Overseer's Insight: July 2013

Dear Saints,

The first weekend of June finalized Men’s Retreat.  As stated last month, the men had a blessed time.  It can certainly be said that our first Men’s Retreat at our new Campground was a total success.  The power of God was so evident throughout the whole Retreat.  I am confident that the men are already planning for next year!

The following weekend after Men’s Retreat was Camp Focus and Camp Clean-up, in preparation for Summer Camps.  Thank all that came out and helped in getting our Campground ready.  Two weeks later, we had our Camp Open House.  A number of people showed up to see the many improvements that have been made at the Campground since last year.  People are simply amazed at what has been accomplished in one year’s time.  Again, several people stayed a night or two and helped in preparation for Summer Youth Camp.  All of the work that is done is so appreciated.  If you know of any groups that would be interested in using our facility, please contact Brother and Sister Gaines at (509) 658-1013   donellag@hotmail.com   Our goal is to have the Campground open year round.

TWO GREAT UPCOMING EVENTS:   YOUTH CAMP AND STATE CONVENTION
(MAKE PLANS FOR BOTH!!!)

CAMPS – CAMPS – CAMPS!!!
Summer Youth Camp is just around the corner.  From July 7^th to July 21^st, we will be hosting Senior Camp, PeeWee Camp, Junior Camp, and Yak Camp.  We are excited that all of our Camps will be at our new Campground!

I cannot stress enough the importance of making sure that all of our Youth can go to Camp.  This will take some planning and sacrifice on our part, but it will certainly be worth it.  Our goal is for our young people to truly say, “That I might know Him…”  Yes, our prayer is that Camp will be a place where all will Encounter God, Experience God and Exalt God!

Please join us in prayer that our Summer Youth Camps will be a place where our Youth will experience a mighty outpouring of His Spirit.  Please make sure that the youth in your church and those in your family have a way to attend Summer Youth Camp.  Camp can also be a way to reach those youth that do not attend Church.  I cannot think of a greater investment for the Youth of our generation!

WASHINGTON STATE CONVENTION  (August 23-25, 2013)
Now is the time to begin planning for State Convention. As in the past, Convention will be held at the Red Lion in Kennewick, Columbia Center. It will be on August 23-25, 2013. We are pleased to announce that Sister Kathy Creasy, International Children’s Ministries Director, will be our special guest speaker from the International Offices! You will definitely be blessed by her ministry.  Sister Creasy will be having a special session for Children’s Workers, so please make sure that all Children’s and Youth workers attend.  I feel that this is going to be a Blessed Convention!  So, Please make plans now to Attend!

I would encourage you to call the Red Lion and make reservations as soon as possible, to be assured of a room. The Red Lion has extended a special rate to us, $86.95/night.  When you call the Red Lion (509-783-0611), please tell them that you are with the Church of God of Prophecy to get the special group rate.  

You can also make on-line Reservations through the internet at the Red Lion website  www.RedLion.com  

Please keep in mind that the special group rate cut off date is July 23, 2013.

Looking forward to seeing you there!!

Events Calendar for 2013
July 7-12                      Senior Camp - Camp Roganunda (Shelly Symonds, Director)
July 12-14                    PeeWee Camp - Camp Roganunda (Ramon & Icela Maldonado, Directors)
July 14-19                    Junior Camp - Camp Roganunda (Robert & Pam Murkerson, Directors)
July 19-21                    Yak Camp - Camp Roganunda (Bill & Cindy Davison, Directors)

August 23-25               Washington State Convention - Kennewick (Red Lion Hotel)
                                     Special Speaker:  Sister Kathy Creasy

Sept. 12-15                  Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary – Boise, ID (Church Administration)
Sept. 13-15                  Alaska State Convention – Anchorage
Sept. 20-22                  Family Camp – Camp Roganunda (Bill & Cindy Davison, Directors)

Oct. 24-27                   Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary – Kirkland (Educational Ministry of the Church)

"Designed For God's Greatness"
Bishop/Dr. Don Knoblich

 

CAMP ROGANUNDA LOGO CONTEST!

There is a great deal of excitement about having our own Campground. The Camp Board feels like now is the time to have our own Camp Logo. For that reason, we are introducing a Contest for you to enter to design our Camp Logo. Please feel free to be as creative as you would like in designing the Logo. Remember, the Name: "Camp Roganunda" should appear somewhere on the Logo. We are excited about what inspiration that the Lord will give you in designing the Camp Logo. ( Please note this is NOT for Camp Kairos. It is Camp Roganunda, Inc.)

