2018 National Usher Program Journal

Welcome To The Sixty-Third National Ushers Convention Theme: Creating a Discipling Culture through Christ-Like Service Colossians 1:28 There is a Blessing Waiting for you at the 2018 National Usher Convention!

MASSACHUSETTS (the Bay State and Pioneer Valley) Welcomes You! Our friends at the Convention Center and the Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel in the city of Springfield, Massachusetts are excited to host the May 17-20, 2018 National Association of the Church of God Ushers Convention. They eagerly welcome us!

A grand and glorious experience awaits you! You will be richly blessed and warmly welcomed as you are entertained by the Tours and refreshed by the Early Morning Prayer and Praise with Victory, the Workshops, the Worship Services, the Fellowship Banquet and finally the Sunday Morning culmination service.

Our Mission Statement Continues: I. To Build and contribute significant value to the National Association of the Church of God Ushers and to act and react with integrity and Godliness of purpose.

II. To make God “look good” by effectively and efficiently rendering Service to the Saints of God. III. To improve the process by Empowering Servant Leaders, Building Community and making strides toward Succession Planning as we intentionally embrace and affirm prospective Leaders.

Both the Officers and Members of the National Ushers graciously welcome you.

In His Service,

Esther R. Deans “For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.” Psalm 84:10

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of the CHURCH OF GOD P.O. Box 357 West Middlesex PA 16159 (724) 528-1340 www.nacog.com

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Rev. Dr. Miki Merritt Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. Charles J. Myricks, Jr. Chief Operating & Development Officer Rev. Clifton McDowell Vice Presiding Elder Rev. James L. Brown, Sr. Chief Financial Officer Sis. Beverly Alford

Chair, Home Owners Assoc.

May 17, 2018 Dear Friends, Greetings in the name of our Lord, Congratulations! The 63rd NACOG National Ushers Convention has convened!

Every congregation in the National Association owes a debt of gratitude to ushers who faithfully serve our local congregations with distinction. And every national and regional worship event and convention could not and would not be possible without your service and commitment to excellence. As a national body, your continuing effort to teach and sharpen skills and to disciple one another, instilling the value of service through ushering to the next generation is a model for every ministry group to admire and emulate.

Your faithfulness inspires us all. We pray that God will renew you and fill your hearts with fresh grace and ample strength to help lead the church forward in the coming years.

We celebrate the outstanding leadership and partnership of Sis. Esther Deans and her team as you continue to serve.

Have a great convention! Our hearts and hopes are with you.

Peace, Rev. Charles Myricks, Jr. CODO

P.O Box 357 410 Campground Road West Middlesex, PA 16159 (724) 528-1340 Phone (724) 528-2708 – Fax www.nacog.com

History of the National Ushers Fellowship In the year 1939, the first meeting of the National Ushers Fellowship was held at the Detroit Church of God, Detroit, MI. The church was then located at Chaney and Jay Streets and Rev. Charles White was pastor. Mrs. Bessie Wilson, Rev. C.A. Craig, and a few others saw the need for more efficient ushering at our National Association of the Church of God (NACOG) conventions and volunteered their services. It was evident that they were fulfilling a real need and their service attracted much attention.

The next year (1940), Rev. White recommended to the trustees and ministers of NACOG that a national usher president be selected. Mr. Daniel S. Phillips, a deacon from Sharon, PA, and Rev. L.M. Turner, then pastor of the Church of God on Cedar Avenue in Sharon, PA recommended Sis. Esther B. Culp for that position. Sis. Culp had worked for a number of years as a youth worker at West Middlesex Campground (headquarters of NACOG) and pioneering a number of projects. Sis. Culp was elected as the first national usher president in 1940. Since that first election, Sis. Culp said, “...there have been many struggles and many changes. We feel that these changes have been helpful, and that our National Ushers Fellowship has developed into a much more efficient organization. Where there is no struggle, there is no active development.”

The annual camp meeting of the National Association of the Church of God is the high point of service and has been throughout the years. At the West Middlesex Campground, known as Zion’s Hill, uniformed ushers served at every service of worship and classes were also taught by the president, Mrs. Culp. These courses provided new materials for those who attended from year to year and as a point of training for new ushers coming into the National Ushers Fellowship.

Sis. Culp decided since she was being elected every two years, she must improve her leadership in order to hold a high standard of ushering. She therefore, began to do research on the field of ushering. She collected many resources, and subsequently was brought into contact with the School of Ushering at the University of Nebraska. Upon completing the courses offered in this school, she was awarded her certificate, and the Gold Master Ushers’ Key in 1956. The Gold Key was presented to her in a special service held in her local congregation in Sharon, PA. In early 1957, Sis. Culp led the National Ushers Fellowship in a drive to recruit and train new ushers. “Captainships” as they were called formed in many states. Enthusiasm grew by leaps and bounds, and soon different teams of ushers were being used daily during our national camp meeting every year. The National Ushers Fellowship has witnessed much progress within the National Association of the Church of God (West Middlesex, PA) for that we are truly grateful to God. Words are inadequate to express the valuable contributions of the late Rev. Gabriel P. Dixon, the then pastor of the Cote Brilliante Avenue Church of God, St. Louis, MO. He was the first teacher of the National Ushers Fellowship.

In those formative years his words of wisdom and encouragement were indispensable. Rev. Dixon recommended to the National Ushers Fellowship the late Rev. Raymond S. Jackson, of Detroit, MI, who for years was Chairman

of the (NACOG) West Middlesex Ministerial Assembly. His fatherly counsel and sympathetic guidance meant much to the National Ushers Fellowship during difficult years. Sis. Culp, in her kindly way would say of him, “He not only taught us, but he put on his tuxedo and showed us how.” The national ushers felt that he was the ‘Head Usher’. His untiring efforts and encouragement meant everything to us. With his fatherly care for us, the National Ushers Fellowship made great progress.

It was in 1952 that Sis. Daisy Davis had a vision of a National Ushers Convention and brought it to the attention of Sis. Culp and Rev. A.R. Cochran. It was in 1954 in Sharon, PA that suggestions were first made to have a Spring National Ushers Fellowship Convention. There was such enthusiasm that in 1955, Rev. Cochran, then pastor of the Cedar Avenue Church of God, Cleveland, OH hosted the first annual National Ushers Fellowship Convention. From the beginning, it has been a rich spiritual retreat for all who attend. The 1965 convention held in Columbus, OH marked the tenth consecutive year of the national convention. Each year an annual banquet with program and speaker has been held; there has been the crowning of a “State of States queen”, Ushers Workshop, a guided tours; and inspirational worship services that thrill all who attend the annual convention.

Year after year, many churches joined and the ability to bring quality ushers training began to spread across the country through the National Ushers Fellowship. It reached international dimensions when the Angle Street Church of God in Hamilton, Bermuda became a member. Plans were then made to go to Bermuda for the 1966 Annual National Ushers Fellowship Convention.

The National Ushers Fellowship is an integral arm of the work and ministry of the National Association of the Church of God (NACOG). The ushers have made their contribution in both spiritual and financial ways. The national ushers paid for the concrete floor of the Raymond S. Jackson Tabernacle on the NACOG Campground.

The ushers also donated monies for the purchase of the folding chairs at the time. The front altar of the tabernacle is always graced with flowers and ferns placed there by the National Ushers Fellowship. Over the years the National Ushers Fellowship have raised and given faithfully to the general work of the National Association of the Church of God. In 1976, the first ushers’ choir was organized by Sis. Luesther Pierce (Linden, NJ). We have had an ushers choir at our national convention ever since. Also in 1976, the first youth minister was used at one of our conventions, in the person of Min. Timothy J. Clarke now Bishop Timothy J. Clarke, pastor of the First Church of God (Columbus, OH).

By the year 1985, many of the pioneer leaders in the National Ushers Fellowship had gone on to receive their great reward. They have given us a good beginning to a great work. They have made the ministry of ushering known far and wide. By having such a ministry, the Church has been helped and we as ushers have received great blessings, and spiritual development as Christians. The ushers have served at the campground, field days in their states, funerals, and in their local congregations.

