GENERAL ASSEMBLY TODAY JULY 30—AUGUST 3, 2018 GA ORLANDO, FLORIDA 77TH CHURCH OF GOD INTERNATIONALToday GENERAL ASSEMBLY TUESDAY | JULY 31, 2018 TUESDAY, JULY 31 LEAD Kicks Off GA18 Tuesday Events By David White Intercessory Prayer More than 2,000 Church of God pas- 9:00 a.m.—7:00 p.m., 204 ABC tors and leaders came together for an International General Council inspiring start to International General 8:30—11:30 a.m.; 1:30—4:30 p.m. Assembly week with four hours of inten- Hall AB sive training at the LEAD Conference in Prayer Ministries Luncheon the Chapin Theater on Monday. 12:00 noon, 307 A The pre-Assembly leadership training Kids Day Camp featured four dynamic guest speakers Chand 1:00—5:00 p.m., 205, 206 ABC from all walks of ministry to give the Fontaine International Junior Talent room-capacity crowd a well-rounded 1:00 p.m., Chapin Theater view of ministry leadership within and Children’s Church without the church. 7:00 p.m., 206 ABC “What an amazing afternoon,” said Kids Church General Overseer Tim Hill, describing 7:00 p.m., 205 ABC the event as the “premier training con- New York State Office ference for Church of God ministers 9:30 p.m., 307 A and laity.” PT Seminary Reception “Discovering, Developing, and Orozco Madu 9:30—11:30 p.m., 209 ABC Delivering Your Life’s Message” was Youth & Discipleship Celebration the central thread that connected the guru, Sam Chand; and dynamic preach- 9:30—11:30 p.m., 202 ABC four keynote speakers—contemporary er, Robert Madu; with leadership coach, spiritual pastor, Leon Fontaine; multi- Dave Martin facilitating a roundtable En Español ...... 16 cultural pastor, Rae Orozco; leadership discussion. —continued on page 3 A “Different” Peter Thomas Council Agenda By Lance Colkmire Presented “The 77th General Assembly agenda ‘Order of the is different,” reads a line in the agenda’s Statement of Purpose. Its very name— Towel’ By Cameron Fisher Doug Small, second from right, presents the the FINISH Commitment Agenda— Order of the Towel to Peter Thomas. Looking reflects that difference, highlighting Rev. Peter Thomas was inducted into on is David Griffis, left, and Tim Hill. the denomination’s determination to the ‘Order of the Towel’ during the In the decade in which Peter Thomas be part of Christ’s body helping to ful- World Missions banquet held Monday has served as the Church of God field fill the Great Commission. The agenda night in the Valencia Ballroom. director for much of Africa, 43 nations is “conceived and contextualized on The recognition was presented by have felt the temperate passion of a man the declared Mission and Vision of the Doug Small, director of Church of God who has given himself to a continent. Church of God,” the purpose statement Prayer Ministries. The honor is bestowed For more than two decades, he served continues. “in recognition of servant leadership and as the education director, forging rela- Something else that distinguishes this the creation of an ethos of character in tionships, pressing the character of the year’s agenda from most of the previ- leadership.” church deeper, creating a continent-wide ous Assemblies is the limited number —continued on page 5 —continued on page 9 2 TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 • Chand laid out an architectural plan LEAD Kicks Off to let the “S.Q.U.I.R.R.E.L.” loose in your —continued from page 1 church growth plan. The eight-point GA18 acronym encouraged pastors and leaders • Fontaine kicked off the afternoon to value commodities such as questions, session with an emphasis on reaching incremental increase, relationships, risks, people through a Spirit-filled, contem- eruptions, and leadership. porary ministry. “If you’re going to share “One of your goals as a leader is to Jesus with people, do it in a way that is create an environment in which things relevant or ‘Spirit Contemporary,®” happen,” said Chand, a change strategist said Fontaine, CEO of Canada’s only named to the Top 30 Global Leadership 24/7 Christian family network and pas- Gurus list. “Take some risks. Don’t die tor of one of the country’s largest inter- with ‘coulda-shoulda’-woulda’.” denominational churches. Dave Martin served as facilitator of the • Madu closed the training with Fontaine emphasized the need to LEAD conference. a unique deliverance that included be led by the Holy Spirit and teaching oversized green glasses with “But Me” new disciples to do the same. “When Orozco pastors Grace to the Nations, over the plastic lens—exhorting the you open your mouth, we must equip a multicultural megachurch in Tucson, audience to look outward more than them with principles, but we must Arizona. inward, and to do so without playing also teach them to be led by the Holy She challenged the audience to cross- the comparison game. “If you could Spirit,” Fontaine said. “We have to have cultural borders and to deny prejudice just get your eyes off yourself, you an awakening in our churches that the a place in the church, describing mul- could see what Jesus wants you to do. Holy Spirit is not for the pastor and a ticultural ministry as a “Pentecostal Your ‘But me’ glasses are blinding you few inside the church. He is there for imperative.” “The kingdom of God from the vision.” u every believer.” has always been counter-cultural,” she • Orozco continued the theme of said. “The Kingdom culture transcends sharing the Gospel outside the church all other cultures. Consider yourself an building, using Acts 2 as the blueprint ambassador of Christ. Go and make for the church. disciples of all nations!”

