OneAccordMarch-April 2013 The Right to Life and Living the Right Life

2013 U.S. and Personal Sharpening Caribbean Contact: Iron: The Feast Site Questions Virtue of Descriptions About Leaven Tolerance from the president yesterday, today and tomorrow

It is still winter in much of the United States, with snow on the ground and very cold temperatures. Yet it is time to begin finalizing our plans for the Feast of Tabernacles 2013. I use the word “finalizing,” because the actual planning for this year’s Feast began shortly after the conclusion of last iyear’s Festival. And, between now and Pentecost, 90 percent of the brethren will finalize their choice of Feast site and make their housing arrangements. These are the physical things, but from a spiritual perspec- tive, have you considered that each year we really observe three Festivals of Tabernacles in one? Let me explain that a bit more. We believe that the seven-day Feast of Tabernacles pictures the millennial reign of Jesus Christ on this earth. Seven is a number of completion; but as with all analogies and Each year we observe the Feast by looking back to yester- symbols, there is a limit to what we should read from this. day and the time when ancient Israel observed the Feast by The seven days aren’t viewed individually, but as a unit that living in booths, picturing their sojourn in the wilderness. comprises one symbol. The seven days picture the comple- As a type, we also leave our homes and live in temporary tion of one step in God’s plan—the millennial reign of Jesus dwellings for the Feast. Christ. We also come out of the world for seven days (eight includ- The Feast of Trumpets pictures a time when Christ will ing the Last Great Day), but we cannot ignore the evil that appear a “second time” (Hebrews 9:28), and “every eye” exists all around us. The messages during the Feast should will see Him (Revelation 1:7). There is no secret rapture, contrast the evil in the present world (the world of today) nor are there multiple “second” comings of Christ. Upon with the fulfillment in God’s Kingdom, otherwise have we His return, He will put down the armies of this world and really learned anything? bind Satan; then He will set up His Kingdom here on earth. While the Millennium isn’t the completion of God’s plan, it Then, of course, there is the Feast of tomorrow—the time does involve the Kingdom or government of God being set when all nations will come to Jerusalem to observe the up on the earth. Feast. This story is found in Zechariah 14:16-19. This is one of the most powerful prophecies in the Bible and clearly The eighth day pictures the Great White Throne Judgment, shows how important the Feast is to God and, therefore, the final judgment on mankind (Revelation 20:11). At the how important it should be to us. fulfillment of this day, the ultimate future for every human being will be determined. Please be sure you make your Festival plans as soon as possible. It helps the Church in its planning to know in advance where everyone will be attending the Feast. Let us know if you have any questions for our staff. But most importantly, from a spiritual perspective, consider the three aspects of the Feast—the Feast of yesterday, the Feast of today and the Feast of tomorrow!

2 One Accord cogwa.org Contents

Feast of Tabernacles: Welcome to the Feast! 4

Feast of Tabernacles: U.S. and Caribbean Festival Descriptions 5

Sharpening Iron: The Virtue of Tolerance and 9 Unleavened Bread The Blue Harbor Resort will be the Feast site in Sheboygan, Wisconsin Feast of Tabernacles: Sharpening Iron: U.S. and Caribbean Festival Descriptions, page 5 The Right to Life and 10 Committing to the Right Life

Personal Contact: Questions About Leaven 12 News From the Congregations 14 Announcements 17

Personal Contact: Questions About Leaven, page 12

One Accord is published monthly, except April and October, online at http://members.cogwa.org by Church of God, a Worldwide Association, Inc. All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from © 2013 Church of God, a Worldwide Association, Inc. the New King James Version (© 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.). Used by permission. All rights reserved. Ministerial Board of Directors: David Baker, Arnold Hampton, Joel Meeker, Richard Pinelli, Larry Salyer, Richard Thompson and Leon By submitting photographs or articles to the Church of God, a World- Walker wide Association, Inc. (“Church”) or to One Accord, a contributor gives the Church permission and a nonexclusive license to use or publish any President: Jim Franks; Media operation manager: Clyde Kilough; such submissions without any compensation to the contributor. The Editor: Larry Salyer; Managing editor: Elizabeth Cannon Glasgow; contributor further agrees that any such submission will be construed Copy editor: Becky Bennett in the broadest possible terms, including, but not limited to, the right to Doctrinal reviewers: Neil Hart, Jack Hendren, Steve Moody, Frank Pierce edit, crop or otherwise manipulate the submission.

March-April 2013 3 2013 Feast of Tabernacles

Feast fever View at sunset of the street lights in down- town Park City, Utah; the gazebo at the Inn of the Hills Resort in Kerrville, Texas Welcome to the Feast! by Larry Greider

one of the highlights of each year is the joyous Mankind would do better to seek and learn to cherish an rendezvous of God’s people in the fall of the year to keep event that has meaning and purpose, as opposed to a casual the Feast of Tabernacles. getaway that offers little inspiration and insight and can- To “keep” something, you have to have some history! For not begin to answer the major questions about life and the most of us attending the Feast in this modern age, there has future. What a blessing for us, at this time in history, to been a great deal of history, along with many memories and really understand the plan of God! experiences. While the numbers of those attending may not Rejoice be the same as a few decades ago, the spirit is the same and In reality, the festivals of God are about family and rejoicing. othe purpose and vision provided by God’s Feasts point to Notice Deuteronomy 16:14-15: “And you shall rejoice in your the exciting future and hope for mankind. feast, you and your son and your daughter, your male servant God’s feasts are different from modern and your female servant and the Levite, the stranger and the holidays fatherless and the widow, who are within your gates. Seven I’m sure you have encountered coworkers or even close days you shall keep a sacred feast to the Lord your God in friends and relatives who are a little confused by our the place which the Lord chooses, because the Lord your meetings. Attending the Festival requires taking time off God will bless you in all your produce and in all the work of of work and taking children out of school to attend daily your hands, so that you surely rejoice.” meetings with family while focusing on biblical teaching. Take time at the Feast of Tabernacles this year to cherish Listening to sermons, singing praises to God and fellow- and enjoy your family-both your physical family and your shipping with other brethren for eight days is something larger spiritual family, made up of brethren who have the most people would not even consider doing-it is a differ- same mind and spirit as you. Remember, the Father of us ent focus than the resort or vacation mind-set most people all is rejoicing with us. Let’s make this Feast the best one have. yet by putting the focus on why we are here. OA