Our current and past president and all the present and former ushers are humbly proud to have had the opportunity of serving the Church on a national scale. In the words of our first leader, the late Sis. Esther B. Culp, the one who is most responsible for the years of progress and growth, the feeling of the entire National Ushers Fellowship can be summed up when she said, “We are happy to be a part of the National Association and members of the great team of national workers!’

Past Presidents Sis. Esther B. Culp (Sharon, PA) 1955-1969 Bro. Robert Rhodes (Rhode Island) 1972-1977 Sis. Sybil Chisolm (Miami, FL) 1977-1984 Sis. Betty Thomas (Youngstown, OH) 1984-1989 Sis. Betty Lawson (Teaneck, NJ) 1989-1995 Sis. Laura Pharr (Seattle, WA) 1995-2001 Sis. Elizabeth Gaddis (Columbus, OH) 2001-2007 Sis. Donna Ravenell (Moncks Corner, SC) 2007-2013

Past Convention Sites

1954 Sharon, PA 1955 Cleveland, OH 1956 Pittsburgh, PA 1957 Detroit, MI 1958 Toledo, OH 1959 St. Louis, MO 1960 Detroit, MI 1961 Evanston, IL 1962 Gary, IN 1963 Buffalo, NY 1964 Baltimore, MD 1965 Columbus, OH 1966 Hamilton, Bermuda 1967 Toledo, OH 1968 Detroit, MI 1969 Far Rockaway, NY 1970 Cinncinnati, OH 1971 St. Petersburg, FL 1972 New York, NY 1973 Miami, FL

1974 Philadelphia, PA 1975 Chicago, IL 1976 New Haven, CT 1977 St. Petersburg, FL 1978 Los Angeles, CA 1979 Washington, DC 1980 Atlanta, GA 1981 Detroit, MI 1982 Tampa, FL 1983 Cleveland, OH 1984 Birmingham, AL 1985 Los Angeles, CA 1986 Philadelphia, PA 1987 Jacksonville, FL 1988 Macon, GA 1989 Kingston, Jamaica 1990 Seattle, WA 1991 Newark, NJ 1992 Columbus, OH 1993 Houston, TX

1994 Atlanta,GA 1995 Los Angeles, CA 1996 Trevose, PA 1997 Charleston, SC 1998 St. Louis, MO 1999 Houston, TX 2000 Seattle, WA 2001 Detroit, MI 2002 Birmingham, AL 2003 Arlington, VA 2004 Indianapolis, IN 2005 Columbus, OH 2006 Chattanooga, TN 2007 Iselin, NJ 2008 Kansas City, MO 2009 Tampa, FL 2010 Atlanta, GA 2011 Eastern Caribbean 2012 Fresno, CA 2013 Charleston, SC

2014 Naperville, IL 2015 Long Island, NY 2016 Detroit, MI 2017 Southern Caribbean

Officers of the National Ushers National Association of the Church of God

President

Vice President

Secretary

Esther Deans

Joseph Scarboro

Gloria Dillard

Treasurer

Assistant Treasurer

Seattle, WA

Oakland Mills, MD

Spiritual Resource Coordinator

Washington, DC

Diane Spellman

Registrar

Dr. Christina Stringfellow Downers Grove, IL

Lynchburg, SC

Louvenia Evans

Advisor

Donna Ravenell Summerville, SC

Southfield, MI

Sanrel Jackson-Short Tampa, FL

Floor Coordinator

Elizabeth Gaddis Columbus, OH

National Ushers

National Association of the Church of God OFFICERS President.................................................................................Esther R. Deans, Washington, DC Vice President.....................................................................Joseph Scarborough, Lynchburg, SC Secretary........................................................................................ Gloria Dillard, Southfield, MI Treasurer..........................................................................................Diane Spellman, Seattle, WA Assistant Treasurer........................................................... Louvenia Evans, Oakland Mills, MD Spiritual Resource Coordinator.............................................Sanrel Jackson-Short, Tampa, FL Registrar.............................................................Dr. Christina Stringfellow, Downers Grove, IL Advisor..............................................................................Donna M. Ravenell, Summerville, SC Floor Coordinator................................................................. Elizabeth Gaddis, Columbus, OH

SUB-COMMITTEES

FINANCE COMMITTEE Diane Spellman, Seattle, WA, Chairperson Louvenia Evans, Windsor Mill, MD John Collins, Ypsilanti, MI Nathaniel Price, Los Angeles, CA Eddye Davis, Seattle, WA NOMINATING COMMITTEE Rose Duncan, Jamaica, NY, Chairperson Mary Ann Nesbit, Atlanta, GA Diane Patterson, Anderson, IN Diane Smith, North Wales, PA Darrell Thomas, Ypsilanti, MI SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE Juanita Hollingsworth-Johnson, Brooklyn, NY, Chairperson Denise Godbolt, Paterson, NJ Barbara Tiller, Seattle, WA Angela Proctor-Mills, Seattle, WA Elizabeth Cheeseman-Martin, Brooklyn, NY COMMUNION COMMITTEE Sanrel Jackson-Short, Tampa, FL, Chairperson Reeba Cooper, Anderson, IN Meriam Don Grant, Toledo, OH Margaret Mascall, West Hempstead, NY Richard Johnson, Jr., Orlando, FL SPECIAL BOARD MEMBERS Community Missions Project Administrator.............................Bessie Smith, Tuscaloosa, AL Pioneer Scholarship Fund Administrator.......................................... Laura Pharr, Seattle, WA Millennial Board Member.......................................................Danielle Ravenell, Columbia, SC Millennial Board Member.............................................................. Jalen Simpson, Fairfield, AL

CONVENTION SPEAKERS

Reverend Rufus V. Strother Roselle Park, NJ

Minister Yolanda Mitchell Brooklyn, NY

Elder Lois Key Alexander Trenton, NJ

Dr. Carol Flewellen Merritt St. Louis, MO

Reverend Charles E. Cofield, Jr. Kansas City, KS

Reverend Timothy Quainoo Bolingbrook, IL

CONFERENCES/WORKSHOPS

The Ministry of Ushering Laura I. Pharr Seattle, WA

On Spiritual Warfare Reverend Roland Cooper (Boston) Randolph, Massachusetts

Developing Leaders for the Future Reverend Elsa Johnson Bass Philadelphia, PA

WORSHIP TEAM

Prayer & Praise With Power Minister Janice Warren Renton, WA

Music Ministry Dr. Scott O. Cumberbatch Paterson, NJ

2018 NATIONAL USHERS CONVENTION AT A GLANCE Monday, May 14, 2018 and Tuesday, May 15, 2018 TOURS: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Choice of: Basketball Hall of Fame

Forest Park Zoo Historic Deerfield Yankee Candle Village Dr. Seuss and Springfield Museums All Tours are self- guided with either no admission or minimal admission fees.

Inquire at Concierge Desk.

Wednesday, May 16, 2018 BOSTON DAY TOUR BY BUS: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Thursday, May 17, 2018 11:00 AM................................................Executive Meeting {NACOGU Officers} 12:45 PM.......................................................................... State President’s Meeting 2:00 PM...............................................................Scholarship Committee Meeting 3:00 PM..............................................................Nominating Committee Meeting 4:00 PM........................................................................................... Choir Rehearsal

National Ushers Convention Choir

7:00 PM.......................................................................................... Worship Service

Keynote Speaker: Reverend Rufus V. Strother

Friday, May 18, 2018 7:00 AM................................................................. Prayer & Praise With Power

Sister Janice Warren 9:00 AM........................................................................ Workshops - SESSION I 11:00 AM.................................................................................... Worship Service

Speaker: Minister Yolanda Mitchell 2:30 PM...................................................................................... Business Meeting 4:00 PM........................................................................................ Choir Rehearsal

National Ushers Convention Choir 7:00 PM.................................. Worship Service & Candle Light Communion

Speaker: Elder Lois Key Alexander Candle Light Communion Reverend James Brown – CFO, NACOG

Saturday, May 19, 2018 7:00 AM.................................................................Prayer & Praise With Power

Sister Janice Warren 9:00 AM......................................................................Workshops - SESSION II 11:00 AM................................................................................... Worship Service

Speaker: Dr. Carol Merritt 6:00 PM................................................................................ Fellowship Banquet

Speaker: Reverend Charles Cofield, Jr.

