Virginia Third 2024 Holy Convocation Program

Welcome from the Jurisdictional Prelate

Bishop Jonathan G. Willis Greetings, in the matchless name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Welcome to the Virginia Third Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction’s Fifty-Seventh Annual Holy Convocation. This gathering brings us closer to the end of my inaugural season and I am overjoyed to share these firsts with you.

As we proceed to go even higher as laborers in this great work with the theme, “The Year of Glory,” derived from Haggai 2:9, let us be sure to emphasize that in the latter house, there will not only be a greater glory, but also peace. This is my prayer for us this week and for as long as God allows; that we would transcend every obstacle and distraction to experience the fulfilled assurance of spiritual peace in the Lord and behold His magnificent glory.

Until the time we are all face-to-face with our Creator and gathered in His glory, we must answer the call to finish this present work. Therefore, let our collective response be to collaborate, live with, and serve one another in peace. While our esteemed jurisdiction has experienced wonderful historical moments amid devastating loss and constant change, it is the peace of God, which passes all understanding, that has kept my heart and mind steadfast on this assignment. It can be difficult to imagine something greater up ahead, but the peace of God keeps me lifted and it will do the same for you.

Virginia Third, God has already loaded the years ahead with more of His glory and I am looking forward to what we will gain as a cohesive unit in our convocation this week. So, get excited with me, look ahead with me, and join me in a high praise unto God for all the things we have yet to encounter.

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you always.

Yours In Christ – Forever,

Bishop Jonathan G. Willis Bishop Jonathan G. Willis Jurisdictional Prelate

Welcome from the Jurisdictional Supervisor

Mother Sharon Alston-Felder “The Year of Glory" Haggai 2:9

The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former, saith the LORD of hosts: and in this place will I give peace, saith the LORD of hosts.

It is indeed a pleasure to be able to greet each of you in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Once again God has blessed us to come together and unite in celebration. God has a purpose and a plan for us. We must continue to thirst after Him until we are filled with peace. Let’s continue to obey God’s voice, obey His Word, walk by faith and be guided by the Holy Spirit of truth.

We have so much to celebrate. Indeed, this is the Year of Glory! And all the glory belongs to God. The glory of God is a spiritual collection of everything contained in the character of God. God has manifested His glory through signs, miracles, and wonders by the testimony of His saints throughout this year. When we think about where he has brought us from, we know that His glory has been manifested in our lives.

We thank God for our leader, Bishop Jonathan G. Willis, who has proclaimed the manifested Glory of God over our jurisdiction in every life, every church, and every home. We celebrate our leader, and as the law of reciprocity allows us to receive as we give, we proclaim the Glory of God to be the greatest mutual benefit in every area of his life, as our leader pours out to so many.

The Year of Glory is yet being manifested and we are thankful. Please keep our Bishop, his wife, and his family in prayer. Please pray for me, my family and for each other. We are family.

Bringing Honor to my Father,

Sharon Alston-Felder Mother Sharon Alston–Felder Jurisdictional Supervisor

Welcome from the Bishop’s Wife

Lady Felicia E. Willis In the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, I warmly welcome you all. It’s a joy to be together again, united in love and good deeds as Hebrews 10:24 encourages. Let’s approach this time with great anticipation, knowing God has uniquely prepared us for this moment.

I’m deeply grateful to God for my husband, Bishop Jonathan G. Willis, whom I lovingly call ‘Honey Boo-Bishop’—and I hope you find that endearing. This truly is the Lord’s work, and it fills our hearts with delight. Psalm 133:1 reminds us how wonderful and harmonious it is to be together in unity.

I humbly ask for your prayers. I've been seeking God to help me be a strong voice of holiness, uniqueness, and purpose in this season. Together, let’s build on the foundation laid by our predecessors and fully embrace our leader’s vision.

May this 57th Holy Convocation bring renewal, divine revelation, and a deep sense of togetherness.

Let’s treasure our time together, engage in fellowship, and worship God with joy. It’s time for some CHURCH! As we gather in the spirit of ‘The Year of Glory,’ inspired by Haggai 2:9, we reflect on the strength and compassion of our Heavenly Father. His empowerment guides us toward our mission and purpose.

May the love of Christ bind our hearts together as we pursue our God-given calling with determination.

When we trust God with everything, He can use us to do anything!

Serving to bring glory to my Father,

Felicia E. Willis

First Lady Felicia E. Willis The Bishop’s Wife

Welcome from the Mother of the Jurisdiction

Mother Judith L. W. Willis Dear blessed and highly favored people of God! With a steadfast heart, I am so excited to greet each of you in the name of Jesus! Welcome and get ready for an EXPLOSION of more GLORY at the Virginia Third Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction’s Fifty-Seventh Annual Holy Convocation.

