Home Office Weekly Update
September 7, 2023
From the President . . .
Greetings brethren around the world,
We are just a little over a week away from the autumn Holy Days, which, of course, begin with the Feast of Trumpets.
This time of year is filled with the hope and expectation of Christ’s return, but also with the realization of what the world will endure as a result of the paths they have chosen. As we approach the Feast of Trumpets, which pictures the time of God’s wrath upon this earth, capped by the triumphant return of Jesus Christ, who will bring an eternity of peace, harmony, joy and blessings to mankind, it is good to take the time to reflect on what God has given us spiritually and what it means to us.
When Christ returns, we learn in the latter chapters of Isaiah that He will teach the nations and prove to the nations that God is the only God and that there is none besides Him. He will teach them and prove to them that all the idols and gods of this world on which they relied were worthless, and that salvation comes only through Him.
The world will learn what we should already know. As we approach these upcoming Holy Days, be thankful to God, and check your heart to be sure you are committed to Him. Ensure that every day you are learning and taking the opportunities to more fully obey Him in word and deed, and to develop the faith, hope and trust in Him that we must have if we are to be with Him when He returns to earth.
That’s what He has called us to, and what He wants for us. Don’t forget, take for granted, or neglect the calling God has given.
Leadership Workshop
This past weekend, 25 men and 23 wives, mostly from the United States, but also a few from Canada and the United Kingdom, gathered at the home office for the annual Leadership Workshop. Using the three-day weekend afforded by a U.S. holiday on Monday, the group engaged in lectures and workshops based on the theme of “A Leader Is First a Disciple.”
It was a wonderful weekend in every way. The spirit and camaraderie were evident to everyone and reminded us of the joy that comes from working with one another under God’s leadership. It brought to mind Psalm 133:1: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” Let’s always strive to fulfill that goal of unity, as it is a picture of how life will be under Christ’s reign. We look forward to that day!
Have a wonderful rest of the week and Sabbath, everyone.
In Christ’s service,
Rick Shabi
National Webcasting Feast Sites
Sometimes during the Feast members can’t attend a live service due to a number of reasons. The Church provides daily live church service webcasting at two locations. One each for the eastern and western portions of the United States: Panama City Beach (Central Time Zone) and Spokane Valley (Pacific Time Zone).
To find the time for services, go feast.ucg.org and find Panama City Beach or Spokane Valley. You can find the times for church services two different ways.
- Click on the “Webcast" link under Panama City Beach or Spokane Valley (do not click on the webcast link above the Feast site name, which is for the Church services at Cincinnati).
- Click on the “Calendar” link.
Car Rentals at the Feast of Tabernacles
Have you already rented a car for the Feast of Tabernacles? It is recommended to check prices again. Car rental rates vary greatly and can change many times over a couple of months. Experience shows that checking the rates again can sometimes save significant money. There is not a cancellation fee unless you paid in full in advance (not advised). Also compare prices with the Avis Church discount. Enter the AWD (Avis Worldwide Discount) code—Z594487.
Winter Family Weekend Video Announcement
(Pastors—you may choose to play this video during Sabbath announcements)
It’s not too early to plan for Winter Family Weekend. Everything will be conveniently held at one location, under one roof!
Watch this special video preview and plan now to attend Winter Family Weekend: Winter Family Weekend Video Announcement.
Watch for further updates at wfw.ucg.org.
—Steve Myers, Ministerial and Member Services
Job Opportunities
The United Church of God is still seeking candidates for a Client Relationship Specialist. Details about all of the current job postings for the Church may be reviewed at ucg.org/members/news/current-job-openings.