Shalom and blessing NACOG,
Can you believe we have come to another year’s end?
It is safe to say that 2021 has been another challenging year filled with losses, setbacks, tragedies,
and obstacles, both socially and politically, but also overflowing with wonderful opportunities for
ministry and growth.
Many of our hearts were saddened this year as we celebrated the lives of loved ones and esteemed leaders who transitioned from active service into the grandstands of eternity. We grieved and prayed for communities in Minneapolis, Kentucky, Illinois, California, Louisiana, and countries like Afghanistan, India, Africa, and Haiti, all devastated by violence and unrest, tornadoes and floods, earthquakes and storms.
We witnessed as the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine made a sizable impact in saving lives and preventing serious illness and hospitalizations, yet we have also seen divisive lines drawn in opposition, not only to this life-saving measure, but to mask-wearing, social distancing, and other safe protocols as well.
Despite the significant strides being made in this area, we continue to experience multilevel disparities that relates to Health, Racism, Politics, and Faith. Social and physical violence continue to be real life events across our nation and world. The Christian faith has often been silent to both politics and policies based on personal preferences, and the historic beliefs of western and ethnic superiority. In addition, racial, economical, and generational divisions continue to be issues impacting our daily lives.
Do we really believe that Jesus came to establish and empower us with the message and mandate of reconciliation between God and Humanity? Yet, what the Church says it believe and contend for, continues to come into contention both locally and nationally. It is important to remember that our goals and actions must always demonstrate a commitment towards seeking the will and way of Christ no matter how difficult or counter-cultural that may be.
Despite all these challenges, by the Grace and Mercy of God, many of our congregations have found creative and innovative ways to impact their members and communities. The hungry are being fed, the poor are being clothed, and the good news of the gospel is being declared,
both virtually and in-person. Many of our church facilities have been used to impact their cities with the tangible love of Christ, and relational bridges of collaboration are being built to strengthen and enhance our ability to continue to serve them.
New ministries have been birthed, many have answered the call to serve, new converts are being
discipled, authors have published books, entrepreneurs have established businesses, mission
opportunities have arisen, diverse leaders have come together to discuss difficult issues, as they listen, learn, love, and lead. As a result, a Justice and Equity Task Force has been commissioned to study and make recommendations regarding racial and gender inequities in Church of God practices and doctrinal statements.
This is certainly not the season for us to faint, but rather to continue our purpose as restorative
influencers in the world.
However, as the National Association of the Church of God, we must remain determined and committed to explore, implement, and deploy innovative ways to utilize our resources and abilities. We must also work together to strengthen local leaders and congregations for more effective ministry.
Our theme for camp meeting and all upcoming conferences for the year 2022 is influenced by the 4th chapter of the book of Esther, “Positioned For Purposeful Impact” which also implies “for such a time as this”.
The Midyear Leadership Conference will be VIRTUAL this year.
During this meeting:
- The General Assembly will discuss and render some important decisions concerning NACOG.
- We will share how God has positioned us for purposeful impact in our past and present as well as opportunities for the future.
- We will be challenged and inspired each evening through worship and the preached word.
For those wishing to participate in the General Assembly meetings, please REGISTER by completing and submitting the attached form. The form may be sent to our CODO, Dr. Bailey, at: baileyarnetta5@gmail.com.
Please begin to pray concerning the significant improvements scheduled for our facilities on Zions Hill. As you are aware, this will require a substantial financial and labor investment. You will be hearing from our New Chief of Operations and Development Officer, Dr. Arnetta Bailey regarding a National fund-raising initiative.
In closing, please know how very thankful we are for your prayers, your support, and your trust during this most challenging season. We hope and pray you will continue to do your part to protect yourselves, your families, congregations, and communities against this multi-level pandemic.
Please mark your calendars and join with us in a National Day of Prayer on Jan 17th, (MLK’s Birthday), as we seek God for Wisdom and Direction for the future.
I, along with Lady Deborah, our Vice Presiding Elder, Dr. Cheryl Sanders, our CODO, Dr. Arnetta Bailey, our CFO, Rev. James Brown, and the entire NACOG board of directors wish you and yours a Christ-filled and joyous New Year.
NACOG our best days are not behind us, they are in front of us, so let’s keep moving forward together as brothers and sisters across the generations.
Shalom and Blessings
Presiding Elder Rev. Clifton McDowell
