Evangelist named director of Church Administration ......

Worldwide coverage of the Festival of Faith •.•.•.•....•.••••••..••••......

Christmas: Is it a sin? VOL. XXIII, NO. 20 NOVEMBER 14, 1995

Church celebrates most Christ-centered Feast ever God, a church preaching the gospel By Paul Monteith of Christ, a church that lives in the world but is not of the world, a Christ-centered teachings helped church reaching out to the lost, to Fea tgoers around the world focus the least and to those in need. on the rea on for keeping the Feast­ "God wants a church that is truly to worship God. his church," he declared. "He wants Many commented on the wonderful authentic Christians. I ask you, Are Festival atmosphere. "People came you willing to be that church?" because they genuinely desired to be there; and the joy that abounded this Our true identity year was palpable," said Mark McCul­ Mr. Tkach said that in the past our ley, Festival Administration manager. Christian identity was defined by the Pastor General Joseph Tkach, in things we did or did not do. "But his message carried by satellite to the today we understand that we look to church worldwide Oct. 9, asked: "Are Jesus Christ, the author and finisher you willing to become a church that of our faith. We look at what he has truly belongs to God?" done and is doing for us, and what From two domestic satellites, the he will do for all humanity." transmi ion "was received flawless­ It is because Christ lives in us ly" at 25 sites in the United States through the power of the Holy Spirit and Canada, according to Larry that we can live a godly life. It is Dmasta, electronic media manager. because Christ lives in us that we can The signal was also received in En­ have love for others. Ifour identity is gland and Australia by two interna­ not in Christ then we are not Chris­ tional satellites. Two sites in England tians, he explained. and one in the Bahamas viewed the "So we must proclaim God's OUR MISSION-Pastor General Joseph Tkach's address to Pasadena brethren services live. Eighty-one sites re­ uniqueness and not accompany the was carried by satellite to Festival sites worldwide. Mr. Tkach called upon the church ceived a videotape of services. gospel with other messages," Mr. to recognize its identity as Christians and explained how the church's mission state­ Mr. Tkach's message was a call to Tkach said. "We must proclaim his ment (displayed on easel) centers on Jesus Christ. [Photo by Sheila Graham] discipleship, a call to truly follow glory, not how well we keep the Ten Jesus Christ and become genuine Commandments. We must proclaim sioned to preach a chronology of end­ pIe hear the name Worldwide Christians. his majesty, not our greatness. time events. We are servants of Jesus Church of God, we want them to Using the seven churches of Reve­ "We must acknowledge that we are Christ, not Old Testament prophets. connect the church with the maga­ lation 2 and 3 as a comparison, Mr. commissioned to proclaim the same "That's the legacy my father left us, zine that proclaims Jesus Christ." Tkach pictured a church dedicated to gospel the original apostles pro­ the legacy Jesus Christ left us." Mr. Tkach said the church will God as being fervent for the things of claimed. We have not been commis- conduct annual pastoral reviews. The Our vision, follow Christ church will explore the possibility of The pastor general explained that having a few centralized mega-Festi­ the church's mission is to focus val sites and many local sites. More upward, exalting Christ in all our services will be conducted in the worship, in all our outreach activi­ evening so the public can attend. ties, in all our preaching and in all Ambassador University is launch­ our publications. ing a distance learning program and First we emphasize God and Jesus will make classes available to mem­ Christ. He is the one changing us bers to help them with youth pro­ from the inside out. He is the one grams, theology and Christian mis­ who motivates us to love one anoth­ sion programs, and training for er. We also focus inward, ministering practical service and leadership. to those in our fellowship; and out­ The church will sell the BAC 1-11 Ease pain and hurt with ward, evangelizing the world around airplane and the church property in us, encouraging others to embrace Pasadena. "We only need a few acres understanding and forgiveness Christ and helping those in need. to effectively do the work God has Continuing with his plan for the given us," he pointed out. God has shown such love and mercy to forgive our sins, and to for­ church, Mr. Tkach said The Plain Mr. Tkach asked people to make a give us for our wrong teachings as a church. How eternally grateful we Truth has received a lot of praise financial commitment. While tithing will all be to our Lord and Savior who did not leave us in our errors. over the past two years. "When peo- is not required for salvation, the Bible The church has changed its position on numerous long-held teaches that we should give as we are beliefs and practices during the past few years. At the heart of those able. He thanked everyone for their changes has been an acceptance that salvation is by grace through financial support and asked members faith. to decide on a percentage and be con­ For decades we regarded the law of Moses as the basis of our Holy Day Offerings sistent in giving that amount. righteousness. We attempted to relate to God through old covenant The church will ask for donations rules and regulations. Festival attendance 78,500 on a variety of literature and produce In his mercy, God has shown us that old covenant obligations do Festival sites 120 video programs for sale. not apply to Christians, who are under the new covenant. He has led The combined offerings for "Serve God and become a living us into the riches of his grace and a renewed relationship with Jesus Trumpets, Atonement, the Feast advertisement for the glory of Christ. He has opened our hearts and minds to the joy of his salvation. of Tabernacles and the Last Great Christ," Mr. Tkach concluded. "Let The Scriptures speak to us with fresh meaning, and we rejoice daily in Day in the United States were the fact that Christ lives in us be the personal relationship we have with our Lord and Savior. $6,966,465. Compared to last obvious and let us together move for­ At the same time, we are acutely aware of the heavy legacy of year this was a decrease of 36.81 ward ... in the light of Christ." our past, and the pain that many of our former beliefs have percent. The per person offering After his sermon he mingled with caused us. (average $38.57) was up 11.08 members. The next day he flew by See Personal, page 4 percent. The church thanks you commercial jet to join his wife. for your generous offerings. Tammy, son, Joe, and daughter, Stephanie, at the Kona. Hawaii, site. 2 Tuesday, November 14, 1995

Evangelist named director ofChurch Administration Marie Feazell was baptized on By Thomas C. Hanson what would later become the Ambas­ sador campus in Big Sandy. She now J. Michael Feazell, 44, was named lives in San Dimas, California, and director of Church Administration attends the Glendora church. Sept. 26, assuming the position pre­ The Feazells moved to Pasadena in viously held by Joseph Tkach Jr., 1957 when Mike was 6, and he entered when he became pastor general upon first grade at the church's Imperial the death of his father. Schools. Others in that class were Coll­ Mr. Feazell will also serve as editor yer Wells, a deacon in the Pasadena in chief of The Plain Truth. P.M. church, and Kirt Merriman, who Under Mr. Feazell, Church Admin­ works in the church's carpentry shop. istration will focus on training and Mr. Feazell entered Ambassador developing the pastoral and leader­ College in Pasadena in 1969. He was ship skills of the ministry, and train­ baptized in May of his freshman year ing church members in active Christ­ and graduated from Ambassador in ian leadership. 1973 with majors in theology and He wants the pastors to help mem­ elementary education. bers discover and develop their spiri­ Mr. Feazell worked as a teachers tual gifts and to equip them to use aide at Imperial during college and those gifts in lay ministry, serving also worked on Imperial publica­ the congregation and taking leader­ tions. After graduation he became a ship roles in congregational outreach fifth grade teacher before Imperial and evangelistic activities. closed in 1974. He went to California State University at Los Angeles for Personal history classwork necessary to obtain an Ari­ Mike Feazell was born June 17, zona teaching credential, and for the FEAZEll FAMilY-The Feazells are (from left) Elizabeth, Jon, Christopher, 1951, in Monroe, Louisiana. He next three years he taught fifth and Michael, Victoria, Jeffrey and Katie. [Photo by Barry Stahl] started attending Worldwide Church sixth grade at George Washington of God services with his mother, Carver School in Yuma, Arizona. Victoria's father, Melvin Brady, works given some photos of a beautiful Marie, when he was about 4. He returned to Pasadena and in moving and set-up in the Custodial baby boy. The photos made every­ Marie's brother, Paul Smith, now a worked in the employee Recreation Department at Ambassador University. thing seem so real, yet our baby was local church elder in Big Sandy, was Department as equipment manager still in Seoul, South Korea. The wait­ the first in the family to come into and tennis instructor, before becom­ Adopting children ing was maddening! contact with the church. Mr. Smith ing an assistant to the late Mr. Tkach Victoria received her bachelor of "Finally, we found ourselves on the entered Ambassador in 1949. Through in Church Administration in 1979. arts degree from Ambassador in 1989 way to Los Angeles International Air­ his influence others in the family were He organized the Ministerial and a masters degree in child devel­ port to pick up seven-month-old baptized, including Mrs. W.e. Smith, Refreshing Program, worked with opment from California State Uni­ Christopher. Our tears flowed as Mr. Feazell's grandmother. ministerial transfers, ministerial versity at Los Angeles in 1995. She each of the adoptees came down the assignments and speaking schedules works for Family Connections adop­ ramp to the arms of welcoming for the Feast, and assisted Mr. Tkach tion agency. Victoria also holds a adoptive parents. in maintaining regular communica­ California teaching credential. "When we saw the volunteer carry­ tion with the field ministry. In an article for Ambassador Uni­ ing Christopher, we recog'nized m He was ordained a local elder in versity's alumni association newslet­ from the photos. As he was placed in 1980, a preaching elder in 1984, a pas­ ter, Mrs. Feazell told how she and my arms, he looked so precious and tor in 1987 and an evangelist in 1990. her husband adopted children. felt so warm. Mr. Feazell received a master of "Three years ago Mike and I decid­ "Those who plan to adopt, and who arts in religion from Azusa Pacific ed to expand our family. We already already have children, should under­ University in 1992 and a master of had two wonderful biological chil­ stand that it is not smooth sailing all divinity from APU in 1995. dren, Jeffrey, 10, and Elizabeth, 8. the way," Mrs. Feazell observed. The Worldwide News is published blweekly except lor He met Victoria Brady of Columbia "We decided to adopt internation­ "Adjustments need to be made by combined issues "' April and October by The Worldwide Church of God. 300 W Green St. Pasadena, CalifOrnta. City, Indiana, at a Sabbath service in ally, in part because it is one of the everyone, including the siblings. At 91123 CopyTlght 0 1995 Worldwide Church of God All quickest ways to adopt a young, times jealousy and anger will manifest TIghts reserved. Application to mail at second-elass the Ambassador Auditorium in 1979. postage rates IS pending at Pasadena Ca d.• 91109 They were married May 10, 1980. The healthy infant. themselves. With patience and under­ PortIOOS 01 The Worldwide News are avarlable on the Internet at httpJ(www.wcg.orgl Feazells have two birth children: Jef­ "About eight months after we standing sibling adjustment will occur frey, 14, and Elizabeth, 12, and three began filling out what seemed to be but it will not happen overnight. PUBUSHER: Wor1dwKle Church 01 God adopted children: Christopher, 3, Jon, endless paperwork our social worker "Prayer is vital to the process. 12, and Katie, 12. Christopher joined found a child for us. Adoption is an important decision FOUNDER: Herbert W Armstrong (1892·1986) the Feazells in March 1993, Jon in Jan­ "Then came the longest six weeks I and our Savior, Jesus Christ, can be ------uary there every step of the way." Joseph W l1

