Providers

Church Initiative

Faith Highway

Outreach

Servant Evangelism

LADIES MINISTRIES MEETING TONIGHT

Sister Susie Reynolds will be meeting with the ladies tonight in the fellowship hall. The ladies here are great laborers for the Lord and His kingdom. I encourage any of the ladies to be present for this time of fellowship, encouragement and instruction.

A SPECIAL BIRTHDAY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY LOVELY SWEETHEART!

Yesterday was Karen's birthday. I didn't forget, although, I haven't posted anything here until today. We sang to her at church and all wished her a happy birthday. Some at church put money in her hand too. I took her to eat at a great place called Lillie's - a small hometown restaurant with the great big taste (the food is awesome) and fine Southern hospitality. I surprised her there as I sang happy birthday to her and the workers joined in. I am thankful for a wife who has served with me in ministry for over 24 years. We pastored our first church together 3 months after we married. We have been a team for over 24 years now.

Thank God for my special bride. . .she serves cheerfully in the fore-front or in the background. She is a very loving, caring person who loves the Lord very much. I LOVE YOU!

IT REMINDS ME OF THAT SONG. . .

"If It Keeps Gettin' Better O' Lord, I Don't Know What I'm Gonna Do." Well that is what is happening here in our services. God is moving as we worship him. People are being healed. People are being saved. People are being baptized in the Holy Ghost. People are getting delivered. People are being challenged to get involved in ministry. Hands, hearts and all that is within us are lifting praises to the Kings of Kings and the Lord of Glory!

We just thank God for the Great Things that He is doing!

We were challenged by the message today, Reach, Restore, Relate. The message reminds us of the vision and mission God has placed in our hearts for the work here. We are to Reach by Evangelizing, Witnessing, Caring and God will Save. We are to seek to Restore what the enemy has stolen by praying for Holy Ghost Baptisms, Healings, seeking Discipleship, and Maturation in the Lord. The Holy Spirit brings us, carries us, bears us from "glory to glory." We are to Relate to God through Worship, Prayer and Devotion and to each other by using the relational people skills that God wants us to develop. God is looking to us to fulfill the ministry He has given us here in Huntingdon, Carroll County, TN. May it be so, we pray!

JENNIE SANDERS & BONNIE CURTIS

Karen and I visited with Sister Jennie and Sister Bonnie today. Sister Jennie's heart is beating slower than usual according to doctors and the fluid on her legs is building up. We had a great time of prayer with her as the Holy Ghost moved and blessed in her little apartment. She is a prayer warrior and continues to pray for each of us.

We visited with Sister Bonnie at the Huntingdon Rehab. Center. Kevin Crossno, her grandson, was there. We also had a great time of prayer with them.

Remember these prayer warriors in your prayers. They have prayed many prayers for the church and the people here. Both are in their late 80's.

UPDATE - REX WARMON

Rex called this morning. He came home yesterday after the doctors advised that he would have to walk a certain distance before he could come home. Praise the Lord, he walked it 30 times more than the doctors asked. He said, "I am really doing great and hope to be in church in the next week or so." The quadrupple bypass surgery was a great success and the recovery is even more awesome. Thank the Lord!

AWESOME SERVANT EVANGELISM DAY

WHAT AN AWESOME DAY! Yesterday was awesome as five of us (Donnas Crossno, Delilah Mummel, Austin Mummel, Karen and myself) ventured out to Fred's Parking lot to voluntarily and freely wash windshields to show God's love. We were met with different reactions. A few simply said, "No." Or, "No, I'm in a hurry." One gentleman was very nice and said, "I just put Rain-X on my windshields and don't want them washed", but thanked us. Most said, "Sure!" We washed over 20 cars in the two hour period and also spent about an hour helping one lady get her keys out of the trunk where she locked them. Sorry, but I don't break into car trunks for a living, but when somone is in desperated nee, I do what I can to help them. So if anyone says the Pastor is a professional at breaking into car trunks - don't believe it.

Several asked where we were from and a couple talked for quite some time about the Lord. One man said, "Its a good time to try to win some souls to the Lord." He talked about how much he sees on the road as he drives an 18-wheeler. We witnessed to the man as he shared some of his struggles. Another man was in tears as we reminded him of salvation through the Savior. Another lady rejoiced with us as we told her we were doing windshields as an act of God's love.

It was a great day for which we thank the Lord.


Wax on, wax off. Wax on, wax off. No, I mean, Spray on, clean up. Gettin' into the joy of showing God's love.