Sunday, May 20, 2018 8:00 AM......................................................................Morning Worship Service

Speaker: Reverend Timothy Quainoo

Reverend Rufus V. Strother Keynote Speaker - Thursday

Reverend Rufus V. Strother is the Senior Pastor of Orient Church of God in Jersey City, NJ. Graduate of Saint Peter’s Prep School, in Jersey City, Rufus received his Bachelor of Sciences degree in Marketing and Management from Virginia State University, Petersburg, VA. He furthered his Biblical training by completing his course work at the Evangelistic Christian Bible Institute (ECBI) in Paterson, NJ. While working in management for GlaxoSmithKline Inc. in Parsippany, NJ, and serving as Deacon in the church, Rufus answered God’s call to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ at Orient Church of God, under the pastoral leadership of Reverend Dr. James H. Barnes. He received his license to preach the Gospel in 2008 through the New Jersey State Ministerial Alliance of the Church of God. In 2012, Reverend Strother received full ordination as minister of the Word of God by Church of God Ministries, Anderson, IN. Today, Reverend Strother has been prepared by the LORD to serve the church and the community as Senior Pastor at Orient Church of God. As a lifetime member of OCG, he has served in the ministries of usher, deacon, choir member, trustee chair, Associate Minister, Sunday school teacher, young adult leader and all other duties as assigned. Combining his experience in corporate, inner city and teaching environments with the Word of God, he counsels, teaches and preaches with a focus on the work of salvation through Christ and the practical, life application of God’s Word.

Reverend Strother has served as preacher and workshop leader for The National Association of the Church of God at West Middlesex, PA, the National Men’s Ministry and the National Ushers of the Church of God. He currently holds the position as President of the NJ State Church of God Youth Council, the Vice-President of the NJ State Men’s Ministry, member of Jersey City NAACP and the Berean Fellowship of Pastors under the leadership of Bishop Timothy J. Clarke, Columbus, OH. Pastor Rufus recently celebrated 25 adventurous years of holy matrimony with the love of his life and college sweetheart, Brenda Alesia Strother, M.Ed. of Petersburg, Virginia. They have both been blessed with two wonderful children, Joy and Christopher and are fortunate guardians to their 2 year old nephew, Elliot Washington.

Minister Yolanda D. Mitchell Speaker - Friday Morning

Sister Yolanda is a Minister under the Pastorate and Leadership of Reverend Clifton McDowell, Sr. and First Lady Deborah.

She attends the Church of God of East New York, located in Brooklyn, New York, where she acknowledges she received her spiritual roots. Min. Yolanda is blessed to worship with what she considers an empowered, enthusiastic and energetic congregation encouraged to be Disciples of Christ.

Having served in various ministries locally, state-wide as well as nationally, her past and current ministries include Usher Board, Sunday School, Drama Team, Vice President of Youth Ministry on a State and National level, Life Care Leader and at present serves enthusiastically as a Service Facilitator at her local Congregation and on the Program Team for the Eastern New York General Assembly which she considers “her dream job/ ministry.”

Academically, Min. Yolanda has attended York College in Queens, N.Y. majoring in Liberal Arts. She has been a student of the In-Service Training Institute where she also served as Assistant Dean.

She is currently employed for the past thirty-eight years as a Team Leader at Verizon.

Min. Yolanda believes in the Power of God as well as the Word of God. Her scriptural theme for life is found in Psalm 118:17- “I shall not die, but live and proclaim what God has done!”

Elder Lois Key-Alexander Speaker - Friday Evening

Elder Lois Key Alexander is the wife of Elder Leon S. Alexander, Jr., and mother of Isabelle Danielle and Joshua Benjamin.

She serves as the Co-Pastor of the Life Abundant Church of God, Trenton, New Jersey where her husband is the Senior Pastor. Elder Alexander holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Church/Christian Ministries and is certified in Basic Biblical Counseling. Elder Alexander affirms that her first two professors of the Word and life are her beloved parents, the late Rev. Samuel and Lila Key. While her study focused upon Church/Christian Ministry, one of Elder Alexander’s passions is women’s ministry. She is the Founder and Leader of Women of Purpose (WOP), a ministry which seeks to empower and give support and encouragement to women and teenage girls of all ages, cultures and social backgrounds.

The message of this ministry is simplistic in nature: that everyone who is permitted by God’s grace to live on this earth has a purpose. Elder Alexander is extremely proud of the establishment of the Susie JohnsonMcKoy Scholarship Award under the Women of Purpose Ministry, which gives financial support to students pursuing higher education.

Elder Alexander is a gifted songbird, Minister of music and theater performer. She is extremely blessed to be a member of the James Cleveland Gospel Music Workshop of America (GMWA) Central New Jersey Chapter and the Bridge Players Theatre Company, Burlington, NJ. One of her favorite quotes by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is, “Everybody can be great…because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.”

Elder Alexander is motivated by the scripture found in Zechariah 4:6, “……Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.”

Dr. Carol Flewellen Merritt Speaker - Saturday Morning

Dr. Carol is a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, and holds an A.B. degree in Biology.

She continued her optometric education at the University of Missouri, St. Louis School of Optometry and graduated on the Dean’s List.

She has been in private practice in North St. Louis County for over 27 years and is active in the community.

She is a member of the American Optometric Association, the Missouri Optometric Association and the National Optometric Association. A former faculty member of the University of Missouri School of Optometry, Dr. Merritt specializes in family eye care and systemic diseases which affect the eye, such as hypertension and diabetes.

Dr. Merritt also is the Co-Pastor and Minister of Music and Worship of the New Cote Brilliante Church of God in St. Louis, alongside her husband - Elder Dr. Miki Merritt. They are the proud parents of four sons and three granddaughters. Dr. Merritt always states the vision for her life: “My purpose in life is to help people to see both physically and spiritually.”

Reverend Charles E. Cofield, Jr. Banquet Speaker - Saturday Evening

Reverend Cofield is a native son of Kansas City, Kansas. He is the oldest of seven children in his family.

Under the guidance of saved parents, he received his education from the Kansas City Kansas Public School system and has served over 15 years in juvenile corrections and law enforcement. He would later return for post-secondary education and receive a degree in Mortuary Science and now is part owner of Peaceful Rest Funeral Chapel Topeka, Kansas.

Reverend Cofield was called to the ministry in 1993 and faithfully served as an Associate Minister at The Word of Life Fellowship Church under the leadership of his father, Elder Charles E. Cofield Sr. In 1999 he became a member of Freeman Avenue Church of God, presently known as Kansas City Community Church becoming a licensed minister in 2003. In August of 2016, Pastor Cofield was elected as the Senior Pastor of Kansas City Community. This too, was in the plan of God, for even then, he was being prepared for a greater work: to feed the flock of God’s sheep!

Reverend Cofield has served at Kansas City Community Church with an Ecclesiastes 9:10, ”whatever your hands find to do, do it with all your strength” mentality- from playing the drums as well as keyboard, to serving as Youth Pastor to Associate Pastor. He also served the National Inspirational Youth Convention Executive staff as an Events Coordination for seven years.

He and his wife of twenty-five years, Joy, who also share greatly in the Ministry have two beautiful children, Keaton Charles and Kennedy Joy both college students.

Reverend Timothy Quainoo Speaker - Sunday Morning

He is married to the love of his life, Jillian Quainoo. Together they welcomed their first child in June of 2017.

He studied at the University of Rhode Island and Anderson University School of Theology, doing campus ministry on both campuses.

Tim loves Jesus and people. Tim loves family, a passion that comes from his upbringing. He studied at the University of Rhode Island and was the campus pastor for Sankofa Christian Church, a church plant at URI. And has wrapped up his studies at Anderson University.

He now serves at Living Water Community Church in Bolingbrook, IL as Associate Pastor. Tim enjoys serving and building friendships through sports, interesting conversations, and good food.

Sister Janice Warren “Prayer & Praise With Power”

Sister Janice Warren will never forget the words of her late mother. “DO YOUR DEAD LEVEL BEST.” She is an encourager and endeavors to live out the scripture 1Corinthians 10:31; “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” She is a native of Birmingham, Alabama, grew up in Decatur, Illinois before moving to Seattle, Washington.