With His Blessings,

Camp Roganunda, Inc. Board of Directors
CONTEST RULES: Logo must be an original design. Submissions can be made by original artwork (no larger than 8 ½ X 11 please),
a JPEG or a PDF
Artwork will be previewed and judged by the Board of Directors for Camp Roganunda, Inc.
Artwork will be anonymous to Board Members until after the judging takes place. (Artists will remain confidential until winner has been announced to Board Members.)
The winning artist of the contest will be announced at State Convention during the Camp Kairos boost on the Convention Program.
The winning artist will receive one (1) year free tuition to Camp Roganunda activities. (ie. Family Camp (1 person only), Teen Retreat, Men’s Retreat, Yak Retreat, and Summer Camp)
Contest is open to all ages. ( If contest winner is above the age for youth camps and youth retreats, the tuition can be transferred to a youth camp age person.)
 ALL SUBMISSIONS ARE TO BE SENT TO: Sherry Johnson 19650 4th Avenue SW
Normandy Park, WA 98166
OR
sherryj@johnlscott.com
Submissions are to be received no later than July 22, 2013, the closing date of the contest.
(If you send via snail mail, please make sure it is postmarked by that day to be eligible)
 Sherry Johnson Get started today! Time is ticking !

Overseer's Insight: June 2013

Dear Saints,

May was a busy, but productive month.  At Kirkland Family Church we had our Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary class, “World Mission of the Church” with 28 students in attendance.  Some of these students were from Canada and some from Jamaica.  Our next Kirkland class will be held October 24-27, 2013 on the “Educational Ministry of the Church.”  These are wonderful classes that will be a blessing in enhancing your ministry.  If you are interested in enrolling for this Master’s Degree Program, please contact Bishop Knoblich at dknoblich@aol.com.

Also in May we had our Senior Retreat at the Salmon Falls Campground out of Washougal.  The Theme for Retreat was “In His Image.”  The Seniors love to get together for worship, fellowship, and growth in the Lord.  Sister Knoblich and myself were blessed to be at Senior Retreat on Saturday.  Old-time songs were sung while the Seniors worshipped the Lord.  Special speakers were Bishops’ Cabales and Murkerson.  Brother Cabales did a great job of directing the Retreat.

The last weekend of the month Men’s Retreat was held at our own Camp Roganunda with 85 in attendance.  The men just loved being at our new Campground!  The Retreat Theme was “By Who’s Authority!”  From start to finish of Retreat, the power of the Lord could be felt in a mighty way.  Two messages were preached by Bishop Sam Clements, North American General Presbyter.  He challenged the men to keep dreaming, even when things do not go in life as they had planned.  Bishop Knoblich spoke on the Authority of Jesus Christ as He began His Public Ministry as seen in the Gospel of Luke, chapter four.  Jesus gave us that same authority to go forth in His Name!  There were 2 saved, 2 sanctified, and 2 filled with the Spirit at Retreat.  There were also numerous healing and deliverances.  Brother Smith and his staff are to be commended for an outstanding Retreat!

Camp Roganunda
As of this writing, Camp Focus and Clean-Up are being held at the Campground, June 7-9^th.  All are encouraged to help prepare our Campground for our Summer Youth Camps.  Much work has taken place, but there is still more to do.  On June 22^nd there will be an Open House at the Campground.  Please feel free to bring your friends and family and see all the improvements that have been made at the Campground.  Also, if you know of any groups that would be interested in using our facility, please contact Brother and Sister Gaines at (509) 658-1013   donellag@hotmail.com     Our goal is to have the Campground open year round.

Youth Camp
Summer Youth Camp is just around the corner.  From July 7^th to July 21^st, we will be hosting Senior Camp, PeeWee Camp, Junior Camp, and Yak Camp.  Again, all of our camps will be at our new Campground.  Please pray for our Summer Youth Camps, that there will be a mighty outpouring of His Spirit among our Youth.  What a wonderful ministry where our Youth can meet for several days in a worshipful environment; one where they can experience growth in the Lord!  Please make sure that the youth in your church and those in your family have a way to attend Summer Youth Camp.  Camp can also be a way to reach those youth that do not attend Church.  I cannot think of a greater investment for the Youth of our generation!

Washington State Convention  (August 23-25, 2013)
It is not too early to begin planning for State Convention. This year, Convention will be held at the Red Lion in Kennewick, Columbia Center. It will be on August 23-25, 2013. We are pleased to announce that Sister Kathy Creasy, International Children’s Ministries Director, will be our special guest speaker from the International Offices! You will definitely be blessed by her ministry.  Please make plans now to attend a glorious and spirit-packed Convention!

I would encourage you to call the Red Lion and make reservations as soon as possible, to be assured of a room. The Red Lion has extended a special rate to us, $86.95/night.  When you call the Red Lion (509-783-0611), please tell them that you are with the Church of God of Prophecy to get the special group rate.  