4 One Accord cogwa.org st. lawrence gap BARBADOS / Barbados is the most The 2013 Festival Site easterly of the Caribbean islands. The island is fringed by coral reefs; and the west and south coasts are generously Descriptions gifted with white sandy beaches, while the ruggedly beautiful northeastern hen I was an be hosting the Feast of Tabernacles in coast presents a rocky shoreline and a adolescent in nine different locations. We are return- vigorous, pounding surf, bordered by 1964, I got ing to the locations of Park City, Utah; majestic cliffs. the shock Kerrville, Texas; Branson, Missouri; of my life! Sheboygan, Wisconsin; Lake Harmony, The south coast is most alluring, with By attend- Pennsylvania; Pigeon Forge, Tennessee; sun-drenched sands and turquoise ing my first Feast of Tabernacles, I was and St. Augustine, Florida. In addi- waters luring one to bathe and relax Wintroduced to a story that was stranger tion, we’ll be having a new site in the comfortably. This year, the Feast will be than fiction and more unbelievable West in Rocklin, California. Rocklin held at Divi Southwinds Beach Resort, than one’s wildest dreams! My nar- sits in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada which is located in St. Lawrence Gap, row understanding of the purpose and Mountains outside of Sacramento and Christ Church, on the south coast. Ser- wdestiny of human life that I was taught is gateway to the famous gold country vices will be held in the conference room as a kid was trumped by this incredible, of Placer County. In addition, we are of the hotel. new explanation—this thing called “the hosting a very special site for 2013 on Arnold Hampton plan of God.” the Big Island in Hawaii at the Hapuna rocklin Beach Prince Hotel! That year at the Feast, the “plan” was CALIFORNIA/ Nestled in the foot- explained; and for the first time in my As you will see, both this edition of One hills of Northern California’s majestic young life, I had an idea of why man was Accord and our Feast website (feast. Sierra Nevada Mountains, the city of put on this earth! And it made sense! cogwa.org/) have a list of all of the Rocklin offers us a beautiful venue for This was my introduction to the holy COGWA Feast sites around the world our celebration of the 2013 Feast of days and to the annual trek that I (and in 2013. The COGWA Feast website Tabernacles. Located about 30 min- my family) would make to one of the will be updated with information on utes from Sacramento, Rocklin puts Feast sites each and every year since. the international sites as it becomes you within easy driving range of Lake Of course, since that time, the mere available. We also plan to have most of Tahoe, San Francisco or the Napa Val- anticipation of preparing to attend the housing information for U.S. sites ley Wine Country (all less than two another Feast gets me (and, I trust, all posted on the website by the first week hours away). of April. of you!) excited about this very special Nearby attractions include Old Sacra- convocation of God’s people. Many in Regardless of how long we have kept mento with its highly rated train mu- the Church have already begun talking the Feast, this annual reminder of seum and the Delta King riverboat; the about their Feast plans for 2013. It is our purpose in life and God’s goal of capitol building; the Highway 49 Gold our desire, by sharing the information “bringing many sons to glory” never Rush Trail, which is dotted with many and description of the Festival sites in gets old! We hope that this information charming historic towns and mining- the U.S. and around the world, to assist is helpful and enables you and your related activities; the American River all of you in amping up your anticipa- family to better plan and anticipate the and Folsom Lake; a wide variety of tion for the Feast, as well! Feast of Taberancles 2013. vineyards and orchards; plus a range of This year, in the United States, we will Doug Horchak excellent restaurants, shopping venues and family attractions (miniature golf, go-karts, ice and roller skating, climb- For complete Feast and registration ing walls, hiking and river rafting). information, including housing, activity Festival housing will include multiple reasonably priced suite hotels, most schedules and contact information, visit featuring kitchens and including hot feast.cogwa.org breakfasts.

March-April 2013 5 Services will be held at the Rocklin beach and ocean sports, golfing (two one. We offer a full range of economical Event Center, which is located in a quiet championship courses on property), housing, ranging from motels to first- residential setting and offers us a large spa, tennis, kid’s programs and hiking class hotels and from cabins and houses auditorium capable of seating over 400 in nearby Hapuna Beach State Park. Sev- to condos. people. eral other group activities are planned The White House Theatre offers a state- Ken Giese for our attendees, including a family of-the-art theater with a separate section beach party, a family luau, a golf tourna- st. augustine in the theater for families with children, ment, teen and young adult activities, so they can be comfortable and still be FLORIDA/ For the third year the and more. Average temperatures range part of the service. Feast will be held at the world-famous between 72 and 83 degrees during Sep- Renaissance World Golf Village, lo- tember. Mike Blackwell cated in historic St. Augustine, Florida. We invite you to join us for a spiritu- lake harmony This site is rich with history, as it was ally inspiring and uplifting Feast in the PENNSYLVANIA / “Where the founded before the English colony natural setting of Hawaii’s Big Island Mountains Meet the Lake”—this slogan at Jamestown, Virginia, and a half a this year! captures the setting of this natural lake century before the Pilgrims landed in Dave Register on the Split Rock Resort. The breathtak- Massachusetts. ing autumnal scenery permeating the The World Golf Village offers a superb ocho rios Pocono Mountains is a “sight for sore venue for our Festival services. You will JAMAICA / The Feast site in Ja- eyes.” have a choice of staying at condos, mo- maica will again be the Sunset Jamaica Split Rock’s Galleria hotel offers eco- tels and beach houses—or staying right Grande Resort and Spa. This hotel has nomical cabin-like hotel rooms, as well at the Renaissance Resort, which offers a superb beachfront location in the as one- and two-bedroom suites with an excellent discount to our members. celebrated Ocho Rios resort area and is kitchenettes. Additionally, just one mile You can just walk from the hotel to the an all-inclusive property—that is, all of away, the Willowbrook suites include auditorium. Parking is free. I invite you your food and drink is included in the full kitchens. to come to Florida to keep the Feast cost of your stay. There are a variety of on-location indoor and focus on the vision of the Kingdom The hotel has tennis courts, a variety of God that will soon return to earth. activities for all ages, such as a pool, wa- of water sports and an array of activi- ter park (“H2Oooohh!” with discounted Larry Greider ties for your enjoyment. It also has five admission for Feastgoers), arcade, hapuna beach restaurants, two beach grills and eight eight-lane bowling alley, fitness center, bars to choose from. HAWAII / The Big Island of Hawaii is basketball and tennis courts, and bil- the location for our specialty Feast site It is within walking distance of the liards. There are also enjoyable outdoor this year. Situated on the sunny Kohala world-famous Dunn’s River Falls and options, such as paddle boats, a 27-hole Coast, Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel will other exciting tourist attractions. golf course, Segway rentals, volleyball, host our daily services and activities. Arnold Hampton softball, a playground, fishing, biking and hiking. These make for an eventful Perfectly nestled into the bluffs above branson the world’s No. 1-rated Hapuna Beach, Family Day. MISSOURI / The beauty and tranquil- the resort presents a flowing, contem- An assortment of very good restaurants ity of the Ozark hills have beckoned visi- porary Hawaiian style where Feastgoers is located in surrounding communities. tors for over 100 years. Harold Wright’s may experience the true essence of the And, for your dining convenience, the book Shepherd of the Hills, which later Islands. Galleria hotel has a restaurant, pizzeria became a movie, increased the inter- and ice cream parlor. The resort has offered us an excellent est. The warmth and friendliness of the nightly group rate of $149 for ocean- people make folks feel at home. Overlay Kevin Epps view rooms (additional larger room ac- that warmth and tranquility with a pigeon forge commodations will be offered at higher vibrant area like Branson, and you have prices). Some condos and homes will TENNESSEE / Nestled in the foot- a wonderful location for the Feast of hills of the Smoky Mountains, Pigeon also be available nearby. Since the meet- Tabernacles. ing location and most activities are at Forge, Tennessee, is known as one of the resort, this is ideal for those choosing Whether you are active or want to sim- the top family vacation destinations to stay at the resort. ply relax in the midst of God’s creation, in the country. If you enjoy the out- Branson has something to attract every- doors, there is much for you. The Feast Activities at or near the resort include