Sister Jan is the sixth of nine children and really learned the value of a dollar. Her first job was making fifty cents an hour and sharing some of that with her mother.

Sister Janice has a degree in supervision and management from South Seattle Community College in Seattle, Washington. She worked in several departments at Pacific Telephone and Telegraph Company. She was loaned out from U S West Communications for several months to MESBIC. (Minority Enterprise Small Business Investment Corporation) and United Way. Sister Janice has been a Sunday School Superintendent, Sunday School Teacher, Usher, National Ushers Chaplain, National Usher Tee Shirt Chair and Early Morning Prayer and Praise Worship Chair. Sister Janice is a member of two choirs at church, teen teacher, one of the worship chairs at church, and a member of the National Ushers Choir.

She is a wife, mother of three children, grandmother, and great grandmother. Sister Janice is a member of the Church of God Evangelistic Center where Reverend Claudell Warren is the pastor. Sister Janice resides in Renton, Washington with her husband Joseph D. Warren.

Dr. Scott O. Cumberbatch “Music Ministry”

Scott O. Cumberbatch, 30, is a native of Paterson, New Jersey. At the tender age of four, Scott began playing the piano. In doing so, he became an accompanist to his mother, who still serves as the musician for their home church, Prophetic Church of God, Paterson under the leadership of Pastor Warren F. McDowell. From that time, his musical career began to flourish and broaden, without any music lessons or formal tutelage. He began playing the organ at age six, and began playing for other churches and community choirs {of all ages) in the area almost simultaneously: most notably, Prophetic Church of God {1991-1996), Solid Rock Baptist Church of Paterson {1991-1995), Ebenezer Baptist Church of Englewood {1996-2004), Koinonia and Christian Ministries {1998-2011), New Hope Baptist Church of Hackensack {2000-2007), and Trinity Baptist Church of Hackensack {2005-2015).

Scott currently serves as Minister of Music of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church of Englewood, New Jersey, under the pastorate of Rev. Eddie Spencer, IV. Scott also serves as co-director and musician of the New Jersey State Fellowship Choir of the Church of God, musician and director of the National Association of the Church of God, Minister of Music for the North Jersey District Missionary Baptist Association, musician for Grammy Award-winning choir Jubilation, Inc., and as of December 2011, the Director of Music for the National Inspirational Youth Convention of the Church of God. In addition to his musical career, Scott also has appeared in four major motion pictures, one Disney Movie of the Week, over twenty national television commercials, two Broadway plays {Carousel and A Christmas Carol), and a number of other theatrical endeavors. He is mostly noted for his role in Bad Boys and Bad Boys II, having played the eldest son of Martin Lawrence.

In 2007, Scott completed his four-year baccalaureate tenure at William Paterson University, receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree (B.A.) with a concentration in English Literature. In addition to this earned degree, Scott received an honorary Doctorate of Sacred Music degree (D.S.M.) from New Wine School of the Bible {Dennison, TX) in honor of years of dedicated service to Gospel and Sacred Music. Scott presently serves as an English instructor at Arts High School in Newark, New Jersey, as well as Advisor and Director of the Arts High School Gospel Choir, who were selected as Finalists in the 2012 McDonald’s GospelFest and past class advisor for the Class of 2010 and 2013.

Along with being an educator, musician, and clinician, Scott has also been blessed with the gift of musical composition. A few of his compositions and arrangements can be heard on the recently completed project of the North Jersey Missionary Baptist Association Mass Choir. His work has also been featured at the National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses founded by the late Dr. Thomas Andrew Dorsey.

In everything, Scott gives thanks unto God for all blessings, as He continues to open many doors of opportunity!

Additionally, Scott continually pays honor and tribute to his mother and maternal grandfather for their years of support and tireless dedication to assist in maturing his music ministry and education.

Sister Laura I. Pharr Workshop Facilitator “The Ministry of Ushering”

Sister Laura I. Pharr is a native of Chattanooga, Tennessee where she attended Orchard Knob Baptist Church.

She relocated to Seattle, Washington in 1955.

She has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Urban Planning. Prior to an early retirement, she worked for the King County Council where she recommended policies in the areas of health, housing, human services, and community planning.

She is the widow of the late James W. Pharr who went home to be with the Lord on January 5th, 2016. She is the proud mother of two daughters Veronica and Jaime and two grandchildren Devon and Kiera.

Sister Pharr served in her local congregation as Chairperson of the Pastor’s Aide Society, Sunday School Teacher, Sunday School Co-Superintendent, Stewardship Committee Chairperson, Parliamentarian of WCG, Senior Usher Board President, Treasurer, and Junior Usher Board Advisor.

She also served as President of the Washington State Usher Board of the COG. She first attended a National Ushers Convention in 1983 in Cleveland, OH and has not missed an Ushers Convention yet. Her areas of service to the National Ushers have been as Secretary of the Scholarship Committee, Parliamentarian, 2nd Vice President, 1st Vice President, and President. She also served as Advisor to the person who succeeded her as President.

Currently she is the Coordinator of the Pioneer Scholarship Fund.

Reverend Roland E. Cooper Workshop Facilitator “On Spiritual Warfare”

Roland E. Cooper is a senior pastor and minister of the gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, by the New England council of the Church of God since 1991, he went into full time ministry at Jubilee Christian Church, (formerly New Covenant Christian Church).

His responsibilities included performing weddings, preaching and teaching the Word of God, pre-marital and marital counseling, funerals and pastoral care counseling. He served as one of the Cell Ministry Pastors, and oversees the Prayer Ministry, Diaconate Ministry, Ministers of Care (Home/Hospital Visitations), and Creating Effective Ministry Leaders and Mentoring. He also serves as an instructor and board member for ISTI (In Service Training Institute), a ministry that serves the larger body of the church Of God in Anderson Indiana.

His passion for prayer has allowed him to connect with other spiritual leaders in the State of Massachusetts.

He was very involved with the pastors of Salem Ma. in dethroning the spirit of witchcraft from that city. In 1998, there was an article printed by the Boston Globe about the prayer ministry of Jubilee and the effect it had on crime in the city of Boston.

Pastor Cooper has traveled throughout the United States, from the east coast to the west coast, ministering on the effectiveness and power of a praying people. The gifts the Lord has given him, particularly in the area of training others for spiritual warfare through prayer, has allowed him to minister around the world, including the West Indies, Africa, and Europe. One of his favorite quotes is “if you want anything good, you must fight for it, and after receiving it, you must fight to keep it” He recognizes that the Christian life is a life of constant warfare, therefore, preparing God’s people for battle is one of his missions.

Roland E. Cooper January 2016, pastor heard the clarion call to go and help the Shawmut Community Church of God, of which he accepted the challenge to be the Senior Pastor. While serving in the church, many miracles, signs and wonders was done by the powerful hand of our Lord Jesus. The church experienced experiential growth and greatly touch the community for the entire year.

January 2017, was the beginning of another milestone for Pastor Cooper, as he along with his wife step out in faith and planted Destiny Life Center International in the town of Randolph Massachusetts. The church began to experience great growth, that immediately Pastor Cooper began having two services. Three months later, pastor cooper planted another church in Boston, Destiny Life Center International Boston.

Although in the spring of 2017, tragedy hit his family, where he lost his third child to sudden death. The death of his child had very little effect on the passion he has for advancing the kingdom of God. Truly the phrase pastor Cooper embraced years ago became a reality to him, “Anything good you want, you must fight for it, and after you receive it, you must fight to keep it� The devil may have thought he was surely destroy pastor Cooper, but it just increased his desire to be more sold out for God. Pastor Cooper currently serves as the Spiritual Life Chair of the Black Ministerial Alliance of the city of Boston, a ministry that serves the body of Christ in the city, he is also an advocate for the community that speak out against Mass incarceration, and the injustice against our people. He has a love for the people of God and will do whatever he can to show the love of God. For Pastor Cooper, there is no barrier that the Devil could set up that will prevent him from doing God’s will.

He is very happily married to his wife Patricia of 39 years, they now reside along with their five children and eight grandchildren, in the city of Boston. Massachusetts.