You can also make on-line Reservations through the internet at the Red Lion website  www.RedLion.com  

Please keep in mind that the special group rate cut off date is July 23, 2013.

Looking forward to seeing you there!!

Events Calendar for 2013
June 7-8                       Camp Focus and Clean-Up – Camp Roganunda (Bob & Donella Gaines, Coordinators)
July 7-12                      Senior Camp - Camp Roganunda (Shelly Symonds, Director)
July 12-14                    PeeWee Camp - Camp Roganunda (Ramon & Icela Maldonado, Directors)
July 14-19                    Junior Camp - Camp Roganunda (Robert & Pam Murkerson, Directors)
July 19-21                    Yak Camp - Camp Roganunda (Bill & Cindy Davison, Directors)
August 23-25               Washington State Convention - Kennewick (Red Lion Hotel)
                                      Special Speaker:  Sister Kathy Creasy
Sept. 12-15                  Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary – Boise, ID (Church Administration)
Sept. 13-15                  Alaska State Convention – Anchorage
Sept. 20-22                  Family Camp – Camp Roganunda (Bill & Cindy Davison, Directors)
Oct. 24-27                   Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary – Kirkland (Educational Ministry of the Church)
"Designed For God's Greatness"
Bishop/Dr. Don Knoblich
In May’s Lamplighter, I presented a section from my 2012 Annual Address, “Designed For God’s Greatness,” regarding how He “Designed Us to Live a Holy Life.”  For June, for this last installment, I will present a section on how God “Designed Us To Be Good Stewards.”
V. God Designed Us To Be Good Stewards
It goes without saying, that many places are facing difficult economic times.  Let me say this, that our Father owns the Cattle on a thousand hills.  (He owns the hills and He owns the Cattle.)  This means that He is Our God, who is Supplier of all!
1.  God, knows no such thing as a Recession! 
This is not the time to back away from tithing, from giving, from stewardship, this is the time (Right Now) as Malachi tells us to “Prove” God!
Listen to what he says:  (International Standard Version)
Mal 3:10  "Bring the entire tithe into the storehouse that there may be food in my house. So, put me to the test in this right now," says the LORD of the Heavenly Armies, "and see if I won't throw open the windows of heaven for you and pour out on you blessing without measure.
Mal 3:11  And I'll prevent the devourer from harming you, so that he does not destroy the crops of your land. Nor will the vines in your fields drop their fruit," says the LORD of the Heavenly Armies.
Mal 3:12  "Then all the nations will call you blessed, for you will be a land of delight," says the LORD of the Heavenly Armies.
2.  God wants us to put Him to the Test!  He says do it Right Now!  He wants us to bring the Entire Tithe into the Storehouse.  Did you know the percentage that you tithe with God is not negotiable?  It is not 3% ,6%, 9%.  It is a Tithe (10%).   When we pay our tithe and give offerings, Look at all that God will Do: 
The Blessings Of Tithing:
-He will throw open the windows of heaven and pour out on you blessing without measure.  (Action Verbs)
-He will prevent the devourers from harming you.  Your hands will be blessed in your work!
-Your friends and neighbors will call you “Blessed.”  They see that you are a Land of Delight!
3.  Yes, You were Designed by God to Give!  You were Designed by God to be a Good Steward.  You were not Designed by God to be a Miser and a Hoarder!  Our instincts tell us to hold back, to protect, to retreat, to withdraw.  But, that is not what the people of God do, when things are falling apart.
We don’t turn away from God, we Turn to Him.  We understand that everything we have comes from God and it can be gone in a flash.  So when other people are holding back, you are not going to hold back your tithes and you are not going to hold back your offerings.  You were Designed by God to Worship Him with your Finance!
Blessings,
Bishop/Dr. Don Knoblich

 

 

Help Roganunda at Creation Fest

We will be hosting a booth at Creation Fest this year for Camp Roganunda! We are looking for individuals who would like to help staff the booth for the three days (Aug 7-10, 2013) who are passionate and excited about Camp Ministries. Registration fees will be included so you will get access to the festival when not at the booth. We will be raffling a weekend to Camp Roganunda as a means of attracting Youth leaders/Ministers to our booth! We need volunteers who can scream and shout to get people into the booth to register their church. Please call or email me if you are interested and able to help out. Thanks and God Bless!!
--
Joe A. Gonzalez
CEO
True Connections Inc.
(360) 601-7390
TCIJOE@GMAIL.COM

Senior Adult Retreat Report

Thirty four seniors gathered for their yearly retreat over the Memorial Day weekend. This retreat is sponsored by the New Horizons Church and brother James Cabales does an outstanding job of directing and overseeing it each year. Our theme this year was In His Image. Friday night's service began with a great time of special music and we have several folks who do an outstanding job singing, playing their instruments. Tamara Ells directs the cooking and oversees all her helpers and servers from New Horizons. Thank you for such scrumptious meals. Bishop Robert Murkerson was our guest speaker who encouraged all seniors to keep on serving Jesus. Our state music director, Pamela Murkerson led us in worship each night. What a blessing. Saturday morning Ruth Turner presented a wonderful devotion entitled "hands". This was a wonderful time of fellowship and we are looking forward to attending the next Senior Retreat. 