GAGENERALToday ASSEMBLY TODAY General Assembly Today is produced in the interest of delegates to the 77th Church of God International General Assembly. It is published daily, Monday through Friday, July 30 – August 3, 2018. Produced under the auspices of the General Assembly Cabinet: John Childers, chair, Ken Bell, David Blair, Kevin Brooks, Raymond Hodge, Anthony Pelt, David Ray, Art Rhodes, Yvette Santana, Dennis Watkins, H. W. “Dusty” Wilson. Editor Cameron Fisher GA Today/News Media Committee Cameron Fisher, chair, Lance Colkmire, Deborah Ortiz, B. Randall Parris, Art Rhodes, David White. Anthony Pelt, cabinet liaison. Layout and Design Michael McDonald Photographers Beau Moffett, Daisy Moffett, Gary Walker Offices are located in Room 207B on Level II (the exhibit and convention hall level) of the Orange County Convention Center. Printed daily at Designer’s Press, Inc. 6305 Chancellor Drive, Orlando, Fla., 32809.

Comments or inquiries about General Assembly Today are welcomed and can be emailed to the editor, Cameron Fisher, ([email protected]).

TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 3 COMM_9x12.indd 1 7/16/18 11:55 AM 4 TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 with an agenda of making all of Africa such a man. “Too often our ideas are ‘Order of the Muslim, the Firewall Project has been clouded by images of strong and domi- established, not as a defensive mecha- nant personalities. The apostle Paul, on Towel’ —continued from page 1 nism, but as a good-news the other hand, often spoke of being network committed to the complete and church-planting initiative. In four weak and gentle among the churches. evangelization of African peoples, and short years, 3,837 churches planted have He forged forward meeting rejection and establishing a self-sustaining movement. been in the 10/40 window/Sahel zone. acceptance.”

These are Muslim-dominated territories In Africa’s leadership conferences, “Along his journey, Peter Thomas has where there was only one struggling Peter Thomas can often be seen sitting been taken hostage and virtually left for church or there were diaspora churches quietly on the sidelines. He leads by dead,” Small concluded. “He has been that spoke a foreign tongue and were serving. He directs by sharing authority turned out of countries, injured and not culturally, effectively evangelizing and influence. He guides with affirma- wounded, falsely accused and arrested, the indigenous locals. In Niger, there tion and, when necessary, clear, dispas- and in peril that threatened his life. was one church. Now there are 27 new sionate principled engagement. Nevertheless, he has quietly persisted churches planted through the Firewall in a mission to see an entire continent “In 2008, 1,798 churches with 424,227 initiative—all indigenous, evangelizing set ablaze in the glory of God. Youthful members were reported” stated Doug congregations. In Chad, 197 churches Africa, with an average age of 19, is the Small. “The figures proved to be inflated, have been planted, one a week, through rising continent. It is the harvest that and were adjusted, by as much as 25 per- the Firewall initiative. All are indigenous. could change the world.” cent, for accuracy. Still, after a decade, Togo—struggling with 13 churches, and with more credibility in statistics, the a national bent toward animism, ances- Some of the previous recipients of number of churches reported total 6,524, tor worship, and voodoo—has seen 127 the Order of the Towel Award have with 817,150 members. Conservatively, new churches planted. been Dr. Robert Fisher; Dr. Horace Ward; the net gain is 4,726 new churches and Margaret Gaines; Former “There are few people among us who 393,923 new members.” Attorney General, John Ashcroft; and rightly deserve the appellation of ‘apos- Times Square pastor, Carter Conlon. u Where Islam has been pushing south, tolic,’” Small stated. Peter Thomas is Special Orders of the Day Begin Wednesday Morning By Cameron Fisher “Special Orders of the Day” will take place starting tomorrow dur- ing the morning sessions of General Council. The featured speakers include Mark Rutland, Bruce Deel, and Samuel Rodriguez who will bring contextual- ization to the FINISH Commitment Agenda. Following Scripture and prayer, the presentations will be the first item of business. On Wednesday morning, August 1, Rutland, a former megachurch pas- tor, university president, and noted Mark Rutland Bruce Deel Samuel Rodriguez author, will lead off the series with an exciting message on the global Impact and families. Deel, a Lee University of the FINISH Commitment, “Your graduate and ordained bishop, has been Personal Ministry Journey.” Rutland recognized with numerous awards for Tweet-Worthy has served as senior pastor of Orlando his leadership. Posted on Twitter @COGGA18 Assembly, president of Southeastern University, president of Wrapping up the series on Friday University, and is currently president morning will be internationally known Michelle Davenpor @got2preach Moments of scarcity is where miracles happen. @samchand #COGGA18 of the National Institute of Christian leader of the Hispanic Christian Leadership through his organization, Leadership Conference, Samuel Kylee Clukey @KyleeSherlin General Assembly lesson Global Servants. Rodriguez. Rodriguez will speak on learned: Allow an extra 15-30 minutes to your walk time the topic of “An Agenda for National to stop and talk to everyone you know. #COGGA18 On Thursday, ordained bishops and Revival.” He has met and consulted International General Assembly dele- Pastor Matthew West @PastrMatt f the brightness of with dozens of world and national the blessing, blinds you to the blesser, it is no longer a gates can look forward to the captivating leaders and read Scripture at the most blessing it’s a curse. @robertmadu #COGGA18 story of the City of Refuge as Bruce Deel recent presidential inauguration. speaks on “Urban Transformation.” Deel Krissy Wilson@KrissyWilson1 Lead Conference is like a Church of God Ted Talk. founded the City of Refuge in inner- Special Orders of the Day presenta- ~Jason Wilson #cogga18 city , which exists to bring light, tions are open to all registered delegates hope, and transformation to individuals of the International General Assembly. u

TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 5 Launched in January of this year, included here will be a PDF of each Website the site initially contained just a issue of this publication the day of its link to event registration and hotel release. Features All accommodation information—the Earlier this month, a convenient two most vital aspects of a successful Things General listing of all ordained bishops was Assembly experience for delegates. The launched to assist in researching Assembly site was fully launched a few months By Cameron Fisher ministerial file numbers. The option later as pieces of the International will come in handy as the International General Assembly began to be released. General Council votes on the Council First came the announcement of the of Eighteen today. nightly speakers, followed by musical guests, details about the Exhibit Hall, Starting yesterday with the LEAD social media, and information about conference, a dedicated livestream became the West Concourse of the Orange available on both websites. Those unable to County Convention Center (OCCC). attend the International General Assembly As they were released, there was the in person can follow the International “Items of Previous Notice,” a paper on General Council sessions and the nightly the meaning and usage of the term, services until their conclusion on Friday. “Bishop,” and finally the all-important Upon the official For the last several years, a dedicated International General Council Agenda. close of the 77th website has been established to provide There are links to convenient money- International information and content for all aspects saving discounts. The website also General Assembly of the International General Assembly. includes a day-by-day schedule of on Friday night, the This year, ga18.org has been the “go-to” events, including children’s church, printed publication website and will continue to be as this kid’s camp, and when sessions of Junior of Elections and week progresses. Talent will be staged. Appointments will be distributed. While the website can be accessed Under the GA18 News tab are more Release of the directly, it also has a presence on the than two dozen Assembly-related articles document on ga18. primary denominational website, that have appeared on faithnews.cc. As org will follow churchofgod.org. Simply click on the press releases are written this week, shortly thereafter. u International General Assembly graphic. they will populate to this link. Also

6 TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 WELCOME TO THE 77th INTERNATIONAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY

With Respect & Appreciation for Dr. Smith’s ministry and leadership Served: 2006 - 2018

RICHARD & BRENDA PACE WALT & TAMMIE MAULDIN CHAPLAINS COMMISSION SMOKY MOUNTAIN CHILDREN’S HOME

BILL & LUANN LEONARD DAVE & LAURA LORENCY MINISTERIAL CARE/SPIRITCARE OPERATION COMPASSION

MICHAEL & GINA UTTERBACK VIRGIE PARKER MINISTRY TO ISRAEL EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

SANDRA MELCHER ANITA HUGHES IRIS VEST SPIRITCARE CENTER EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT MINISTRIES OF THE CHURCH OF GOD CARE DIVISION

TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 7 CENTURY STRONG For 100 years, Lee University has been equipping students for their calling. Today, you can earn a fully online, fully accredited degree on a schedule that fits your life at the most affordable price in the country.