6 One Accord cogwa.org of Tabernacles takes place when you dance Film Festival and many of the can enjoy the fall colors, so its natural events of the 2002 Salt Lake City Win- beauty brings out the outdoorsman in ter Olympics, Park City is amazingly international everyone. If you enjoy quality family close to Salt Lake City—just 35 mostly time, good family entertainment, a freeway miles from the international feast sites / wide selection of restaurants and plenty airport. The elevation of 6,900 feet is of shopping, you will love Pigeon Forge. lower than many Rocky Mountain ski Africa Housing consists of a variety of motel resorts, but the area boasts “the greatest Mugina, Burundi rooms with many offering a full break- snow on earth.” Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the fast in the rate. And, of course, there There are over 130 restaurants in Park Congo are also beautiful one- to four-bedroom City, with purportedly more chefs per Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire condos. Or, for those with extended capita than in Paris! Numerous tour- Man, Côte d’Ivoire families wanting to share, there are ist shops are clustered along Main Ghana large chalets and cabins that sleep up to Street, interspersed with many of the Malawi 30. Housing prices begin at $52.75 per restaurants. Other types of shopping Flic-en-Flac, Mauritius night and go up from there. This is also are scattered around the area, includ- Muhazi, Rwanda an area with several campgrounds for ing full-service supermarkets and a Uvongo, South Africa those who might enjoy camping during Walmart. Hermanus, South Africa the Feast. We are changing venues this year and Kpalimé, Togo Mark Winner will be at the Prospector Hotel, which is Zambia kerrville less than a mile from last year’s facility, Tuli Camp, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe the Yarrow. The Prospector has a few TEXAS / Located in the heart of the large condominiums but mostly small Asia/Pacific Texas Hill Country, Kerrville will once to medium condominium-style units Coffs Harbour, Australia again serve as the location for the Feast with full kitchens. These are located in Baguio City, Philippines of Tabernacles in Texas. several buildings within easy walking Taupo, New Zealand Throughout the Feast, we will have distance of the meeting facility. Negombo, Sri Lanka exclusive use of the premier Inn of the Larry Neff Hills Resort and Conference Center. Caribbean The facility offers first-class accommo- sheboygan Barbados dations, a beautiful convention center WISCONSIN / Watch the sun rise Ocho Rios, Jamaica and exquisite food in its Alpine Lodge above Lake Michigan’s horizon and Europe and United Kingdom Restaurant and Inn Pub. The beauti- explore the beautiful fall colors along Saint-Jean-la-Vêtre, France ful courtyard with pool and spa is a the lakeshore at Blue Harbor Resort, lo- Shorefield Country Park, near favorite on-site location for attendees of cated in historic Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Bournemouth, England (early all ages to fellowship and relax. On-site amenities include an indoor registration advised) Kerrville’s riverfront location lends water park, several restaurants, a fitness itself to a variety of water-oriented center, a full-service spa and compli- Latin America recreational activities, such as mentary Wi-Fi. If walking or jogging Mendoza, Argentina canoeing, kayaking, tubing, fishing, is part of your daily routine, you can Cochabamba, Bolivia swimming or waterside family enjoy several miles of lakefront board- Lican Ray, Chile picnicking. There are 14 wineries walk and beach. El Rodadero, Santa Marta, Colombia Antigua, Guatemala located within an hour’s drive of the On-site housing includes two- and resort. Numerous antique shops, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico four-bedroom villas with complete Huanchaco, Peru contemporary art galleries and kitchen facilities, as well as resort boutiques, as well as two challenging rooms with microwave and mini-re- golf courses, add to Kerrville’s appeal. frigerator and the convenience of walk- Visit feast.cogwa.org for David Treybig ing down the hall or across the parking detailed information and to lot to services. park city register for all international UTAH / Michael Hanisko The site of the annual Sun- Feast sites.

