In this issue
Pastor
General
The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) is a well-known statement of the purpose of the church, writes Pastor General Joseph Tkach. It involves going in order to make disciples, whom we are to baptize and teach. The Great Commission isnt a stay-at-home project. Page 5.
Congregations
A newspaper reporter visited the Cary, North Carolina, church, pastored by Don Mason, Dec. 15. She wrote, "In the heart of Cary, theres a church that has not only attracted a membership of many backgrounds and colors, but has been embracing its diversity for years." Page 6.
Christmas
Congregations throughout the United States added local flair to Christmas celebrations. Several participated in Operation Christmas Child, sponsored by Samaritans Purse, and sent shoeboxes filled with gifts to children in war-torn and poverty-stricken areas of the world. Page 8.
Men's ministry
Paul Sniffen, mens ministry coordinator for the Southwest district, pastors a nondenominational church for men in San Dimas, California. The church meets once a month for breakfast and a worship service. Page 11.
Florida camp
Sixty-five campers and staff attended our newest regional camp, in High Springs, Florida, Jan. 1 to 5, writes director Marty Davey, Jacksonville, Florida, pastor. Since the camp was added late in the year, the smaller group made for a family atmosphere. It truly was a spiritual enrichment program for all. Page 14.
Youth ministry
"I cant wait until the campers arrive," said a camp counselor. "I cant wait to see how God will use this experience to make a powerful impact in their lives." See "Loving GodFoundation for Youth Ministry," by Jeb Egbert, director of the churchs Summer Educational Program. Page 15.
Feazell book
Zondervan Publishing House announced that J. Michael Feazells book, Liberation of the Worldwide Church of God, is to be released in soft cover edition in February. The WN interviewed Dr. Feazell about reaction to the book since it was first published in 2001. Page 16.
Women in ministry
The WCG doctrinal review team will be studying research submitted by ministers and members of the Worldwide Church of God on the subject of female elders and pastors.
If you would like to contribute, please follow the guidelines on page 29 and submit your paper no later than May 25. All research must be submitted electronically. Pages 28 and 29.
Financial report
December donations totaled just over $2.4 million, making it the highest donation month of the year, writes controller Ronald Kelly. Page 17.
Copyright © Worldwide Church of God, 2003