Local Church News
Recent events held by Church family and news from members.
Translation of Study Aid into the Twi Language
UCG is excited to report the successful completion of a translation and printing of the study aid, Fundamental Beliefs of the United Church of God, into the Twi language!
Twi is a major dialect of the Akan language family spoken predominantly in Ghana’s southern and central regions where around 85 percent of the population speaks it either as a first or second language. With approximately eight million speakers, Twi is also spoken in parts of Côte d'Ivoire, as well as by smaller populations in Togo and Benin. An estimated 98 percent of UCG members in Ghana’s 10 congregations speak Twi as a primary or secondary language, with 85 percent being more proficient in Twi than English. This makes the study aid’s publication into their native tongue such a valuable tool.
Many thanks go to Stephen Kusi, a former ABC student and Ghana resident, for his tireless work over the past several months to make this goal a reality. The translation involved many hours of intensive research and attention to detail. It was truly a labor of love on Mr. Kusi’s part.
The study aid went to the local printers in Ghana at the end of May with 500 copies being produced. These will be distributed among the Ghana Church members first as Mr. Kusi accompanies the rollout with a multicongregation tour reinforcing our fundamental beliefs and guiding the members through their study of this study aid.
It is our hope that this translation of the Fundamental Beliefs will further solidify our Ghanian brethren in the foundational doctrines of the Bible which we hold so dear. This translation will also provide the Church in Ghana with another tool for “Preaching the Gospel and Preparing a People” for the return of Jesus Christ and the soon-coming Kingdom of God.
Paul Moody
Ambassador Bible College Welcomes Class of 2025
Cincinnati, Ohio—A new school year has begun for Ambassador Bible College. On Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025, alumni from previous classes welcomed the new class by hosting a welcome picnic at the home office. This year’s theme was “Outer Space: Not of this World,” featuring themed food, décor and activities. After the meal, the new students formed teams to take on an interactive activity, which allowed them the opportunity to learn their way around the home office.
On Monday, the faculty conducted an orientation to explain how the ABC program works. This included reviewing class schedules and various policies to help everything go smoothly. President John Elliott welcomed the students in an opening address.
Of the 16 students, 12 come from around the United States, two from Canada, one from Mexico and one from Trinidad. They are enthusiastic and eager to take on the challenges of a school year studying God’s Word.
Frank Dunkle
Johnnie and Hazel Lambert: 45 Years of Faithful Service
On Sabbath, June 21, 2025, Johnnie Lambert and his wife, Hazel, were honored in church services by the Buffalo, New York congregation for 45 years of faithful service to God as an elder in the United States and Europe. Victor and Beverly Kubik came to make the presentation for this event.
Johnnie and Hazel Lambert’s journey began in Atlanta, Georgia in 1963. Johnnie, born on Jan. 5, 1942 in Athens, Georgia, and Hazel, born on May 13, 1940 in McRae, Georgia, met during their early adult years and were married on March 20, 1965—a union that would blossom into a life defined by faith, family and tireless service to others.
In 1966, while attending Georgia Tech, Johnnie began listening to The World Tomorrow radio broadcast by Garner Ted Armstrong during his morning commute. Intrigued and moved by the message, he quietly requested the Bible Correspondence Course from the Church’s headquarters in Pasadena, California. However, Hazel discovered the materials when they arrived in the mail, and rather than confronting Johnnie, she began studying them herself. Unbeknownst to each other, both were being drawn toward the same spiritual path.
In early 1968, the Lamberts requested a ministerial visit from the Worldwide Church of God. By December of that year, Johnnie and Hazel were baptized in Atlanta, beginning their lifelong commitment to serving God and His people.
The couple attended their first Feast of Tabernacles in Jekyll Island in 1969, with their young family growing to include three children—Bryant, Lisa and Lori—all born in Atlanta.
In April 1973, the Lamberts moved to the Southern Tier of upstate New York after Johnnie accepted a job offer. Coincidentally, that same year, the area became the site of the first daily World Tomorrow television broadcast in the United States. With the closest church congregation in Rochester, they faithfully made a four-hour round trip to attend services for two years until, in March 1975, they helped found the Corning, New York congregation with minister Ozzie Engelbart.