March-April 2013 7 Photo by Photo James Capo

Young adults: Step out of your comfort zone and sign up for an entirely different kind of Church The Grand Canyon activity. Rim-to-Rim Trek Grow spiritually and be mentored in service and leadership while Aug. 9-18, 2013 experiencing teamwork, danger, camps.cogwa.org personal growth and adventure on this year’s Challenger Program: The For more information or to ask a question, Grand Canyon, Rim-to-Rim Trek. contact James Capo at [email protected] Do something awesome this summer. Learn more and apply online at camps.cogwa.org.

8 One Accord cogwa.org Sharpening Iron The Virtue of Tolerance and Unleavened Bread by Doug Horchak

today, the term “tolerance” has These brethren lived in a community where they were sur- taken on new meaning. rounded by immoral lifestyles, and thus they became all too accustomed to this environment. They even gloated about it! Instead of a reference to practicing patience or forbearance with our fellow man, it refers to a 21st-century virtue that As a result, Paul admonished the brethren in this same says people are not to pass judgment on others’ beliefs about letter: “Your glorying is not good” (1 Corinthians 5:6). The religion, morality, and what is right or wrong! In other scripture indicates these members prided themselves on how words, you define what’s “right” for you … and I’ll define tolerant they were, how much mercy and compassion they what’s “right” for me! It’s a new teaching of “tolerance” that is had. It’s a strikingly similar approach to the new “virtue” of being increasingly promoted in our schools, universities and tolerance that is promoted in our society today. even the workplace. Paul went on to express to the Corinthian members: “Do you Such a mind-set can have a profound effect on God’s people. not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? There- Living in a world where compromise and this new tolerance fore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, are touted as valued character traits can have a subtle yet since you truly are unleavened” (1 Corinthians 5:6-7). powerful impact on a Christian’s personal sense of right and Paul was illustrating wrong. just how dangerous this Paul was However, the tolerating of sin in its varied forms has been dismissive approach to sin around for a long time—and even has a connection with the was by reminding them illustrating just first-century Church and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. of the infectious impact a how dangerous small bit of yeast has on a TJust a couple of decades after the beginning of the New Tes- glob of dough! It perme- this dismissive tament Church, the apostle Paul wrote to the fledgling con- ates the glob of dough approach to sin gregation in the city of Corinth and used the symbols of the before you know it—and was by reminding Feast of Unleavened Bread to illustrate a vital spiritual lesson eventually affects the to these brethren. Paul taught them a lesson as a result of the entire lump! them of the congregation’s passive response to a Church member living in sin—having an illicit sexual affair with his stepmother! In addition to the sinner infectious impact being personally harmed a small bit of yeast History shows us that Corinth was a wealthy port city with by this casual attitude beginnings dating back hundreds of years before Christ. The toward his sin, it exposes has on a glob of ancient city was destroyed by the Romans in 146 B.C.; how- the entire congregation dough. ever, a century later Julius Caesar restructured it as a Roman to a passive approach to colony, and it served as the capital of the Greek province of sin. Such a viewpoint tends to make other weaker members Achaea. As such, it attracted a diversity of people from across believe that a little sin isn’t all that important. And therein the empire—including retired soldiers, freed slaves, Jews lies the danger! and Greeks, coupled with many pagan religions and prac- tices. The reputation of Corinth was one of excess and sexual While our modern culture continues on the destructive road promiscuity. of which Isaiah prophesied—“those who call evil good, and good evil” (Isaiah 5:10)—we should be aware of Satan’s subtle It is within this historical context that the Corinthian con- effort to lure us into a life of sin. gregation faced this moral problem. The Feast of Unleavened Bread has many lessons for God’s The sinful lifestyle of the man referred to in Paul’s letter people—and the danger of the modern virtue of “tolerance” was one that some in the congregation had come to tolerate. is one of them! OA March-April 2013 9 Sharpening Iron The Right to Life and Committing to the Right Life by Clyde Kilough

one of society’s most volatile all of this as we partake annually of the Passover bread and arguments today centers on what is called the “right to wine and consider the deep meaning of those symbols. life.” While most associate the term with the pro-life/anti- There are two direct “right to life” statements in the Bible abortion movement, it can also broadly include euthanasia, that we should consider as we prepare our minds for the capital punishment and infanticide. Passover and Unleavened Bread. The first we find in the In the midst of all the heated disputing over who controls beginning of John’s Gospel, as he introduced the Word by the right to life, as God’s people, we turn our minds at this explaining the purpose of His coming: “But as many as re- time of the year to a different, far more important “right to ceived Him, to them He gave the right to become children life” situation. of God, to those who believe in His name” (John 1:12). If anyone ever deserved not to die, it was Jesus Christ! Yet Then, near the end of the book he again reiterated this He willingly gave up His “right to life,” sacrificing Himself point. “But these [‘other signs’] are written that you may for us. God intends for each of us at this time of year to believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that deeply reflect, through believing you may have life in His name” (John 20:31). remembrance, on “Life” and “belief” are two themes God inspired John to the life and death emphasize. In John’s Gospel alone (not to mention his It’s one thing of Christ and so- three letters and Revelation, where the theme continues), to acknowledge berly consider what it “life” is mentioned more times than in Matthew, Mark Omeans for the way we and Luke combined. He speaks of “believe” (or “believes,” that Christ gave live and what we live “believing”) nearly three times as often as in the other His life, but it’s a for. three Gospels. I highly recommend you study John’s This process often references to “life” and “belief” as part of your Passover crushing feeling takes us back in time preparation—“life more abundantly” is truly the hope of when God helps to when we were be- eternal life! ing led to repentance How important is our belief? Well, isn’t taking the Passover you see, “I took and baptism. Person- itself an expression of our faith—our firm belief—in the ally, it’s now been reconciling death of Jesus Christ? Christ’s life!” 42 years, but I recall Even though we were not there to see it, don’t we believe like it was yester- that Jesus Christ came and lived in the flesh? day that devastating “cut to the heart” experience of really comprehending the Don’t we believe that in dying His body was broken for our magnitude of the effect of my sins, seeing personally that spiritual and physical healing and His blood shed for the “God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord forgiveness of our sins? and Christ” (Acts 2:36). It’s one thing to acknowledge that Don’t we believe that He continues to patiently work with Christ gave His life, but it’s a crushing feeling when God us and forgive our sins? helps you see, “I took Christ’s life!” Do you remember when Don’t we believe that we are here because God miraculously you realized, because of my sins, I earned the right to die? called us? But God didn’t stop there. Through the process of repen- Don’t we believe that He who has begun a good work in us tance, baptism, forgiveness and receiving of the Holy Spirit will complete it and give us eternal life at Christ’s return? (Acts 2:37-39), He gave us the right to life! We remember