PASTOR GENERAL: Joseph Tl

DIRECTOR OF CHURCH ADM IST'RATlOtt J. Mochael Feazel

MEOlA OPERATIONS DIRECTOR: Greg R Albrecht Radio host says church changes are without precedent PU8LlCATlONS MANAGER: Norman L Shoal launched into his now familiar acco­ commented: "He was warm and Editor: Thomas C. Hanson. managing oditor: Jeff By David A. Sheridan lades for changes made in the World­ pleasant. I sensed his admiration for ZOOrne; __or: Sheila Graham: news _or: Paul MonteIth; Ambassador University correspondent: wide Church of God. the WCG and found his comments Angle Fuesse . CALGARY, Alberta-Almost 1,000 "The recent changes in the WCG encouraging." Regional correspondents: Geme Belo, NiellWegeln, listeners of Hank Hanegraaffs Bible are without historic precedent and Member David Crimmins com­ Netherlands, Charles Fleming Caribbean; Pete Answer Man radio talk program were made at great cost," he said. "I mented: "I felt moved to thank Mr. Melendez Mamla, PhIlippines. Jerome Fe tracco. French and I al.an: B I He I. Vancouver, B.C. Gary W attended a meeting at the First have met their leaders. I like them. Hanegraaff afterward for graciously Hopkrns Bonn, Germany; Peter Haw ins Southern Afroca, Rex Morgan, Auckland New Zealand Alliance church here Oct. 27. Mr. We should encourage the WCG as praising our church. He then said Salvador Barragan, Felipe Nefl MI e Med na. AI Hanegraaff is the president of the they come closer to the pale of Chris­ that our church is in very capable Sousa Spall1sh Region. Aub Warren, Aus ra a and Asia, Jacqui Eve United Kingdom. Christian Research Institute (CRI), tian orthodoxy." hands under Mr. Tkach. He just which sponsored the meeting. Calgary Mr. Hanegraaff added: "The WCG couldn't praise Mr. Tkach enough." Art director: Ronald Grove is the Canadian headquarters of CR!. IS a church with guts, prepared to let Afterward I spoke briefly with Mr. Photography: Barry Stahl, Charles Buschmann, photo The evening began with a video librarian: Susan Sanchez the Word of God rather than their Hanegraaff and showed him a copy of excerpt of Peter Jennings' ABC docu­ tradition be the final court of arbitra­ the Oct. 3 Worldwide News, which on Print production manager: Skip Dunn: printing coordinator: oave Bradford mentary on evangelicalism in Ameri­ tion." page 8 included a photograph of him ca titled, "In the ame of God." Then He mentioned that the next issue embracing Mr. Tkach at the funeral. Notice: The Watdwide News camot be responsIble lor the return ot unsolicrted articles and photographs. Mr. Hanegraaff gave a 45-minute lec­ of the CRI Journal will include an The caption read "Kindling Friend­ SubooIplied': SOOscnptions are sent autcmabcally to the ture on "The Counterfeit Revival." article by Pastor General Joseph ship." He took the paper with him. members 01 the Worldwide Church of God Address aft communlcallOOS to the The WorlrJwrde News. Bo. 111, Questions were then taken from Tkach. At one point, with no prompt­ This was the first time I had been Pasadena CaJiI. 91129. See The Plain Truth for additional mailing oHlces. Entered as second...class mad at the the floor. The first was from some­ ing, the audience broke into sponta­ to an "outside" church in a long time. Manlla. f'hohpprnes, Cootral Post Office, Feb. 10, 1984 one who felt that his church was neous applause for our church. Little Over the years I have barely said Address changes: U.S changes of address are handled automallcally With Plain Truth changes of going through a revival, and this led did they realize that seven World­ more than a few words to "outside" address. Poslmasler: Please send Form 3579 to The to the question "What is a revival?" wide Church of God members and I pastors. Worldwide News, Box Ill, Pasadena, CalIf,. 91123 In his response, Mr. Hanegraaff were in the audience. I came away with a deeper appre­ Unless noted otherw1se, scnptlXes are quoted from the After the lecture, Mr. Hanegraaff ciation for our church leadership and Holy Bible, New International Version. Copynght 0 1973 1978, 1984 Internallonal Bible Society. Used by was surrounded by an enthusiastic their tremendous example of reach­ permtsslOO 01 Zondervan Bible Publishers. David A, Sheridan pastors the Calgary group who asked him questions for ing out and giving us an entirely new and Lethbridge, Alberta, churches. an hour. Member Matteo Ferrara perspective on the Christian world. Tuesday, November 14, 1995 • 3 estlVa....L------l ofFait 5 United States: sharing faith in high spirits Anchorage, Alaska's reputation for would take HUM almost a year to awe-inspiring vistas was matched by collect. the singing of Feastgoers there who Fort Worth, Texas, Feastgoers con­ also gained a reputation. tributed $3,800 and about 800 in A Russian immigrant attended ser­ food and dry goods. In addition, vices and some activities after hear­ members responding to a request ing a song service, according to coor­ made this summer, gave 120 cro­ dinator Leonard Holladay. cheted and hand-stitched or hand­ "A shopkeeper impressed by the quilted baby blankets for infants of singing asked our group to pray for underprivileged mothers. her health and family problems," Mr. The contributions will be shared Holladay said. Several other new by The Bridge, a shelter for teen­ people also attended services. agers, and Women's Haven, a shelter A common refrain in Big Sandy, particularly from longtime members, was that this Festival was the most meaningful one they'd ever attended. Chattanooga, Tennessee, was an open house site and several new peo­ ple attended, according to coordina­ tor Dennis Wheatcroft. Brethren donated food items to the Chat­ tanooga Area Food Bank. Because of Hurricane Opal, the food bank had depleted its supplies sending aid to the Florida panhandle. Nearly 8,000 pounds of food and $7,598 were donated. Dayton, Ohio, was an open house site, and a number of Plain Truth subscribers and others attended, Seaside. Oregon Photo by Dave Chambers according to coordinator Jim Roberts. About 1,500 Feastgoers who for battered women. planned to attend the Pensacola, In Hot Springs, Arkan­ Florida, site, which was closed sas, "brethren generously because of damage caused by Hurri­ contributed food supplies cane Opal, joined brethren in Day­ to Jackson House and the tona Beach, Florida, for the Feast, Salvation Army," said said coordinator Steve Schantz. coordinator Allen Bullock. Charles Chase, a deacon in the Contributions were also Melbourne, Florida, church, and his given to the Family Res­ wife, Cathy, contacted Salvation cue Mission, which takes Army officials the day after Hurri­ in the homeless. cane Opal. Rather than sending vol­ At Lake of the Ozarks, unteers to the damaged areas the Missouri, brethren gave Salvation Army suggested a mone­ more than $7,000 to the tary donation, which the Chases Central Missouri Food organized. Members donated 5,300. Bank etwork, said coor- Mytr1e Beach, South Carolina Photo by Charles Clark Jr. In Daytona Beach, Ken Medford, a dinator Ray Meyer. local church elder in the Fort Myers, Feastgoers in Myrtle Beach, South Guest speaker Tom Lapacka gave a Florida, church, and his wife, Carolina, were treated to a spiritually workshop about Sharing Your Faith. Tammy, organized a food drive that enriching Festival, according to coor­ He said before a Christian can netted more than 12 tons of nonper­ dinator Greg Williams. "I was moved spread the gospel message to others ishable food and necessity items for by the level of conviction of the a relationship must be developed. distribution by the Halifax Urban speakers and their willingness to Therefore, Christians should use the Ministries (HUM). HUM is an inter­ share their innermost feelings," he natural relationships they develop to faith outreach ministry serving the said. "It was inspiring to see the share their faith. Halifax area. audience glued to the speaker desir­ Hart Ranch, which puts on a rodeo Midweek in the Festival, members ing to be spiritually fed." for Rapid City, South Dakota, Feast­ were told by area supermarkets that One member said, "We have had goers every year, gave a tribute to members had purchased all available our heads involved in Christianity for Joseph W. Tkach, cowboy style, with Vail, Colorado Photo by Norma Wunderwald supplies of formula and baby dia­ a long time, now we are including a riderless horse. pers. Speaking on the behalf of our hearts." Rapid City Feastgoers had a suc­ teachings, even though there are HUM, Don Hughes thanked Feastgo­ In iagara Falls, ew York, "the cessful KOTA Care and Share food less attending here as a result. You ers for their contribution and said Festival was the most 'needed' Festi­ drive. "KOTA made a great effort to will grow in numbers again with they had donated in one week what val we have ever attended," said publicize our contribution because your new message focused on Jesus coordinator Gordon Graham. "Dur­ they wanted members to know it is a Christ." ing the past turbulent year, almost much needed service to the commu­ A tradition in Wisconsin Dells, everyone had seen family members nity," said coordinator Tracey Wisconsin, is the special music. Peo­ Anchorage, Alaska 256 and friends leave our fellowship, felt Rogers. ple were seen wiping tears from their Big Sandy 667 the impact of declining church In Saratoga Springs, ew York, eyes as they were inspired by the Chattanooga, Tennessee 3,049 income and witnessed the loss of our women on the auditorium staff uplifting beauty of the musical per­ Dayton, Ohio 1,834 pastor general to cancer." wrote, "The Festival is the highlight formances. Daytona Beach, Florida 5,600· For eight soothing and inspiring of the year here at the City Center!" "With a clearer perspective of the Fort Worth, Texas 1,794 days the convention center was filled according to coordinator Jim Rosen- new covenant, God has given us a Hot Springs, Arkansas 3,150 with a family that needed to spend thal. . new beginning," coordinator Walter Kona, Hawaii 475 time together. "We diligently went to Brethren from as far as Australia eufeld said. "The sentiments Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri 2,585 work weaving ourselves into new and England gathered in Spokane, expressed by many were summed up Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 7,356 support networks to replace the ones Washington, for the Feast. Wounds of by a woman, not a member of our Niagara Falls, New York 2,709 tattered and tom by events," he said. the past year were healed as the salve fellowship, who, after visiting a wor­ Norfolk, Virginia 1,967 Festival speakers urged everyone to of the Holy Spirit poured from the ship service, brought a spontaneous Palm Springs, California 2,998 wrap themselves in Christ's grace messages, workshops and fellowship, offering to the information booth. Pasadena 1,727 and power. The end result was a according to coordinator Glen She said, "This was so incredible that Rapid City, South Dakota 1,824 wonderful time of emotional healing, Weber. I had to give an offering-because it Saratoga Springs, New York 1,453 Mr. Graham said. Convention hall staff remarked on was so moving." Seaside, Oregon 1,773 In Pasadena the theme Festival of the "change this year in your To say that the Festival of Faith Spokane, Washington 741 Faith was evident in the messages group." They commented on the '95 in Wisconsin Dells was a re­ Vail, Colorado 1,730 and members' conversation and friendly and more caring approach. sounding success would be an Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin 3,055 activities, said coordinator Guy A sound engineer who is the equiva­ understatement, he added. Thanks Amman, Jordan 145 Ames. Brethren enjoyed cappuccino, lent of a local church elder in the be to God for his love, and for the ·estimate espresso, juice and bagels on the Dutch Presbyterian Church said: leadership provided by Jesus Auditorium plaza before services. "You are to be commended for your Christ-the head of the church. 4 Tuesday, November 14, 1995

The Christ-centered focus organized: painting rooms in perspective for those experiencing was evident at Paradise Island, the School for the Deaf and serious trials. Bahamas, and indeed wel­ binding large-print books at the Mr. Smith said: "This Feast was a comed by all, said coordinator School for the Blind. Some spiritual experience such as we had Robert McKinney. Pastor Gen­ brethren visited and took food not hitherto witnessed. I reminded eral Joseph Tkach's moving to groups of elderly brethren those in attendance that if Mr. Tkach message was "just what the unable to attend the Feast. would have lived a few weeks longer doctor ordered" for the church, he would have been thrilled at the he said. St. Vincent result of what Jesus Christ has In Barbados, brethren cele­ Fifty brethren kept the Feast accomplished in his church." brated salvation in Jesus Christ at the picturesque Richmond as they met in the church's reg­ Vale Academy. On youth day, 18 Trinidad ular meeting hall, The Vista hardy souls climbed 4,048 feet In Trinidad a varied repertoire of Auditorium. to Soufriere volcano. Later in musical performances at service and It was a Feast with a differ- Port of Spain, Trinidad the Feast brethren visited Trini- activities was a major highlight of ence, said coordinator Clifton ty Falls and attended a family the Feast. It was the 22nd year of the Charles, as the spirit of the new warm fellowship, enabled brethren dance. Feast here, and the venue was the covenant perspective added a new to experience a most inspiring festi­ church's own facilities at Arima. complexion and feel to the Festival of val, said coordinator Cecil Pulley. Jamaica Among the more memorable mes­ Tabernacles. In Dominica, as a community ser­ In Ocho Rios, Jamaica, brethren sages was a moving delivery by On opening night the atmo phere vice project, 10 brethren helped rejoiced as they received the live Wayne Rajaram, "A Call to Prayer." was warm and exhilarating as clean up and reorganize the store satellite transmission. Singing jubi­ brethren from overseas met with room at the Grotto Home for the lantly with headquarters Feastgoers, local brethren, and old friends greet­ Homeless in Roseau. the stage was set for an outpouring Paradise Island, Bahamas 347 ed and embraced each other. At Dominica Night the focus was of blessings from above. The pastor Christ Church, Barbados 518 Throughout the Festival, song ser­ on local cuisine, for which Mary general's message was not only mov­ Hamilton, Bermuda 96 vices were accompanied by a steel Vidal gave an informative introduc­ ing and sobering, it was also instruct­ Roseau, Dominica 73 orchestra from Trinidad. tion for visitors. ing and uplifting. Brethren were left Castries, S1. Lucia 180 "This Feast of Tabernacles was the with a clearcut vision of our mission. S1. Vincent 50 most spiritually rewarding Feast St. Lucia It was evident that a lot of prayers Ocho Rios, Jamaica 642 ever!" So said many of those attend­ Overseas brethren joined St. and hard work had gone into the lec­ Port of Spain, Trinidad 535 ing at Grotto Bay Resort Hotel in Lucian brethren for services at the tionaries. With his wealth of experi­ Grand Anse Beach, Grenada 96 Bermuda. The theme of faith and Caribbees Hotel in Castries. Two ence and personal insight, guest Georgetown, Guyana 85 Christ-centered messages, along with community service projects were speaker Bob Smith injected a special

