The work here continues according to the usual pace this time of year. Plans are in place for headquarters ministers traveling out for the Spring Holy Days. Dr. Meredith will be going to Louisville, KY for Passover and the first day of Unleavened Bread; Mr. Richard Ames will be going to Kansas City, MO; Mr. Dibar Apartian will be going to Montreal, CANADA. Mr. Ehman will go to Reno, NV for Passover, and Mr. Hernandez may go to Mexico and South America.
One hundred fifty-seven ministers and wives attended the general conference of the ministry. A very small minority of Elders was unable to attend due to work commitments or health. Mr. and Mrs. Charles Knowlton had made all of the necessary arrangements, but a death in the family prevented their coming. Mr. Don Contardi was able to attend via telephone.
Mr. Meredith announced on Monday morning, March 13, that Living Church of God had acquired the Global Church of God intellectual property from the Trustee in charge of its assets. The official signed document was delivered Monday afternoon at 3:45 p.m. This news was met with spontaneous applause of appreciation from everyone! This success was due in part to an agreement reached with the other interested bidder. We appreciate having this chapter behind us now!
Mr. Dibar Apartian and the International Regional Directors took the second session Monday morning, giving brief reports on their respective areas. We appreciate the work accomplished by our International Ministry. They deserve our heartfelt thanks for much work performed by themselves and our international brethren.
Director of Media Mr. Richard Ames presented a media report on Monday afternoon. The groundwork has been laid for preaching the Gospel via television, printed media, and Internet usage—and we will now build upon that foundation as Christ provides.
Mr. Fred Dattolo, Director of Financial Affairs, followed with a very encouraging financial report. We were all encouraged by Mr. Dattolo's report indicating stability of income and budget management.
On Monday evening the approximately fifty International ministers and wives met for a dinner and fellowship. Ministers from around the world were able to visit and discuss matters of mutual interest.
Tuesday morning Mr. Meredith lectured on "Broadening Our Outlook," a very timely lecture at a time when many members of the church are focusing inwardly, upon themselves and their circle of friends.
Mr. John Ogwyn followed with "The Qualities of a Good Pastor." He spoke of many examples of ministers who served God and His people faithfully and well.
Mr. Charles Bryce followed Mr. Ogwyn with "Building Ministerial Credibility." He explained the necessity of preaching the Truth and practicing it—with emphasis on the latter.
Tuesday afternoon was devoted to covering questions from the field. The questions ranged from the doctrinal to the administrative.
Wednesday morning I devoted to the subject of "Qualifying For the Ministry" and "Maintaining Ministerial Qualifications."
Wednesday afternoon was a continuation by Mr. Meredith (assisted by me) of the discussion of questions submitted by the field ministry.
Wednesday evening was banquet night. Entertainment was "international," emceed by Mr. Richard Ames who looked very dashing in serape and sombrero! Mr. Ron Peterson, Elder from Lakeland, Florida, entertained us with quiet piano pieces during the meal. Mrs. Kathryn Ames began the after dinner program by playing two numbers on the violin, followed by Mrs. Dorothy McNair playing the accordion. Jonathan McNair and Rod McNair provided some much-needed humor (supported by Mr. Mario Hernandez' baritone vocalization).
Thursday morning Mr. Meredith wrapped up the general conference with his exhortation, "Key To Our Success." Mr. Meredith expressed appreciation to the many ladies from the local church congregation, from the headquarters staff, the wives of ministers attending the conference and others who prepared, donated and served the food for the four days. It was a Herculean chore, reminiscent of memories I have of my mother and neighboring farm wives serving large threshing crews during the spring wheat harvest!
Now everyone has returned home, and we have all plunged back into the maelstrom of individual "crisis living." Yet, each individual is a significant part of the whole Work of God. The reports I have received indicate that the conference significantly fulfilled a serious NEED for the ministry to assemble as often as possible. Being so widely dispersed creates considerable strain which is relieved by meeting and discussing common problems and needs.
We strive to develop servant leadership—which is management at its best. This art comes from the heart. We have not yet achieved mastery of the art of servant leadership, but we are committed to striving toward mastery. I believe that when Christ appears He will grant us His attributes of servant leadership, which we now lack within ourselves.
Notice:
Those of you who need a copy of the PASSOVER SERVICE tape, please call or write us immediately.
Have a great Sabbath!
CEMcNair