Overseer's Insight: May 2013

Dear Saints

April was a busy month, albeit, a blessed one.  We started the first weekend off with Washington State Ladies Retreat in Vancouver, WA.  The Theme was “Looking Back.”  The ladies were taught that sometimes it is okay to look back to see where we have come from, however, our focus should be on Looking Ahead.  Norma Johnson and Terry Cook were the special speakers for the event and did a terrific job ministering to the women.  Bishop Knoblich spoke on Sunday morning, using the topic, “Symptomology of Half-Hearted Followers.”  These type of people are characterized by having lots of zeal, but you cannot count on them to follow through.  “Divided Loyalties” and those that “Look Back” are the other characteristics of Half-Hearted Followers.  Sister Sherry Johnson and her staff are to be commended for a job well done.  From the reports I heard, there was some needed healing that took place as well as wonderful fellowship.

Youth Convention
During the weekend of April 19-20, Youth Convention was held at Kirkland Family Church.  Many of the youth came from all around the State.  Sister Syvia Staten spoke during the Friday evening general session.  Sister Staten has a unique way of grapping the attention of all that are present from young to old(er).  She definitely ministered to the people.  Sister Shelly Symonds, State Youth Ministries Coordinator, had special events and classes planned for the youth on Saturday.    Thank you, Sister Shelly, for a great day of training and fun for the youth.  I know they were truly blessed by the Word, by the Worship, and by the Fellowship.  (Please see Youth Convention Highlights in the Lampligther.)

Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary
On May 16-19, 2013 at Kirkland Family Church, we will be offering the course, “World Mission of the Church” as taught by Dr. Nolivos.  For those that are mission-minded, (and we all should have a mind for reaching those around us), this class will be instructional and inspirational.  If you would like to register, please notify Bishop Knoblich at dknoblich@aol.com

Men’s Retreat
Men’s Retreat is slated for May 31^st- June 2^nd.   The Retreat will be held at our new facility, Camp Roganunda.  Lots of work and preparation have been done over the last several months in upgrading our Campground.  We are very excited this year, to have as our Special Guest Speaker, Bishop Sam Clements.  Bishop Clements is the North American General Presbyter for the Church of God of Prophecy.  He is an anointed minister and will be a blessing to our men.  We will also have a special session with our pastors and ministers to meet with Bishop Clements to discuss vital issues on the day.  All pastors and ministers should make plans to attend Men’s Retreat.   The serene atmosphere of the Campground is a place where the presence of God can be felt and experienced by all.  The cost is only $70.00 per person.  For more information please contact Men’s Retreat Director, Bishop Frank Smith at 360-834-9368 or at Frankgsmith@aol.com

Senior Retreat
During the weekend of May 24-26, Senior Retreat will be held at the Salmon Creek Campground just out of Washougal.  Senior Retreat is a time where our precious saints gather together for a great weekend of inspiration and fellowship.  Special Guest Speaker for the Retreat will be Bishop Rick Bear.  During this weekend, the youth from New Horizons help with the meals and are there to make sure the Seniors that attend have a great time.  Please contact Retreat Director Bishop James Cabales at 360-521-7581 or Jcabales@Hughes.net for more information.

Washington State Convention
It is not too early to begin planning for State Convention. This year, Convention will be held at the Red Lion in Kennewick, Columbia Center. It will be on August 23-25, 2013. We are pleased to announce that Sister Kathy Creasy, International Children’s Ministries Director, will be our special guest speaker from the International Offices! You will definitely be blessed by her ministry.  Please make plans now to attend a glorious and spirit-packed Convention. I would encourage you to call the Red Lion and make reservations as soon as possible, to be assured of a room. The Red Lion has extended a special rate to us, $86.95/night.  When you call the Red Lion (509-783-0611), please tell them that you are with the Church of God of Prophecy to get the special group rate. Looking forward to seeing you there!!