www.leeuniversity.edu

8 TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 Alma’s Closet: Serving membership is nearing 7.5 million, with churches in 185 countries. If this mea- By Cameron Fisher While They Serve Others sure passes, it will be effective following the 77th International General Assembly. Another agenda item impacting the IEC involves its duties and authori- ties. Specifically, this measure would task these leaders to actualize a global context of ministry, including “enhanc- ing the availability of language-specific resources; recognition and utilization of international leaders during general church events; refining programs, meth- ods, and systems to reflect the interna- tional nature of the church; and chal- L to R: Renee Talley, Jodi Cushman, Charla Madden, Susan Rodgers, Agnes Toke, lenging the church to think globally.” Darlene Landreth, Sharon Ballinger, & Jenny Pletcher Global thinking is involved in a mea- Alma Kelley was a minister of the gos- May 2017. “It is not just Redemption sure that would allow the first two levels pel with a heart for missions. Burdened Point, but other churches, individuals, of ministry (exhorter and ordained min- for a way to assist the hundreds of and state and regional offices who have ister) to be altered “to reflect the his- missionaries traveling to the General contributed more than $12,000 and tory and polity of the particular nation/ Assembly, Alma recognized one of the sent hundreds of dresses.” region of a candidate,” while testing needs was for new clothing, or perhaps for the highest level (ordained bishop) Ballinger pointed out that the dress- outfits that reflected American styles. would remain as is. es must be new, even with the tags still Out of her burden was born Alma’s attached. In another matter relating to ministe- Closet—a benevolent ministry that rial credentialing, a proposal will be con- operates only at the General Assembly. “Our missionaries deserve the best, sidered to hold ministry forums “global- so Alma Kelley’s original vision of new, The service is made available to the ly to provide opportunity for deliberate not used clothing remains a staple of many who have dedicated their lives and meaningful discussion, dialogue, the ministry,” she stated. to international missions. For some, questions/answers, and time for spiri- Alma’s Closet may be the only oppor- Alma’s Closet will remain open until tual insight regarding the importance tunity they have to receive new clothes the selection is depleted. On Tuesday, and understanding of ministry ranks, to wear at the Assembly. In addition, from 9:00 to noon, missionaries will be qualifications, and women in ministry each woman is anointed and prayed for invited to return for a second time to with attention upon the meaning and before leaving with her selections. be sure all the clothing and accessories usage of the title ‘bishop.’ Following the are given out. forums, appropriate motion(s) be for- With Alma’s passing several years mulated by the International Executive ago, the ministry is being carried on by “We don’t want to return home with Council specifically addressing the the Redemption Point Church of God in anything,” Ballinger concluded. “We stated issues and brought to the 2020 Ooltewah, Tennessee—the church where want our missionaries to return home International General Council.” Alma and her husband, B.L. Kelley, blessed with as much as they need and spent their retirement years. For the can use.” u This year’s agenda also has various last several months, Redemption Point items concerning the necessity of reach- members have been gathering dona- ing and engaging younger ministers and tions, both physical and monetary, to Council Agenda . . . members. These include: (1) instructing stock the 2018 edition of Alma’s closet. —continued from page 1 our youth in our doctrinal beliefs; (2) Opening on Monday, a steady stream of elections that will take place. At the making adjustments in the tenure of of women missionaries have been visit- 2016 General Assembly, all the current state youth and discipleship directors; ing Alma’s Closet to browse the more Executive Committee members were (3) charging state and regional leaders than 700 dresses, 400 pieces of jew- elected to four-year terms, as were the to adopt a yearly plan for identifying, elry and accessories, shoes, and even international director and assistant direc- training, and engaging young men and purses and hats. The space is located on tor of Youth and Discipleship. Therefore, women designated as the “Jeremiah the third floor of the Orange County the only elections taking place this week Generation” in both local and state/ Convention Center. Rental fees for the will be for the 18-member International regional ministry of the Church of God. room were paid by Church of God Executive Council (IEC). Other matters in the FOCUS Com- World Missions, and the room is staffed Item VI of the agenda concerns mitment Agenda include church plant- by volunteers from Redemption Point. increasing the size of the IEC from 18 to ing and revitalization, affirmation of “The amount of support we continue 24 members. The most recent increase, church doctrine; tithing and giving, to receive for Alma’s Closet is phenom- from 12 to 18 councilors, took place in pastoral election, appointment, and enal,” stated Sharon Ballinger, who 1986, when the Church of God world- enhancement; state overseer qualifi- has served with her husband, Travis, wide consisted of 1,652,089 members cations; aging ministers; and spiritual as pastor of Redemption Point since with churches in 109 countries. Today, acceleration. u

TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 9 10 TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 Request prayer during the General Assembly: Call 855-51-4HOPE or email [email protected]

Join in prayer with others from across the country P. Douglas Small and the world in the General Assembly COG Prayer Coordinator PRAYER ROOM #W204 Visit the Prayer Ministries Everyone is invited! Exhibit Booth #650 • Learn more about Church of God • Open Tuesday-Friday, 9am-7pm Prayer Ministries and Project Pray • Over 15 Interactive Prayer University Experiences • Meet School of Prayer Associate Presenters • Sign-up for a shift as a Watchman in the Prayer Room. • Watch LIVE Interviews with Church of God Field Directors, Missionaries • Live Prayer Sessions throughout and Prayer Leaders the day via Facebook @praycog • Live interviews will also be • Visit Prayer Stations throughout broadcasted via Facebook @praycog the Convention Center.

Stay up-to-date with Church of God Prayer Ministries at the General Assembly WWW.PRAYCOG.ORG/GENERALASSEMBLYPRAYER

TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 11 12 TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 13 14 TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 15 evangelistic efforts with the purpose of estab- bishop, you have invested your time in Juan A. García Y lishing a transformational and not transac- mentoring new ministers. What do you tional ministry. hope for the future of the Church of God? Su Pasión Por El Su región posee una gran diver- Soy una pieza (peón) elegido para este Por Déborah Ortiz Reino sidad cultural, ¿cuál ha sido la clave momento para comprometerme y cumplir para unir al pueblo de Dios en la SU voluntad por el Reino de Dios. No tengo Como evangelista, pastor y super- obra? Your region has a vast cultural diversity, dudas de que el SEÑOR continuará ubicán- visor, ¿cuáles entiende son los obs- what has been the key element to bring together the dome en posición de reconocer aquellos que táculos más comunes que impiden people of God? ÉL ha llamado [y] capacitado para mayores que las iglesias sean más activas en experiencias en el futuro como parte del La clave es no permitir distracciones la evangelización? As an evangelist, pas- cuerpo de la Iglesia de Dios. El futuro de la con el levantamiento de las diversas ban- tor and overseer, what do you understand are the Iglesia de Dios es excepcionalmente brillante deras nacionales representadas en la región. most common obstacles to churches to be more porque sigue siendo la iglesia de DIOS, mov- Dirigidos y sometidos al Espíritu Santo, cele- active in evangelism. iéndose en el poder del Espíritu Santo. bramos la diversidad y la relevancia cultural, Desde mi perspectiva, el obstáculo más honrando y exaltando la bandera de Cristo. I am a pawn chosen for this time to engage común es el desenfoque de lo que es más La bandera del evangelio no hace excepción and fulfill HIS will for the sake of the Kingdom importante en el Corazón del Señor en rel- de personas – la bandera de Cristo asegura of God. There is no doubt in my mind that the ación con la evangelización. El enfoque de unidad del cuerpo. “Somos Una Familia”. LORD will continue to place me in position to nuestros esfuerzos evangelistas tiene que ser acknowledge those whom HE has called and The key is to not allow the distractions that las personas que no conocen a Cristo. No es equip them for greater experiences in the future may occur with the raising of the diverse nation- una nueva van para «recoger los perdidos»; as part of the body of the Church of God. The al banners represented in the region. Led by and no es un nuevo sistema de sonido para que future for the Church of God is exceptionally in submission to the Holy Spirit, we celebrate the nuestras voces y la música proyecten un bright because it is still the church of GOD mov- diversity and cultural relevance, while honoring buen sonido; no es tener el mejor sistema ing in the power of the Holy Spirit. u de cámaras, proyectores y conexiones de las and exalting the banner of Christ. The banner redes sociales. El enfoque debe ser el identi- of the gospel shows no partiality – the banner of ficar a los perdidos y acercarnos a ellos con Christ guarantees the unity of the body. “We are lo que tenemos, el poder del Espíritu Santo, ONE Family”. asegurando que puedan escuchar el mensaje ¿Qué pueden otras iglesias aprender de la poderoso de salvación. manera en que los hispanos trabajan para el From my perspective, the most common Señor? ¿Qué ejemplo podemos darles? What obstacle is the lack of focus on what is most can other churches learn from the way in which important in the heart of the LORD regarding Hispanics work for the Lord? What example can evangelism. Our focus on the evangelistic efforts we set for them? must be the persons that do not know Christ. Hay suficiente evidencia para demostrar It isn’t a new passenger van to “transport the que cada grupo étnico aquí en los EE. UU. lost”; it is not a new sound system so that our Y fuera de los EE. UU. tiene una plétora de voices and church music can project clearly; it cosas que pueden ayudar al resto del mundo is not acquiring the best camera, projection and a ser discípulos más eficientes. Creyendo que social media connections. The focus should be todos somos producto de la obra poderosa del identifying the lost and drawing towards them Espíritu Santo, no pretenderé que tenemos el with whatever resources we have, in the power modelo más excepcional de discipulado y al of the Holy Spirit, assuring them of hearing the El obispo Juan A. García ha servido a mismo tiempo no ignoraré que hemos sido powerful message of salvation. la Iglesia de Dios como evangelista nacio- una parte extremadamente exitosa del cuer- nal, pastor, director de Juventud y Educación ¿Cuáles son algunas de las estrategias po de Cristo. Mi sugerencia en este momento Cristiana y obispo administrador de las regio- que su región ha planificado para lograr El en la historia de la Iglesia es: no teman acer- nes hispanas de Nueva Inglaterra y el Noreste. Compromiso Final? What are some of the strat- carse a las personas que están disfrutando de Además, ha sido parte de un sinnúmero de egies that your region has planned to achieve The un éxito indudable en el REINO; aprende de juntas y comités tanto dentro como fuera de Final Commitment of the COG? ellos y permíteles aprender de ti. la denominación. Al presente, funge como presidente de la junta de Ministerios Hispanos La región Noreste Hispana ha tomado There is enough evidence to prove that every de la Iglesia de Dios y obispo administrador de una decisión intencional de «hacer discípu- ethnic group here in the US and outside of the US la Región Noreste Hispana. Su ministerio lo ha los que hagan discípulos». Crear un sistema, has a plethora of things that can help the rest of dedicado a la edificación del Reino mediante inundado con el Espíritu Santo, de educación the world be more efficient disciples. Believing la preparación, la capacitación y el discipulado y preparación ministerial que refleje sinergia we’re all a product of the powerful work of the de las nuevas generaciones. de los recursos de nuestro movimiento, y Holy spirit, I will not pretend that we have the Juan A. Garcia has served the Church of God agregándole lo necesario para contextualizar most exceptional model of discipleship and at the as a national evangelist, senior pastor, Youth and los esfuerzos evangelístico con el propósito same time will not ignore that we have been an Christian Education director and Administrative de establecer un ministerio transformacional extremely successful part of the body of Christ. Bishop for the New England Hispanic and y no transaccional. My suggestion at this time in the history of the Northeast Hispanic regions. Chairman of the Church is, don’t fear drawing close to the people Hispanic Ministries for the Church of God, Rev. The Northeast Hispanic region has made that are getting it done in the KINGDOM; learn Garcia has also served in numerous community an intentional decision to “make disciples that from them and allow them to learn from you. and interdenominational boards and committees. will make disciples” by creating an educational The bulk of his ministry has been dedicated to and ministerial development system, inundated Como obispo, usted ha invertido su preparing, equipping, discipling, and mentoring a with the Holy Spirit, that reflects synergy with tiempo en guiar a nuevos ministros y generation for Kingdom building. the resources of our movement, while adding ministras. ¿Cuáles son sus esperanzas whatever is necessary to contextualize our para el futuro de la Iglesia de Dios? As