Personal: Restoring good relations within the body of Christ teous-condemning other Christians, But we cannot live in the past. We I model that recognizes everyone's spiri­ Continued from page 1 calling them "so-called Christians" and must move forward. We say, with the tual gifts. This new model is inclusive I labeling them "deceived" and "instru- apostle Paul: "Forgetting what is behind and will require every church member Overdue reconciliation ments of Satan." and straining toward what is ahead, I to think and contribute. The Holy Spirit is working today in We held to a works-oriented approach press on toward the goal to win the This will require some reorganization the body of Christ to heal historic to Christian living. We exercised a prize for which God has called me heav- at headquarters and within the local wounds and restore good relations strongly legalistic approach to church enward in Christ Jesus" (Philippians congregations so that peoples' skills and between offenders and offended. This is government. 3:14). spiritual gifts are recognized and used in true not just in our own fellowship but Our former approach, based on the the service of God's work. in many others as well. Plain Truth old covenant, fostered attitudes of exclu­ Understanding the mission Such reorganization is not unique to writer Keith Stump has written an arti­ sivism and superiority rather than the Now, I want to spend some time tak­ our fellowship. cle "Healing the Wounds" for the new covenant teaching of brotherhood ing stock of where we are as the Church The most important factor of produc­ March-April Plain Truth about this. and unity. ofGod and share with you some things I tion in today's economy is no longer He writes: "As Christianity prepares to We overemphasized predictive discussed at a meeting with headquar­ just the interplay of land, labor and caJr enter its third millennium, an important prophecy and prophetic speculation, ters personnel Oct. 31. ital. A key factor in success today is phenomenon is sweeping the Christian minimizing the true gospel of salvation When people understand the mission knowledge. For most of human history world. It is a wave of confession and through Jesus Christ. of an organization to which they belong knowledge was available only to a few repentance for past sins and offenses. These teachings and practices are a they are more likely to use their talents people, usually those at the top of soci­ "Many Christian groups have recog­ source of supreme regret. We've been to help it succeed. Therefore, I want us ety. nized a need to repent for those times in wrong. There was never an intent to all to understand why we are being Today, however, technological ad­ history when they or their forebears mislead anyone. We were so focused on asked to do the things we do. vancement is making knowledge, or deviated from the spirit of the gospel, what we believed we were doing for God Jesus Christ has focused our vision on information, available to everyone. To injured others and brought shame upon that we didn't recognize the spiritual the commission he gave the church­ succeed in the information age, the the name of Christ. path we were on. the commission he gave to the original issue boils down to a full use of informa­ "This mass expression of regret and Intended or not, that path was not the apostles-to preach the gospel of Christ tion and the best use of people's skills, contrition is unprecedented. Many biblical one. and make disciples of all nations. talents and gifts. Christians attribute this wave of repen­ As we look back, we ask ourselves It is not by human might or power For the Christian, knowledge tance to a powerful working of the Holy how we could have been so wrong. Our that God's work is done, it's done by the includes action. It is to follow the Spirit in the body of Christ worldwide. hearts go out to all whom our teachings Holy Spirit, by the strength God sup­ teachings of the King of kings. God "They characterize it as a surging tide have misled in the scriptures. We don't plies. We will, as a church, grow as long gives us knowledge and gifts of his of God's grace, designed to wash Chris­ minimize their spiritual disorientation as we remember our mission is to focus Spirit to equip us to fulfill his commis­ tianity clean of its historic sins and and confusion. We earnestly desire their upward, exalting God in all our worship; sion. We all, ministers, employees and achieve long-overdue reconciliation­ understanding and forgiveness. inward, ministering to those in our fel­ members, are part of God's work and the restoration of harmony and good We recognize that the depth of alien­ lowship; and outward, encouraging oth­ he equips us all for the tasks he gives relations with injured individuals and ation can make reconciliation difficult. ers to embrace Christ as their Savior. us to do. groups." On the human level, reconciliation is To help us accomplish the commis­ At headquarters, reorganization often a long and difficult process over sion we will need the full participation means that employees may find them­ We repent and apologize time. Yet we pray daily for it, realizing and dedication of all our employees and selves assisting in areas beyond their It is my painful responsibility to that the healing ministry of Jesus Christ members. present responsibilities but for which acknowledge that the Worldwide can close even the deepest wounds. In the past, our organizational their talents and skills make them suit­ Church of God has been among the We make no attempt to cover up the model at headquarters and in the local able. offenders. doctrinal and scriptural errors of our congregation was like a pyramid. At In the local congregation, reorgani­ Our flawed doctrinal understanding past. It is not our intention to merely the top of the pyramid a few people zation means that a pastor will no clouded the plain gospel of Jesus Christ, paper over the cracks. We are looking instructed those below to simply do longer be running a one man show. and led to a variety of wrong conclu­ our history squarely in the eye and con­ what they were told. Employees and Church members will need help dis­ sions and unscriptural practices. We fronting the errors we find there. They church members were not expected to cerning the spiritual gifts God has have much to repent of and apologize will always remain a part of our history, think. given them so that those gifts can for. serving as a perpetual reminder of the We now see that model as being best be used in worship, in the We were judgmental and self-righ- dangers oflegalism. unbiblical and we are moving toward a See Personal, page 15 Tuesday, November 14, 1995 esti a_'---- ~ ~_~_____>5 of ait British, African sites stress faith, family, friendship Scarborough, England, Feastgoers enjoyed Indian summer with beauti­ ful sunny days and wann tempera­ tures, matching the ambience that prevailed among brethren. Some described the atmosphere as electric, and many expressed reassur­ ance over church teachings, said coordinator David Stirk. Sennons were supplemented with two Bible studies, one covering the new covenant and Sabbath, and the second was a question-and-answer session. In the opening message in Llan­ dudno, Wales, the speaker explained that, because of budgetary restraints, this would be a no-frills Feast and that the members themselves would, with God's Spirit, make the Festival Kenmare. Ireland Photo by Raymond Jordan special. They did. "The congregation was the to attend the Feast in this relaxed set­ wannest, most responsive Feast audi­ ting. ence I have experienced," said coordi­ At Idre Fjall, Sweden, the northern­ nator Robert Harrison. "After months most Festival site, an intimate family of difficulty and sadness, this Feast atmosphere enhanced feelings of year there were no delivery problems. was sorely needed. The atmosphere friendship and fellowship. The Worldwide NewsReel video was of friendship, love, welcome and grat­ Guest speaker Randal Dick and also shown, and most of the sermons itude was so tangible one could members in the four Scandinavian revolved around the deliverance and almost touch it." countries met for planning and dis­ salvation we have received through In Camber Sands, England, a fami­ cussion meetings. This interaction Christ Jesus. ly night of games early in the Feast added a new dimension to the Festi­ After the Feast most visitors went helped break the ice. Keeping the val, said coordinator John Andrews, on safaris to either the Masai Mara in Feast in a campground offered many and greatly sparked the enthusiasm Kenya, the Ngorongoro Crater in fellowship opportunities, according of the brethren. Tanzania or the Mvuu River in to coordinator Russ Couston. Malawi. A good number spotted the Brethren raised one thousand Ghana Big Five: lion, leopard, rhino, ele­ pounds (about $1,600) for a convoy This was the first year brethren phant and buffalo-exceptional for a of supplies to needy people suffering gathered at two West African sites, two- or three-day trip. in Bosnia. Accra and Hohoe, Ghana. This was forced on us because of a lack of Nigeria Channel Islands finances and accommodation prob­ Brethren observed the Feast in In Guernsey, Channel Islands, lems, said coordinator David Bed­ church-owned facilities in Lagos, coordinator Barry Bourne gave an ford. where favorable weather and a rela­ interview to BBC Radio Guernsey, Alfred Ablordeppey, a local church tively tranquil political situation were and two independent newspapers on elder, spent two days with members See Africa, page 11 the island interviewed Mr. Bourne and families in Togo and gave two Lagos. Nigeria Photo by Emmanuel Omotosho and John Halford, United Kingdom sermons in the Ewe language. regional coordinator. Two area resi­ Many of the brethren in Hohoe Social highlights included a tea L1andudno, Wales 370 dents who heard the media reports spent the Feast together in a big dance in Nairobi, a game barbecue of Scarborough 768 attended services. house. They appreciated financial impala and hartebeest and dance in Camber Sands 1,029 Visitors came from the British Isles assistance from churches in England Dar-es-Salaam, a family afternoon at Guernsey, Channel Islands 302 and as far afield as Australia and and the United States the Kibirichia (Meru) church hall, a Kenmare, Ireland 370 Canada. Youths helped usher during trip to the Bamburi reclamation pro­ Idre Fjall, Sweden 168 services and take up the offerings. East Africa ject in Mombasa, various communal Accra and Hohoe, Ghana 450 This year brethren met for the meals at the Ugandan sites and an Benin, Nigeria 114 Ireland, Sweden Feast at eight locations in East Africa: African evening in Blantyre. Jos, Nigeria 144 A warm Irish welcome greeted three sites in Kenya, three in Uganda, Feastgoers were pleased to watch Lagos, Nigeria 305 Feastgoers in Kenmare, Ireland. one in Malawi and one in Tanzania. the video of the satellite transmission Owerri, Nigeria 286 Members gave money to a Kenmare International guests commented on of Pastor General Joseph Tkach's Blantyre, Malawi 169 fanner who lost hundreds of bales of the warm reception they received keynote address, which arrived at Dar-as-Salaam, Tanzania 88 hay in a fire. A donation was also from African members, and many most of the sites. Kampala, Uganda 27 made to St. Vincent de Paul, a charity expressed a desire to return to these In past years the satellite video has Tororo, Uganda 113 for the needy. Brethren felt uplifted sites. often arrived after the Feast, but this Meru, Kenya 96 Mombasa, Kenya 104 Nairobi, Kenya 228 Kinshasa, Zaire 220

'Exotic' tour brings members to African sites Tanzania, for the last three days. Twenty visitors. African members gave richly By Fred Stevens people started. the Feast in airobi, then to their guests in love, wannth, hos­ drove several hours north to visit with pitality and fellowship. About 150 people from around the members living near Meru, Kenya. Sid Boteler, a local church elder Black Forest host world met in eastern and southern Three other groups kept the Feast from Jackson, Mississippi, addressed Africa during the Feast. The "Exotic in Southern Africa: 41 flew to Victo­ brethren in Victoria Falls. He said for Gennany Africa Festival Tour '95" was an idea ria Falls, Zimbabwe; 20 traveled to that memories of the landscapes, ani­ Brethren from German-speaking from Randal Dick, director of Church Lusaka and Livingstone, Zambia; mals and natural wonders of Africa countries (Germany, Austria and Administration International, and and 11 others stayed four days at the will fade, but the memories of fellow Switzerland) as well as guests from John Halford, now regional coordina­ Warmbad, South Africa, site and Church members in Africa will not. other countries, gathered for the 19th tor for the United Kingdom and Africa. four days in Blantyre, Malawi. Bob Klynsmith, acting regional time for the Feast in Bonndorf in the Those participating in the tour met In a tape-recorded message played to director for Southern Africa, said the Black Forest. They enjoyed unseason­ in Johannesburg, South Africa, Oct. the group while in Johannesburg, Mr. impact of so many visitors to these ably wann weather and participated 7 for an orientation meeting and Halford said: "Africa is a place filled sites contributed greatly to the suc­ in family day, a teen dance, a formal then divided into six groups to travel with warm friendly people just like you. cess of the Festival. "The tour," he dance and a concert of classical to African sites. The ways that they are the same are said, "was a success story." music. A group of 37 people went to Mom­ going to be so much greater than the basa, Kenya. Another 28 people kept the ways you will find them different." first five days with members in Nairobi, And it was the people of Africa that Exotic Africa Tour 150 Bonndorf, Germany 650 Kenya, and then went to Dar-es-Salaam, made the biggest impression on the 6~ ~_-...-_~ ---, estiva'.A.:==~.======~~T_ue_S_d~a_Y_N_OV~e_m_b_e_r_1_4_, _1_99~5

ofFait Greater emphasis on worship at Canadian sites musical tradition and the brethren ents. On the last day of the Festival, one of Canada's northernmost By Bill Hall used this venue to share their talents. which fell on World Hunger Day, church families living in Tuktoyak­ members contributed to a food bank. tuk, orthwest Territories. Unfortu­ VANCOUVER, British Columbia­ Mont Orford nately, the Teddy family was forced With the addition of new Festival Spontaneous acts of giving marked Edmonton to leave the Festival earlv. The five­ sites in St. John's, ewfoundland, the Festival in Mont Orford. Frank Since Edmonton was an open day, 3,900 kilometer (2:400 miles) and Edmonton, Alberta, the Festival Brown, Canadian director, comment­ house site, people from the commu­ drive to their home required two was observed in each of the six time ed: "There is certainly a wonderful nity were present at every service. river crossings by ferry and one of zones that span Canada. spirit here." Children made more than 300 cards the river could have been frozen if While members gathered at 3 p.m. Children played a larger role in the they waited until after in St. John's in eastern Canada to daily worship ervices this year. the Festival. view Mr. Tkach's satellite transmis­ Members were treated to a children's The congregation sion, their brethren at Penticton in choir presentation, and a musical broke into applause the west gathered at 10:30 a.m. play presented by the children from and wished them god­ Montreal. Children were encouraged speed when it was St. John's to perform acts of service throughout announced that Mrs. As one of the smallest sites in the Festival, and 39 were honored Teddy had been bap­ orth America, the congregations in with gold medals on the last day of tized and that the Newfoundland were hosts to 115 the Feast. family was already on transfers. their way to their Some set sail around the harbor Sherbrooke home. and coast region of Cape Spear, the Balmy weather and colorful fall After the Feast, in easternmost point of land in orth scenery welcomed French-speaking the Magog, Quebec, America. Others stayed on land and brethren to Sherbrooke. Sermons, church, pastor Kevin helped harvest vegetables for the which were simultaneously translat­ Armstrong spoke on 2 needy in S1. John's. More than 100 ed into English, conveyed messages Corinthians 3:7-18, brethren worked the fields, bringing of hope, joy and a vision of times of which says that with­ in potatoes, carrots, turnips and cab­ refreshing. Canadian director Frank Edmonton Photo by Marinus Roggeveen out Christ a veil cov- bage, followed by a "boil-up and Brown delighted the brethren when ers our hearts, making mug-up." Free time was scheduled so he delivered a sermon in French. for younger patients in University it impossible for us to be Christ's brethren could invite others over for Children under 12 were given Hospital next door to the Jubilee image. "God's spirit is at work meals or fellowship. copies of the New Testament in Auditorium. These cards will be given among his people, and the fruit is comic-book form, which they avidly to children on days when they have evident," he said. "There is indeed a Halifax read. Members shared their blessings no mail from family and friends. transformation taking place in the The greater emphasis on the wor­ with a food bank La Grande Table, On the Last Great Day, 2,464 church." ship service was responsible for the donating $1,522.11 and nonperish­ pounds of food and nearly $1,000 in increased emotion that many experi­ able food. cash were donated to the Edmonton enced. A varied selection of music Food Bank, which was in particular added to each day's theme, ranging Regina need this year. St. John's, Newfoundland 315 from a sermonette in song to a bag­ As well as partaking in the spiritual Halifax, Nova Scotia 542 piper playing "Amazing Grace." food of the Feast, members enjoyed a Penticton Mont Orford, Quebec 779 The highlight of the Feast was the family social at a burger stop, a The spirits of Festival goers in Pen­ Sherbrooke, Quebec 674 Grand Ceilidh. Ceilidh is a Gaelic medieval-style feast, a comedy dinner ticton were buoyed through the Regina, Saskatchewan 740 word for a "visit" or "gathering" theater and a wild west barbecue. renewing of old friendships and mak­ Edmonton, Alberta 1,801 accompanied by music, song and Seminars discussed small groups, ing of new ones. A highlight was the Penticton, British Columbia 1,514 dancing. ova Scotia has a rich Bible study and coping as single par- baptism of Ruth Teddy, a member of

Southern Africa: 'Best atmosphere I can remember,' says coordinator More than 2,100 brethren met at cooperation from the community," Ron Washington [pastor of the coordinator Aldrin Mandimika. eight sites in South Africa, Zimba­ Mr. Rabe said. "This was well-re­ Detroit, Michigan, South church] Feastgoers ensured that those who bwe, Zambia and Mauritius. flected in the words of a woman who opened the Feast, and eil Earle could not pay for an activit were said: 'We are convinced that favors [Plain Truth international editor] taken care of, Mr. Mandimika said. South Africa shown to you will be returned to us gave the last two messages in the Two senior citizens, orma Fisher In Amanzimtoti acting regional by God.' best atmosphere I can remember at and Trudi Fassbender, rafted down director Robert Klynsmith said: "As any Feast I have attended in the past the tough Zambezi River. Afterward in each area I visited, there was a 30 years." orma Fisher said, "I will be back." renewed sense of commitment and vitality among the brethren." Zambia Mauritius Members meeting for the first time The Feast was conducted at two International speakers were a treat in Port Alfred were inspired by the sites in Zambia: Lusaka and Living­ at the Feast in Mont Choisy, accord­ Christ-oriented messages and by the stone. Coordinator Kalengule Kaoma ing to Art and Wendy Holladay. care shown to all, according to coor­ said that earlier they planned to have Speakers were Roger Guilbert and dinator John White. the Feast in Siavonga on Lake Kari­ his son, Christophe, from Paris, Feastgoers gave R2500 to a benev­ ba. Because of inflation they can­ Pierre Cosandey from Geneva, Yves olent fund that feeds the poor of celed Siavonga. ayna, a local church elder in Mau­ Port Alfred. Those who could not make the ritius, and Art Holladay, pastor of The chairperson responded: "Your minimum contribution to go to Liv­ the Phoenix, Mauritius, and Pieter­ church has shown us all what Chris­ ingstone kept the Feast in Lusaka. maritzburg, South Africa, congrega­ tian fellowship is all about-the We had 20 visitors from Australia, tions. sharing with others-and although Canada, Bermuda, Grenada and the Those who attended in Mauritius you are here for a short time of joy­ United States. They came to Zambia wished that they could package up ous worship and renewing of friend­ on the Exotic Africa Tour, organized the love, warmth and edifying expe­ ships, the poor of our town were not Zimbabwe Photo by Norma Jean Fisher from the United States. Their pres­ rience and take it home with them forgotten. Truly an example to us of ence added joy to our fellowship. We whenever they needed a spiritual other denominations." "We drank deeply of the under­ did most activities together. pick-me-up. "Aventura Warmbaths" can de­ standing God showered on us Oct. 13, brethren enjoyed a visit scribe the experience members had through inspired sermons. Members with Chief Mukuni at his palace. The at the Feast here, according to Cliff bonded as never before. chief gave up his job in the corpo­ Amanzimtoti, Rabe, associate pastor of the Johan­ "Daily attendance, which fluctuat­ rate world to take up the chieftain­ Kwa-ZululNatal 420 nesburg Central church. "It was an ed little, was a reflection of the re­ ship in the outskirts of Livingstone. Port Alfred, Eastern Cape 280 adventure as we experienced the newed commitment to where Christ Strand, Western Cape 492 pouring out of the warmth of God's leads us. Those who kept the Feast at Zimbabwe Warmbaths, Mpumalanga 432 Spirit. Warmbaths were truly inundated Brethren in Victoria Falls appreci­ Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe 283 "We experienced warm favor from with 'streams ofliving waters.' " ated those on the Exotic Africa Tour, Lusaka and Livingstone, zambia 83 the management and staff with In Strand, coordinator Ron Stod­ who contributed much to the Mont Choisy, Mauritius 123 whom we had contact, and sincere dart commented: "What a Feast! warmth and friendship, according to