Reverend Elsa Johnson Bass Workshop Facilitator “Developing Leaders for the Future”

Reverend Elsa Johnson Bass is an ordained minister of the Church of God. A graduate of Anderson University (BA), Hunter College (MA) and Cabrini College (M.ED), she is an associate pastor and Minister of Worship Arts at the Christ Center Church of God in Philadelphia, PA. Elsa has also served the Church as a Member of the District 41 Credentials Committee and as the Dean of the National Association’s In Service Training Institute. Presently she is a Member at Large on the National Board of the Christian Women Connection (CWC). In 2016 Elsa wrote and directed the historical play “A Hill Called Zion” to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the National Association of the Church of God. Elsa retired in 2014 after twenty one years as the head of theater at the prestigious Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts, thus ending a forty year career as an award winning educator. A gifted actor, director and playwright Elsa founded the Christian Theater Workshop LLC, in April, 2016 to share the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ through professional training and biblically based theatrical performances. The Cross Culture Christian Theater grew out of the Christian Theater Workshop and an April, 2017 debut of “God’s Trombones” by James Weldon Johnson has led to rave reviews and encore performances. In addition to her work with the Cross Culture Theater company. She continues to serve as a workshop leader, speaker and performer locally and nationally.

Elsa is the proud mother of Aaron (Jessica) and Jared (Chloe) and the delighted Nana of Gabriel, Erin and Josiah. Her life’s theme is: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me... Philippians 4:13

63rd National Ushers Convention

“Creating a Discipling Culture Through Christ-Like Service.” Colossians 1:28 THURSDAY, MAY 17, 2018 7:00 PM WORSHIP SERVICE

Chairperson.....................................................................................Elizabeth Gaddis, Columbus, OH Dedication of Ballroom.............................................. Reverend Clifton McDowell, Vice Presiding Elder

National Association of the Church of God Scripture.................................................................................................Gloria Dillard, Southfield, MI

Secretary, National Association of the Church of God Ushers Musical Selection............................................................................................................... Convention Choir Intercessory Prayer................................................................................... Sanrel Jackson-Short, Tampa, FL Welcome/ Greetings..................................................................................... Elected Official Massachusetts Response............................................................................................... Joseph Scarborough, Lynchburg, SC

Vice President, National Association of the Church of God Ushers President’s Address..............................................................................Esther Deans, Washington, DC Offering............................................................................................................. Diane Spellman, Seattle, WA

Treasurer, National Association of the Church of God Ushers Announcements..................................................................................................... Eddye Davis, Seattle, WA Greetings..................................................................................Reverend Dr. Miki Merritt, Presiding Elder

National Association of the Church of God Introduction of Preacher...................................................................................................................................

Musical Selection............................................................................................................... Convention Choir The Preached Word....................................................... Reverend Rufus V. Strother, Roselle Park, NJ

Senior Pastor – Orient Church of God, Jersey City, NJ Invitation to Discipleship & Benediction........................................................Reverend Rufus V. Strother

63rd National Ushers Convention

“Creating a Discipling Culture Through Christ-Like Service.” Colossians 1:28 FRIDAY, MAY 18, 2018 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM................................................................................... Prayer & Praise With Power Prayer & Praise Worship Leader – Minister Janice Warren, Renton, WA 8:15 AM – 8:50 AM...........................................................................................................................Breakfast 9:00 AM – 10:45 AM.............................................................................................................Workshops Ministry of Ushering......................................................................... Presenter: Laura I. Pharr Spiritual Warfare............................................................ Presenter: Reverend Roland Cooper Developing Leaders for the Future............................ Presenter: Reverend Elsa Johnson Bass

11:00 AM WORSHIP SERVICE Chairperson.................................................................. Elizabeth Cheeseman-Martin, Brooklyn, NY Scripture................................................................................................. Sarah Mitchell, Brooklyn, NY Prayer of Invocation......................................................................................Marcus Rush, Kansas City, KS Musical Selection............................................................................................................... Convention Choir Intercessory Prayer......................................................................................Dorothy Patterson, Newark, NJ Offering................................................................................................................ Rose Duncan, Jamaica, NY Announcements...................................................................................................Barbara Tiller, Seattle, WA Introduction of Preacher............................................................................... Elizabeth Cheeseman-Martin Musical Selection............................................................................................................... Convention Choir The Preached Word.............................................................Minister Yolanda Mitchell, Brooklyn, NY

Associate Minister – Church of God of East New York, Brooklyn, NY Invitation to Discipleship & Benediction..........................................................Minister Yolanda Mitchell

2:30 PM........................................................................................................................Business Meeting 4:30 PM..........................................................................................................................Choir Rehearsal

63rd National Ushers Convention

“Creating a Discipling Culture Through Christ-Like Service.” Colossians 1:28 7:00 PM WORSHIP SERVICE Chairperson..................................................................Beatrice Whittington, Canal Winchester, OH Scripture........................................................................................ Angela Proctor-Mills, Tacoma, WA Prayer of Invocation....................................................................................... Bessie Smith, Tuscaloosa, AL Musical Selection............................................................................................................... Convention Choir Intercessory Prayer..............................................................................................Gloria Stubbs, Toledo, OH Offering..........................................................................................................Mary Ann Nesbit, Atlanta, GA Announcements..................................................................................................... Naomi Carter, Lamar, SC Introduction of Preacher............................................................................................. Beatrice Whittington Musical Selection............................................................................................................... Convention Choir The Preached Word................................................................. Elder Lois Key-Alexander, Trenton, NJ

Co-Pastor – Life Abundant Church of God, Trenton, NJ Invitation to Discipleship..................................................................................... Elder Lois Key-Alexander Communion & Candlelight Service & Benediction..............................................................................

Reverend James Brown, CFO National Association of the Church of God

Communion Committee

Sanrel Jackson-Short Reeba Cooper Meriam Don Grant Margaret Mascall Richard Johnson, Jr.

SATURDAY, MAY 19, 2018 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM................................................................................... Prayer & Praise With Power Prayer & Praise Worship Leader – Minister Janice Warren, Renton, WA 8:15 AM – 8:50 AM...........................................................................................................................Breakfast 9:00 AM – 10:45 AM.............................................................................................................Workshops

Ministry of Ushering.................................................................Presenter: Laura I. Pharr

Spiritual Warfare....................................................Presenter: Reverend Roland Cooper

Developing Leaders for the Future....................Presenter: Reverend Elsa Johnson Bass

63rd National Ushers Convention

“Creating a Discipling Culture Through Christ-Like Service.” Colossians 1:28 11:00 AM WORSHIP SERVICE Chairperson...................................................................................Linda Cornelous-Fisher, Harvey, IL Scripture & Prayer of Invocation.................................................... Susie Beasley, East Cleveland, OH Musical Selection................................................................................................................ Convention Choir Intercessory Prayer........................................................................................ Geraldine Hunter, Detroit, MI Offering..............................................................................................................Reeba Cooper, Anderson, IN Announcements.............................................................................................. Hakim Frye, Philadelphia, PA Introduction of Preacher......................................................................................... Linda Cornelous-Fisher Musical Selection................................................................................................................ Convention Choir The Preached Word.............................................................................Dr. Carol Merritt, St. Louis, MO

Co-Pastor, New Cote Brilliante Church of God, St. Louis, MO Invitation to Discipleship & Benediction.......................................................................... Dr. Carol Merritt 6:00 PM NATIONAL USHERS FELLOWSHIP BANQUET Chairperson........................................................................................ Marie Freeman, Kansas City, KS Entrance of Dais Guests.....................................................................................................................................

Prayer of Invocation & Table Grace...................................................Joseph Scarborough, Lunchburg, SC Introduction of Dais Guests....................................................................................................Marie Freeman Dinner is Served Musical Selection...................................................................................................Dr. Scott O. Cumberbatch Introduction of Preacher................................................................. First Lady Joy Cofield, Kansas City, KS Evening Address.................................................................................. Reverend Charles E. Cofield, Jr.

Senior Pastor - Kansas City Community Church, Kansas City, KS Presentations......................................................................................... Esther Deans – Attendance Awards

Juanita Johnson – Product Awards

Laura Pharr – Souvenir Journal Ad Award Announcements............................................................................................... Cecelia White, Brooklyn, NY Benediction................................................................................................... Reverend Charles E. Cofield, Jr.