16 TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 PROGRAMA PARA EL Servicio de Interpretación MARTES, 31 DE JULIO Disponible a través de Inscripción: App 8:00 a. m. —9:00 p. m. Sesiones del CGI A-B Interactio 8:30 a. m.—11:30 a. m. La interpretación de las sesiones anuncio: «Esperamos que los delegados 1:30 p. m.—4:30 p. m. de negocios ha sido un aspecto muy y asistentes descarguen la aplicación Servicio de adoración: importante en las pasadas asambleas en sus móviles antes de la asamblea 7:00 p. m. generales internacionales de la Iglesia [General Internacional]». Una vez que Moderador: de Dios. Este año, Comunicaciones de estén en el centro, recibirán instruc- Dr. Raymond F. Culpepper la Iglesia de Dios ofrecerá el servicio en ciones adicionales para que activen el Alabanzas: varios idiomas a través de la aplicación servicio a partir del lunes, 30 de julio. de audio Interactio. Este cuenta con The Crabb Family, Brooklyn Tabernacle Singers, «Hemos hecho todo lo posible español, francés, portugués, alemán Coral para transmitir estas interpretacio- e indonesio. Los usuarios que estén nes», declaró Blair. A la entrada encon- Predicador: dentro del Centro de Convenciones trará un Mostrador de Asistencia con Dr. Tony Evans del Condado de Orange, en la ciudad la Interpretación en donde recibirá la Actividades para los Niños de Orlando, recibirán la transmisión contraseña para que acceda al servicio Campamento Diurno para Niños a través de sus móviles inteligentes durante la semana. Se recomienda que 206 ABC (1:00 p. m.—5:00 p. m.) (androide o Apple) o tabletas. Iglesia de Niños (De 3 a 6 años, que sepan ir al baño) traiga sus propios audífonos y carga- 206 ABC La 77ª Asamblea General Inter- dores de repuesto para sus aparatos (7:00 p. m. / Abierto desde las 6:30 p. m.) nacional se llevará a cabo del 30 de electrónicos. julio al 3 de agosto de 2018. El Rev. Luis Iglesia de Niños (De 7 a 12 años) El Mostrador de Asistencia con la Rodríguez y el Rev. David Blair estarán 205 & 206 ABC Interpretación estará operando en el piso a cargo de supervisar a los intérpretes. (7:00 p. m. / Abierto desde las 6:30 p. m.) en donde se llevarán a cabo las sesiones El hermano Blair hace el siguiente de negocios y los cultos. u ¡GRAN FIESTA LATINOAMERICANA! El Departamento de Ministerios Hispanos se honra en presentar la Fiesta Latinoamericana. Esta gran celebración se llevará a cabo el 2 de agosto a las 11:30 a. m. en el Executive Ballroom I del Hotel Rosen Centre. Busque el acceso directo desde el Centro de Convenciones. Los obispos regionales latinos de los Estados Unidos han preparado un reconocimiento especial para El Dr. Efraín y la Reverenda Elba Navas con motivo de su retiro de las labores administrativas en la Región Norte Central. Ambos continu- arán su ministerio en otras capacidades, como predicadores de eventos especiales, campañas y retiros ministeriales. La sesión del Concilio General Internacional reanuda a la 1:30 p. m., por lo que esperamos verle las 11:30 a. m., ya que queremos aprovechar el tiempo. Esta fiesta es una gran opor- tunidad para que confraternice con sus hermanos y hermanas de los Estados Unidos, Canadá y América Latina. El almuerzo concluirá a la 1 p. m., pero el convivio continuará hasta las 2:00 p. m. Recuerde que los obispos deben estar presentes en las sesiones del CGI. El cupo de la actividad es limitado y esperamos que haya obtenido sus entradas a través de su oficina regional. Si interesa más información, comuníquese con su obispo administrador o superintendente de área. También, visite el mostrador de Ministerios Hispanos en el área Misión Norteamérica, en la Sala de Exhibiciones del Centro de Convenciones. No garantizamos la disponibilidad de entradas ($50.00). u

TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 17 Leslie Ruíz en llevar el mensaje del Señor. De principio himno nacional en varios de los partidos a fin, su estilo de vida es la proclamación del equipo de baloncesto los Toros y el de la Adoración de la bondad y fidelidad de Dios. pelota profesional los Cachorros, ambos Información provista por Leslie Ruíz de la ciudad de Chicago. Leslie Ruíz, nació en la ciudad de Chicago el 2 de junio de 1982. A tem- En el 1994, Leslie experimentó la trági- prana edad sus padres, el obispo Rafael y ca pérdida de su madre y decidió tomarse Wanda Robles, se dedicaron a cultivar el un descanso de la música. Después de talento que Dios había depositado en su años sin grabar, el Señor volvió a confir- hija. Después de haber grabado su primer mar su llamado al ministerio y comenzó disco a los nueve años, Leslie tuvo la opor- su increíble historia de gracia. tunidad de cantar en frente del Capitolio Leslie ha tenido la oportunidad de de Puerto Rico en una actividad conocida servir como pastora de adoración junto como MusiEvangelización, en donde crey- con su esposo y sus tres hijos en la Iglesia entes de toda la isla se reunían a adorar de Dios Torre Fuerte (Orlando, Fl). En los al Señor. En ese tiempo también, tuvo el pasados doce años ha ministrado en un gran privilegio de cantar en la Asamblea sinnúmero de congregaciones. Su música General Internacional de la Iglesia de ha viajado hasta Camboya. En el 2017, Dios llevada a cabo en el Superdome de lanzó su más reciente proyecto musical, la ciudad de Nueva Orleans, en el estado titulado Abre los cielos. de Luisiana. A los once años, lanzó un segundo disco en donde colaboró con​​ Esta semana tendremos la oportuni- el cantante y pastor, René González. A dad de escucharla durante el servicio los catorce años fue invitada a cantar Fe, Libertad y Fuego del Ministerio Ungida para la adoración, Leslie Ruíz durante la inauguración del presidente Internacional de la Mujer en el Salón comparte su fe y amor por Jesucristo con Bill Clinton en la ciudad de Washington, Valencia del Centro de Convenciones del toda persona que la escucha. Como ado- DC y también a la Convención Nacional Condado de Orange. u radora se mueve en ambos idiomas para Demócrata. Además, ha entonado el

Celebración de CONÉCTESE Ministerios ELECTRÓNICAMENTE CON AGI 2018 Internacionales Esta semana usted podrá mantenerse de la Mujer informado de todos los acontecimientos de Por Déborah Ortis la AGI de muchas maneras.

Este año, la Asamblea General Inter- nacional contará con la magna cele- bración de Ministerios Internacionales de la Mujer. Este servicio, el miércoles a las 9:00 de la mañana, en el el Salón Valencia, ala oeste del Centro de Convenciones del Condado de Orange. Paula Hill, presidenta de los Ministerios • En la Red: Busque la página electrónica Internacionales de la Mujer, ha anun- oficial para que obtenga las noticias, la infor- ciado la celebración de una recepción y mación, fotografías y videos. Visítenos en entrega de reconocimientos. La junta ase- www.churchofgod.org y www.ga18.org. sora espera que las hermanas se den cita La música contará con la participación • Sitio móvil de la Iglesia de Dios: Busque para la continuación de la Celebración de de Angela Primm y Leslie Ruíz. Angela el sitio móvil para su teléfono o tableta. Los Fe, Fuego y Libertad, una serie de concen- Primm ha cantado con algunas de las enlaces más populares son la página oficial de voces más reconocidas dentro del góspel. la IDD y Faith News Network, GA2018. www. traciones masivas llevadas a cabo durante ga18.org. Leslie Ruíz es pastora de adoración junto el año pasado. • Twitter: ¡Únase a la discusión! a su esposo en la Iglesia de Dios Torre La evangelista Joye Rodgers estará a Síganos a través de Twitter: @ Fuerte. COGHQ. Cuando tuitee use el cargo de la ministración de la Palabra. logo oficial de la AGI #COGGA18 Rodgers es la fundadora de Primary Recuerde que la admisión a la activi- Purpose Ministries y el Señor la ha usado dad requiere que esté debidamente inscri- • Facebook: Únase a los más ta como delegada de la AGI. Esperamos de 120,000 que siguen nuestra para ministrar más allá de las barreras página oficial: www.churchofgod. étnicas y religiosas. Su misión es que la que el Señor se glorifique en todo. u org/facebook. Suba sus comen- gente encuentre su propósito en Dios. tarios y fotografías.