, Tuesday, November 14, 1995 7 5 French and Italian sites bask in Festival warmth "A warm place on the Belgian Martinique church band. visitors from the United Kingdom, emony. The children blessed were North Sea coast" would be a fitting About 150 Italian members and France, Norway, Australia and Mandy Borg, 3 months, and Ben­ description of the physical and spiri­ 120 transfers gathered in the central Jamaica to observe the Feast. jamin Gatt, 6 months. tual settings of this year's Festival for Italian town of Fiuggi, Italy, known "The small size of the group Brethren watched a video of Pastor French-speaking brethren in De for its natural spring waters and enabled people to get to know one General Joseph Tkach's satellite Haan, Belgium, said coordinator spas. other fairly quickly and to have more transmission. Erick S. Dubois. An all-day tour to Tivoli featured meaningful fellowship," commented Many said they experienced a the Villa d'Este with its well-kept gar­ eville Hutchinson, a deacon from sense of spiritual closeness and dens and numerous fountains, and Southampton, England. De Haan, Belgium 327 togetherness rarely equaled at a Fes­ Villa Adriana, an archaeological site Guest speaker Dean Blackwell, Evian, France 503 tival. Others said they were "on fire" from Roman history, said coordina­ together with coordinator Carmel Saint Francois, Guadeloupe 358 for God's way and so thankful for the tor Daniel Boesch. Gatt and Gus Roycroft, a minister Fiuggi, Italy 257 deepening of understanding. On the Mediterranean island of from Belfast, Northern Ireland, per­ Sliema, Malta 87 Brethren collected funds for the Malta, area brethren combined with formed a blessing of the children cer- United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and met for an uplifting prayer meeting. In its second year as a site, the resort town of Evian, on the French shore of Lac Leman, welcomed 500 French-speaking brethren. The over­ all atmosphere throughout the Feast was exceptionally joyful, peaceful and people oriented. Activities included an Alsatian evening, a YOU walk in the pre-Alps and a talent show. The diversity of talents provided by a variety of speakers provided members with a more complete, balanced and uplift­ ing spiritual diet, said coordinator Donat Picard. De Haan, Belgium Photo by Jerome Feltracco Festival 1995 was a historic event for the French Antilles as brethren from Guadeloupe and Martinique met together for a combined Feast at the beach resort of Saint Francois, Guadeloupe. A first alert for Cyclone Pablo was in' ce as 200 brethren from Mar­ tinique boarded the ferry bound for Guadeloupe. Despite a rocky cross­ ing and several upset stomachs, the Feast got off to a joyful start, accord­ ing to coordinator Gilbert Carbon­ nel. High points of this Feast included an evening barbecue animated by local songs and dances performed to Sl. Francois, Guadeloupe Evian, France Photo by Donat Picard the rhythm of tom-toms; an outing to Les Saintes, an island inhabited largely by fishermen; and a Saturday night dance with creole music by the Reality of Christ centerpiece of Church launches Feast in Haiti Internet page Tony Gallagher Visit the Worldwide This year the Feast was again con­ ducted in Port-au-Prince. The Church of God Internet majority of the members echoed the home page at following comment: "God allowed us to experience a lack of material http://www.wcg.org/ pleasure, which was amply compen­ sated by the spiritual fulfillment. By Thomas C. Hanson The role of Christ in our salvation and the reality of his life in ours was Portions of The Plain Truth and so clearly defined in the sermonettes The Worldwide News are now avail­ and sermons that we can say that Estonia: freedom in Jesus Christ able on the church's Internet home we've made a step forward in the Members and prospective mem­ ing to discover the meaning of politi­ page at http://www.wcg.org! grace and knowledge of our Lord bers gathered in the historic city of cal freedom after national liberation Also on the home page are the Jesus Christ." Tartu, Estonia, to celebrate the Feast from SO years of Soviet occupation church's Statement of Beliefs, Mis­ Present for several days at the in the Kantri (Country) Hotel. and oppression, attendees at the sion Statement and other material. Feast were three men from an outer Formerly, Estonian members Feast were discovering the implica­ Worldwide News articles are put on province, leaders of a group of 150 attended the Feast in Denmark or tions of our freedom in Christ. the Internet every other Friday after­ people who want to join the World­ Sweden. However, a reduction in the Sermons and Bible studies were noon when an issue is sent to the wide Church of God. church's income led to the decision translated from English to Estonian press. By disseminating information As most people in the group are to have a Feast in Estonia. by Leo Kaagjarv, a deacon in the quickly it is hoped that members will illiterate, the church in Haiti has set Felix Heimberg, pastor of the Dal­ Tartu congregation. feel more connected with the church. up a program called Alpha Evangeli­ las, Texas, churches, whose parents The members in Estonia, though "We plan to expand the website by cal Action, which aims to teach them came from Estonia, provided ministe­ small in number, continue to be a making the entire Plain Truth avail­ to read and write the creole language, rial support for the Feast site. He was supportive and loyal part of the body able beginning with the December giving access to the creole Bible. joined halfway through the Feast by of Jesus Christ. issue, and eventually hope to accept Willie and Ingrid Mandel, who pastor donations through the website,n said the churches in Vienna and Salzburg, Monte Wolverton, home page task Port-au-Prince, Haiti 63 Austria, and Munich, Germany. Tartu, Estonia 35 force coordinator. As Estonian citizens were attempt- 8 • Tuesday, November 14, 1995 5 Austral-an, Asian, ew Zealand sites praise God cial music from contemporary Chris­ members invited the managers of India, site. "Some were not sure what By Aub Warren tian recording artists, scripture read­ their holiday units. to expect at the Festival this year. They ings and prayer. Fellowship is always a key ingredi­ were quickly reassured by the mes­ They came by plane, car, train, boat, At the Gold Coast, Australia, site the ent of the Feast, and this year's Festi­ sages, attitude and love expressed on foot and even in open canoes. song service was led each day by a val provided too many fellowship among the membership." They came from many nations, small group of singers, rather than the opportunities to recount. In Nuku'alofa, Tonga, the 33 mem­ spoke a variety of languages and rep­ traditional songleader. Each day the "People found themselves emotion­ bers who gathered for the Festival resented dozens of cultures. But with songleading groups represented differ­ ally moved with compassion for the were saddened by the departure of a renewed sense of unity, purpose ent congregations attending the site. sick, pity for the weak and a new the former elder and about half the and love for what God has done, Several sites found opportunities depth of love for one another as members to another fellowship a few more than 5,600 people celebrated to reach out into their Festival com­ brethren in the same family," said days before the Feast began. their faith in Jesus Christ at 19 sites munities. Mr. Gubb. "People who had kept "This established a strong bond of in 10 countries in the region at this unity that could only be estab­ year's Festival of Tabernacles. lished under such tragic cir­ In the course of the eight-day cele­ cumstances:' said Epeli Kanai­ bration members experienced new mawi, Fiji and Tonga pastor. worship opportunities, enjoyed rich Saying that God's bounteous and Christ-focused messages and blessings were poured out on music, reflected care and concern for the group, Mr. Kanaimawi one another and reached out to their observed that "the group was Festival communities with help and vibrant, dynamic and happy. comfort. Their worship in songs was as "I think the quality of the mes­ beautiful and touching as sages, music and fellowship this year could be experienced at any at the Festival underpins and vali­ other bigger site." dates the whole process of change In Fiji, the country was cele­ we've been through in the church brating its 25th year ofindepen­ this year," said Randall Bourchier, a dence the first day of the Feast. Melbourne, Australia, East member Members watched parades and and Ulladulla music director. rejoiced with the nation at what " early 600 people kept the Feast was a festive time. in Perth," said coordinator Kerry Some sites offered tea and coffee before and after ser­ vices. In Caloundra, Australia, a children's corner provided a location for children to gather and play before services. Fellowship in Papua ew Guinea was enriched by the Hobart Feastgoers, after an their distance from each other inaugural visit to the country by address about homelessness because of mixed responses to devel­ regional director Rod Matthews and by Lucas von Rijkwijk, Red opments in the church have put his wife, Ruth. They also visited the Cross youth program coordi­ aside the less important differences Solomon Islands and Vanuatu during nator, volunteered to pack and begun to exercise their fellow­ the Feast. Red Cross doorknock appeal ship again." "The Feast is the only time the kits. Later they were hosts at a In Port Vila, Vanuatu, the Festival Papua New Guinea brethren are able party for church children, and family-made up of 70 visitors and to meet together in one place," said they invited mothers and chil­ 50 Vanuatu members-enjoyed four coordinator Hans Pedersen. dren from women's refuges. meals together. Papua ew Guinea and Sri Lankan The invitations were received "Overseas brethren contributed so members were among those active in with almost effusive gratitude, that all of the Vanuatu members inviting people to attend Festival ser­ according to coordinator Cliff could enjoy the meals," said coordi­ vices and activities. Worthing. nator Rex Morgan. Family afternoon In Papua ew Guinea members langkawi, Malaysia Photo by Clement Lim "One of the mothers from a began with all the local members often brought along wontoks (rela­ refuge expressed her apprecia­ forming a line to talofa, or shake tives) to services. Gubb. "Most of them expressed the tion and said it had been so long hands with each of the overseas visi- In Sri Lanka the church conducted same sentiment: Jesus Christ has since her child had been its first open house, inviting 97 Plain been here among us." to a party the child had Truth readers to services, with mem­ A member attending the Festival in forgotten how to play bers also inviting friends and rela­ Hobart told coordinator Cliff Wor­ party games," said Mr. tives. Thirty-one guests came, includ­ thing that "this is how the Feast Worthing. ing a priest and an evangelist who should have always been." In Sri Lanka members recommends The Plain Truth. In Taupo, ew Zealand, the Festi­ invited 40 children from Ulladulla coordinator Peter McLean val opened with prayer and then a children's homes to join reflected the views of many when he song of welcome from the Maori family day activities. said: "A wonderful spirit of love and brethren. The song, Haere Mai, was "The children, aged 5 goodwill prevailed. The site was filled followed by the hymn, Whakaaria to 15, had a fantastic with marvelous people who willingly Mai, ("How Great Thou Art"), which time and we had our pooled their labors to make the Feast all rose to sing after the opening children give gifts to an uplifting celebration for all." verse had been sung in Maori. The them," said coordinator service concluded with the singing of Bharat aker. "Some of the New Zealand national anthem the adult helpers said Bandarawela, Sri Lanka 115 ("God Defend ew Zealand"). the children rarely get to Bangalore, India 138 "This opening stamped a flavor of go out and this was a Caloundra, Australia 824 brotherhood and unification over the special treat for them." Christchurch, New Zealand 155 Feast, reflecting the intended out­ Gosford children were Port Vila, Vanuatu Photo by Roy Everett Frankston, Australia 494 come of the theme this year-a Festi­ the ones doing the giv- Gold Coast, Australia 916 val of Faith," said coordinator Den­ ing and serving when they followed a tors as they filed past and introduced Gosford, Australia 477 nis Richards. "Dare to Care" activity with a fund­ themselves. Hobart, Australia 123 Music and song were highlights of raiser for the Dizon family in the Many of the Feastgoers in the Honiara, Solomon Islands 80 this year's Festival, according to the Philippines, who lost their home and Solomon Islands traveled for more Langkawi, Malaysia 199 various coordinators' reports. possessions. than two days by open canoe and Merimbula, Australia 312 "Every day the brethren from the In Merimbula, Australia, a public inter-island ferry to attend. Nuku'alofa, Tonga 33 western province of Ranongga sang concert was staged by church musi­ "Most have limited income, yet Perth, Australia 591 special music a cappella, improvising cians in honor of the senior citizens. make every effort to come so that Port Moresby, beautiful traditional harmonies with About 190 people attended the after­ they can be spiritually refreshed and Papua New Guinea 45 the melodies of the church hymnal," noon event, which included after­ re-establish friendships," said visiting Port Vila, Vanuatu 126 said Chris Crawford, Honiara, Solo­ noon tea served by YOU and other speaker Chris Crawford. Suva,Fiji 159 mon Islands, visiting speaker. church members. Among the audi­ "Some members in India don't have Taupo, New Zealand 473 Praise services were conducted at ence were 60 residents of retirement the opportunity to meet other brethren Ulladulla, Australia 387 several sites this year, using slides, home villages who had been invited except at the Feast," said Joseph Chiang Mai, Thailand 35 congregational singing, recorded spe- to the concert. In addition, several D'Costa, coordinator of the Bangalore, Tuesday, November 14, 1995 9

Spanish, Portuguese sites renewed in Christ The church celebrated the Feast at dinator Mike Medina. The brethren Mr. Davies was interviewed on two places in Central America: Santa heard Christ-centered me sages that two radio stations. After the Feast Rosa de Copan, Honduras; and Con­ led them in the hope and calling of he visited members and prospec­ dovac, Costa Rica. In Copan, 98 our faith in Christ. tive members in northern and brethren from El Salvador, Guatemala Lay leaders participated in the southern Brazil. and Honduras met in an uplifting, lov­ preaching and teaching, and in sever­ o Feast took place in Para­ ing and united atmosphere. al small group prayer meetings. An guay or Bolivia this year. Several "It was inspiring to see our breth­ open house service attracted 42 Bolivian members transferred to ren so renewed in Christ, so enthusi­ friends and relative of church mem­ Chile and Uruguay and the rest astic about the doctrinal changes bers. Five new members were bap­ conducted services on the Holy Christ has made in his church and so tized at the Feast, and two deacons Days only. loyal to him, as never before," said were ordained-one for Chile and coordinator Felipe eri. one for Bolivia. Rejoicing in salvation In Costa Rica, 116 brethren from The brethren are po itive about Brethren meeting in Melgar, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, future growth of the church in Chile. Colombia, rejoiced in the salva­ Mexico, Panama and the United States tion God has granted us, accord­ realized that human differences are not Mini-Feast in Brazil ing to David Mosquera, local stumbling blocks for genuine fellow­ To accommodate brethren in church elder. "The ministers ship once one gets involved in the exhorted us to go forward with culture of God, according to Jorge optimism, knowing that our Suarez, a member from Costa Rica. Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is Mr. eri and his wife, Paula, said before us to guide us, comfort this Feast was the most Christ-cen­ us and correct us." tered Feast they have ever had. "We The women of the church, thank God for helping us have this with the funds they raised dur­ Festival focus on the plan of God: ing the year, had a party for Talavera de la Retna, Spain Photo by Lafargue Philippe human salvation through faith in the children. They gave the Jesus Christ," Mr. eri said. gift the had made to the children that remained dissipated, and a new and to the women that live outside enthusiasm and a fervent desire for ew way of life Bogota, the capital. the church were reborn. Brethren real­ "In Merida, Venezuela, some who Five people were baptized and a ized the new Christian focus of the attended for the first time broke deacon and a minister were or­ Feast is more excellent and superior to into tears at the end because they dained. "The brethren are happy the past focus. The biblical material experienced a different way of life because the problems related to presented was true spiritual nouri h­ among the brethren during those the sad division experienced in our ment usable for the Christian life. days," said Salvador Barragan, Fes­ church were left behind:' Mr. Mos­ tival coordinator. "But of course quera said. "We have a renewed H they were willing to go back to their zeal to support the work of God." Photo by Ramiaez Monteclaro regular routines after the Feast to Veracruz, Mexico In Talavera de la Reina, Spain, Villa Carlos Paz, Argentina 135 live in the way ofour Savior." members from Spain, Portugal Parque San Juan, Chile 110 On the first day of the Feast in northern Minas Gerais state in Brazil, and other areas celebrated the salva­ Melgar, Colombia 145 Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, a 7.5 earth­ a mini-Feast took place in the city of tion we have in Christ through faith. Puerto Rico 335 quake shook the area. Thanks to Janaba. The five brethren from that Feastgoers gave a special offering for Trujillo, Peru 154 God's protection, no members suf­ city, plus children, who would have members in Angola. Santa Rosa de Copan, Honduras 98 fered harm, and facilities used by the had to go to Uruguay (about 1,300 Brethren attending the Feast in Condovac, Costa Rica 116 church had only cosmetic damages, miles), met with Graham Davies, edi­ Puerto Rico enjoyed hearing from a Janaba, Brazil 14 according to coordinator Jorge Diaz tor of the church's Portuguese publi­ different speaker each day as seven Veracruz, Mexico 165 de Leon. A generous offering was cations. local church elders and their wives Puerto Vallarta, Mexico 650 collected for the Red Cross to help Since they cannot afford to travel attended the site. Rosarito, Mexico 151 with the rescue operations. such distances, the church decided to Talavera de la Reina, Spain 163 In Veracruz, Mexico, "members have a mini-Feast for them where Solid foundation Punta Del Este, Uruguay 106 felt their faith strengthened when Portuguese Bible studies could be For many people in Trujillo, Peru, Merida, Venezuela 65 they saw God's intervention in his conducted. A few Brazilian members this Feast solidified their faith in Jesus protection of the Feast site from attended in Argentina and elsewhere. and the work of God. Whatever doubts Hurricane Roxana, said coordinator Daniel Vazquez.