Events Calendar for 2013
May 16-19       Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary - Kirkland Family Church (World Mission of the Church - Dr. Nolivos)
May 24-26       Senior Retreat - Salmon Falls Campground (James Cabales, Director)
                         Speaker:  Bishop Rick Bear
May 31-June 2 Men's Retreat - Camp Roganunda (Franklin Smith, Director) 
                         Special Speaker:  Bishop Sam Clements
June 7-8           Camp Focus and Clean-Up – Camp Roganunda
July 7-21         Washington State Youth Camps (Camp Roganunda)
August 23-25  Washington State Convention - Kennewick (Red Lion Hotel)
                        Special Speaker:  Sister Kathy Creasy

"Designed For God's Greatness"

Bishop/Dr. Don Knoblich

In March’s Lamplighter, I presented a section from my 2012 Annual Address, “Designed For God’s Greatness,” regarding how He “Designed Us to have Communion with Him.”  For this month, I will present a section on how God “Designed Us to Live a Holy Life.” 

IV. God Designed Us To Live a Holy Life
A.  Because God is Holy, He wants His children to be holy.  In fact the Apostle Peter writes, “Be ye holy even as your Father in Heaven is holy.” An integral part of God is His Holiness.  Before we can approach Him in His Holiness, we too must be holy. 

David recognized this dilemma in one of his Psalms.  He asks the question:

“Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord or Who shall stand in His holy Place?  The Answer:  “He that hath clean hands and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.” (Psalm 24: 3,4).

B.  I don’t believe we preach enough about Sanctification.  Sanctification is not necessarily holiness, however, Sanctification is the Door that allows us to live a holy life.  Sanctification is an experience by the Blood of Jesus Christ.  Then once sanctified, we need to stay in the Sanctified stream, in a continuous sanctified state.  This allows us to live a life of holiness.

1.  Sanctification is an experience that occurs inside the heart.  You do not become holy by taking a bubble bath or painting yourself white.  You do not become holy by going to church or hanging out with Christian friends.  You become holy by abiding in the One that makes you holy!

2.  The Pharisees thought that they were holy.  Jesus told them that they were “whited” sepulchures.  They were white, nice and pretty on the outside, but on the inside they were full of dead men’s bones.  When Jesus makes you clean on the inside, it will show up on the outside!

- Many years ago while at Universal studios, I was struck by the set for a Western Movie shoot.  There were very nice buildings, painted nicely, looking good.  They looked good when you were facing them. But all they were was for show!  There was nothing behind them except 2 X 4’s holding them up, propping them up!  They call these facades.  I wonder how many so-called Christians are just Facades?!  They are like “tinsel town” with all the glamour on the outside, but nothing on the inside!

C.  Decoy Christians
1.  You have all seen these decoy ducks.  They look real on the outside, but they’re as dead as dead can be!

The job of the Decoy is to attract other ducks.  The job of some Decoy Christians is to attract others to them.  They float around in Church, they look nice, but there is just something wrong with them.  They are full of guile and deceit. 

2.  Jesus had one of the highest praises for Nathanael before choosing him to follow Him as His disciple.  Listen to what Jesus said of Nathanael:

Joh 1:47  Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and saith of him, Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!

The word “guile” that Jesus uses is very interesting here.  It literally means deceit or decoy.  In other words, what Jesus saw in Nathanael was the Real Deal.  He was the Real McCoy, he was not a decoy! 

It is not clear what the true origin of the saying “Real McCoy” is.  It is believed that it came from the American Boxer, Norman Selby, known as “Kid McCoy,” who was welterweight champion from 1898-1900.  It is said the McCoy had so many imitators who took his name is boxing booths in small towns throughout the country that eventually he had to bill himself as Kid “The Real” McCoy. 

A story is told of a skeptical drunk who met the boxer in a bar and denied with such vehemence that the boxer was truly the genuine article, that McCoy was forced to hit him.  After recovering, the drunk said, “He’s the Real McCoy!”

Let me ask, “Are you the Real McCoy or a Decoy?”  Do you love the attention of others?  Do you pray, do you give, so that others may see how “holy” you are?  If so, you may be a Decoy Christian.  You love to pray for others, but you have no real power! 

You see, Jesus knows all the motivations of our hearts.  Are we doing things out of the love of our heart and to glorify Him?  Or are we doing it to bring attention to ourselves?  Could  Jesus say this of you:  “Behold, Here is an “Israelite” (Christian) indeed!”  Jesus is looking for those without guile, without hypocrisy, to take up their cross and follow Him!

Youth Convention Highlights!

What an exciting 2 days we had at Youth Convention this year!  We started off the weekend with our Friday evening evangelistic service, complete with an awesome time of worship led by the Kirkland Family Church worship team and a powerful word given by our guest speaker Sylvia Staten from South Carolina on our "Everlasting God." The evening concluded with a great time of prayer! 

 

Saturday the church was filled with youth and youth pastors from around the state!  The morning started out with Tim Moon getting everyone warmed up for the day with a game to get our blood pumping. "SUBMARINE!"  Shelly then led a devotion on "Practicing the Presence of God," which ended with small group discussion.  I had feedback from one of our 'older' attendees who was not in a small group but was listening in on their discussions and she came to me and told me how amazed she was at the depth of spiritual maturity our teens were displaying.  She was impressed.

