Home Office Weekly Update

From the President…

A Global Work

The United Church of God encompasses approximately 15,000 members living all around the world. Through offices and sub-offices in many countries, as well as senior-pastor-managed regions without national offices, God’s work continues in these diverse areas. Though some of these areas may have fewer members, they remain vital to our overall mission. Each of these UCG-associated entities are constantly working, growing, developing and shining the light of God’s way of living to the world around us.

We may be small, but we are bright! We are told to, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Every church member contributes to our overall presence in society and is an integral part of the light that radiates the positive results of living God’s way.

Our members’ examples and communications with family, neighbors, co-workers and schoolmates have contributed greatly to the growth in our congregations. The Church of God is a growing organism founded in Christ with each part doing its share that brings growth to the body (Ephesians 4:16). Thank you for the part of God’s Work that you are doing in your life.

Canadian ministerial conference

This past weekend, UCG-Canada held its biennial Ministerial Conference in Toronto, Ontario. Elders and wives from across the nation gathered for combined Sabbath services, joined by many members from area congregations.

Split sermons were given by Rainer Salomaa and me, along with joyously sung hymns and special music. Following services we shared a meal together, fostering energetic fellowship and renewed friendships. That evening the conference began and continued through the day on Sunday.

Gary Antion, who led Church operations here for five years during UCG’s early years, gave seminars on preaching and crisis counseling. Anthony Wasilkoff, director of operations for UCG-Canada, gave the seminar, “The Seven-Fold Work of the Ministry.” I presented seminars relating to UCGIA’s international structure and common denominators, along with an interactive session collaborating on ways we can enhance the Church’s future in the near-term.

Anthony Wasilkoff: 25 years of service to UCG-Canada

At the conclusion of the conference, the Canadian ministry honored Mr. Wasilkoff for his 25 years of service as director of operations for UCG-Canada. I had the privelege of presenting Mr. Wasilkoff with a crystal globe memento from UCGIA engraved with appreciation for his years of service to the Church. Next month the baton of that office will pass to a new generation, as his son, Paul Wasilkoff, has been chosen to succeed him in this important role.

Home office update

Back here at the home office our daily work continues with ongoing enhancements to current and future initiatives. You will notice incremental updates to our ucg.org website as Aaron Booth and staff continue the migration of content and perform continual upgrades to features and design.

Soon, you’ll see a variety of new Beyond Today videos (both shorts and longer-length formats), which are currently making their way through production cycles. Darris McNeely recorded two new programs two weeks ago, Steve Myers recorded two TV programs and some video shorts on Tuesday of this week, and Gary Petty is scheduled to record next week.

Today, Heidi Braun is sending the new July-August issue of United News to the press. You can then view the UN online before print copies arrive through local mail within two weeks.

Summer youth camps are rolling out in the northern hemisphere and your prayers for their success and favorable weather are much appreciated. And remember, that now is the time to apply for Ambassador Bible College which will begin in just about six weeks.

Thank you for your prayers and ongoing support of our dedicated team of fellow workers—both here in Cincinnati and around the world.

With heartfelt gratitude and deep respect,

John Elliott, President