Learning how to pray better The most outstanding feature at the Villa Carlos Paz, Argentina, Festi­ val site, was the happy mood and radiant smiles, said coordinator Sites ofbiblical, historical interest flavor Greek Feast Albert Sousa. One member said about the sermon on prayer: "I am By Ronald Kelly I impressed by the way the church is teaching us how to pray better. It is Seven Greek members joined 173 good that we should pray together international visitors under sunny, because that way the children learn temperate skies. Feastgoers spent the about it in a much more meaningful opening service in an outdoor theater way." underneath a star-studded sky, a full A deacon was ordained and a moon and gusty winds. The group young man who traveled more than spent the first half of the Feast at 2,000 miles from Patagonia was bap­ Hotel Poseidon Club and enjoyed the tized. scenic Gulf of Corinth. The latter Charles Fleming, Caribbean re­ part of the Feast was conducted at gional director, spoke to Feastgoers the Divani Caravel Hotel. in Argentina and Uruguay. Members visited sites of biblical and The focus of the messages was by historical interest such as the Acropo­ far the outstanding part of the Festi­ lis, Corinth, Mars Hill and the ancient val in Punta del Este, Uruguay. The site of Delphi. They also took a day­ brethren were inspired by the Spirit­ long cruise on the Saronic Gulf with led fellowship and love that prevailed stops at two islands. Other high points throughout every service and activity. included sampling the local cuisine Five sessions of Sabbath school and a farewell dinner, dance and folk­ were stimulating to the numerous lore show. Some members from New children present. Small group prayer York experienced flight delays because meetings were conducted in the of Hurricane Opal, but only a couple evenings after "A Call to Prayer" was of travelers had to be rerouted. given at the second service. Unity and harmony were the over­ all characteristics of a true Festival Athens, Greece 180 of Faith in Chile, according to coor- 10 Tuesday, November 14, 1995

Philippine sites extend to area communities Members and families piece of the celebration," commented ed a children's Bible class, prayer price, according to Edmond Maca­ coordinator Jessup Bahinting. meetings and a worshipful family raeg. meet at nine sites The high point was the open house night show extolling Jesus Christ. The brethren showed their love worship services on Saturday and The teen and senior citizens activi­ and care for a Filipino expatriate In Legazpi City coordinator !reneo Sunday. About 30 new people attend­ ties, traditionally conducted sepa­ from the San Francisco, California, Marquez said that brethren, friends ed, and members invited the visitors rately, received a new twist when church who suffered a heart attack and family enjoyed a happy feast of to lunch. Some new people attended they were combined. Many com­ while here shortly before the Feast. transition from an old to a new services on the Last Great Day and mented about how unifying this was. He was confined in a hospital all covenant celebration. even gave offerings. Although attendance (813) at the through the Feast. Many brethren Members remarked that "before it Out of concern for the plight of main Feast site of Baguio City visited and cheered him. was hazy, now it's clear," and that "if our brethren and other people in the dropped from the previous years' Because of difficulty in traveling only those who left the church had lahar (flowing mass of mingled vol­ l,OOO-plus, the brethren's joy over­ through lahar-ravaged Central Luzon stayed just a little longer," they might canic debris and water) stricken flowed as never before, according to many decided to stay in Metro Mani­ have seen it, too. Pampanga province, members gave coordinator Valentin Joson. la instead of going to Baguio City for Open house services on the Sabbath donations that were sent to the The lower than expected turnout the Feast, according to coordinator had 40 new people in attendance, and regional office for distribution. was partly because of difficulties Victor Lim. on Sunday 16 new people attended. In Davao City, a large streamer brethren south of Pampanga Some members reached out to pe0­ The singles, instead of the usual welcoming people to the celebration Province perceived they would have ple at Golden Acres (a home for senior get-together party among themselves, of salvation was hung in front of the in traveling through that lahar-devas­ citizens), DARE. (a drug rehabilita­ chose to reach out to the needy in the meeting hall. tated area. tion center), and House of Refuge (an community. In addition to the Festi­ Eighty-seven new people respond­ Many expressed joy and satisfac­ orphanage for street children). val budget for their activity, they col­ ed to invitations to attend the open tion that this Festival celebration of Feastgoers expressed their love for lected money among themselves and house worship services on Saturday Christian faith was made more their countrymen in the lahar-devas­ bought food for indigent patients at and Sunday. meaningful through active service to tated province of Pampanga by col­ the Albay Provincial Hospital. Brethren went to the city's Boys the community. lecting and sending two vanloads of While going around the wards, Town (a shelter for unwanted chil­ Through the Festival Outreach food and used clothing to the victims. some singles encountered a 2-year­ dren) and adopted 34 children for Program, coordinated by Pampanga Zamboanga on the southwestern old child with hepatitis. Talking with one afternoon. Members also collect­ pastor Max Fabricante (himself a vic­ tip of Mindanao Island was a first­ the child's mother, they found that ed relief goods for victims of mud­ tim of lahar-caused flooding), the time Feast site. she had no money to buy the much­ slides in Cotabato. Donations were brethren were put into small groups A high point in the Feast were the needed medicine for her child. After sent through the ABS-CB television that fanned out to various needy two open house services, according a huddle and another passing of the network. areas in Baguio for three days. to coordinator Ricardo Deligero. hat, the singles came up with enough Richard Roberts from the San The groups visited and gave dona­ Thirty-one new people attended. money for the medicine. Leandro, California, congregation, tions to orphans and institutions for Besides the spiritual high of having In Cebu City, a positive attitude together with his wife and coordina­ the disabled, planted trees, cleaned the Feast here, the brethren enjoyed a about the new covenant observance tor Bennie Dizon donated 10 quality up a stretch of road, helped collect tour of the city's historic sites or rum­ of the Feast was evident in the soccer balls to the Davao City Foot­ city garbage (and treated the collec­ maged through the numerous barter brethren, family and friends. "We are ball Association. For these gestures tors to snacks) and visited hospitals, trade markets. Some of the more dar­ very happy to have observed the of service, the church was featured praying for some sick people and ing ones made a quick cruise to Basi­ Feast in a new covenant context, several times in the media. donating cash, food and clothing. Ian I land and returned unscathed. with Jesus Christ being the center- ew activitie at the Feast includ- A newspaper ran an article on the church's outreach activities. Officials and residents expressed amazement at the generous hearts of the mem­ Bacolod City 206 bers and a ked who we were and Baguio City 813 why we \ 'ere doing this for them. Cebu City 307 Some requested church literature. Davao City 401 One asked where the church meets Manila 958 Powerful typhoons hit Philippines I in Urdaneta, Pangasinan. Puerto Princesa, Palawan 183 At least 500 people are dead and Please remember the brethren and In Bacolod City, through the help Musuan, Bukidnon 502 280 missing in the most powerful other Filipino families who have of a member who was a classmate of Zamboanga 133 typhoon to hit Luzon and Metro been severely affected by these the hall's owner, the church was able Legazpi City 219 Manila in nine years, Bill Sidney, storms. to rent the hall at half its normal Philippine regional director, told the WN by phone Nov. 6. "Our home was shaking with the power of the wind last Friday [ ov. 3]," he said. Power was off for 2 1/J days in some areas of Manila. Some outlying areas will not have power for weeks. Festival of faith gives new hope in Angola "As far as we know from pastors ka, Abilio Dinis and others) began to anointed a woman who had been here in Manila, everyone seems to be By Carlos Tavares get it ready for the Feast. We cleaned bedridden for several days, and also OK," said Mr. Sidney. it, repaired broken chairs and prayed for four sick children. With Winds were clocked at 250 kilome­ LUANDA, Angola- oe' ( kumbe installed the sound system. For a great joy we gave thanks to God ters (155 miles) per hour in southern tembe owa) waited anxiously at podium we used a kitchen table when on the last day they joined us Luzon. A baby swinging in a ham­ the airport in Luanda scarcely be­ perched on an automobile wheel rim at the beach, healthy and happy. mock attached to the roof of a house lieving that at long last a Por­ and taped the microphone onto an Before giving the local leaders Pas­ was blown away along with the roof. tuguese-speaking minister would old lampstand. tor General Joseph Tkach's letter of Thankfully the baby was recovered arrive to help them keep the first Messengers spread the news and welcome into the Worldwide Church alive. Feast in Angola. the attendance grew from 160 to of God, I read it to the assembly. At presstime Mr. Sidney had been Fresh in his mind were two visits more than 400, despite problems The shouted "Amen," and we sang unable to contact brethren attending by ministers Bill Bentley, Jack with transportation, which we also the hymn "God Be With You." five churches in the Bicol area, Brunet and John Halford. The mes­ had to organize. People came in God has called and guided where there were many fatalities. sages, encouragement and fellowship dilapidated war-tired trucks without Angolans who have come through Only days earlier, another typhoon during those visits strengthened the seats or cover. They arrived tired, hot the crucible of war, misery and death struck the Visayas region, claiming brethren, giving them a new hope in and dusty but smiling and singing to be a light to this great country. the lives of 221 people and destroy­ the chaos, corruption and misery of hymns of praise and joy. Let us have them in our minds and ing the home of one member. their everyday lives. Opening prayers and sermonettes prayers. Let us encourage and sup­ Flooding and lahar flows have Out of the war and a diaspora were inspiring and sincere. We used port them in their needs. They severely affected brethren in Pam­ (people settled away from home­ Portuguese hymnals donated by already have submitted to God's panga. A number of families have lands) of nearly 20 years, God had Pasadena, and they sang like only Spirit, they already have the leaders had to leave the area, including the called them out of Zaire, Namibia Africans can sing-naturally, melodi­ and the willingness to follow Jesus parents of the Dizons and two of the and Botswana-neighboring coun­ ously and above all joyously with an Christ. Let us help them with the Dizon brothers and their families. tries where they had fled as refugees. underlying rhythm that made the old "how to" as and when they need it. Other families also have been We found an open air theater, and melodies come alive. Let us make them feel part of the affected. Max Fabricante said when the local leaders of the church We had six meetings and on the body of Christ. they leave the house, they have to (Rafael Ukuakukulo, Paulino Kafu- last one more than 400 people pass through a knee-high buildup of enjoyed a beach picnic after services. silt and mud in their yard. We performed 12 baptisms and two Mr. Sidney approved emergency Carlos Tavares is a local church elder marriages. Luanda, Angola 400 assistance to the families affected. in Lisbon, Portugal. On the third day we prayed for and Tuesday. November 14, 199~,:5:--~~_~~_~~ __~__~~~~_~ ~~_~_~~ 1!...!,1

H.B. London gives address: Live above reproach I worship uniquely and gen­ 6. Have you fulfilled the By Thomas C. Hanson uinely. mandates of your calling? When Mr. London start­ 7. Have you just lied to H.B. London Jr., vice president of ed at Focus on the Family me? Ministry Outreach and Pastoral Min­ he sent a survey to 10,000 Mr. London said that in istries for Focus on the Family, pastors. One question he the United States each spoke to headquarters personnel and asked was: What is the week 50,000 people leave area ministers Oct. 27. greate t challenge you face the church. The reason Mr. London' presentation, "Living in your ministry today? often mentioned is that Above Reproach," was videotaped to The overwhelming re­ church is irrelevant, and be shown at other ministerial confer­ sponse \vas the apathy of the next is that church peo­ ences. those who attend church. ple are so contentious. Focus on the Family i a ministry Another question was based in Colorado Spring , Colorado, "What i the greatest dan­ Background that spreads the gospel of Jesus ger to your family?" The Pastoral Ministries under Christ by promoting traditional val­ overwhelming response Mr. London is a catalyst for ues and the institution of the family. was not having enough the spiritual renewal and Pastor General Joseph Tkach intro­ time to meet the demands restoration of ministers duced Mr. London. Mr. Tkach met of spouses, children and and their families and Mr. London last summer when Mr. church members. assists them in better man­ London addressed a Church of God Mr. London referred to a agement of time, finances (Seventh Day) conference in Col­ Leadership magazine survey FOCUS ON FAMILY-H.B. London (right) chats with Pastor and family. The ministry orado Springs. For several years Mr. two years ago in which 95 General Joseph Tkach after giving an address titled "Living serves nearly 130,000 pas­ London lived across the street from percent of pastors said they Above Approach." [Photo by Thomas C. Hanson] tors in 75 denominations. church headquarters in Pasadena. felt pressured to have an Mr. London serves as a ideal family; 80 percent of pastors Free Church in Fullerton, California. pastor to pastors. He communicates Pastoral advice said their families felt pressured to His staff members periodically asked with hundreds of pastors and church In his address Mr. London encour­ be an ideal role model for a Christian one another these seven questions: leaders each week through "The Pas­ aged pastors and their families to: family; 55 percent of pastors said 1. Have you been with a woman tor's Weekly Briefing," a fax net­ 1. Maintain an active spiritual life. they were very satisfied with their anywhere this past week that might work, and produces a bimonthly 2. Cultivate a family situation that marriage; 31 said they were very sat­ be seen as compromising? "Pastor to Pastor" cassette and creates a sanctuary when the end of isfied with their family life; and 25 2. Have any of your financial deal­ newsletter. the day comes. percent of the spouses said they were ings lacked integrity? He has co-authored with Neil B. 3. Develop a collegiality with one very happy with their family life. 3. Have you exposed yourself to Wiseman the books Pastors at Risk, another and not just be cordial to Mr. London commented on a any sexually explicit material? The Heart ofa Great Pastor and Mar­ one another. chapter in Charles Colson's book, The 4. Have you spent adequate time in ried to a Pastor's Wife. Mr. London is 4. To seek professional help if they Body, in which he referred to staff Bible study and prayer? a first cousin of James C. Dobson, need it. meetings conducted by Chuck Swin­ 5. Have you given priority time to founder of Focus on the Family, and 5. Find ways to worship, and to doll, then pastor of the Evangelical your family? the two grew up together.