Johnnie was ordained a deacon in 1976 and later a local elder on Pentecost in 1980, ordained by Britt Taylor and Jim Franks. Together, he and Hazel built a thriving self-employed business in commercial pipe insulation and other construction trades, which they operated for over three decades.
Alongside their business and church responsibilities, Johnnie and Hazel were deeply involved in Youth Opportunities United (YOU), where Johnnie devoted over 20 years to coaching basketball and track and field, mentoring countless young people.
In May 1995, following their conscience and conviction, Johnnie and Hazel resigned from the Worldwide Church of God and became part of the newly formed United Church of God. That same month, they opened their home to begin a new congregation, planting seeds that would grow into lasting spiritual fruit.
With a heart for international service, Johnnie expressed a desire to go wherever he was needed. In 1997, Victor Kubik and Ozzie Engelbart asked him to assist with the Feast of Tabernacles in Estonia. Johnnie responded, “Where is Estonia?” Despite the uncertainty, he said yes, then added, “I don’t know if Hazel will agree to go.” But Hazel did, and the two began a remarkable chapter of overseas service.
From 1997 to 2005, they traveled to Estonia for every Spring Holy Day and Feast of Tabernacles. They later purchased an apartment to serve as a church office and a hub for printing and distributing literature across Eastern Europe and Russia. For many years, they made four monthlong trips annually to manage this work—until the pandemic in 2020.
Johnnie was appointed Senior Pastor for Eastern Europe and Scandinavia and later became the Buffalo and Elmira, New York congregations’ pastor in 2010. Through it all, Hazel has stood faithfully by his side, her quiet strength and warm spirit deeply felt by all who know them.
The Lamberts’ legacy spans continents and generations. Their devotion to God, Church and family—including five grandsons now aged 14 to 20—continues to inspire and bear fruit. Through faith, service and steadfast love, Johnnie and Hazel Lambert have lived a life that reflects the very heart of Christian service.
Victor Kubik
A Heartfelt Farewell to Rex and Patty Sexton
On July 5, 2025, the United Church of God’s Portland congregation gathered to celebrate the remarkable 46 years of service by Rex and Patty Sexton. The event overflowed with warmth, laughter and gratitude as members from Salem, Albany, Seattle, Spokane and beyond came together to honor this dynamic duo. Their legacy of faith, love and dedication has touched countless lives, and this special occasion was a beautiful testament to their enduring impact.
Rex’s ministerial journey began in 1982, serving the Salem and Albany congregations under pastor David Mills. For over four decades, he faithfully pastored in Pasco, Spokane, Anchorage and the Tacoma-Olympia-Portland corridor. Beyond pastoring, Rex served 11 years as a teen camp director and a decade on the Council of Elders. As one speaker noted, quoting 2 Corinthians 3, the true mark of his service is the “epistle written in our hearts”—the people he nurtured and guided. His passion for teaching and mentoring new leaders has shaped many in the Portland congregation, leaving a lasting legacy.
Patty, Rex’s partner for nearly 50 years, is cherished for her warm, loving personality and big heart. A true “mom” to many, especially at Northwest Camp, her hospitality and care for children have created cherished memories.
The celebration featured touching tributes, including a video from a Council of Elders member and heartfelt messages from the youth. Children shared stories of Rex’s rodeos, ziplines and fishing trips, while praising Patty’s kindness and “chicken hypnosis.” The couple’s three children—Ryan, Holly and Bridget—and their 11 grandchildren were also honored. The congregation acknowledged the family’s sacrifices, noting in a tribute, “Your unselfishness has not gone unnoticed,” praising their grace in sharing their parents with the Church.
As Rex steps into retirement, the couple eagerly anticipates new adventures—spending time with family, traveling and perhaps building more treehouses for their grandchildren. Patty, however, remains dedicated to her work, with no plans to retire yet, as she loves serving others. The congregation presented them with a plaque, a gift card and a weekend getaway to the coast, ensuring they can relax and celebrate their 49 years together. A humorous “business card” for Rex, proclaiming “no address, no phone, no business, no email, no money,” brought laughter to all.