10 One Accord cogwa.org www.123rfcom/Olga Yastremska www.123rfcom/Olga

Yes, we do believe, and these core beliefs form the bedrock so, we gave up any right to life. Yet, as the Passover teaches of our faith in God’s promise of eternal life! us, God our Father and Jesus Christ our Brother, in Their The second “right to life” scripture leads us to additional incredible love and mercy, gave it back! understanding: “Blessed are those who do His command- With that in mind, we immediately enter the Feast of Un- ments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and leavened Bread, which teaches us how to respond. Simply may enter through the gates into the city” (Revelation put, since God gave us the right to life, we must commit to 22:14). live the right life! God reminds us here that with rights come responsibilities. Toward the end of his life, John was still pointing to that. If our breaking the commandments took the life of Christ, “These things I have written to you who believe in the name then how can we continue in that? We therefore understand of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal that “belief” is not just acknowledging Jesus’ offer of eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of life, but committing to living by “every word that proceeds the Son of God” (1 John 5:13). from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4). During this coming Passover and Feast of Unleavened This first season in the annual holy day cycle reminds us of Bread, may we humbly remember what it took to give us the most important “right to life” movement ever—God’s! the right to eternal life, and may we rededicate ourselves Through our sins, we took the life of His Son; and in doing to living the right life! OA

March-April 2013 11 Personal Contact by Cecil Maranville Question: Exodus 12:19 says, “For seven days no Answer: Rather than produce a list of items that “must go” leaven shall be found in your or “can stay,” the Church has taught the scriptural instruction houses.” Here is a composite along with the principles contained therein, so that individuals of many questions we’ve would be able to exercise good judgment. We advise you to be cautious about accepting the wide variety of opinions, whether received on what constitutes from Jewish traditions or even from within the Church of God leaven: community. The scripture above is as detailed as the Bible gets about • Can you tell me if bread made with “leaven.” Therefore, we look to history to learn what leaven was used in Bible times, and we look to modern baking practices. flour, water, salt and sour culture According to Smith’s Bible Dictionary, “Various substances would be considered unleavened were known to have fermenting qualities; but the ordinary bread? leaven consisted of a lump of old dough in a high state of fer- • What about some brands of salt mentation, which was mixed into the mass of dough prepared for baking.” Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary defines and water that have sodium leaven as follows: “1a: a substance (as yeast) used to produce bicarbonate in them? fermentation in dough or a liquid; especially: SOURDOUGH • Do we throw out toasters and b: a material (as baking powder) used to produce a gas that toaster ovens, because it is lightens dough or batter.” impossible to remove all their What was used in Bible times would be comparable to the crumbs? “sour culture” referred to in the first bulleted question above. Another name for it is “sourdough starter.” It indeed contains • Do we avoid laundry detergents, active yeast. But as we see from the modern dictionary defini- toothpaste, cat litter and pet foods tion, leaven also includes other products that add air to dough. that contain baking soda? Leaven includes active yeast (such as sourdough starter and baker’s yeast) and chemical leavening agents (such as baking • Do we put out everything made powder and baking soda). Other chemical leavening agents with brewer’s yeast? include sodium aluminum phosphate and potassium bicar- • Does kefir have to be put out? bonate. • Some medicines, antacids and However, some of these chemicals can have other uses besides leavening. Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), for instance, even fire extinguishers use can be used to control pH balance and for other medical leavening agents. Must they be put issues. In such items as medicines, salt and antacids, it is com- out? monly used as a binder, not as an agent to “puff up” as is the • Since egg whites can make dough case when it’s used for making bread or other baked products. Bottled water may have sodium bicarbonate added to enhance puff up, should they be put out? the taste and add minerals. When used in these ways, sodium bicarbonate and other such chemicals are clearly not acting as leavening agents. When chemicals that could be leavening agents—if they were used in conjunction with food—are used in other ways, they are not what God intended His people to put out to remember their affliction in Egypt. This basic principle answers the host of questions about products that are not human food or bread/ bread products: toothpaste, pet food, medicines,

12 One Accord www.123rfcom/Pixelblisscogwa.org cat litter, salt, water, laundry detergents, antacids members to throw these away every year but to do and fire extinguishers! None of these have to be put the best they can to clean them. Some members out. However, this does not mean that you can leave clean such appliances by carefully spraying them the box of baking soda that’s used for keeping the with water—after unplugging them, of course! They refrigerator fresh since, of course, it can be used to find that by the time the festival is over, the toaster leaven dough. has dried thoroughly and is safe to plug in again. Beer is made with active yeast; however, after the Another method of cleaning is simply to use the fermentation process, the yeast becomes dormant hand tools many vacuum cleaners have. and, therefore, is no longer active yeast. That dead The question of what should be considered leavening yeast residue left after the brewing process is called can be a conscience issue for some. The Bible tells us brewer’s yeast. It is sometimes added to soups and that whatever we do that is not of faith is sin (Ro- other foods as a flavoring agent and is used in some mans 14:23). But a person’s conscience is the reflec- nutritional supplements. It is not leaven. tion of his personal knowledge and experience. The Kefir is a fermented milk drink. The fermentation conscience of a believer will change over time, as he process generates bubbles of carbon dioxide. But it grows in knowledge and experience in the Church. is a drink, not bread. Some immediately shy away Still, the old adage can be useful here; when in doubt, when they read the word “ferment” or “fermenta- throw it out! tion,” but we should concern ourselves only when Back to the simplicity of the scripture: Put out leav- these terms refer to making bread or bread-type en—both active yeast and chemical leavening agents products. (as described above)—and human food products made with such leaven. Keep it simple—and keep Regarding the use of egg whites, the Church of God OA has historically taught that adding air to dough by the Feast. beating eggs or other liquid ingredients is not leaven- ing. But some people wonder if using egg whites to fluff up or lighten a baked good “breaks the spirit of the law.” Consider what the real spirit of the law is here. Breaking the “spirit of the law” would be failing to remove, with God’s help, the “leaven”—sin—of your heart! We should remember that one characteristic of yeast and other leavening agents is that they are pervasive. That is, they creep into the entire product just as sin does. This is, no doubt, one reason Christ referred to the “leaven of the Phari- sees” (Matthew 16:11). Paul tells us that “a little leaven leavens the whole lump” (1 Corinthians 5:6). This is not the case with egg whites. About toasters or toaster ovens, the Church does not teach