our sins and shortcomings as a nator Michael Ogunlase. Some Continued from page 5 church in prayer and the need for described Mr. Tkach's sermon as a God's forgiveness and mercy. bold message of hope for the church. blessings appreciated by brethren. Some longtime Plain Truth readers Members made a modest begin­ Activities included a children's party and co-workers also attended. Mem­ ning to their church building project and family fun day. Youths entertained bers of the newest congregation from by launching an appeal for funds. brethren with traditional dances, drama, Awka attended on the first day and "This year's Feast has gingered a songs and poems in a talent show. took part in a talent and cultural great desire and zeal among the Lagos will be remembered as a site show. membership to reach out to our com­ "where our little physical resources Pastor General Joseph Tkach's munities with Christ's message of sal­ were multiplied into spiritual abun­ message encouraged Feastgoers, vation," Mr. Ogunlase said. dance due to our faith in Christ," said many of whom wept openly as their coordinator Emmanuel Okai. commitment to God was renewed. In Owerri, brethren were encour­ In the northern igerian city of aged by a sermon titled "A Call to Jos, brethren shared a couples semi­ Prayer." Many came to coordinator nar, a YOU play and songs and SACS Committee Visits AU Eke o. Udeagha in tears, thankful to poems by the children. A lecture by a hear a public acknowledgement of profes or of applied psychology By Thomas R. Delamater A special committee representing the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) visited Ambassador University Nov. 6 through 8. According to David Carter, associate executive director of the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association, the purpose of the visit was to inves­ tigate informal inquiries about the university that were directed to SACS dur­ ing the past several months. Committee members interviewed university administrators and members of Ambassador's board of regents, and spoke Dutch Feast 'like a warm blanket' freely with students, faculty and staff during their stay. Hans de Moei, pastor of the Dutch­ "The committee members were cordial," said Russell Duke, president. "Our By Gerrie Belo speaking areas, looking back at the discussions were productive, and the committee members clearly sought to help hectic preparation. the university remain in compliance with the criteria of accreditation established HOOGEVEE, etherlands- Church member Adrie Verduijn by SACS." At the conclusion of their visit the committee and Dr. Carter met with "This Feast felt like a warm blanket agreed: "This was a Feast we really Dr. Duke and other university administrators to communicate their findings. in a cold winter," concluded church had to make ourselves. The personal "The committee said that there would be one recommendation to improve member Lamberta Danenberg. "It involvement of the brethren was the university and a few suggestions," said Dr. Duke. "We're confident that we was great to be together with good more important than ever." Mr. Ver­ will be able to respond favorably to the recommendation and the sugges­ friends and feel their warmth. That duijn had been a choir member for tions." gave us the strength to all have an more than eight years when he was open and positive Feast." suddenly asked to also conduct it. Before the Feast the Dutch and "One week before the Feast the Flemish churches went through a dif­ choir lost 10 singers, its conductor ficult period. Several brethren and and the pianist. But the Feast Church Administration announces ministers left the church for doctrinal wouldn't have been the same without reasons. People who organized the a choir, so we decided to go on. And list of disfellowshiped ministers Feast had to be replaced overnight. we succeeded." It is with deep and sincere regret revoked: Bernard Andrist, Paul Kieffer "We had to improvise a lot," said Lamberta and Frans Danenberg, that we find it necessary to inform you and Winfried Fritz. members of the Doom church, orga­ that the following persons, former The churc.h does not, and you nized a boat trip at Giethoom, a vil­ ministers of the Worldwide Church of should not, bear any ill will toward lage surrounded by lakes and chan­ God, have been disfellowshipped from these former ministers. Rather, you Hoogeveen, Netherlands 340 nels, known as "The Venice of the the Worldwide Church of God, and should pray that God will grant them North." their ministerial credentials have been repentance. 12 The Worldwide News Tuesday, November 14,1995

Christmas, Is it a sin? The Puritans' passionate aversion to iday as a compromise with the pure exists among Sabbatarian groups orig­ By Ralph Orr any practice that reeked of papal exercise of Christian faith. inating in that setting should not be Rome caused them to overlook the Today, no churches call themselves surprising. In many ways, our own All Christians, whether they cele­ fact that in many countries the name Puritans. Yet their theological descen­ anti-Christmas concerns have reflect­ brate Christmas or not, are welcome for the day had nothing to do with the dants-Presbyterians, Congregation­ ed earlier Puritan concerns. in the Worldwide Church of God. Catholic mass, but focused instead on alists and many Baptists-remain. The central issue regarding Christ­ Although traditionally the Worldwide Jesus' birth. The mass did not evolve Gone, except among their most fun­ mas observance is this: How much Church of God does not celebrate into the form abhorred by Protestants damentalist offspring, is any concern freedom do Christians have in the Christmas, the ew Testament gives until long after Christmas was widely about Christmas. Yet their history of new covenant, either individually or no grounds for limiting Christian fel­ observed. The two customs had sepa­ attitudes toward Christmas is impor­ as a church, to express their faith, lowship based on this custom. Christ­ rate, though interconnected, histories. tant for understanding our own story. worship and thanks toward Christ in mas observance or non-observance is As ardent Protestants, Puritans The Worldwide Church of God traces forms not found in the Bible? Are not a measure ofChristian conversion. identified the embracing of Christian­ its origins through Sabbatarian and Christians ever free to innovate in Traditionally, the Worldwide Church ity by the Roman Emperor Constan­ Adventist movements that arose in early worship? May church leaders estab­ of God has followed the historic Puri­ tine in the early 300s as the starting 19th century America. Centered in New lish special days to celebrate the tan practice of not observing Christ­ point of the degeneration and corrup­ England, these movements were in great acts of salvation? mas. Understanding some of the rea­ tion of the church. They believed the turn influenced by earlier churches, Devout Christians sometimes con­ sons behind the Puritan rejection of corruption of the church was brought many of which had Puritan roots. fuse ancient forms with modern sub­ Christmas is helpful in understanding on by the interweaving of the church The New England culture was per­ stance. "Once pagan, always pagan" our own position on this subject today. with the pagan Roman state. meated with Puritan values. For exam­ is the way the Worldwide Church of The Puritans believed that the first­ To Puritans, Christmas was impure ple, as late as 1847, no college in New God once reasoned. While we admit­ century church modeled a Christianity because it entered the Roman Church England had a Christmas holiday. The ted the transforming power of Christ that modem Christians should copy. sometime in this period. No one fact that anti-Christmas sentiment See Christmas, page 13 They attempted to base their faith and knows the exact year or under what practice solely on the New Testament, circumstances Roman Christians and their position on Christmas began to celebrate the birth of their 'You must not worship God in their way,' reflected their commitment to practice Lord, but by the mid-300s, the prac­ a pure, scriptural form of Christianity. tice was well established. Deuteronomy 12:30-31 Puritans argued that God reserved No evidence exists that the Christian to himself the determination of all leaders who began this practice con­ Dedicated Christians have argued that all attempts to transform pagan customs proper forms of worship, and that he sciously wanted to compromise with into Christian customs are wrong. Those who think this way allow for no exceptions. disapproved of any human innova­ paganism. They may simply have "Once pagan always pagan," they reason. tions-even innovations that celebrat­ wanted to celebrate the Incarnation. We, the Worldwide Church of God, often thought this way ourselves. We under­ ed the great events of salvation. However, modem scholars gener­ stand and appreciate the sincerity of those who earnestly seek to please God. We The name Christmas also alienated ally agree that the date they chose for don't ask them to do anything that violates their conscience. Yet we must ask, Are many Puritans. Christmas, after all, Christmas was influenced by a pagan they correct? If something is once pagan, is it always pagan? meant "the mass of Christ." The mass celebration on or about that same In the past Worldwide Church of God literature claimed that Deuteronomy 12:30­ was despised as a Roman Catholic date honoring the "Invincible Sun." 31 commands us not to borrow any custom of any kind from pagan religious prac­ institution that undermined the Consequently, many customs unre­ tices. Nothing once used in idol worShip is to be used in worshiping the true God. Protestant concept of the Christ who lated to the birth of Christ that com­ Absolutely nothing. offered himself once for all. monly characterize modern Christ­ In earlier interpretations of this verse, the church had not considered the customs mas celebrations were also present in and traditions in Israel's religion that had earlier parallels in pagan religions--eus· pre-Christian pagan celebrations. toms that God either commanded Israel to use or that he accepted, endorsed, pro­ Ralph Orr is managing editor of This blended character of most moted and blessed. Temples, priesthoods, sacrifices, sacred music, tithing, festivals, Reviews You Can Use, the church's forms of Christmas celebration was circumcision, all existed in pagan contexts and generally preceded those found in bimonthly publication for ministers. enough for Puritans to avoid the hol- post-Sinai Israel. Such examples prove that although a custom may be pagan in one context, it may be commanded or permitted in another. Take, as an example, the temple. Pagans built temples several thousand years before Moses. At Sinai God instructed Israel to build a tabernacle, not a temple. Jeremiah 10 and Christmas trees Four hundred years later David decided to put an end to the tabernacle and build a temple, though God had not instructed him to do so. David reasoned that since he Christians opposed to Christmas have often argued that Jeremiah con­ was going to live in a house of cedar, then the ark of God should be in a temple. demns Christmas trees. They believe that Jeremiah 10:2-4 is quite plain­ In response, God reminded David that he never had asked Israel for a house (2 Christmas trees are sinful. Samuel 7:6-7). Furthermore, David's plan effectively set aside much of the letter of But are these Christmas critics correct? Does Jeremiah 10:2-4 actually con­ the law (those portions concerning the tabernacle, its construction, maintenance and demn the setting up of Christmas trees? transportation). In principle, of course, what David proposed was quite noble. God The King James Version reads: "Thus saith the Lord, Learn not the way of was to be given greater honor than the king. the heathen.... For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree A temple was so alien to Israel's thinking that to build it Solomon had to rely on out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. They craftsman provided by the pagan kingdom of Tyre. Nonetheless, God blessed this deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, and other worship innovations. that it move not." How then should we understand Deuteronomy 12? On the surface it does seem that Jeremiah is describing Christmas trees. The context of Deuteronomy 12 is God's command to utterly destroy the many But let's look deeper. pagan sacrificial sites that existed within the Promised Land (verses 1-3). The Canaan­ An important key to understanding any passage is to pay careful attention ites, like many other pagans, had many sacrificial sites because they thought that vari­ to its context. Verses 2 through 4 of Jeremiah 10 are part of a larger context. ous gods had power in various places. They believed that if the worshippers of these That larger context is verses 1 through 16. gods offered acceptable sacrifices, the gods would be forced to do what the worship­ In these verses Jeremiah proclaims the Lord as the only God. "No one is pers wanted. Human sacrifice and temple prostitution were parts of their religion. like you, 0 Lord; you are great, and your name is mighty in power. Who To discourage Israel from adopting the polytheism and immorality of paganism, should not revere you, 0 King of the nations? This is your due.... The Lord is God commanded Israel to have only one place of sacrifice, the tabernacle. It was the true God; he is the living God, the eternal King.... God made the earth by only to the tabernacle that Israel was to bring their sacrifices, offerings and tithes his power; he founded the world by his wisdom and stretched out the heavens (verses 4-18). by his understanding" (verses 6-7,10,12, NIV). God expanded on this thought in verses 19 through 28. He told Israel where and The gods that pagans worship are nothing compared to the Lord. "These under what circumstances certain meats were to be eaten. He emphasized that gods, who did not make the heavens and the earth, will perish from the earth Israel was not to eat blood, and that they were to pour the blood of their sacrifices and from under the heavens" (verse 11). They are mere images made by men beside the tabernacle's altar, not just anywhere that they pleased (verse 27). and women. "Every goldsmith is shamed by his idols. His images are a fraud; Then in verses 29 through 31 God repeated his intent to destroy the pagan nations they have no breath in them. They are worthless, the objects of mockery" occupying Canaan. He commanded Israel not to worship God in the pagans' way of (verses 14-15). worship (verse 31). The reason? Because their way of worship included vile and Gold is not the only substance used to make idols. Verses 8 and 9 speak of hateful things, such as child sacrifice. This was not a blanket condemnation. The pas­ "worthless wooden idols" on which workmen place hammered silver and gold, sage does not condemn the adoption of those things that by nature are not hateful. and rich apparel. We have already seen how the change from tabernacle to temple fit that pattem. When we consider that these verses condemn idolatry, we can understand The final verse of chapter 12 commands Israel not to add or take away from what what Jeremiah meant when he said "the customs of the peoples are worthless" God has commanded. We emphasize again that God did not think that David's (verse 3). No wonder he tells us not to "learn the way of the nations" (verse 2). many innovations violated the spirit of this command. Turning to translations other than the King James also helps our under­ Other human innovations that God subsequently approved included religious holi­ standing. Where the King James reads "one cutteth a tree out of the forest, days not originally a part of the old covenant's festival calendar-including Purim the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe" (verse 3), the New Inter­ and Hanukkah among others. These two days in particular celebrated great events national Version says "they cut a tree out of the forest, and a craftsman in Israel's salvation history. shapes it with his chisel." The tool referred to in the passage is not a woods­ Christians know that God abolished the Levitical system and the old covenant itself man's tool, but that of a wood carver. Most modern English translations agree through Jesus' sacrifice. His birth, death and resurrection are of paramount impor­ with the NIV. tance to our salvation history. Deuteronomy's focus on the Exodus, the tabernacle Jeremiah is not condemning Christmas trees. He is condemning idolatry. and its rituals no longer applies. We are dead to and released from the law (Romans The trees in Jeremiah 10 are cut down to carve them into worthless idols that 7:4-6). We do not have to worship God in old covenant places and in old covenant will later be decorated with gold and silver. Jeremiah says nothing about ways. We may add celebrations of our salvation in Jesus Christ. Yet the principle of Christmas trees. avoiding vile and hateful practices in worship, such as child sacrifice, remains. Tuesday, November 14, 1995 The Worldwide News 13

Feastgoers donate more than $8,000 to Ambassador's KBAU radio station __com_ing soon in The Plain Trnlh... Ambassador's new radio station, Health, science, law and business Cover Story: The Miracle ofJesus' KBAU, received more than $8,000 features, movie and book reviews, Birth in donations from church members programming for children and pro­ The town of Bethlehem was home at U.S. Festival sites. "We're gramming of interest to senior citi­ to the greatest miracle of all time. extremely grateful that members zens is also featured on the new sta­ Yet the miraculous nature of Jesus' have shown this type of support," tion. birth is often di missed as irrele­ said Sarah Bilowus, director of pro- I KBAU's 6,000-watt station, knO\vn vant, or even as superstition or motion and development for the as The Breeze, offers light jazz and myth. Is the story of the Virgin station. acoustic music in the day and light Birth important to the gospel KBAU, which signed on ov. 6, classical music in the evening. An message? offers programming from ational automation system enables the sta­ In our cover story, Keith Stump Public Radio (NPR), reaching 165,000 tion to broadcast 24 hours a day, explains how the miracle of Jesus' East Texans in nine counties. seven days a week. birth demonstrates God's grace KBAU carries some of NPR's You can help build KBAU by and love in fulfilling his promise most popular and award-winning becoming an inaugural member of of salvation. programs, including Morning Edi­ Friends of KBAU. Please see the Replacing the regular "About tion and All Things Considered. form below for details. This Issue" is a memorial message from editor Greg Albrecht informing our readers of the death of our beloved Friends of KBAU Pastor General Joseph W. Tkach. Since public radio is supported by people who are interested in furthering excel­ Also in December: lence in education and the arts, we need your help at this critical time in the devel­ Paul Kroll leads off a new series "What Is Christianity?" ~ith an article opment of our station. You have an opportunity to help build KBAU by becoming an titled "A ew Life in Christ." More than a religion, Christianity is a rescue. Inaugural Member of Friends of KBAU. Inaugural memberships will be awarded to Paul looks at what it means to our personal lives when we accept Christ. the first 907 people who contribute $100 or more. Inaugural members in this cate­ gory will have their names inscribed on a plaque that will be displayed at the KBAU Focusing on family issues, Sheila Graham addresses the subject of studios, and will be the first to receive KBAU's program guide this fall. menopause in "What's Wrong With Mom?" and Norman Shoaf offers sug­ gestions on how parents can nourish their children's friendship with Jesus o YESll want to become an Inaugural Member of Friends of KBAU. Enclosed is my check or money order in "Let the Little Children Come to Me." to KBAU for $100.