 

The afternoon ended with fun in the dunk tank, in which many of our youth pastors, a few of our young people and even our state youth leader had their time in the tank and no one escaped without getting dunked!  It was so much fun!  A free lunch was provided for all who attended and we enjoyed a time of just being together, talking, laughing and eating!

 

At the conclusion of the weekend our afternoon started off with worship led by Cris Birch where we just experienced a powerful move of God!  Then Sister Sylvia closed the convention with another powerful word and the convention ended with a powerful prayer time, youth praying for youth!  Beautiful!  I would like to thank all those who helped make this convention a success, I am very grateful to God for surrounding me with such outstanding people!  I praise our Father for ministering to our youth throughout the weekend, I have heard a few testimonies from the weekend, most of which state that at some point God spoke specifically to them, giving them hope and healing.   Thank you Jesus!

 

State Youth Ministries Coordinator,

Shelly Symonds

Overseer's Insight: April 2013

Dear Saints,

 

I trust that you and your family had a Blessed Resurrection Sunday!  For the first time in many years we experienced beautiful weather in the low 70’s.  It just seemed like the Lord was smiling down on all of us.  His Presence could certainly be felt.  I thought it might be nice to share a few Easter Sunday excerpts from the Pastors in our Region.  I found their comments to be powerful and uplifting.  Here are a few: 

-What a fantastic Easter weekend we had!  I counted 20 from our congregation that joined in the Good Friday service and it was wonderful.  As a whole, we estimate over 400 people united to honor the sacrifice of our Savior.  Our local gathering Sunday was amazing as well.  I trust you are living as Easter people every day!

-We had a wonderful time in the Lord on Easter Sunday! We had a powerful time in worship. We had 2 saved and 3 more rededicated there life to the Lord. Praise the Lord for His Spirit moving in our midst!

-Bishop.  There was a big celebration. We had an attendance of nearly 45 adults and children. Together we celebrated the resurrection of Jesus. Pastor Ruben Aguilar preached and we rejoiced in the church.

-I believe in God and His promises.  Blessings are coming soon for this mission in Spokane.
(I thought it might be nice to share this submission by Alvaro Gomez, the pastor of our new Spokane Mission.)

 -Well we really had standing room only, one person counted 150 and we had several in the nursery.  The 5th Sunday of every month is youth Sunday and they put on a wonderful program.  We also participated in communion.  Several people mentioned what a good spirit they felt.  After service we had our egg hunt and potluck..Just a good day of celebration of our risen Lord and great fellowship.  We had so many people that I wasn't able to get around to greet everyone.   Now to keep in touch with them and get them back out.  Very exciting day!

-Dear Bishop:  Hope you and Sis. Knoblich had a wonderful Easter. We had 170 for Sunday morning service and there were three saved. My doctor and her husband came and gave their hearts to the Lord. We also had a wonderful communion service with our people.

-Brother Knoblich: We had a great Easter Service with 52 in attendance.   The presence of our Risen Lord was so very real.  We also had a potluck dinner following the service.  The whole day just seemed to be blessed.  We also have a new couple who have started attending regularly which has been a real blessing to us.

-Our service was outstanding as well, we had to resort to overflow seating, there were many visitors, an awesome spirit was in the house and the children did an incredible job with a special song as part of the service. We even had a good ole fashioned Easter egg hunt for the kids! It was great just walking around and talking with all the parents and seeing the expressions on their faces as they watched their own children enjoy festivities and learn about the Meaning of Easter. There were many new faces, people I have never seen before and others that just have not come in quite a while. As Pastor, I could not have asked for anything more, it seems God is always exceeding our expectations!

District Conventions

We had our last two District Conventions on Saturday, March 16 and March 23rd.  The first Convention was with Bishop Leonard Lord and his District on the East side.  Themes and messages centered around being Mission Minded, Knowing Your Enemy, and Beware of Distractions.    Sister Dora Gonzalez from Othello and Brother Alvero Gomez from our Spokane Mission preached stirring messages.  The Convention was well attended with representatives from most of the churches. Bishop Lord did a great job ministering the Word and moderating his first District Convention.

Bishop Roger Jones moderated the District Convention that was held at Kirkland Family Church.  All the presenters and State workers did a fantastic job.  Pastor Salvador Miron from our Spanish Kirkland Church preached a wonderful message and was able to share his testimony of how Jesus totally changed his life.  Bishop Jones preached on the promises contained in Psalm 91.  Not only are we sheltered in the Lord, we are made over-comers by treading upon the lion and adder, and by trampling under our feet the young lion and the dragon.  My, what power we have in the Lord!