March-April 2013 13 News From the Congregations

Youngstown Men Dust Off Aprons for Brunch Audience Rolls With Laughter at Columbia Fun Show

On Feb. 9, 2013, the brethren of aprons from the previous year and set Youngstown, Ohio, congregated for the to cooking. The brunch was plentiful– much-awaited annual men’s brunch. scrambled eggs, sausages, fresh fruit, The preparation began weeks earlier omelets, toast, waffles, pancakes, fruit David Willis plays with after-church meetings, during juice, tea and coffee. Once the food was electric guitar to his which the organizers created the menu prepared, 43 people enjoyed fellowship- original song “Draw and delegated tasks. On the sched- ping over their meals. Near to God” uled Sabbath, the men dusted off their Amanda Rupp On the evening of Jan. 19, the Colum- bia, Missouri, congregation had their Houston South Welcomes Guest Speaker annual fun show with Matt Caple act- ing as emcee. Brent Martin and Delvin do we expect to reach Mellerup were the stage hands; Erica a record number of Lake ran sound; and Linda Morgan countries and people? was the program organizer. His message ultimate- We had 14 acts, ranging from chil- ly showed how man- dren’s skits to a concert-worthy pianist. kind has responded There were three guitar players, one to the preaching of banjo player, one mandolin player, the gospel throughout three piano players and one flute player. history. Sin gets in Musical selections included “Red River Frank and Nelda Pierce with the way of our ability Valley,” “The Gnome” and “Ballet of Clyde Kilough to see and hear the Unhatched Chicks.” The skits in- truth. The lesson to be cluded “Dietary Genesis” and “Cowboy On a sunny Sabbath, Feb. 2, 2013, the learned is that we are Reminisces With Roy Rogers and Dale Houston South, Texas, congregation to do what God asks us to do because it Evans.” The audience joined in singing had several special blessings. Not only is the right thing to do, not because we “Happy Trails to You.” had we planned a potluck after services, see what we expect. God is in charge of but we were also blessed to have Clyde turning the heart of man to Him. Our emcee had the audience rolling with laughter between acts with timely Kilough as the guest speaker. After services, we were physically jokes and comments. We are looking After two very special music presenta- filled with a variety of mouth-watering forward to next year when, God will- tions, Mr. Kilough brought us up-to- dishes. We continued eating while we ing, we will once again bring laughter date on the media efforts of the work. talked until we could not consume and wholesome entertainment to our In his sermon he asked, How should another bite. loyal congregation and visitors. we measure the success of our efforts to Susan Scott Smith preach the gospel? Do we expect more Article by David Willis people to walk through our doors? Or Photo by Linda Morgan

14 One Accord cogwa.org Austin Welcomes Visiting Texas Teams for Basketball Tournament

On Jan. 26 and 27, 2013, the Austin, Texas, congre- gation welcomed men’s, women’s, teen and preteen basketball teams from East Texas, Dallas, Fort Worth and Houston to kick off the 2013 basketball season. Due to the high interest in Teams comprised of pre- participating, Dallas and teens from all the visiting Houston each brought three congregations showed off full men’s teams. their burgeoning skills Men’s and women’s games Fort Worth edges out began after sundown on fet (all-you-care-to-eat pizza, pasta, salad buffet and drinks), Houston North at tip-off Saturday, Jan. 26, after to have some fun driving go-karts and bumper boats, play- brethren from each con- ing laser tag, climbing rock walls and going on various rides. gregation filled the Norris Bright and early Sunday morning, the courts at Pflugerville Conference Center for Sabbath services. Larry Salyer, pastor High School were filled with cheers as the basketball games of the Houston South congregation, delivered a sermon on continued. our need to have a clear perspective of our value in God’s eyes. The next tournament is scheduled for March 16, 2013, in Dallas, Texas. While the men’s and women’s teams battled it out on the basketball court on Saturday night, the teens met at Austin’s Article by Elizabeth Glasgow Park, a 23-acre amusement park with an unlimited food buf- Photos by Carl Cooper Jefferson Brethren Host Fireside Chat and Annual Fall Social Once again, the Jefferson, Georgia, congregation held its annual fall social at the home of Mike and Cindy Boss on a perfectly cool evening, Dec. 1, 2012. For a number of years, the brethren have been enjoying this get-together hosted by the entire Boss family. We look forward to the warm soups and stews provided by our ladies. The warmth of good food, along with the bon- fire, makes the atmosphere just right for fellowship and fun outside in nature and away from the world. Neil and Wesley Boss are volunteer firemen and are permit- Young brethren enjoy the ted to bring the “Big Red Fire Truck” to the occasion for our heat of the bonfire children to tour while they learn more about how firemen keep us safe. This is always a highlight for the children, as is We encourage members to send announcements to be the scavenger hunt down the dimly lit path to the gazebo in featured in One Accord. We feature events in members’ the woods. lives, including baptisms, births, engagements, weddings, In addition to our regular sing-along, this year the young significant anniversaries (25, 40, 50, 60, etc.), graduations people had their own sing-along as well. It does not take and obituaries. Typically they run between 50 and 100 much to entertain the brethren—we just love to fellowship words; however, we ask that all submissions stay under 250 with each other! As always, the evening passed too fast. words. Please submit a high-resolution color photo along Donna Quintana with the written copy to your congregation’s reporter. March-April 2013 15 Mexico City Brethren Spend Family Day Touring Xochimilco Canals