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addition of the synagogue and its tra­ more than not knowing when Christ Christmas than the fact that some Continued from page 12 ditions. Examples such as these have will return diminishes the value of people get involved in ungodly con­ led many Christians to conclude that celebrating his return during the duct at the Feast of Tabernacles or for people, we denied it for customs the church also has the freedom to Feast of Trumpets. attend it merely for a vacation are rea­ and traditions. Yet many of the prac­ add to its calendar festivals that cele­ It is the position of the Worldwide sons to avoid the Feast ofTabernacles. tices God approved for ancient Israel brate God's intervention in human Church of God that it is not a sin to The Worldwide Church of God no had previously existed in paganism. affairs, such as the birth of Jesus and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. longer teaches that observing Christ­ Temples, priests, harvest festivals, the resurrection of Jesus. After all, his entrance into the world mas is a sin. The decision to observe music in worship, circumcision and Unless we are to conclude that cel­ was a cause of great rejoicing and Christmas, and if observing it, how tithing all had ancient pagan coun­ ebrating Christ's arrival as God in the celebration, because it made possible to observe it, is a personal matter. terparts. God transformed these flesh is a detestable thing, its celebra­ human reconciliation to God. Members of the church are free to customs into a form of worship tion on what was once a pagan holi­ At his birth people who loved God celebrate or not to celebrate Christ­ devoted to him. Even the sun, uni­ day is irrelevant. Christians who rejoiced in praise, and even the mas. The church hopes that Chris­ versally worshiped as a god by keep Christmas are not pagans. They angels sang for joy (Luke 1:46-55,68­ tians who celebrate Christmas and pagan cultures, God used to sym­ do not worship nor regard pagan 79; 2:8-14, 28-32, 38). those who do not are both seeking to bolize an aspect of the Christ gods. They honor Christ as Lord and Love, not command, is what moti­ honor Jesus Christ (Romans 14:5-6). (Malachi 4:2). Savior. vates many Christians to celebrate However, the official practice of Jesus taught, "Stop judging by It is true that certain customs Christmas. They love their Savior and the Worldwide Church of God is to mere appearances, and make a right attached to Dec. 25 are practiced in a they love their families. Christmas exalt and worship our Savior during judgment" (John 7:24). Too often, pagan spirit by many people. But a provides an opportunity for them to festivals founded on biblical prece­ Puritan criticism of Christmas was truly Christian observance of Christ­ express both. To harshly judge those dent, rather than on days that entered based on outward appearances and a mas does not include drunkenness, who choose to practice their faith in Christianity after the first century. strong anti-Catholic perspective. fornication, carousing or any other this spirit of devotion conflicts with Therefore, the church does not When Israel added Hanukkah and conduct unworthy of saints. many ew Testament principles. plan or sponsor an annual Christmas Purim to its religious calendar­ Of course no one knows the exact The fact that non-Christians or even celebration. If members choose to events that celebrated God's saving date of Jesus' birth. But this lack of some Christians celebrate Christmas celebrate Christmas with their fami­ acts in Jewish history-these were knowledge does not diminish the as a secular holiday or in a profane lies, we encourage them to make acceptable to God. So, too, was the value of celebrating his birth, any way is no more a reason to avoid Christ the center of their celebration. 14 The Worldwide News Tuesday, November 14, 1995

(J) KAMPMEIER, Mark and Iden (Long) marriage Dec. 4 in Houston, Texas. Ohio, celebra ed lhetr 25th armiver­ w of Black River Falls Wisconsin, boy, The ceremony was performed by sary Sept 12. They have four chil­ a:: Cory James, Aug. 1,now 2 boys. Chris Beam, pas or of the Houston dren, J Sara. Jrn and Jure. Sam is c:{ North church. Clare e Wal er was a deacon 10 the Mansfeld, Ohio :J KASDORF. Timothy and Marla matron of honor, and Bartls Ca­ church. .- (Fredric son) of Grants Pass, Ore­ houn, brother of the bride. was best iIi gon boy Nathanlal David Sept. 13, man. The couple live In Tampa o f stc d Flor,da o z c:{ (J) WILUAM JR. & UA JACKSON w Ua MaxIne Manvell. daug er of Mr a:: and rs. James N Pope Jr of Hoi­ c:{ land Patent. New York, and Chns (J) Manvell of Palgn on, England. and a:: MELLO Jeffery and Kim (Meland) 0 Wi liam Me Vln Jackson Jr , son of w Gresham, Oregon, boy, Kurt David. Mr. and Mrs. Wi am M Jac son of > July 25 f rst child Davenporl, Virginia and 0 ane Mar­ Z tinez of Wayne. Michigan, were unrt­ z MIDDLETON, Timothy and Jennifer ed In marriage May 17. The ceremo­ AI and Rose Neumann of San c:{ (Scott) of Joplin, Missouri, boy, ny was performed in Gladewater. Dimas. Ca forflla, celebrated their DeJOn Aexander Aug 12, first child Texas. by S an Murphy. now a local Tina Mafle Dinger daughter of Larry 30th annIVersary July 24 They have en church e der ,n Murfreesboro, Ten­ and D,ana Oinger of San Diego, CaI­ three sons. Clint, Carl (deceased). CJ MILLER Andy and Sus", (Yoder) of nessee. Regan Manvell. sister of the ,fornia, and Jeff Sieker. son of and Mark; a daugh er, Mitzi Bitner; a z CoIumb a, M,ssoun, boy, Adam Ray, bnde, was maid of honor, and Ken Andrew and Judy S eker of WyaJus­ daugh er-In-Iaw Jennifer; a son-In­ (5 sept 7 now 1 boy, 1 gl(1. Danes was best man The couple mg. Pennsylvania. were ufllted 10 law. Paul; and four grandchildren, o live In Denver, Colorado marriage July 2 In he br de's home Kyn Mar e. Roy AI. Brand, Lynn and w MILLER, Jim and Karen (Mc­ town. The ceremony was performed Brandon Taylor AI is a deacon in Corm c ) of Abbotsford, British by the father of the br de, a local the Glendora church. ~ Columbia, boy, Cameron James, church elder m the San Diego North en June 15 now 1 boy. 2 gins. County church. Tammy Whelchel .­ was matron of honor, and Tim z OESTERLE. Loren and Blanca Yuschak was bes man The couple w (Perez) of Glendora, Cal ornia. boy fIVe m IrVing, Texas. ~ Jason Alexander. Aug. 1, first chi d Ear' and Haze Orban of Bngh on. II nois, ce ebrated the r 50th w R GLE M chael and Enn (York) of armlversary Oc . 23 They have fIVe CJ Albuquerque, New Mexico, girl sons. Dave. Dan, Darrel Don and c:{ Andrea Mare. June 30, now 2 girts. Doug. a daugh er, Darla; and 12 CJ grandch dren Earl and Hazel are z RIZZUTI Gordon and Jen (Cook) of deacon and deaconess in the w Cleveland. OhIO, boy, M che Grant. Bellev Ie IlOtS. church. Aug 24, first chid en BILL & DORIS YORK I Marisa Michele Parton of Boaz .­ SCHULTZ, Garry and Christine Alabama and Matthew Todd Davis B~' and Dots York of Indlanapol"s. Obituaries a:: (Schlo e) of Edmonton, A1ber1a. boy, of AI oona, Alabama, were un' ed in Indiana, celebrated their 40th Justin Alexander, Aug. 2, now 2 marriage Apfll 29 The ceremony anfllversary July 24 They have four ANDREW & DEEDEE BITTNER iIi boys 1 gr. was performed by Paul Kurts. pastor ch~dren, KeVin, Lynnette. Eric and of the Gadsden, Alabama. church. DeeDee Haggard, daug er of Wen­ EM; two daughters;n-Iaw. Mary and SHAW Bnan and ReNae (Wernli) of Kim MiZen was matron of honor, and dell and LlOda Haggard of Man­ Laurie; a son-in- aw, Michael and Jo let, lIIonols. girl, Chelsea Mare, Denman DaVIS was best man. The chester. Tennessee and Andrew six grandchildren. Amanda, Brittany, Aug. 11 now 2 girls couple live In Anoona Bittner. son of Robert and Judy B­ Anderson. Kelsea, Danielle and tner of Westmont, New Jersey vere Andrea TURKINGTON, Keith and Jackie united in marriage May 27 The cer­ (Kempston) of Be fast, Northern Ire­ emony was performed by Richard land. boy, Joel Da d July 11. now 2 Weber, pastor of the Murfreesboro. boys, g,,1. Cookeville and Nashville, Ten­ nessee, churches Stacie Rowand WIDDIFIELD. Larry and Barbie was maid of honor. and Mark Bast­ (Maddy) of Portland, Oregon, girl. ian was best man. The couple live ,n Jackie Leeann, May 12, first child Collingswood. New Jersey SYLVANUS STROMMEN WURTZ Jeffrey and Sharon (Luban) STROMMEN Sylvanus L. 74, of of Anchorage, Alaska, boy, Reagan Blanchardville. Wisconsin, died June Michael, July 10, now 3 boys. 7 of a heart and as hma condltoon. He is survived by hiS w fe. Bonflle; a son and his Wife. Sherwood and Carolyn; a daughter and her hus­ EARL III & JACOUELYNN BAILEY Engagements band. at1CY Wliliams and KeIY)e . Jacquetynn L SWItzer granddaugh­ and lVe grandch Idren, Bryan and Ray and Betty Shoun of Diamond ter of Barbara Canales of Van Wer1, cathleen Strommen, DaVId. Heather ~~~"~~!~~/Y'~;'.~':~~~ ~~~, Spr ngs Ca ,fornla, and Dave and Ohio, and Earl L Bailey III, son of and Michae Wi lams ~"i'...- ._~ -~,- lJn

HENDY, John and Usa (Bryant) of Reading, England, gin. Megan Zoe. Aug. 4, fltst chIld

HEYKooP, Johannes and Franc, e SHAWN & BETH CORTELYOU (BoldUC) of St P e, Quebec, g rI, MiE!ke Ann, Aug 13, 00"" 3 boys. 1 Beth Corbitt, daughter of Ed and girl Pa Corbl of Knoxv lie Tennessee. and S awn Corte you son of Larry HICKS. Michael and Kay (Weather­ and Ter" Corlelyou of La Harpe, I i­ head) of Grafton. Australia, boy. IlOtS. were un' ed In marriage Aug. 6 SEAN & JACQUElUNE BARKER Nathan Andrew, Aug 31 first ,n KnoXVI e The ceremony was per­ child formed by the groom's father, a local Jacquel e Tracy Calhoun, daughter church elder m the Macomb. I nois of Earnest and Marg e Calhoun of HILL. Stephen and Beverly (Skid­ church Georgia Cherry was maid of Conroe. Texas. and sean Anthony Ed and Albina Befort (Ielt' celebrated their SOtn anniversary and Gus and SAM & ANN TUCKER more) of Clncmnati, OhIO. girl, Olivia honor, and Dale Johnston was best Barker, son of Conrad and Lorna Helen Beforl of Hays Kansas. ce ebrated their 60th armiversary July 15 Ed and Nicole. sept 16, first cIllld. man. Tt1e couple live ,n La Harpe Barker of Tnflldad. were united 10 Sam and Ann Tucker of Shelby, Gus are brothers and Albina and Helen are sisters Tuesday,Novernber14,1995 The Worldwide News 15