The event concluded with a symbolic passing of the torch to the new pastor and his wife, Carl and Kathy Kinsella, who received a pair of “shiny boots” to carry on the work Rex and Patty so faithfully performed. As we bid farewell to their full-time ministry, we know their legacy will endure through the countless lives they’ve touched. With heartfelt gratitude, we wish Rex and Patty joy, rest and many more adventures in this new chapter, confident their love and faith will continue to shine brightly.
Carl Kinsella
Canadian Ministerial Conference
Elders and their wives from across Canada came to Toronto for the biannual Canadian Ministerial Conference. There were 44 in attendance from June 21-22, 2025. The conference began Saturday evening with presentations from Gary Antion and John Elliott. Mr. Antion’s topic was “Preaching Lessons from the Apostles.” He used examples of Paul, Peter and Christ to help convey the privilege and actions needed to shepherd the flock.
John Elliott’s topic was “Our Common Denominator.” Mr. Elliott reminded the group: “Our mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of God in all the world, make disciples in all nations and care for those disciples.” He stressed the importance of collaboration (sharing resources, training, conferences and the Feast). He also stressed the importance of mentoring and teaching others.
Sunday presentations included “The Seven-Fold Work of the Ministry” presented by Anthony Wasilkoff. His points included: being an example; daily prayer, Bible study and fasting; preaching and teaching; visiting the brethren; providing counsel; conducting ceremonies; and overseeing and administering the local church.
This was followed by Rainer Salomaa’s presentation “Essential Principles of Leadership.” Mr. Salomaa emphasized godly leadership as servant leadership. He reminded all that the most important example and role model is Jesus Christ.
Gary Antion then covered the topic of “How to Handle a Crisis.” Mr. Antion discussed key points on how to bring a person through difficult times. In conclusion he reminded the group that Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit brings ultimate comfort. He also reminded everyone that there are times when a crisis requires trained professionals and then it is appropriate for a referral.
Each ministerial conference includes a review of some key policies. Michael Erickson ably walked the group through some key policies, hitting the high points. Mr. Erickson encouraged all elders to review all of the Church policies and procedures on a regular basis.
“The Evangelical Conundrum” was the topic covered by Paul Wasilkoff. He pointed out some of the complex challenges and tensions faced by the evangelical community in the modern era. This includes navigating faith and doctrinal purity while engaging with culture and popularity.
Mr. Wasilkoff encouraged the group to not despise the small things (small church), but to value quality, stand fast and hold the traditions. We may be tempted by the fact that big churches are/appear successful and feel compelled to emulate their practices, but Scripture supports reasons to resist these notions.
The last presentation was “The Future of the Church” by John Elliott. He asserted that future details are only known by God, but He gives us clues and glimpses into the future. A vibrant church is where we grow, live God’s blessings and be a light to the world. Mr. Elliott said that our members are always an integral part to bringing people to the Church and our congregations need to reflect a great place to be. We need to pray for God to open and soften hearts towards Him and the truth.
The ministerial conference provides an important opportunity for elders and their wives to strengthen existing bonds, develop new relationships and promote unity within the ministry of the Church. Everyone left with a sense of rejuvenation, uplifted and encouraged to continue the work of Jesus Christ.
Almeda Lucas
Why a Men’s Weekend? Strengthening Spiritual Leadership in God’s Church
While women’s enrichment weekends have become a meaningful and anticipated part of Church life, the Northwest Men’s Weekend stands as a rare and valuable counterpart—perhaps the only event of its kind in the United Church of God.
Some men might assume they don’t need such a weekend. They may think, “I’m okay—I got this,” imagining that a men’s event must be a Church version of a group therapy session or emotional “cry fest.” I wouldn’t be surprised if a few even picture a hand-holding sing-along of “Kumbaya,” or worse—line dancing. But nothing could be further from the truth.