Club members then prepared deli- The brethren on board the cious hamburgers on the grill, which trajinera, ready to set sail were accompanied by salad. They also prepared fresh drinks made of horchata (a traditional beverage) and lemonade; and of course, we had cold beer. After eating lunch and fellowshipping, we visited a local exhibition of snakes, toads, carp and ajolotes (an amphibian whose tail is representative of Xochi- milco). Reba Walker and Sofia Then, we boarded the trajineras again Cisneros and continued toward a more peaceful zone, where all of us were able to medi- During a visit to Mexico City, Mexico, named Viva Lupita and Sandra. We be- tate on the beauty of creation. We had on Feb. 9 and 10, 2013, Leon Walker, re- gan the tour with enthusiasm and were a total of 36 members of the Church of gional director of the Spanish-speaking very happy to be together once again to God enjoying the scenery as we sailed region, and his wife, Reba, joined the fellowship as family. We toured many on the waters that fill the channels of brethren for an activity in Xochimilco, pueblos on the lake and even met a Xochimilco, during a ride that lasted located in the southern part of Mexico group of mariachi singers who per- more than seven hours. City. Xochimilco is known for its formed for us. The music inspired our It was a pleasure for the brethren of extensive lake and canal system, which regional pastor, Larry Roybal, to dance Mexico City to host Mr. and Mrs. was created during the Mesoamerican with Mrs. Lupita Mejia, a member of Walker and Mr. Roybal on this trip, period as a method of navigating the the congregation in Mexico City. which gave us the opportunity to build many chinampas, or floating islands, After the serenade and the dance, we bonds and to share one of the more where crops were grown on the shallow traveled to the ecological zone, where intimate experiences this congregation lake bed. we enjoyed a long and peaceful journey. has had in a long time. We arrived on Sunday, Feb. 10, and At noon we arrived at a beautiful gar- by Nashielli and Jorge Ivan boarded two of the more than 200 den with pavilions and various facilities Garduño trajineras (large boats) that were there, for children’s games. The Spokesman’s Translated by Pablo Dimakis Virginia Beach Weekend Focuses on Exercising Spiritual Gifts The Williamsburg, Virginia, and Delmar, Delaware, con- gregations hosted the Virginia Beach Weekend Jan. 18 to 20, 2013. Members, guests and friends came from as far as Maine and North Carolina to the Holiday Inn North Beach. The schedule began Friday evening with a preteen activity and a Bible study by Todd Carey about wisdom. On Sabbath morning there were both teen and adult Bible studies. After a lunch break, everyone gathered for Sab- bath services where we heard two split sermons. David Witt spoke on our guiding principle—“Ask for and Use Attendees show off Your Spiritual Gifts.” Then Mr. Carey spoke about how to their costumes exercise your spiritual gifts when facing adversity. Later that evening we had a delicious buffet dinner at the Holi- was raffled off. The Virginia Beach Weekend ended Sunday day Inn. morning with a swim and fellowship time before everyone checked out and headed home. See you there next year! After sunset, everyone enjoyed the silent auction, art con- test and costume dance. Also, a beautiful handmade quilt Timothy Walsh 16 One Accord cogwa.org Announcements

Baptisms Births

had been bothering him. He contacted Church of God, a Worldwide Associa- tion, for answers to some of his ques- tions; and when he received answers backed with scriptures, he was amazed and wanted to know more. He found himself wanting to be part of God’s Church. Peter loves God’s Word. He wants to obey God; and every time we meet, Donald Dube, left, stands with Peter he wants to know more. What advice Musekiwa after his baptism at the would he give to someone contemplat- Mapongogwe Dam ing baptism? “God says in His Word, Jasper Reisdorff ‘Ask and you shall be given.’ Ask Him Anthony and Ketchel Reisdorff of the The Zimbabwe congregation warmly to give you understanding and knowl- edge and what He wants you to do, and Raleigh, North Carolina, congregation welcomed a new member into the were delighted to welcome their first- Body of Christ on Jan. 27, 2013. Peter God will give you the understanding and knowledge we are in need of.” born son into the world. Jasper Isaiah Musekiwa, an electrician for the Zim- Reisdorff was born two days before Stephan Tshabalala babwe government’s prison services Thanksgiving, on Nov 20, 2012. He department, was baptized in the dam weighed 6 pounds 12 ounces and was that supplies water to Gweru, a city in 19½ inches long. the Midlands Province. The baptism and laying on of hands Andrew Ellis was performed by local elder Stephan Tshabalala. God began calling Peter in 2006. At the time, he attended a church that met on Sunday; mean- while, his brother was a member of a Sabbath-keeping church. Peter was confused. One day as he was talking with his brother about why there are differences in how people worship Verlyn Whittaker God, his brother told him to pray and fast and ask God to show him the Members of the Henderson, Kentucky, truth. Peter did as he advised, and it congregation rejoiced in hearing the wasn’t long before God answered his news of the baptism of Verlyn Sue prayer! Scarlet and James Ellis of the East Texas Whittaker on Sunday, Jan. 20, 2013. congregation happily announce the One day, Peter was buying stationery at The baptism took place at the Louisville arrival of their second child, Andrew a bookshop, but the shop did not have church hall by local pastor, Mark Win- James. He was born Jan. 21, 2013, at envelopes in which to put his purchase. ner. Verlyn commented, “I’m so happy 6:32 a.m., weighing 8 pounds 10 ounces Instead, he was given a Church of God to be a part of the family!” Our small and measuring 20½ inches long. Daddy magazine to carry out the stationery he congregation is also very happy to have is thrilled to have another arrow in his had just bought. When he got home, a new sister in Christ. Congratulations, quiver; and Andrew’s big sister, Lauren, he began reading the magazine, and and welcome to the family! already has a close connection with it answered most of the questions that Carol Froedge him.

