Greetings from Charlotte,
We have just completed a very inspiring Ministerial Conference for more than 280 participants who attended from around the world. Many commented that the sessions were very informative, educational and well-presented and that the atmosphere and fellowship were permeated by a warm sense of unity and brotherly love. Dr. Meredith spoke every day on topics that included the Modern History of the Church of God, Ministerial Conduct, and the need to give inspiring sermons and draw closer to God so He can empower His Church to finish His Work. Other topics addressed at the conference included reports from Regional Directors, the Identity of Israel, Fundamentals of Prophecy, The Spread of the Gospel, Becoming Better Teachers, Ministers Wives, Using Modern Technology, Dealing with Addictions, Lessons from Pastoring, and Doctrinal Issues. Thank you for your prayers for the conference and for the safety of all who have traveled to and from the conference.—DSW
Church Administration
Second Passover
The Second Passover this year should be taken shortly after sunset on Tuesday, May 13. This Passover is for those baptized members who were unable to take the first Passover due to unavoidable circumstances. The biblical instructions regarding this ceremony are found in Numbers 9:1-14.
Living Youth Programs
Online Teen Bible Studies Suspended During Summer Months
There will be no online Teen Bible Studies through the summer months, although the teen studies given at the Adventure Camp 2014 and LYC Ohio 2014 will be posted during these camps. Also, archives of previous Living Youth Bible Studies, including last evening's on "The Dramatic Return of Jesus Christ," can be found on the Living Youth Web site.—Sheldon Monson
Registration for LYC 2014 Camps—Repeat Announcement
Although the Texas and Missouri Pre-teen camps are now at capacity for campers, and any further camper applications for these two camps will be placed on a waitlist, there is still room at the West Virginia Pre-teen camp.—Sheldon Monson
Youth Camp in Europe—Repeat Announcement
Applications for LYC Europe, which is scheduled for August 13-22, are still being accepted but we are getting close to capacity. If you are hoping to come, please apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. This year's camp is promising to be a great experience with a new location and some new faces providing more great opportunities to participate in activities and learn about God's way of life. It really is an opportunity not to be missed! If you require more information or application forms, please contact Mr. Rees Ellis [email protected] or Jamie Meakin [email protected] at the UK Office.—Jamie Meakin
Comments
Be Thankful for the Truth! The Sabbath is a good time to reflect on an important question: Are you thankful for the Truth? It is easy to take the Truth for granted if you are a long-time member or if you have grown up in the Church. Yet, Jesus said that people cannot come to a real understanding of the Truth unless they are called and their minds have been opened to see the big picture (John 6:44, 65). The capacity to understand the plan of God, the purpose of life and the true way of life is a gift that God is making available to only a few people at this time (1 Corinthians 1:26-27). These precious truths are a mystery to most people (1 Corinthians 2:7-8) because Satan—"the god of this age"—has blinded their eyes (2 Corinthians 4:3-4). Jesus said that it is an incredible privilege to be given an understanding of the Truth (Matthew 13:10-17). Paul said that to be called out of darkness into the light of the Truth is something to be extremely thankful for. He also said those who were unthankful and let go of the Truth will reap serious consequences (Romans 1:18-32). Let's never forget to be thankful for the incredible opportunity we have been given to understand the Truth of God that "endures to all generations."
Have a profitable Sabbath,
Douglas S. Winnail