Held annually in Seabeck, Washington, the Northwest Men’s Weekend is designed with one core goal in mind: to help men grow into their God-ordained roles as husbands, fathers and spiritual leaders. Now in its 10th year, the 2025 theme was “Being a Spiritual Leader,” taken from Titus 2:1-2. The weekend, held June 20-22, featured a series of meaningful presentations that explored the theme with biblical depth and practical relevance. But it wasn’t just the speakers or the messages that made an impact—it was the contributions from the attendees as well.
Each session begins with a focused topic, but what follows is not a lecture. Instead, presenters lead interactive discussions that invite attendees to engage, ask questions and share personal experiences. This format brings the subject matter to life—not just explaining what God’s Word says, but encouraging men to wrestle with how to apply it with integrity and honor in their daily lives.
Participants are encouraged to share—not as confessionals, but as brothers supporting one another’s growth. These real-world insights add nuance and spiritual depth to each topic, whether it’s leadership in the home, decision-making under pressure or confronting challenges with courage and humility.
What further sets the weekend apart is the Friday and Saturday evening “wine and cheese” socials. Men bring their favorite beverages, cheeses, meats and desserts to share, creating a relaxed setting for deeper conversation, laughter and fellowship. These informal gatherings foster lasting friendships and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood that God is building within His Church.
Though hosted by the Tacoma and Olympia congregations, the Northwest Men’s Weekend has consistently drawn attendees from across the country—including this year from Colorado, California and Texas. Men come not only to learn and grow, but often to bring the concept home. Several participants have expressed a desire to replicate similar events in their own areas. But for such events to thrive, they require support and buy-in from local men who are willing to step forward and make spiritual development a shared priority.
Men leave the weekend challenged, encouraged and sharpened—better equipped to fulfill their responsibilities in their families, congregations and communities. It’s a time to reflect on how we lead, where we can grow and how we can support one another—as iron sharpens iron.
The next Northwest Men’s Weekend is scheduled for June 12-14, 2026, once again in beautiful Seabeck, Washington. Men are encouraged to mark their calendars and plan ahead. Space is limited, and early registration is recommended. Watch for announcements in the UCG Home Office Weekly Update and a future edition of United News.
If you’ve never considered attending an event like this, give the Northwest Men’s Weekend—or a similar event in your area—a try. God has ordained us to be spiritual leaders, and we can all use support in fulfilling that role. A weekend like this isn’t just a retreat—it’s a tool to help us grow into our God-given responsibilities.
Ken Loucks
Windsor’s Special Sabbath
A few years ago, the Windsor, Ontario congregation, under our former pastor Patrick Read, asked Brian McGuire of the Ann Arbor, Michigan congregation if he would be able to minister to our brethren from time to time.
Even though he had a busy life scheduled with a lovely wife and four children to nurture, a vitally important job to maintain and a busy ministry in the United Church of God as a speaking elder, he agreed to assist every fifth Sabbath of the month. He and his wife were faithful to their commitment, bringing their young family with them, who set an example to all as each followed in the Scriptures with notetaking.
It wasn’t long before the two oldest boys, Andrew and then Aidan, began to assist by leading hymns and giving prayers.
As the four children grew into adulthood, they became involved in their own church activities, so we saw less of them, and eventually Brian and Laurie came to Windsor by themselves. In all the many years, they missed only two Sabbaths: one because of illness and the other because of wintry weather conditions when all Ontario churches were advised to connect with Zoom at home.
Time arrived when the children left home for higher education. Audrey attended ABC, and after university Andrew married his beautiful wife, Tarra. Because we kept asking about the children, Brian promised to get the entire family together under his roof one convenient weekend, and that all would visit Windsor. The excitement of the promise turned into joy on the Sabbath of May 31, 2025, the day before Pentecost. The lovely McGuire children are now young adults. We stood in admiration as we witnessed the awesome transformation into young servants of God. Aidan led the song service, Caleb led in prayer and Andrew inspired us with the sermonette. Brian instructed us with a powerful, timely sermon.