March-April 2013 17 Anniversaries by listening to Herbert Armstrong Sylvia and Merle Daniel on his radio program. They were first Sylvia and Merle Daniel met in Nor- visited by Ozzie Englebart and his as- man, Oklahoma, at a family cafe. Their sociate in Dallas in 1969. Merle’s job first date was on Dec. 17, 1962. Merle with Eastman Kodak moved them to was 21 and was working full-time for Midland, Texas, in May 1970. Their the National Guard. Sylvia was 18 and second visit was in October of 1970 by was attending cosmetology school. Larry Salyer and Jeff Booth. On Sunday, Feb. 10, 1963, they were They were both baptized in February of married in the Baptist Church parlor. 1971 in the home of Dave and Louise No one remembered to bring a camera, Hammond in Odessa, Texas. Their first so no pictures were taken. Feast was in 1971 in Big Sandy, Texas, They were blessed with five children, where they attended until the campus Lisa, Neal, Tiana, Nick and Alicia. closed. There were over 16,000 in at- These five children blessed them with tendance that year, and over 15,000 of congregation in their area, they attend 11 grandchildren, six boys and five those camped on the premises. Bible studies, read Church material and girls. Those 11 have already produced Merle retired from Eastman Kodak in attempt to relax after years of working, three great-granddaughters and two 1992. Sylvia retired from the Mid- while concentrating on staying healthy great-grandsons for Merle and Silvia. land city attorney’s office in 2005 and spiritually and physically. They learned about the Church of God from Avon in 2012. While there is no Alicia Lee

John and Barbara Spence Neal and Diane Brantley On Aug. 4, 2012, the Raleigh, North Carolina, congrega- The Raleigh, North Carolina, congregation was privileged tion was honored to be a part of a special celebration of the to share in the celebration of Neal and Diane Brantley’s 50th golden wedding anniversary of members John and Barbara wedding anniversary on Oct. 22, 2012. Neal and Diane met Spence. After services, they were presented with a special in Raleigh at a grocery store where Diane went to buy some cake in their honor. beef liver for her grandmother. Fifty years ago, on July 28, the Spences exchanged their wed- They have six children and 11 grandchildren, who range ding vows at a small wedding in London Bridge, Virginia. in age from 21 months to 22 years. They would advise They expressed that it has been a wonderful journey togeth- young couples to realize they will need to work to solve all er; and when prompted to offer their sage advice for a long, problems, and the good times take care of themselves. The loving marriage, they wisely suggested that it is something rewards are many and often unknown. you have to work at. Anthony Reisdorff Anthony Reisdorff

18 One Accord cogwa.org Fred was ordained a deacon on April Obituaries 20, 1983; and he and Mary used their Fred and Mary Sorg gift of hospitality to serve the Church Fred Sorg was 97 years young when in many ways. They also served in their he died on Jan. 14, 2013, and lived a community as they ran food banks for healthy, vibrant life up until the last many years. year. Anyone who met him quickly re- To honor a life well lived, on Jan. 17, alized quickly he was quite a character. 2013, his family held a celebration of Fred grew up in the Teton Mountains life service for Fred Sorg. of Wyoming, traveling there by covered wagon with his family. During his life, He is survived by his wife of 65 years, he joined the Navy in 1952, owned a Mary Sorg; children, Carl Albert Sorg, bowling alley, was a championship Ellen (Cliff) McCully, Mike (Ginger) archer, became a horticulturist and ac- Sorg, Bill Sorg, Jan McCoy and Judy Services were held at Tom M. Wages complished too many other endeavors Prittel. Surviving also are several sisters Lawrenceville Chapel, and internment to mention here. and brothers; grandchildren, Amy Renee Sorg, and Tyler, Josie and Jenna was at East Shadowlawn Memorial Most importantly, Fred and his wife, McCully, and Weston and Ansley Sorg; Gardens. Bruce Gore, Fred and Mary’s Mary, listened to Herbert Armstrong numerous great-grandchildren and pastor, officiated. and became members of God’s Church. great-great-grandchildren. Donna Quintana

family responsibilities. The family then ences and all—to memory. Reluctantly, Lawrence Hale moved to San Francisco, California, in in 2007, he eventually had to give up 1952, where he worked as a butcher for speaking altogether. Swift Meat Packing and the Warehouse He is survived by nine of his 12 Industries until his retirement in 1991. biological children-Lyndia, Larry Jr., Portia died that same year. In Decem- Lorenzo, twins Doreen and Denise, ber of 1997 Larry married Miranda Missy, Walter, Cornelius and Sherm- Hlazo Threadgill; and they moved to and two adopted children, Irma Owens Anthem, Arizona, in June of 2000. and Verben Lee. He leaves behind his He was called into the Church of God second wife, Miranda, and two step- in 1962 and was baptized in 1963. He children, Nomi and Thembani. Also was ordained as a deacon in 1975 and mourning the passing of their beloved coordinated duties in parking, hall grandfather are 27 grandchildren, 31 Lawrence Hale was born in Grandview, setup and security. He enjoyed working great-grandchildren and one step- Texas, to Tom and Martha (née Serrell) with the elderly and the handicapped, grandchild, Shariyah. Hale on April 24, 1926. The family often taking them on their various Larry Hale will be remembered for the moved to Fort Worth, Texas, where errands. He visited those in the hospi- Lawrence grew up. He was preceded in exemplary courage with which he bore tals around the Bay Area, armed with his setbacks and his commitment to death by both his parents; his first wife, a cheerful smile on his face, a good Portia Hale; his older brothers, Walter service even in the face of great adver- joke to tell and a bouquet of flowers to sity. He never lost sight of the glory to and Lorenzo; his only sister, Ethelene; brighten patients’ day. one son, Melvin; and two daughters, which he will awaken in the future, and Diana Hale Frye and Portia Elaine He was ordained an elder in 1993 and that contagious optimism and singular Hale. enjoyed giving encouraging sermons focus saw him through many trying and rousing sermonettes. Even though times. Along with a special brand of He was drafted into the Navy in 1944, he had been advised as early as the humor, which helped him along the from which he was honorably dis- 1980s that he would eventually go way, he had a way with words. No one charged in 1946. He married his first blind, when it did happen in 2004, it could tell a story quite like he did. He wife, Portia Lee Briscoe, in 1948. He was a devastating blow. Despite this will be sorely missed by his entire fam- was called back to the Navy in 1950, drawback, he continued his speaking ily, his many faithful friends and the only to be discharged just before board- schedule at church, often committing many who knew and loved him. ing his ship for Korea because of his the whole sermon—scripture refer- Miranda Hale March-April 2013 19 New Members’ Website Launched

Visit the newly redesigned website at members.cogwa.org