Youth Convention

Be sure to mark your calendars for Youth Convention held at Kirkland Family Church, April 19-20th.  The Friday evening session is a general session for everyone.  Special guest speaker is Sylvia Staten.  Sister Sylvia has ministered in our Camps and Retreats in the past and has done an outstanding job.  You will be blessed by her ministry!  On Saturday, State Youth Ministries Coordinator, Shelly Symonds, has some wonderful events planned for the young people.  Among other things, there is going to be a dunk tank.  This sounds like fun for all, right?!  Please bring your Youth to District Convention, they will not be disappointed. They will be blessed by the Word, by the Worship, and by the Fellowship.  See you there.

Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary

On May 16-19, 2013 at Kirkland Family Church, we will be offering the course, “World Mission of the Church” as taught by Dr. Nolivos.  For those that are mission-minded, (and we all should have a mind for reaching those around us), this class will be instructional and inspirational.  If you would like to register, please notify Bishop Knoblich at dknoblich@aol.com

Washington State Convention

It is not too early to begin planning for State Convention. This year, Convention will be held at the Red Lion in Kennewick, Columbia Center. It will be on August 23-25, 2013. We are pleased to announce that Sister Kathy Creasy, International Children’s Ministries Director, will be our special guest speaker from the International Offices! You will definitely be blessed by her ministry.  Please make plans now to attend a glorious and spirit-packed Convention. I would encourage you to call the Red Lion and make reservations as soon as possible, to be assured of a room. The Red Lion has extended a special rate to us, $86.95/night.  When you call the Red Lion (509-783-0611), please tell them that you are with the Church of God of Prophecy to get the special group rate. Looking forward to seeing you there!!

Events Calendar for 2013

April 5-7          WA State Ladies Retreat - (Vancouver Red Lion) (Sherry Johnson, Director)
April 19-20      Youth Convention - Kirkland (Shelly Symonds, Director)
May 16-19       Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary - Kirkland Family Church

(World Mission of the Church - Dr. Nolivos)

May 24-26       Senior Retreat - Salmon Falls Campground (James Cabales, Director)

                        Speaker:  Bishop Rick Bear

May 31-June 2 Men's Retreat - Camp Roganunda (Franklin Smith, Director)

Special Speaker:  Bishop Sam Clements

July 7-21         Washington State Youth Camps (Camp Roganunda)
August 23-25  Washington State Convention - Kennewick (Red Lion Hotel)
                        Special Speaker:  Sister Kathy Creasy

"Designed For God's Greatness"

Bishop/Dr. Don Knoblich

Overseer's Insight: March 2013

Dear Saints:

District Conventions
During the month of February, we were blessed with two superb District Conventions.  At the Central Puget Sound District Convention, Bishop Rick Bear ministered under the unction of the Spirit.  My how the Lord did bless!  Likewise in the Southern Shores District Convention at Brush Prairie, Bishop Frank Smith preached with a special anointing.  The Spirit of God fell, and there were numerous people saved, sanctified, filled with the Spirit, healed, and restored.  The State Workers gave pertinent information relative to their ministries and important updates of future events.

Please note that  the Tri-Cities District Convention will be held at the Kennwick Church on Saturday, March 16^th.  The Northern District Convention will be held in Kirkland on Saturday, March 23.  I am sure that Bishops’ Leonard Lord and Roger Jones will have something special planned for their respective Conventions.  We look forward to seeing you there!

Children’s Ministry Intensive
Also, during the month of February we were blessed to have Sister Kathy Creasy from the International Offices be with us at New Horizons for a Children’s Ministry Intensive.  There were approximately 50 in attendance from all over the State.  I am so happy to see that our Churches realize what an important and potent work that the Children’s Ministry is.  Sister Creasy spoke on the importance of calling in ministry.  She stressed that what we need is not volunteers, but those that have a calling for the work.  Overall, it was an outstanding Intensive.  Much thanks to the New Horizon’s Church for the use of their facility.  And much thanks to our State Children’s Ministry Directors, Brother Lionel and Sister Andrea Bickham.  We thank them for their work in coordinating and promoting this special event.

Note: Daylight Savings Time begins Sunday, March 10^th.  Be sure to turn your clocks ahead.

Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary
On May 16-19, 2013 at Kirkland Family Church, we will be offering the course, “World Mission of the Church” as taught by Dr. Nolivos.  For those that are mission-minded, (and we all should have a mind for reaching those around us), this class will be instructional and inspirational.  If you would like to register, please notify Bishop Knoblich at dknoblich@aol.com.

