World Missions Plans Several Pre-Assembly Events
Church of God World Missions has a day full of activities slated for Monday, July 18, the day prior to the opening of the 2016 Church of God 76th General Assembly. The Assembly takes place later this month at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tennessee, July 19-22.
A traditional forerunner of the Assembly is the Church of God World Missions Missionary Conference. Before participating in the multiple activities awaiting missionaries at the Assembly, they are treated to a time of ministering, fellowship, and renewal of friendships.
“Being on the mission field is often a complicated situation, and with it comes various challenges,” stated Director of World Missions Tim Hill. “However, all of that is laid aside for a time of refreshing and encouragement during the Missionary Conference.”
Beginning the conference is the Missionary Appreciation Service, slated for Monday morning beginning at 9:00 a.m. It is a time of singing, shaking hands, hugging necks, and affirming the career missionaries. It also affords some opportunity for training and inspiration.
The World Missions worship service begins at 10:30 a.m. and will be ushered in by praise and worship from Christ Church Chorale, as well as other internationally musically talented individuals. A powerful word is expected by Bishop Kenneth Ulmer, presiding bishop of the Macedonia International Bible Fellowship and pastor of Faithful Central Bible Church.
Culminating a day full of missions activity, the evening brings the International Music and Awards Celebration. Special musical guests will be Bill Gaither and the Gaither Vocal Band, along with Goodman Revival, Curtis Bridgeman Praise Team, and Danny Murray and the Voices of Lee. A ticketed event, the Omni Hotel Ballroom is expected to be filled to capacity.
“World Missions has been mightily blessed of God in the past four years,” Hill said. “Efforts in global evangelization, education, and ministerial training have far exceeded expectations. The Unreached People Groups (UPGs), an emphasis that is part of the FINISH Challenge, has more than doubled its goal in only one year. With Church of God Bible schools, colleges, and universities around the globe numbering 116, North American career missionaries have worked tirelessly to train and educate nationals, who are continuing to pass the torch of education to their own people. It’s a system that works, and it produces much fruit for God’s Kingdom. It has definitely been a ‘Harvest at the Speed of Favor!'”
(Source: Church of God World Missions)
