February 2008

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Since we are partners in the gospel and Christ’s ministry work, it is exciting to share with you some of the ways your prayers and generous offerings are helping our denomination fulfill Jesus’ commission to his church.

In the United States, 1,260 young campers attended 16 Generations Ministries Camps during 2007 with the assistance and loving support of 700 Christ-centered volunteers. Another 1,100 youths attended our camps in the Philippines, South Africa, Australia, Canada, Scandinavia, and the United Kingdom. Many of our congregations hosted Vacation Bible School programs to serve their neighborhood and share Jesus with children in fun-filled and positive environments.

Our goal is to provide a camp opportunity within easy reach of every congregation. Camps are excellent tools for building up our young people in Christ, equipping emerging leaders in our congregations, and for community outreach.

Fifty-two new elders were ordained in 2007, and with not all areas yet reporting, we know that at least 887 new believers were baptized this year. God is truly blessing us with continued growth!

The Church sponsored an international conference for elders in July 2007. Some 800 elders from around the globe gathered to learn, worship and strengthen our bonds in Christ. What a pleasure it was to fellowship with this diverse and dedicated group of servant leaders!

More than 40 other training events were held in 2007 in the U.S., including pastoral leadership training, Generations Ministry training, and church planting and assessment seminars.

Approximately $110,000 was sent to assist members who were affected by disasters around the world. Assistance was sent to the Solomon Islands to help with recovery from the devastating earthquake. Funds were also sent to the Philippines after Hurricane Dodong and to Bangladesh in the wake of severe monsoon flooding. Disaster funds were also sent to aid members who continue to struggle in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

Our denominational magazine, Christian Odyssey, featuring articles on practical Christian living, basic beliefs of the Christian faith, Bible studies, book reviews, interviews, and other interesting and practical helps for Christian life, has reached a circulation of 17,000 in the U.S. and 3,000 in Australia.

More than 60 educational video programs were produced in 2007, including the weekly series, Speaking of Life, several “You Are Included” programs exploring important Christian topics, and a video on the life of William Wilberforce.

Booklets distributed this year included Good News for Bad People, Getting a Grip on Repentance, Take the Leap, and our Statement of Beliefs. Our newest booklet, Predestination, is included with this letter as a gift to you. We hope you will enjoy reading it.

Thank you, dear brothers and sisters, on behalf of all those who have been blessed through your prayers of support, your Christian example of service and your generous financial contributions, which strengthen our efforts to share the good news and hope offered through Jesus, our Savior.

May God richly bless you with his love and grace throughout 2008!

Yours in Christ,

Joseph Tkach

President, Worldwide Church of God