As we continue with our theme for the year, The Year of Glory , it is my prayer that you are diligently desiring God’s glory every day, just as much as I am. While the world around us seems to be intent on stripping believers of their hope, we should be even more determined to rejoice in the hope of the glory of God, despite every circumstance.

I encourage each of you to hold on until that promise is revealed in your life. Romans 5 proclaims that we have access to God through Jesus Christ, allowing us to glory in tribulations. It helps us to remember that there is victory after the battle and more of God’s great glory to be revealed.

Friends, you know, almost as well as I do, just how much our beloved leader, Bishop Jonathan G. Willis, loves to have us enjoying the presence of the Lord together. Wouldn’t it be awesome for Bishop to see us basking in the glory of God so much this week that the overflow spills onto everyone and everything nearby? The way he has served this jurisdiction with excellence, in such a short time, is a testimony to the faith he has in God. So, let us go after God’s glory together and pursue it in our service unto the Lord and in our witness to the world. May the glory of God remain in your hearts, today and forever.

With the Love of the Lord,

Judith L.W. Willis Mother Judith L. W. Willis The Mother of the Jurisdiction

Administrative Assistants ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTS TO THE BISHOP

Bishop Melvin L. Austin

Bishop James I. Johnson Jr.

Bishop–Designate Dwight A. Nixon

Dr. Gregg M. Cooper

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTS TO THE SUPERVISOR

Mother Amelia J. Boyd Assistant Jurisdictional Supervisor Designate

Missionary Yolanda N. Gardner

Missionary Beverly E. Goode

Missionary Arlene S. Woodley

Missionary Alexia T. Newby

District Roll Call COMMONWEALTH DISTRICT Superintendent Ronald L. Hardy Sr. & District Missionary Yvonne W. Hawkins CONQUERING DISTRICT Superintendent Jasper M. Willis & District Missionary Judith Green FATHER AARON BAZEMORE DISTRICT Superintendent Donald L. Finney & District Missionary Glenda E. Finney F. M. BATTS MEMORIAL DISTRICT Superintendent Brandon C. Allen & District Missionary Janet P. Roberts GREATER WESTERN DISTRICT Superintendent George W. Bond & District Missionary Ayn Bratton–Reynolds LION OF JUDAH DISTRICT Superintendent Shawn S. Hines Sr. & District Missionary Marian R. Cain NEW CENTRAL DISTRICT Superintendent Harold Woodley & District Missionary Kelli Randolph NEW TRI-CITY DISTRICT Superintendent Carl G. Singleton Sr. & District Missionary Shakira Baker NORFOLK DISTRICT Superintendent Michael E. Plummer Sr. & District Missionary Carolyn Jones PORTSMOUTH DISTRICT Superintendent Avis Newby & District Missionary Sheila Welch TIDEWATER DISTRICT Superintendent Joshua Smith Jr. & District Missionary Carolyn Darden VIRGINIA BEACH DISTRICT Superintendent Robert A. Laury & District Missionary Beth A. Dickens

Jurisdictional Officers Jurisdictional Secretary Chief of Staff Executive Assistant to the Bishop Assistant Chief of Staff Chair of Finance Vice Chair of Finance Jurisdictional Treasurer Financial Assistant Chair, Program Committee Co–Chair, Program Committee Vice Chair, Program Committee Vice Chair, Program Committee Chief Adjutant Assistant Chief Adjutant Lead Adjutant Sister Assistant Lead Adjutant Sister Episcopal Adjutant Episcopal Adjutant Chief of Security Chairman, Board of Superintendents Assistant Chairman, Board of Superintendents Secretary, Board of Superintendents Chairman, Council of Pastors and Elders Vice Chairman, Council of Pastors and Elders Secretary, Council of Pastors and Elders Chairman, Board of Ordination Vice Chairman, Board of Ordination Member, Board of Ordination Member, Board of Ordination Member, Board of Ordination Member, Board of Ordination Dean, School of Licensing Assistant Dean, School of Licensing Assistant Dean, School of Licensing Member, School of Licensing Member, School of Licensing Member, School of Licensing Member, School of Licensing Member, School of Licensing Member, School of Licensing ILTI Co–Coordinator ILTI Co–Coordinator ILTI Project Specialist AIM Chair AIM Co–Chair AIM Women’s Department Coordinator Scholastic Motivation Ministries Co–Director Scholastic Motivation Ministries Co–Director Evangelism Department President Evangelism Department Elect–Lady