Thank you, Brian and Laurie, for sharing your love to our 11 brethren in the Windsor Church of God. Your steadfast love to God has been a beacon of light to your Canadian family.
Marilyn Anderson
On Aug. 3, 2025, about 20 members from the Metro East and St. Louis congregations met at the Salt Lick Trail in Valmeyer, Illinois for a beautiful 3-mile hike.
Some hills were steep, and others not so much, but we all made it. The trail had a bunch of overlooks with pretty views, and it also had really nice wildflowers (my favorite part!).
Even little baby Gemma came! Her mother was carrying her in a sling the entire 3-mile hike. I can say that I recommend this trail a lot!
We were in the middle of a heat wave (110 degrees Fahrenheit!), but on the day of the hike, we were blessed with beautiful weather.
The end of the trail was a cliff with no railing, but it had the most breathtaking view. We could see for miles!
We heard a tree fall, but it was far away, and everyone got home safely. We had a wonderful time, and a great hike.
Evelyn Rose French, age 9
An Afternoon in the Garden
In June, over 48 women from the Cincinnati North and East, Ohio congregations came together for a warm and memorable afternoon at our ladies’ social, hosted at the home office.
The setting was beautiful—garden-themed décor, classical music, soft lights and floral touches created an inviting atmosphere. Guests enjoyed delicious, dainty snacks while catching up with friends and meeting new faces.
The afternoon featured two roundtable discussion sessions filled with laughter, reflection and sincere connection. Questions ranged from fun (“What kind of potato would you be?”) to thoughtful (“How can you use your gifts to serve the brethren?”). Attendees also completed a short survey, sharing their ideas for future women’s events and service opportunities.
A highlight of the day was hearing from Barb Welch, our pastor’s wife, who shared a heartfelt vision for our women’s gatherings. “As women, we are the heart of the home—and the Church is our family. We can be the heart of that family too,” she said. Her encouragement inspired everyone to build deeper relationships across generations and support one another in service.
Many commented that the day felt like a true blessing—uplifting, energizing and full of purpose. With such a broad range of ages represented, it was a meaningful reminder of the strength and beauty in coming together.
Plans are already underway for more events this fall and in early 2026. We look forward to sharing more meaningful time together in the months ahead.
A heartfelt thank-you goes to the planning committee and volunteers who helped make the day so special. Your time and care are deeply appreciated. What a delightful day it was!
Tanya Winger
Boise Congregation’s Special Tradition
For more than four decades, the Boise, Idaho congregation has celebrated its high school graduates with a heartfelt and meaningful tradition: the gift of a Bible. Each spring, the congregation recognizes graduating seniors and presents them with personalized Bibles as a symbol of encouragement, faith and continued spiritual growth.
This year’s recipients, Caleb Jorgensen and Samuel Jorgensen, were honored at the end of May.
The tradition began over 40 years ago as a way to honor young members of the congregation and provide them with a lasting source of inspiration as they move on to college,
careers or other new chapters in life. Church leaders see the Bible not just as a gift, but as a guide—offering wisdom, comfort and strength for whatever lies ahead.
The congregation has given away an innumerable number of Bibles over the years. The oldest recipient was a woman who earned her GED at the age of 73.
As the tradition continues, the congregation hopes these Bibles not only mark a milestone but also strengthen each student’s relationship with God, reminding them that they are never alone as they move forward in life.
I am pleased to report the profitable trip my wife Caty and I made to visit the brethren in Colombia, Peru and Bolivia.
On July 10, we arrived in Bogotá, Colombia, and we met with several members at the hotel the following day. On Saturday, after having lunch together, we gathered for Sabbath afternoon services with 45 brethren. Jaime Salek, the pastor in Colombia, delivered an interesting sermonette on aspects of the Christian life. I delivered a sermon on the life and lessons of Ahithophel, King David’s advisor, who ultimately betrayed him. After a snack, we had a Bible study on the meaning of the statement, “the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy” in Revelation 19:10. On Sunday, we met for a leadership workshop titled “24 Principles of Biblical Leadership,” followed by questions and answers. We were able to eat together several times during our stay, benefiting not only from biblical instruction but also from fine Christian fellowship.