18 TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 Campamento e Órdenes Especiales del Día del CGI Iglesia para los Por Cameron Fisher Niños durante la Asamblea

Mark Rutland Bruce Deel Samuel Rodríguez Los niños y los jóvenes disfrutarán de Las sesiones del Concilio General El jueves 2 de agosto, los delegados actividades diseñadas para ellos durante Internacional incluyen una serie de tendrán la oportunidad de escuchar el la 77.a Asamblea General Internacional, órdenes especiales o discursos que tremendo testimonio de la Ciudad de a celebrarse del 31 de julio al 3 de agosto estarán a cargo de tres grandes exponen- Refugio de parte de su director, Bruce en la ciudad de Orlando, Florida. tes: Mark Rutland, Bruce Deel y Samuel Deel, quien hablará sobre el tema,

Rodríguez. En esta ocasión, cada expo- «Transformación urbana». Deel dirige de Las actividades para la niñez girarán en nente contextualizará la Agenda del este ministerio cuya misión es llevar luz, torno al tema de la Guerra de las Galaxias: Compromiso Final. Cada presentación esperanza y transformación a la gente «Guerra de las Almas: Despertemos la fe». comenzará a las 8:45 de la mañana. del interior de la ciudad de Atlanta. La iglesia infantil (de 3 a 6 años de edad y capaces de ir al baño) se llevará a cabo en En la mañana del miércoles, 1º de La serie concluye con el recono- el salón 206 ABC, ala oeste del Centro de agosto, le corresponderá el turno a Mark cido líder de la Conferencia de Líderes Convenciones del Condado de Orange. Rutland, quien disertará sobre el tema, Hispanos Cristianos, el Rev. Samuel La iglesia de niños (de 7 a 12 años) se lle- «Su trayectoria ministerial». Rutland Rodríguez. Su sesión está titulada, vará a cabo en los salones 205 y 206 ABC. fue pastor de Orlando Assembly, presi- «Agenda para el avivamiento nacional». Los programas comienzan a las 7:00 p. m. dente de la Universidad del Sureste, de Rodríguez ha asesorado a otros líderes de martes a viernes. Las puertas abren a la Universidad de Oral Roberts y actu- nacionales y tuvo a su cargo la invo- las 6:30 p. m. La salida es a las 9:00 p. m. almente preside el Instituto Nacional cación de la pasada inauguración del

del Liderazgo Cristiano a través de su presidente de los Estados Unidos. u Además de las actividades nocturnas, organización, Global Servants. los niños de 7 a 12 años podrán disfrutar del campamento diurno, en el salón 206 ABC del Centro, desde la 1:00 p. m. hasta Martes, 31 de julio de 2018. las 5:00 p. m., de martes a viernes. Este Predicador: Tony Evans campamento estará a cargo de ReMix Education, una compañía original de la ciudad de Lexington, KY. ¿NECESITA CARGA? «La asamblea será emocionante para los niños», afirma David Blair, director Las estaciones de recarga están de Juventud y Discipulado Internacional. convenientemente localizadas «Tendrán actividades durante el día y a través del centro. servicios nocturnos».

La participación en los cultos de los niños es gratuita, pero el campamento requiere una cuota de $20.00 dólares por niño. Todos los padres deben completar el formulario de inscripción tanto para • ÁREA DE EXHIBICIÓN El Dr. Tony Evans es el fundador y pastor de la los cultos como el campamento. Hágalo a • ÁREA DE REGISTRO Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship en la ciudad de Dallas, TX, través de la página oficial de la asamblea, • ÁREA DE SESIÓN DE NEGOCIOS presidente de The Urban Alternative, excapellán del www.ga18.org. u equipo de fútbol profesional de los Cowboys de Dallas y capellán del equipo de baloncesto profesional de los Mavericks, también de Dallas. Su programa radial, ¿Necesita lenguaje de señas o «The Alternative with Dr. Tony Evans», es transmitido acomodo especial? Busque los asientos diariamente a través de mil doscientas estaciones. reservados en el piso principal, a la derecha de la Sus sermones son descargados más de diez millones plataforma. Los intérpretes estarán para servirle. de veces al año.

TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 19 20 TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 Are You Connecting With Your Members? CDM+ Makes Staying Connected Easier. Whether your church is large or small, with an office full of people or a staff of one, CDM+ has software to help you collect, manage and share information. Features like mobile visitation tracking, text-to-give, web- based member portal with small group tracking, and online event registration let members connect to your church and to each other on whatever device they choose. To see what’s new in CDM+ for Cloud, Desktop and Mobile, visit our booth at General Assembly. ONLINE GIVING . TEXT-TO-GIVE MOBILE APPS FOR MEMBERS & STAFF MEMBERSHIP & ATTENDANCE TRACKING ACCOUNTING & PAYROLL . CONTRIBUTIONS CHECK-IN CHECK-OUT . EVENT REGISTRATION ONLINE MEMBER DIRECTORIES & SIGN-UPS FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

CHURCH MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE

Free Demo • www.cdmplus.com • 877-891-4236 Plans start at $35 per month. Come see us in Booth 425, and ask about our General Assembly specials.

TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 21 DRAFTS COG Assembly-CONNECTIONS.indd 1 6/15/18 12:35 PM 22 TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 23