Austin, Delilah and Donna make the windows shine for the Love of God!

We witnessed and shared with this family for several minutes. The man is a truck driver about 6 feet 9 inches tall. He was very nice and very supportive. He shared with us that he needs more prayer and needs to pray more.

Karen gets in on the joy of doing Servant Evangelism.

Lead Like Jesus

Leading like Jesus does not include letting the organization change your values.

Read more

UPDATE - Rex Warmon

Lori Warmon called and reported that Rex Warmon has come through quadrupple heart by-pass surgery well and is recovering nicely. She also said that her father is still having tests run and they do not know what the problem is at this time. Continued prayers are needed.

PRAYER REQUEST - HARVEST PARTNER

The church here is harvest partners with the countries of Uganda and Sudan where Bishop James Ntezimana is the Overseer. The last communication we had is yesterday when I talked to his coordinator for making the trip to the Assembly. The coordinator reported that his wife is very sick and will be having surgery in the near future. It is not known if he will get to attend the General Assembly. He had planned to come early and be with us here for several days and then visit another pastor and church before going to the Overseer's meeting on August 17th. Pray for his wife and for provision and protection should he be able to travel to be in the Assembly.

Repost of Previous - 2006 COGOP - General Assembly Program and Final Draft Link of General Assembly

This link to the General Assembly program was made available on June 9th and I am posting it again every few weeks until the General Assembly. The following link is type only and is more reader friendly for basics.

Click Here

The following link is the final General Assembly Program with pictures, specifics and details of services, staff, committees, meeting places, etc.

Click Here

SERVANT EVANGELISM

The Servant Evangelism project is rescheduled for Saturday, August 12th from 10-12 noon in Fred's Dollar Store parking lot. All who desire to participate meet at the church at 9:45 am for instructions and prayer. Call Sister Donna Crossno for further information.

PRAYER REQUEST

We received a call today from Rex Worman to pray for Lori's father. He was taken to the hospital in Jackson. Also Rex is scheduled to have quadruple bypass surgery on Tuesday. Remember these in prayer.

HOLY GHOST MEETINGS

This morning and tonight we thank God for His presence. The Holy Ghost ministered as people knelt in the ailes, knelt in the altar and lifted their hands to seek the Lord and receive as they praised and worshipped Him all throughout the sanctuary.

Thank God for being with us in a mighty way today as Sister Karen led in worship and others joined in. The Holy Ghost spoke to us and said, "I am putting my arms around you and drawing you together as a family. I love you, I love you, I love you." Newer folks and our regular folks joined together to lift up the powerful name, above every name, Jesus Christ. We fellowshipped each other and the presence of the Lord. I only wish I had pictures to post tonight but I was also "lost in the presence of Holy Ghost."

God is doing a work here that man cannot do. He is moving and stirring, blessing and delivering, regenerating and restoring, uniting and bonding, transforming and teaching - Glory to His Holy Name! We are so blessed to be a part of what He is doing and we want to stay in the flow of His ministry.

Tonight we discussed and shared for the first hour on how we can better place ourselves in what God desires for the church here. Hearts flowed together as suggestion after suggestion came to do those things that glorify Him, minister to the people and reach out to those who need the Savior.

God is directing a "new thing" here among this core of people who love the Lord and want to be in His Holy Ghost tsunami as He moves with His great power - power that changes lives from death and destruction to life and abundance. It is His transformation! It is His reformation! It is His revolution! To Him be glory!

MEMORIES OF GOOD FRIENDS

About three weeks ago our big, lovable, golden retriever, Gabriel (along with our fluffy white maltese, Samson, and black and tan fiest, Bandit) got out of their back yard pen. We drove all over the town for hours the same night and next day but Gabriel and Bandit have not come back. About 11:00 pm on that rainy night, Samson, walked up on the porch drenched with rain, drooping his head sadly. We asked him where Gabriel and Bandit were but he didn't answer (a little humor keeps this from being too somber). We have called the local animal patrol and also notified the animal shelter in McKenzie but to this date Bandit and Gabriel are not home. Below is a picture of Gabriel but we don't have a picture of Bandit. If anyone reads this and knows anything about them, please contact me at this number 731-209-4176. I have also written some of memories of Gabriel.

Samson, our little warrior, came back home but he did not tell us where Gabriel and Bandit went.