Washington State Convention
It is not too early to begin planning for State Convention. This year, Convention will be held at the Red Lion in Kennewick, Columbia Center. It will be on August 23-25, 2013. We are pleased to announce that Sister Kathy Creasy, International Children’s Ministries Director, will be our special guest speaker from the International Offices! You will definitely be blessed by her ministry.  Please make plans now to attend a glorious and spirit-packed Convention. I would encourage you to call the Red Lion and make reservations as soon as possible, to be assured of a room. The Red Lion has extended a special rate to us, $86.95/night.  When you call the Red Lion (509-783-0611), please tell them that you are with the Church of God of Prophecy to get the special group rate. Looking forward to seeing you there!!

Events Calendar for 2013
March 16                             District Convention - Tri-Cities (Leonard Lord, District Overseer)
March 23                             District Convention - Kirkland (Roger Jones, District Overseer)
April 5-7                               WA State Ladies Retreat - (Vancouver Red Lion) (Sherry Johnson, Director
April 19-20                          Youth Convention - Kirkland (Shelly Symonds, Director)
May 16-19                           Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary - Kirkland Family Church (“World Mission of the Church” - Dr. Nolivos)
May 24-26                           Senior Retreat - Salmon Falls Campground (James Cabales, Director)
May 31-June 2                   Men’s Retreat - Camp Roganunda (Franklin Smith, Director)
August 23-25                      Washington State Convention - Kennewick (Red Lion Hotel)

“Designed For God’s Greatness”
Bishop/Dr. Don Knoblich

In last month’s Lamplighter, I presented a section from my annual address, “Designed For God’s Greatness,” regarding how He “Designed us to Grow in Him” through Leadership Development and Spiritual Formation..”  For March’s message, I am presenting a section on how God “Designed Us To Have Communion With Him.”

God Designed Us To Have Communion With Him
A.  He designed us to talk with Him, to spend time with Him, for Him to be our Best and Closest Friend.  This idea of communion was evident in the Garden of Eden.  The Bible tells us in Genesis that Adam communed with God in the Garden.  Sin separated that communion.  But, through Jesus Christ, the Second Man, Adam, we can find that communion with God again. 

Jesus Christ by going to the Garden of Gethsemane and suffering and then dying for us, has brought us back into a Garden-Relationship with The Father!!!

1.   Jesus was the Prime Example of praying to the Father.  He prayed consistently.
2.  He gave us “The Lord’s Prayer,” which is really our Prayer.  He told us how to Pray.

Did you know that God designed you to communicate with Him?  Wouldn’t it be strange to Love Someone, yet not talk with them?  What kind of relationship would that be?  In marriage and family therapy, without doubt, one of the major problems that couples have is ineffective communication.   It is so tragic when people can be married many years and still really do not know their spouse.

God so wants to talk with us.  He endeavors to talk to us.  He loves to talk to us.  And He wants us to talk with Him!  We make what should be so easy, so hard to do.

3.  We were designed to practice the presence of God.
I would like to recommend a classic book to you written by a 17^th century French monk, Brother Lawrence.  His book is called “The Practice of the Presence of God.”  It is small, but just has a deepness and richness to it.

-Basically, Brother Lawrence learned to Communicate with God in each and every circumstance.  It made no difference if he was working in the kitchen, whether he was cleaning, whether he was at the monastery, He practiced the presence of God everywhere.  He did not just “hook up with God” on Sundays.

Let me share a few excerpts from the Book:
“All bodily mortifications and other exercises are useless, except as they serve to arrive at the union of God by love……this is the shortest way to Him, by a continual exercise of love and doing all things for His sake.”

“It is a great delusion to think that the times of prayer ought to differ from other times……The time of business does not with me differ from the time of prayer, and in the noise and clatter of my kitchen…I possess God in as great tranquility as if I were upon my knees at the blessed sacrament.”

“That He might take away my sin, I renounced, for the love of Him, everything that was not He, and I began to live as if there was none but He and I in the world.”

“There is not in the world a kind of life more sweet than that of a continual conversation with God.”

“The Presence of God is thus the life and nourishment of the soul.”

“We give ourselves a world of trouble and pursue a multitude of practices to attain to a sense of the Presence of God.  And yet it is so simple.  How very much shorter it is and easier to do our common business purely for the love of God, to set His consecrating mark on all we lay our hands to, and thereby foster the sense of His abiding Presence by communion of our heart with His!”

“Brother Lawrence’s one method of going to God and abiding in His Presence was to do all for the love of Him.”   (“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God!”)

These are a few of the Maxims taken from his book:

-The only way you can find union with God is by Love.
-It is a great delusion to think that the times of prayer ought to differ from other times.
-Our motivation for doing anything and everything for God should be from love.

Another great book is “Intercessory Prayer” by Reese Howell.  This giant of a man changed the course of history through prayer.  When you are in a certain place with God, Shut in with Him, you can ask what you will and it will be done!

Blessings,
Bishop Knoblich