63rd National Ushers Convention

“Creating a Discipling Culture Through Christ-Like Service.” Colossians 1:28 SUNDAY, MAY 20, 2018 8:00 AM WORSHIP SERVICE

Chairperson................................................................................. Shelia Granger, Lathrop Village, MI Processional............................................................................................................................................ Ushers Prayer of Invocation & Scripture......................................................George Hillman, Hazel Crest, IL Prayer Hymn....................................................................................................................... Convention Choir Intercessory Prayer..............................................................................................Sandra Johnson, Stow, OH President’s March Offertory....................................................................................................... Esther Deans Announcements...................................................................................Louvenia Evans, Windsor Mill, MD

Assistant Treasurer, National Association of the Church of God Ushers Introduction of Preacher........................................................................................................ Shelia Granger Musical Selection............................................................................................................... Convention Choir The Preached Word...................................................... Reverend Timothy Quainoo, Bolingbrook, IL

Associate Pastor, Living Water Community Church, Bolingbrook, IL Invitation to Discipleship.................................................................................Reverend Timothy Quainoo Moment of Silence in Memory of Deceased Ushers.....................................................................................

Dedication of Ushers.................................................................................. Reverend Claudell Warren

Church of God Evangelistic Center, Seattle, WA Recessional.............................................................................................................................................. Ushers Benediction........................................................................................................Reverend Timothy Quainoo

2018 Camp-Meeting Speakers Sun Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat Sun

AM PM AM PM AM PM AM PM AM PM AM PM AM PM AM

Dr Charles Myricks, Jr. Rev Clifton McDowell Dr Dwight Fowler Bishop Adrienne Holmes Lady Leah Conedy Rev Mark Richardson Rev Donna Hall Rev Carmela Richardson Dr Paul Sheppard Rev John Jenkins Rev Brian Mack Rev Leo Robinson Rev Jerald January Rev Jason Silva Bishop Timothy Clarke

2018 Awards & Honorees Life Time Achievement Award

Edward Foggs

R S Jackson Leadership Award

James Marshall

Wilhemina Frazier Missions Award

Ruben & Jenny Schwieger Andy Patterson Emerging Leader Award

Derek Irvine

Andy Patterson Emerging Leader Award

Pfalin Burton

Esther B. Culp Christian Servanthood Award

Crystal Johnson

Including the inaugural pre-campmeeting worship arts symposium

Pansy M. Brown Education Award

Aleza Beverly

IMPORTANT NOTE Registration information available online at www.NACOG.com

The Main Street/318 bridge is being replaced and will be closed April 2 - November 1, 2018

Please refer to our website NACOG.com for directions and maps for alternate routes.

Greetings President Esther Deans On the

63rd National Ushers Convention “Christ encouraged Peter to strengthen his brethren.” Luke 22:32 Let us work and strive to lift one another up.

Let’s strive to walk in Unity.

“I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all loneliness and gentleness, with long suffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

Ephesians 4:1-3 CHURCH OF GOD EVANGELISTIC CENTER 2715 South Jackson Street Seattle, WA 98144

Claudell Warren, Pastor

Bro. James W. Pharr, Jr. October 6, 1936 – January 5, 2016

You are truly missed but not forgotten.

We will never stop loving you.

Your Wife, Laura Daughters, Veronica & Jaime Grandchildren, Devon & Kiera

m Congratulations and God’s Blessings President Esther Deans and

The National Ushers of the Church of God On our 63rd Annual National Convention From The First Church of God Jamaica 110-10 167th Street Jamaica, New York, 11433 Rev. Virginia Robinson Pastor

The Happiness of Those Who Trust in God “I will bless the Lord at all time: His praise shall continually be In my mouth, my soul shall make its boast in the Lord; the Humble shall hear of it and be glad. Oh, magnify the Lord with Me, and let us exalt His name together.”

Psalm 34:1-3

FIRST CHURCH OF GOD JAMAICA USHER BOARD

Sister Rose A. Duncan.................................................... President

Sister Judith Lindo..................................................Vice-President

Sister Sue Coppin............................................................ Treasurer

Sister Sylvia Johnson.................................................. Fund Raiser

Sister Betty Joel...................................................................Advisor

Brother Jordon Barnaby, Jr................................................... Usher

The Indiana State Usher Board Congratulates President Esther Dean and the National Ushers on 63 Years of Service Secretary - Jeanetta Hayes

President - Diane Patterson

“Dreaming the

Vice President - Reeba Cooper

Next Decade

Spiritual Advisor - Charles Knight

of Discipleship�

Ephesians 2:10

Treasurer - Claude Hawkins

Hostess Coord. - Joane Montague

Asst. Treasurer - Willie Braggs

Honorary Member - Annie Green

“Serving God’s Purpose Through Generations”

Psalm 48 Brand New Life Christian Center Philadelphia, PA Bishop/ Apostle Earl Palmer & Prophetess Maria Palmer

PENNSYLVANIA STATE USHERS

Regina Robinson............................................................................... President

Cola Rivers................................................................................. Vice President

Rosalie McMillion..............................................................................Secretary

Doretha Porter................................................................................... Treasurer

Lena Green......................................................................... Assistant Treasurer

Reverend Lois Lukus............................................................................Chaplin

JoAnn Howard..................................................Communication Coordinator

Diane Smith....................................................................................... Historian

“Walk by Faith And Not By Sight”

II Corinthians 5:7 Christ Center Church of God Philadelphia, PA Reverend Dr. David R.L. Stevens, Sr. Pastor & Lady Dorothy Stevens

PENNSYLVANIA STATE USHERS

Regina Robinson............................................................................... President

Cola Rivers................................................................................. Vice President

Rosalie McMillion..............................................................................Secretary

Doretha Porter................................................................................... Treasurer

Lena Green......................................................................... Assistant Treasurer

Rev. Lois Lukus.....................................................................................Chaplin

JoAnn Howard..................................................Communication Coordinator

Diane Smith....................................................................................... Historian

Congratulations to the

National Association of the Church of God Ushers On the 63rd National Ushers Convention “Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors.”

Proverbs 8:34 KJV

SHERIDAN STREET COMMUNITY CHURCH OF GOD 2303 South Sheridan Street Tacoma, WA 98405 (253) 272-8231 Pastor Roy L. Fletcher Shirley Edwards Secretary

THE THIRD STREET CHURCH OF GOD USHERS WASHINGTON, D.C. 20001

Rev. Dr. Cheryl J. Sanders, Senior Pastor

Greetings

& Blessings

to the National Ushers on the occasion of our 63rd Annual Convention.

Hoping that Springfield, Massachusetts will be a blessing.

We pray that as God shows up, all will be strengthened and more determined than ever before to create a discipling culture through Christ-like service. “He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ.� ... Colossians 1:28 NIV. Rachelle Green -Usher President Marvin Talley -Vice-President Evelyn Hagwood -Advisor and the Third Street Church of God Ushers

Congratulations President Esther R. Deans

Greetings from the Church of God Evangelistic Center But thanks be to God, which giveth us victory though our Lord Jesus Christ. “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as you know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.�

1 Corinthians 15: 57-58

CHURCH OF GOD EVANGELISTIC CENTER SENIOR USHER BOARD Pastor Claudell Warren Address: 2715 S Jackson , Seattle, WA 98144 | Telephone: (206) 324-2771 Sister Angela Proctor-Mills (President) Sister Laura I Pharr (Treasurer) Sister Eddye Davis (Secretary) Sister Diane Spellman (Advisor)

Sister Arzelia

Jones Sister

Birdie Ann Kelly

Brother Joseph Warren Sister Linda McKinly Sister June Turner

Congratulations and Blessings

to President Esther Deans and The National Association Of Ushers On Our 63rd Convention

SOUTHWESTERN CHURCH OF GOD 3032 South Fort Street Detroit, MI 48217

Pastor Jack Perkins

“Serving God’s Purpose Through Generations” Psalm 48

GREETINGS FROM SEATTLE, WASHINGTON Home Of The Seahawks (NFL), Mariners (MLB), Storm (WNBA), And Sounders (MLS)

President Deans and the National Association of the Church of God Ushers THE INSPIRATIONAL CHOIR OF THE CHURCH OF GOD EVANGELISTIC CENTER thank you for your ministry and wish to express how much we value all you do to advance God’s Kingdom.