MY FRIEND GABRIEL

Gabriel was the clumsiest puppy I have ever had but one of the most loving. He fell off of the porch and broke his back leg and had to wear a caste for about 6 weeks. He got okay and continued to grow into one of the largest pedigree Golden Retrievers I have ever seen. His paw is as big around as the palm of my hand and I have average size hands. Gabriel could give you some of the most goofy, hilarious looks that made me laugh often. He would come and stand at attention every time I came outside the back door or near the fences on each side of the yard. Gabriel never offered to bite any person but he would stand his ground with any dog, even though he was not a fighting dog. I saw him take down a German Shepherd and hold that dog down by the throat, even though he got bit bad on his legs. I believe he would have died fighting for me and my family.

MY FRIEND GABRIEL

Gabriel would rather play fetch than eat. Even when I brought out his food he would fetch with me as long as I threw the ball or the stick. He would sit on command, shake paws (hands). When I came out back to do some work he would be right in my tracks or in my face, even when I pushed him away he would be right back. Gabriel loves children and the kids at church would come by and pet him. He loves snow, water, mud - anything that is wet and he would make a mud bed every time it rained.

Needless to say we miss Gabriel and Bandit. Bandit was our little barker. He barked every time anything or anybody moved a hair. We laughed when we first got him because we thought he sounded like a seal barking. He was very loving and friendly as well. He never offered to bite any person, but got after Samson a lot for pestering him.

We hope that wherever they are, they are okay and well taken care of. We hope to see them again but if not we enjoyed the 12 years we had bandit and the six years we had Gabriel. We are glad Samson is home but we sure miss the others.

PRAYER REQUESTS - UPDATE

Lindsey McKinley, our State Overseer's daughter, was in an automobile mishap. She is doing fairly well but x-rays show that she has a seperated shoulder. Pray for Lindsey and for the McKinleys during this time.

Also pray for Sister Jennie Sanders who has edema in her feet. Pray for Sister Bonnie Curtis who has swelling in her legs and feet. Pray for family members here who need to make a commitment to the Lord. Pray for the upcoming General Assembly that God will direct and that it will "seem good to the Holy Ghost and to us" in the business and polity decisions.

I woke up yesteday with pain in my left kidney and urinary tract. I was advised after the last major surgery that I had in 1994, there would be recurring urinary infections. So far the prognosis has been correct. On average I have one every 8 weeks, I have gone as much as six months without one. The doctors seem to think it will get worse and I am under constant care. Yesterday, the pain started at about a 2 out of a scale of 10 but by 11 am the pain was hitting 8/10. I called around 8:30 am to get some antibiotics and finally Karen picked them up about 5 pm. I was lying down most of the day yesterday with only intermittent bathroom requirements. Deacon J. E. Moore came by the house about 11:30 am. He prayed with me. Thank God for understanding and caring members.

Today I am very weak but the pain and fever have mostly subsided. It is raining here today and I continue to move around so that my strength will come back sooner since, as we know, "either use it or lose it."

Your prayers are appreciated. . .

TO GOD BE ALL THE GLORY! HE IS WORTHY!

Humor

UPDATE - YESTERDAY AND TODAY

Yesterday, Karen and I took some of the day off. We traveled the rest of the day and took care of some business in Nashville. We rested much of the evening after we got back home around 7 pm. Karen worked much of the day on getting her materials together for teaching next school year. She has been assigned the 5th grade - self-contained class for 06-07. We will begin our commutting and occasional overnight stays in Nashville again next week.

This morning I went bike riding for about 4 miles in 20 minutes. I am seeing some strength and stamina in my legs now and also some better breathing.

Later in the morning I visited with Mr. Joseph Smith, Father of Donna Crossno, in Christmasville, TN (about 50 mi. round trip). We enjoyed a good time of visit. After a time of visiting, I shared the gospel with Mr. Smith and he prayed to accept Christ as his Savior and Lord. PRAISE GOD! It was great to be in his home with his wife, Elizabeth, and two great-grandchildren - Mason and Ethan. Thank God for this visit and for this gentleman and the opportunity to witness to him.

I got back home around 12:00 and rested a while and ate lunch. Brother J. E. Moore came by around 1 pm to discuss the property development. He had hauled some top-soil to the new property and it is to be graded today. I changed clothes and headed out to the property for a while. The pictures below are of the property and current development. I was there for a couple hours.

Late this afternoon and tonight I have been doing some updating on our bank accounts and also getting my monthly ministry report information together for posting and sending. I like the way we can report online to the State and International offices.