Then, Caty and I departed for Lima, Peru, on Monday, July 14. On Tuesday, we met with 22 members of the congregation for lunch and then had a Bible study in an elegant church hall. On Wednesday, we departed with Luis Mora, the coordinator in Peru, and his wife Nora to see the new youth camp a 30-minute drive from Lima. It’s a beautiful setting, next to a river, with several sport fields, a meeting hall and a large swimming pool. This camp took place in early August. Then, half an hour away, we visited the new site of the Feast in Peru, Las Gambusinas Recreation Center. It’s a large recreational resort with beautiful facilities and housing. It has several swimming pools, playgrounds, parks and even domesticated llamas roaming the grounds. We have an excellent meeting hall, and some 42 people are planning to visit this beautiful Feast site from Peru, Bolivia, Chile and the United States.
On Thursday, July 17, we traveled to La Paz, Bolivia. We stayed with the group of 12 until Monday, July 21, with three of them coming from the city of Cochabamba. We had numerous meetings with them. On Saturday, we met in the hall of the hotel where we were staying. After a snack, we held services and then had a Bible study about Noah’s Ark. On Sunday, we took a ride on the five different cable car skyways that crisscross the city of La Paz. Built by an Austrian company, they are a true technological marvel.
In short, it was a very fruitful trip, allowing us to meet, fellowship and instruct some 80 brethren in South America.
Mario Seiglie
South Africans Visit Northwest Camp
We recently concluded the Northwest Camp United Youth Camp program, and the Northwest Preteen Camp Ochoco programs, in which Viv Botha, Nigel and Charlene Schuller, and their children Ryan and Sarah participated.
The crew arrived on July 9-10 and were able to acclimate a bit before we had the Sabbath. We visited the Eugene congregation, in which Mr. Botha spoke—which was well received by the brethren in the area, and they appreciated having the chance to get to know and visit with the South Africans. After services, we spent a little time visiting some old areas where Mr. Armstrong did the work in Eugene, going by the area of KORE from which the radio program had been broadcast, and then the area near the Fisher Farm where he walked to get to Fir Butte, Alvadore and Jeans Schools. After that, we dropped by the Salem congregation and visited with the members there, some of which Viv and the Schullers knew from prior trips to South Africa.
That following Sunday, they departed with my wife and children for Preteen Camp Ochoco, where they spent the next three days immersed in and observing our preteen camp program here in the NW in action. My son Aiden was returning from Southwest Camp the evening of the 13th, so I remained back to get him, and finish last minute camp prep before Northwest Camp began on the 19th. The South Africans reported that their time at preteen camp was valuable; they got to observe much and consider the possibility of implementing a preteen program in their area.
At Northwest Camp, our guests did not have specific assignments so they would be free to observe all aspects of the program. They participated in staff training on the Sabbath and on Sunday; then they sat in on counselor training on the Sunday before campers arrived. They expressed a desire to use the same training materials for their upcoming program.
Once campers were in place—they embedded with specific dorms throughout the day, essentially experiencing camp from the camper perspective to get a feel for what the UYC program looks like.
They described a significant value in the process—as it gave them a chance to circle back with one another and describe what they saw, talk about their camp program, and how it could be implemented. One positive from all of this was a description of the mindset that they saw while present—that the Christian living is wound throughout the day, that there is a focus on helping kids with this information—it’s not just scriptural instruction—it weaves its way through the camp in every way, and comments were made that it is transformative—not just for campers, but for staff as well. It's hard to go and experience these things, and then come away from camp without in their lives. This is something that they specifically identified as wanting to bring into their camp, and work toward building that culture.
From our discussions with Viv, and with Nigel and Charlene—we believe that this final component in the training process of the UYC Camp in South Africa was valuable. It enabled our guests to evaluate their program and compare it with another UYC model in action. This experience will prove helpful as the South African program continues to develop teens, leaders and servants of God in the future.
Ben Light