There is an old hymn that says: “Work for the night is coming, work through the morning hours Work while the dew is sparkling, work mid springing flowers Work when the day grows brighter, work in the glowing sun Work for the night is coming when Man’s work is done.”

--Anna L Coghill

Sincerely, Sister Alayne Belcher – President Church of God Evangelistic Center 2715 South Jackson Street Seattle, WA 98144 Rev. Claudell Warren - Pastor

Blessings to President Esther Deans

and The National Association of the Church of God Ushers during this 63rd Convention Creating a Discipling Culture - Colossian 1:28

Ushers Missing From This Picture: Brother Donald Deboe, Sister Dorothy Lindsay, Sister Minnie Glaspie and Christian Josephs

FIRST CHURCH OF GOD 3016 Collingwood Blvd Toledo, Ohio 43610 www.fcogtoledo.com Bishop Robert A Culp

Congratulations

President Esther Deans and The National Ushers of the Church of God As you celebrate the 63rd Convention We want the next generation to continue the work of the Lord.

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord.

Let’s encourage our next generation to carry on the work of God. Psalms 127:3

Joseph andJaniceWarren Church of God Evangelistic Center 2715 South Jackson Street Seattle, WA 98144 206-324-2771 Rev. Claudell Warren - Pastor

Congratulation and Best Wishes President Esther R. Deans

and THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION

OF THE CHURCH OF GOD USHERS Celebrating the 63rd National Ushers Convention Springfield, MA THE WOMENS MINISTRY CHURCH OF GOD EVANGELISTIC CENTER 2715 South Jackson Street, Seattle, WA 98144

Rev. Claudell Warren - Pastor President - Arzelia Jones Vice-President - Sheryl Hall Secretary - Birdie Ann Kelly Treasurer - Eddye Davis Historian - Tinnie Madison Hospitality Chair - Yvon Hennings Spiritual Life Director- Shannon Brown Scripture: Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV)

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, and not for men, Since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.

“He will bless those who fear the Lord, both the small and the great.

May the Lord give you increase, you and your children.”

--Psalms 115:13-14

“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity. “ --Psalms 133:1

Church of God Evangelistic Center 2715 South Jackson Street, Seattle, WA 98144 Pastor Claudell Warren

The Henley Family

Congratulations

63rd National Ushers Convention

May God continue to bless the National Ushers as together we serve in 2018 under the theme Dreaming the Next Decade of Discipleship…Through Love Serve One Another. Galatians 5:13

LANGLEY AVE CHURCH OF GOD USHERS MINISTRY Anita A Jackson, President Eva James Yeo, Vice President Linda Cornelous Fisher, 2nd Vice President All Usher members and Junior Ushers

Rev. Cynthia Thomas, Senior Pastor Rev. Mario Jenkins, Senior Associate Pastor Langley Ave Church of God 6159 South Langley Avenue Chicago, IL 60637 Office 773.643.9688 | Fax 773.643-0364 | www.langleycog.org

To The National Ushers of the Church of God

May God Richly Bless You as you Celebrate Your 63rd Anniversary!

PROPHETIC CHURCH OF GOD 123-125 North 5th Street Paterson, New Jersey 07522 (973) 942-5109 Email:PropheticCOG@aol.com Rev. Warren F. McDowell, Senior Pastor Associate Minister, Scott O. Cumberbatch “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

Congratulations & Blessings!!!

President Esther Deans and The National Ushers of the Church of God

PROPHETIC CHURCH OF GOD USHER’S BOARD

Sis. Aminee Moore, President

Bro. Roger Dailey, Vice President

Bro. Jahvon Devine-Jones

Sis. O’Leanson Faircloth

Sis. Denise Godbolt, Sect

Bro. Douglas Harris

Bro. Allen Stephen JUNIOR USHERS Jahmir Devine-Jones

Neaviah Devine

Kayley McFarlane D’Saiya Mixon

Prophetic Church of God 123-125 North 5th Street Paterson, NJ 07522

Rev. Warren F. McDowell, Pastor Sis. Mary L. McDowell, First Lady Associate Minster, Scott O. Cumberbatch

s

Congratulations

to the National Association of the Church of God Ushers

and

Sister Esther R. Deans on the 63rd National Ushers Convention JUANITA HOLLINGSWORTH-JOHNSON **JHJetal, ECE Training & Consulting** ***Tracilynn Jewelry Consultant #10952***

∑

Blessings and Greetings

To The Attendees at the 2018 National Association Ushers Convention Of The Church Of God

Ohio’s Ushers Are Creating a Discipling Culture (Ephesians 2:10) THE OHIO STATE USHER BOARD OF THE CHURCH OF GOD

Sis. Gloria Stubbs, Ohio State President Sis. Sandra K. Johnson, State Advisor Sis. Vera M. Allen, State Advisor Reverend Dr. J. Douglas Walls, Spiritual Advisor “We Are Serving in the Lord’s Presence”

∏

Heartiest Congratulations and God’s Continued Blessing To the National Ushers

May God Continue To Bless Your Endeavors With Love And Support!

Reverend and Sister Warren McDowell And Family PROPHETIC CHURCH OF GOD 123-125 North 5th Street Paterson, NJ 07522 (973) 942-5109

Congratulations To The New Jersey State Ushers And To Our Local President Sis. Aminee Moore

“Lord God of Israel, we praise you. Only you can work miracles.”

Psalm 72:18 PROPHETIC CHURCH OF GOD BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION 123-125 N.5th Street Paterson, NJ 07522 Sis. Catherine Devine, Chairperson Rev. Warren McDowell, Pastor

“But those who trust the Lord will find new strength.

They will be strong like eagles soaring upward on wings; they will walk and run without getting tired. Isaiah 40:31 WOMEN’S MINISTRY PROPHETIC CHURCH OF GOD 123-125 North 5th Street Paterson, New Jersey 07522 (973) 942-5109 President: Sister Joan Ward Vice President: Sis. Katie Cowan Rev. Warren F. McDowell, Pastor Associate Minister, Scott O. Cumberbatch

For I was hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink.

Matthew 25:35 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, In as much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

Matthew 25:40

The Sack Lunch Ministry was started in 2010 with Sister Patricia McKnight (Warren) and Minister Yvonne Duke and was joined later

by Sister Barb Tiller. We started at the Morrison Hotel in downtown Seattle, Washington.

Then we moved to the street corners and viaduct. Several years later we moved outside near the front of the Methadone Clinic, where we are currently serving.

The Ministry consist of giving Sack lunch, Praying for needs, A listening ear, & Words of encouragement. Through this ministry, we believe that lives have been changed and hope has been given to the hopeless.

In His Service, Minister Yvonne Duke Sister Barb Tiller Sister Patricia McKnight (Warren)

Congratulations

National Association Of The Church Of God Ushers 63rd Annual Convention from

RESTORATION FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 9605 Reisterstown Road, Owings Mill, MD 21117 (443) 930-1212; www.myrestorationfellowship.com Pastor Ronald And Lady Yvette Chandler

USHERS President: Sis. Louvenia Evans Vice President: Sis. Lynette Inniss Sis. Maureen Collymore Sis. Celleste Peay Sis. Cindy Scott Sis. Antoinette Yearwood Security: Bro. Richard Stanton “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

Galatians 6:10 (NIV)

CELEBRATING THE 63RD NATIONAL USHERS CONVENTION

Remembering Our Parents

Mr. Roger and Mrs. Louvenia Evans and Children Cheryl Miller, Teresa Miller, Robert Miller, Jr. (Peatrice), Anthony Miller, Angela Sylva (Jason), Roger Evans, Jr.

“Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good. His love endures forever.

Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.” Psalm 136: 1,26 (NIV)

Congratulation and Best Wishes to President Esther R. Deans

and the 63rd National Ushers Convention

“Dreaming the Next Decade of Discipleship – Ephesians 2:10” SHERMAN CHURCH OF GOD President Joane Montague Pastor Ragen B. Mitchell and the Sherman Street Church of God Ushers

Congratulations and Best Wishes to

President Esther Dean and

The National Ushers of the Church of God On 63 years of Faithful Service THE USHERS’ MINISTRY First Church of God St Matthews, S C Reverend Derrick Lloyd, Pastor

BROCKINGTON STREET CHURCH OF GOD 512 North Brockington Street , Timmonsville, SC 29161

Patricia Kirkland, Pastor

(843) 346-3122

Tiller White, Usher President

Congratulations to the National Ushers 63rd Convention

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:13 (KJV)

CHURCH OF GOD EVANGELISTIC CENTER

Our Missionary to Haiti

There are blessings for those who serve the poor. “Give generously to them and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.” “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and He will reward them for what they have done.” Proverbs 19:17

In 1980 she journeyed to Haiti on the first of many mission trips with People Concerned for Missions under the leadership of Reverend Vera Boudreaux. There she helps to minister to the personal needs of the people and share the Good News of Jesus Christ. In July of 2013 she organized a Walk 4 Haiti to raise monies to have a well dug in Haiti. The amount of money raised was enough to have two wells dug at two of the schools/church communities that PCFM support. She has headed up several other projects taking children’s socks, underwear, baby formula, clothes and money to buy beans and rice to supply help to the people of Haiti.

With the support of her church, family (especially her Dad) and many friends she hopes to continue in the mission work in Haiti.

Minister G. Renae Warren currently serving on the PCFM Board as President If you would like to support missions in Haiti

PEOPLE CONCERNED FOR MISSIONS, INC PO Box 2024, Daly City, CA 94017 Church of God Evangelistic Center 2715 South Jackson St Seattle, Washington 98144 Pastor Claudell Warren

Congratulations National Ushers of the Church of God on your

63rd National Convention

ORIENT CHURCH OF GOD 18-20 Ivy Place, Jersey City, NJ 07304 Sis. Dorothy Patterson, Usher President Reverend Rufus V. Strother, Senior Pastor

CONGRATULATIONS On Your “2018” 63rd NATIONAL USHERS CONVENTION

184 26th Avenue – Seattle, Washington 98122 Vonzella Avery/Proprietor – (206) 331-3925 preciousgifts.seven@gmail.com “HERE WHERE CHILDREN ARE PRECIOUS BECAUSE THEY ARE A GIFT FROM GOD”

Congratulations and Blessings!!

President Esther R. Deans and

The National Ushers

on your 63rd National Convention “Be strong and courageous.

Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.�

Joshua 1:9

In Memory of

Pastor Ilean B. Sinclair

BROWNSVILLE COMMUNITY CHURCH OF GOD 920 West First Nor1h Street Summerville, South Carolina 29483 (843) 821 - 2585

The Brownsville Community Church of God Ushers join you in continued service to the Church of God. May this 2018 National Ushers Convention be a blessing to the Springfield, Massachusetts area and to those who come from near or far to participate in the services and activities.

Ruby Williams - Usher President Robert L. Toliver - Pastor

... but by love serve one another. Galations 5:13

“All you nations, praise the LORD. All you people, praise Him because the LORD loves us very much, and His truth is everlasting.

Praise the LORD!” Psalm 117 (ICB) PRAISE GOD & THANK HIM for the

63rd National Ushers Convention SANCTUARY CHOIR Brother Herman Tucker- Director Sister Janice Warren- Musician Church of God Evangelistic Center 2715 South Jackson Street Seattle, WA 98144 Pastor Claudell Warren

Congratulations and God’s Richest Blessings on your

63rd National Ushers Convention Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing.

In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

I Thessalonians 5: 16-18 KJV

NURSING HOME & PRAYER MINISTRIES Church oF God Evangelistic Center 2716 South Jackson Street Seattle, WA 98144 Pastor Claudell Warren

Salutations

from Seattle Washington

to the National Association of the Church of God Ushers CHURCH OF GOD EVANGELISTIC CENTER MEN’S DEPARTMENT

The Men’s department of Church of God Evangelistic Center would like to thank you all for your unwavering service to God’s Kingdom.

“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you.

Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”

1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV)

Sincerely,

Brother James P. Williams-President Church of God Evangelistic Center 2717 South Jackson Street Seattle, WA 98144

SOUTH CAROLlNA STATE USHERS

Congratulations, Best Wishes and the Lord’s Many Blessings For all Attendees at the 2018 National Ushers Convention!!!

****

Congratulations To

President Esther Dean And

The National Ushers of The Church of God ****

63 Years of Faithful Service Congratulations to The National Ushers of the Church of God In Loving Memory of William H. Jones III

Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather with Love your wife Arzelia Hammond Jones

The NACOG Ushers are creating a Discipling Culture Through Service Lillian D. Spivey Lonnie-Sharon Williams CHURCH OF THE HARVEST CHURCH OF GOD Middleburg Heights, Ohio

Congratulations

To the Church of God National Ushers 63rd Convention We love and appreciate our loving and caring ushers at the Church of God Evangelistic Center of Seattle, Washington.

“Therefore you shall love the Lord your God, and keep his charge, His statutes, His judgments, and His commandments always.�

Deuteronomy 11: 1 THE TUCKER FAMILY

Greetings,

,

President Esther Deans and

The National Ushers of the Church of God As you Convene for the 63rd Convention

Can God Depend On You? Are You working Together with God? “For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building.”

I Corinthians 3:9

s SUNDAY SCHOOL DEPARTMENT Church of God Evangelistic Center 2715 South Jackson Street Seattle, WA 98144 Claudell Warren, Pastor

Congratulations!!!!!!!!

President Ester Deans and The National Association of the Church of God Ushers

“I will sing to the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live” Psalm 104:33 “Speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit.

Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord” Ephesians 5:19 “ As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.”

1 Peter 4:10

COGEC Kings Kids President- Erin Glenn Musician- Renee C. Warren Director- Shannan Durden

Church of God Evangelistic Center 2715 South Jackson Street Seatlle, Washington 98144 206 324-2771

Pastor Claudell Warren

Congratulations

Sister Esther Deans, President and The National Ushers of the Church of God on our 63rd Convention ARLINGTON CHURCH OF GOD USHER BOARD 539 South Arlington Street, Akron, Ohio 44306 Reverend Dr. Diane L. Swoops, Senior Pastor

Congratulations

Sister Esther Deans and The National Ushers of the Church of God on your

63rd National Convention

MLDCommunications

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Reverend J-Anthony & Madelin Dargan 62 Maple Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07042 Phone: 973-783-6198 Email: mldcomm@aol.com

Congraulations & God’s Many Blessings Upon President Esther Deans

and the 63rd National Association Of The Church Of God Ushers Convention

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these”. Matthew 19:14 - (NIV) YOUNG AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST CHILDREN’S CHURCH WILLING WORKERS Rhonda Fairman, Tina Austin and Shannon Brown CHURCH OF GOD EVANGELISTIC CENTER 2715 South Jackson Street , Seattle, Washington 98144 Telephone (206)324-2771 Claudell Warren, Pastor

Roosevelt Avery

Imanni Greene

Peatrice Miller

Alayne Belcher

Erin Glenn

Robert Miller

David Belcher

Yvon Hennings

Ke’Myah Oatis

Maureen Collymore

Lillie Mae Jarrett

Ke’Mariah Oatis

Liza Effinger

Makayla Glenn

Sta’Vonn Oatis

Frieda Fairman

Onzell Glenn

Cindy Scott

Israel N. Fairman

Avaunte Glenn

Diane Smith

Jamal Fairman

Sheryl Hall

Mr. & Mrs. William Still

Rhonda Fairman

Daisy Harrell

Antoinette Yearwood

Robert Jarett

Steffan Oatis

William Leavell

Katherine Sears

Captain Arthur J. Madison

Sandra Thomasto

Garnell Moore

NACOGU

63rd National Ushers Convention Springfield, Massachusettes

Creating A Discipling Culture Through Christ-Like Service Colossians 1:28

Front Cover Logo Design by: Leah McDowell Williams Submitted by: Juanita Hollingswoth-Johnson Program Printing and Design Entrusted To: MLD Communications “The Very Best In Desktop Publishing�

Rev. J-Anthony & Madelin Dargan, 973-783-6198 Email: mldcomm@aol.com