By Errol Castens
By Errol Castens
FAYETTEVILLE, Arkansas--More than 150 pastors and other leaders of congregations from Oklahoma to Mississippi met here Feb. 4 to 6 for worship, information and mutual encouragement.
Remnants from the previous weekend's snowstorm were still visible as guests arrived Friday afternoon, Feb. 4, at the Mount Sequoyah Conference Center.
Worship services were led by musicians from several congregations and brought a spirit of purpose that carried through all the sessions.
Pastor General Joseph Tkach; Dan Rogers, superintendent of ministers; Gerald Schnarrenberger, Salt Lake City, Utah, district superintendent; and Carn Catherwood, Big Sandy, Texas, district superintendent; presented sessions ranging from principles of preaching to an overview of headquarters activities and upgrading administrative skills.
Mr. Tkach likened the process of spiritual renewal the denomination is experiencing to physical birth. "The birth process includes pain," he said.
He emphasized reliance on God to do the work ahead. "God doesn't give someone a job and then fail to provide the resources," Mr. Tkach said.
Finances tight
Controller Ron Kelly gave an overview of the church's financial picture, urging prayer about the sale of both major properties in Texas and California.
After the April 4 auction of the Big Sandy property, he said, some funds now going to maintenance and taxes can be redirected to other areas, specifically to replenish the reserve fund.
The sale of the Pasadena property, which is now in escrow, will enable the WCG to endow a retirement plan for eligible church employees. At that point, he said, more resources can be funneled into local and denominational evangelism efforts.
Mr. Kelly urged pastors and leaders to continue setting an example of good stewardship, reinforcing generosity among the membership and motivating those who may be neglecting giving.
A marvelous work
One of the most uplifting messages during the conference was a video presentation of several evangelical leaders offering encouragement to WCG members and leaders and thanking them for enduring grief for the cause of Christ.
Abel Govender, leader of 30 independent churches in Africa, assured members that the Christian world notices their sacrifice. "The testimony that you are to the body of Christ is amazing," he said. "God has brought you [here] for such a time as this."
Steve Brown, author, broadcaster and seminary professor, said: "You guys are going to be missionaries to the rest of us. You're going to see God do a marvelous work."
Many commented how inspiring and encouraging the conference was and how they wished every member could attend.
Copyright © Worldwide Church of God, 2000