Personal: representing Christ the best we can tion. In some respects, Christian ering promoting someone to be a committee are Albuquerque, New Continued from page 4 stewardship is far more demanding supervisor or manager. Mexico; Colorado Springs-Pueblo­ than the old covenant practices of Another factor we are facing con­ Denver, Colorado; Big Sandy; Dallas­ nurture of the congregation and in tithes, offerings and sacrifices. cerns our budgeting and cash flow. Fort Worth, Texas; Tyler, Texas; Tuc­ evangelization and community ser­ Old covenant tithing was a matter We have demonstrated that Chris­ son, Arizona; Phoenix, Arizona; vice. of the law; Christian stewardship is a tians walk by faith and not by sight Seattle, Washington; Boise, Idaho; My dad often quoted the motto, matter of the heart and attitude. It is when we announced that we could Raleigh, North Carolina; Nashville, "Work smarter, not just harder." The an expression of our devotion to no longer require tithing as a condi­ Tennessee; and Apple Valley-Vic­ motto expects us to think more about God. Christian stewardship includes tion of salvation. Before that torville, California. how we do our work and to find the not only the responsibility to give of announcement, in early 1995, we had When we sell and relocate we best ways to accomplish the tasks one's monetary resources, but it also an expectation of what our members intend to set up a formal pension with the skills and gifts God has includes the moral demands that the would give. program. I shall keep you updated on given us. gospel of Jesus Christ places on our As I also mentioned in my Festival these matters when we have more I pray that we all share the desire time and our talents. sermon, we need the members to be information. to have every member of the church Therefore, it is entirely consistent consistent in supporting our gospel become active participants in the that we would expect our employees efforts. We cannot pay employees, Moving forward in Christ work of God. who are members of the church to plan for the future, or give pay raises Through the love and mercy of If we are to be God's church we tithe. We expect a high moral behav­ until we have a basis from which to God and the leadership of the Holy must all represent Christ to the best ior that is Christian in every respect. plan. Employee tithing is one compo­ Spirit we have set our minds and of our ability and be shining exam­ And, because employees are nent of our cash flow expectations. hearts on Jesus Christ and have ples of Christianity. employed by a church that is volun­ Because of all this, it is not incon­ come to trust explicitly in him. I have tarily funded by tithes and offerings, sistent for the church to expect never been more thrilled about the Tithing, moral state of our fellowship! commitment Weare pooling our At the employee meet­ energies and moving for­ ing I also discussed the ward in preaching the comment I made during gospel worldwide and my Festival sermon that equipping our local con­ church employees are gregations to be healthy required to tithe. examples of the body of Also speaking at that Christ. meeting were Greg We are learning to use Albrecht, Mike Feazell the spiritual gifts we have and Bernie Schnippert. been given, and are capi­ A few employees have talizing on the intense asked why they are Greg Albrecht Joseph Tkach Mike Feazell Bernie SChnippert dedication to Jesus required to tithe when Christ-now rightly the church does not require strict it is reasonable to expect employees employees to tithe. If an employee channeled-which has long character­ tithing as a condition of member­ to exercise the principle of Christian does not tithe, we are not making a ized our church. ship. stewardship in their lives. moral judgment about his or her sal­ So we stand today at the foot of Let me answer by explaining our Tithing is the foundation of Chris­ vation being adversely affected. We the cross-the ultimate symbol of all beliefs and practices. First, a com­ tian stewardship. According to the know, and acknowledge, that it is reconciliation. It is the common ment about a misconception that Bible, Christians should contribute between that person and God. ground on which estranged and some have about the new covenant. cheerfully and liberally for the sup­ alienated parties can meet. As Chris­ Living under the new covenant, port of the gospel. Other churches Credit card contributions tians, we all identify with the suffer­ being in Christ, and being freed from recognize this biblical principle and To make contributing easier, we ing that took place there, and we the slavery of old covenant require­ expect their employees to tithe. are making it possible for donations hope that will bring us closer togeth­ ments does not equate to doing Some employees have reasoned to be made by credit card. This will er. whatever one wants to do. If we are the following: "I have not had a raise benefit people who have credit cards It is only by the blood of the Lamb in Christ, we voluntarily place our­ in a long time. Therefore, I will not that give them points toward buying and the power of the Spirit that we selves under his authority. He is Lord tithe." In effect, they propose giving an automobile, plane tickets or cash can put the hurts of the past behind of all. themselves a raise. rebates. us and move forward toward our Rumors that we condone adultery But, a Christian is obligated to Anyone can now make a credit common goal. because we are under the new give. Jesus gave us the greatest gift, card donation by calling 1-800-423­ P.S. On another subject, you will covenant are ridiculous. Such allega­ his own life, for our salvation. We 4444. notice on page 12 of this issue an tions betray a serious lack of under­ are absolutely indebted to him and A new personalized envelope article about Christmas. As the article standing about what Christians com­ voluntarily give of our substance so designed to handle credit card dona­ explains, and as we have explained at mit themselves to because of their that others may hear the gospel and tions, as well as cash and checks, will numerous question and answer ses­ faith and belief in their Lord and share in the gift of salvation. be mailed in the next few weeks. In sions at ministerial conferences, we Savior. Another perspective on this issue addition, we plan to have automatic should not judge one another con­ For Christians, tithing is not a includes the fact that all employees credit card debiting for those inter­ cerning this day. requirement for salvation. That state­ are paid from money that is given to ested. Information about automatic Although various customs asso­ ment means that an act or a behav­ help proclaim the gospel of Jesus debiting will be released when we ciated with Christmas were origi­ ior, in this case tithing, cannot be a Christ. We who derive our living have the system in place. nally associated with paganism, criterion for salvation. Salvation is from the gospel need to set the pace. many Christians believe that the freely given, by grace, through faith Therefore, employees have a moral Property sale, relocation customs long ago ceased to be in Jesus Christ. othing we do is a commitment to support the church, Regarding church assets, we will pagan. Each person should be con­ requirement for salvation. which, in turn, provides them with not own a corporate jet or a limou­ vinced in his own mind, but he But the ew Testament is clear their livelihoods. Members will be sine. The limousines have already should not judge his brother about the holy life that Christians encouraged to know that employees, been sold and we will sell the jet as regarding such matters. live as a result of having been saved. whom they employ with their volun­ soon as we have a committed buyer. Remember, Christmas is not part Because we are saved, we are called tary tithes and offerings, are doing We have met with three of the of our annual celebrations, but it is to holiness in Jesus Christ. The New the same. largest real estate agencies in the Unit­ not sinful to get together with family Testament has many sin lists and When members perceive a lack of ed States-Grubb & Ellis, Cushman & during this time. either is it sinful virtue lists that demonstrate that the commitment by headquarters per­ Wakefield and Coldwell Banker. If we to read and reflect on the story of the Christian walk includes an extremely sonnel, then we cannot expect mem­ do not sell the property ourselves birth of our Savior as recorded in high ethical and moral standard, not bers to be generous. within a short time we will contract Matthew and Luke. It is sinful, how­ a low one. Our policy is that we expect with the agency that gives us the best ever, to practice idolatry, drunken­ The old covenant included careful­ employees to tithe. However, I want contract proposal. ness and revelry. Sad to say, in the ly delineated, exacting tithes, offer­ it to be abundantly clear that we do To determine the final site of relo­ past this kind of behavior sometimes ings and sacrifices. Giving in the old not police our computer records, we cation a search committee has been even occurred at the Feast of Taber­ covenant was not voluntary. It was do not go on a witch-hunt, nor do we established. The committee will be nacles. We hope that such problems absolutely obligatory and required. make any effort to catch every chaired by Bernie Schnippert and will remain in the past. Failure to comply with this system of employee who is not tithing. includes Leigh Sniffen, Rick van Pelt, Those who are concerned about tithes, offerings and sacrifices Generally, we check to see if some­ Mike Feazell, Greg Albrecht and per­ Christmas issues may want to read a excluded you from being a part of one is tithing on three occasions: 1) haps others. Employees are encour­ book by Ralph Woodrow on this sub­ the people of God. You would not be when we are considering hiring aged to give input about possible ject. Mr. Woodrow used to preach purified, you could not worship and someone, because we expect our relocation sites. against Christmas, just as we used to. you would be excluded from fellow­ employees to tithe, 2) when we are Some criteria we will use to find a His new booklet, Christmas Recon­ ship. considering ordaining someone to an new home for headquarters includes sidered, explains the evidence that led The new covenant introduces the office of servanthood within the body reasonable cost of living; reasonable him to change his approach to this concepts and principles of Christian of Christ, because those who are housing costs; tax friendliness; good subject. Copies are $4 each, postage stewardship. Christian financial called to lead should be individuals schools; air transport; facilities con­ paid, or $2.50 each for five or more stewardship is built upon the old who are generous, devoted, servants ducive to our needs at the right price; copies. Send orders to Ralph covenant practices of tithing but is of Christ and good stewards of their and weather that is not severe. Woodrow, Box 124, Riverside, Cali­ different in philosophy and orienta- resources, and 3) when we're consid- Cities recommended by an earlier fornia, 92502-0124. 16 The Worldwide News Tuesday, November 14, 1995 ----~--~----~------

Church of God were given a to use their spiritual gifts for Peter Hawkins of the South bean foods, luxury choco­ tour of the temple and adja­ the benefit of all members African Office. lates, marmalade and dried cent Thai school by Mrs. La­ and the work of the gospel. flower arrangements. or Anekanonda, a longtime Many members are already London South church The men used their skills friend of Dr. Hoeh and oth­ active in using their spiritual fund-raiser from tailoring and antiques ers who visit Wat Thai. gifts to visit widows and the to photography. Reports Wat Thai of Los Angeles sick, being hospitable, quiet­ LO DON, England-Six­ were shared at an annual and the Worldwide Church ly and without recognition. teen members in the London gala lunch Sept. 3. of God have enjoyed a warm "We all felt the conference South church were given five The Department of Trade relationship for many years, was a tremendous success in pounds each and told to and Industry (DTI) offered to including joint participation laying a foundation for reori­ multiply it. To date they send a representative to meet in teaching English and enting ourselves and our have returned more than 710 with any who wanted advice Western culture to Laotian congregations for the work pounds. to set up individual small refugees in Thailand from that still lies ahead," said The women sold Carib- businesses. Jackee Brown. 1980 to 1985. Ministerial ordinations, transfers Three men serving as re­ gional pastors were ordained ~ ~ l':,~ ~~ Feast workshops add flavor, information ..;': "% 1: fr ::t",. as pastors ov. 3 at the .,/, ?V :"'~"'#t~~ l! ::;;;,. ~..... regional pastors conference Workshops augment lone looking for suggestions." all can improve our commu­ in Pasadena. They are Craig nications skills in marriage. Bacheller, pastor of the sermons with Bible study If you don't agree, just ask Thai temple conducts Miami, Florida, orth and hands-on approach Ralph Orr, managing edi- your mate. Communications memorial service for South churches; Don Mears, tor of Reviews You Can Use, can open doors for any mar­ pastor of the Big Sandy At the Palm Springs, a bimonthly publication for riage." Mr. Tkach church; and Fran Ricchi, California, site, 400 Feast­ ministers, gave a workshop Mr. Faulkner recommend­ LOS ANGELES-A memo­ pastor of the Cleveland, Ohio, goers were introduced to on Bible study in Palm ed the book Communica­ rial service for Joseph W. East and West churches. the voices of contempo­ Spring and in Pasadena. tions-Key to Your Marriage Tkach was conducted at Wat rary Christian recording Mr. Orr' purpose wa to by H. orman Wright, a Thai of Los Angeles in North Ministerial transfer artists Amy Grant, Michael show the way many scholars Christian marriage and fami­ Hollywood, California, Sept. W. Smith, Steven Curtis approach Bible study in a ly counselor. 30. Phra Wichian Tham­ Gene ouhan, associate Chapman, BeBe and CeCe systematic manner before The lessons members and makunathan, abbot of Wat pastor in the Chattanooga, Winans, Babbie Ma on, they interpret a text. He visitors took with them were Thai, conducted the service Tennessee, and Murphy, Anointed, Gary Chapman, hoped to increase members' what God say about com­ along with three other resi­ orth Carolina, churches, Kathy Traccoli and others appreciation for the hard munication, why our words dent monks: Phra Sumana was transferred to pastor the with 90 minutes of concert work that goes into good are so powerfu( how to lis­ Sumanatisso, Phra Maha Tallahassee, Florida, and video clips and portions of scholarship. ten to your spouse and ways Suparb Siripanyo and Maha Moultrie, Georgia, churches television specials. He also tried to show that to stop nagging and start Thongsri Aopakaro. this past summer. The workshop was pre­ many of the technique used encouraging each another. Gifts prepared by Herman sented by Mike Hale, an by scholars can also be u ed and Isabell Hoeh were pre­ Vision for Southern art director for Media by lay members. Grief and loss sented to the monks by Africa conference Operations in Pasadena Jeff Zhorne, WN manag­ church members Raymond and a member of Pa ade­ Marriage ing editor, conducted work­ Epperson, Daniel Reedy, CAPE TO ", 'JO' th na's team of worship lead­ IP 'ngs about 900 shops in Pasadena and Palm Ronald Reedy and Mitchell Africa-Ministers from ers. people attended a marriage Springs on how to work Vasseur. Southern Africa gathered at "For years people have communications workshop through loss and grief. The memorial provided an the regional office Oct. 30 for asked for suggested albums titled "Communication­ Participants learned about opportunity for the Thai 2'/2 days of meetings with to buy or songs to consider Key to Your Marriage" pre­ the tools and skills needed community to show their Randal Dick. assistant direc­ for special music or home sented by Dexter and Shirley for resolving unresolved loss respect to Mr. Tkach, the tor of Church Administration listening," said Mr. Hale. Faulkner, who pastor the experiences, including death church, Ambassador Univer­ International. ''I've spoken with and Topeka, Kansas, church. of a loved one, end of a rela­ sity and Ambassador Foun­ The church must seek been to concerts of all the Mr. Faulkner introduced tionship, loss of trust, loss of dation. opportunities to "go, preach, singers shown in these the presentation with the a job, retirement, moving, After the memorial ser­ baptize and teach," Mr. Dick videos," he added, "and I statement: "The average cou­ the empty nest and other vice, about 12 members and said. One session covered the feel comfortable recom­ ple spends 17 minutes in losses. friends of the Worldwide empowerment of members mending their work to any- conversation each week. We Grief is cumulative and cumulative negative. If loss­ es are not resolved properly, grief will continue to ad­ versely affect our lives and the lives of those around us. Feastgoers saw how faith in Christ empowers us to do European conference: interacting within a uniting EC human things such as taking from England to central aspects must be included as Participants left sobered responsibility for finishing By Charles Albrecht France via the newly com­ part of a European vision. and inspired by the opportu­ the unfinished business in and John Halford pleted English Channel tun­ These aspects are: nity to work as a team in relationships. nel. • The kingdom of God is reaching Europeans with the LA ROCHE SUR FORO , Paul Brown, pastor of the on the offensive; the Euro­ gospel. Improvements in o 100% recycled paper France-Ministers from 10 London South church, said: pean work should be on the transportation and commu­ European countries met at "I will never think of Europe offensive. nication are helping Euro­ the foot of the French Alps in the same way again. It • We are called to harvest. pean and British ministers for a three-day European was so easy to travel \vithin • Everything must be work together yet maintain conference, Oct. 24 to 26. the EC and to get together as geared to change lives. important linguistic and cul­

The group met to answer ministers." Thoughts like • Everything revolves tural characteristics. It) administrative questions and these helped develop one of around a relationship with It) 0 develop an organizational the themes of the confer­ God and one other. (i) N ~ I'-- tD ri structure and European ence, specifically, the ease Mr. Tavares and Belgian ~ Q) -::(t} 0 tD vision for 1996. Attending and need for ministers to pastor Jack Brunet gave WN: Mailing is 0> - I I ~~ (\I,... It) for the first time were Carlos interact within a united reports from the Feasts in faster, cheaper -=-H.... to Tavares and Leo Kaagjarv, European community. Angola and Zaire. It was a ~~ (\I (t) -H-=CJ ,... representatives from Portu­ Ministers agreed that the welcome reminder of the Because of changing -=0- ~O 0 (i) gal and Estonia. changing face of Europe need for European churches postal regulations and - I 0 "":Ill riO The conference also in­ makes it possible for various to extend a friendly hand in cost savings, The World­ ~~ - Z .... Z cluded ministers from the European areas to consider partnership to the churches wide News is now mailed =~ III ...... '0 -~ 30 United Kingdom who drove themselves a single region. in Africa. second class to U.S. -:~ Further, by focusing on com­ In addition, evangelist Cam members. If you receive § -~ (110 =- -::;~ Q)JZ mon interests, it became easi­ Catherwood discussed the this paper more than 14 a:~ =~ O