6 December 2021
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Grace to you, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Another calendar year is drawing to a close, and as such we have pause to consider what the next year might be like. As followers of Jesus we walk by faith, and collectively face the challenges of the times in which we live. We've probably prayed a whole lot more during the past year. That's a good thing. Prayer moves mountains. It connects us with our heavenly Father.
Throughout the International Ministerial Congress of the Church of God (Seventh Day) we recognise the importance of reflecting the unique distinctiveness of Christ by being "lights in this world" in all we say and do. As we navigate increasingly uncertain and often difficult times, we'll probably be given more opportunities to speak on Christ's behalf. Depending on which IMC Zone we live in, and even within each national conference, our circumstances often differ. Some countries have more COVID lock-down and quarantine restrictions than others. Travel is limited for many of our pastors and overseers, adversely affecting many of our members in more isolated areas.
A highlight during the past two years has been the emergence of the livestreaming of Sabbath worship services around the world. We've probably also participated in Zoom conference or local Bible Study meetings. While these technologies help temporarily bridge the gap, they still don't replace face to face meeting expressed often through hugs, holy kisses and the sharing at mealtimes.
Please be praying for the leadership of the church around the world, so we may be wise for the times in which we live, ever listening to the prompting of the Holy Spirit. Please continue to pray for our brethren who live in isolated parts of the world who have been further impacted by COVID. And, finally, please pray to the LORD of the harvest to grant that many will turn, repent and in being baptised, also share in the joy of eternal fellowship.
We're also praying for greater clarity with regards to the planning and hosting of the next IMC Congress meeting. Plans to have our international church leadership come together in one place, in safety and in health, as is our custom every four years, isn't all that clear yet. Many of us have been asking when this might be. May our patience be rewarded by His grace and timing.
Also, a reminder that any donations from the recent IMC Annual Sabbath on 6 November 2021 may be forwarded to the International Ministerial Congress, with details available online at https://imc.cog7.org/donate.html
Thank you for your ongoing partnership in the grace and truth of our Lord Jesus Christ.
On behalf of the International Ministerial Congress,
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