Elder Curtis L. Tunstall Sr. Superintendent Shawn S. Hines Sr. Minister Mosi Marks Sister Amber Ellis Missionary Catherine T. Purvis Elder Wendy Sandidge Sister Debora T. Roseboro Sister Terry Hampton Superintendent Brandon C. Allen Pastor Monty White Missionary Andrea Singleton Missionary LaTonya Willis Pastor Elbert Louis Elder Montrell Jennings District Missionary Beth A. Dickens Missionary Rashida Robinson Minister George L. Harrison Elder Christopher Pollard Deacon Horace Felder Superintendent Ronald L. Hardy Sr. Superintendent George W. Bond Superintendent Donald L. Finney Superintendent Carl G. Singleton Sr. Pastor Leonard Allen Elder Cornelius Bennett Superintendent Harold Woodley Elder Conroy Randolph Superintendent Ronald L. Hardy Sr. Superintendent Carl G. Singleton Sr. Pastor Randy L. James Elder Michael Walton District Missionary Beth A. Dickens Missionary Deserie Cooper District Missionary Judith Green Administrative Assistant Yolanda N. Gardner District Missionary Marian Cain District Missionary Glenda E. Finney District Missionary Sheila Welch Executive Pastor Louise Hicks Missionary Iris Mullins Pastor Kimberly D. Hayes Superintendent Jasper M. Willis Missionary D. Ann Brown Missionary Tiffani J. Willis Pastor Maurice C. Davenport II Missionary Jackie Boyd–Harris Elder L. Simeon Johnson Sister Courtney Woodley Superintendent Avis Newby Missionary Iris Mullins

Missions Department President Missions Department Elect–Lady Music Department President Music Department Vice President Music Department Vice President Music Department Vice President Sunday School Superintendent Sunday School Coordinator Youth Department President Youth Department Chairlady Youth Department Vice President Young Men of Valor Coordinator Young Women of Excellence Coordinator Men’s Department President Men’s Department Vice President Marketing & Media Co–Coordinator Marketing & Media Co–Coordinator Marketing & Media Team Member Marketing & Media Team Member Marketing & Media Team Member Marketing & Media Team Member Marketing & Media Team Member Photographer President, Greeters Housing Coordinator Pastor’s Purse Coordinator National Prayer Captain Coordinator, Marriage & Singles Ministry Retreat Co–Coordinator, Marriage & Singles Ministry Retreat Co–Coordinator, Marriage & Singles Ministry Retreat Co–Coordinator, Marriage & Singles Ministry Retreat President, Usher Board Vice President, Usher Board Executive Secretary, Department of Women Treasurer, Department of Women Marshal, Department of Women President, Business & Professional Women’s Federation President, Christian Women’s Council President, Church Mother’s Board President, Clergy & Deacons’ Wives President, District Missionaries Unit Vice President, District Missionaries Unit Vice President, District Missionaries Unit Co–President, Hospitality Department Co–President, Hospitality Department President, Executive Hospitality Department President, Nurses’ Unit Vice President, Nurses’ Unit President, Sunshine Band President, Superintendents’ Wives Circle President, Young Women’s Christian Council

Superintendent Michael E. Plummer Sr. Elder Helena Barnes Pastor Anthony Turner Jr. Pastor Naman H. Potts III Missionary Aretha Drummond Elder L. Simeon Johnson Missionary Karen Harris–Hancock Pastor Jesse Staton Missionary Tiffani J. Willis Missionary LaVanjulena S. Hawkins Brother Jaylen J. Willis Elder James E. Hayes Sister Amber Ellis Pastor Randy L. James Pastor Linwood Welch Pastor Naman H. Potts III Brother Devon Stewart Sister Amber Ellis Brother Davonte Jones Deacon Dreason Ruckett Brother Courtney “CJ” White Elder Carlos Wilson Pastor Alonzo Hawkins Missionary Mary Faison Missionary Andrea Singleton District Missionary Shakira Baker Elder Mary Johnson First Lady Felicia Willis Elder Mary Johnson Missionary Brenda Nixon Missionary Deserie Cooper Sister Bernice Huskey Sister Bernice Medley District Missionary Marian R. Cain Administrative Assistant Yolanda N. Gardner Missionary Brenda Nixon Missionary Dolores M. Knight Elder Ora Plummer Executive Pastor Louise Hicks Mother Judith L.W. Willis District Missionary Marian R. Cain District Missionary Carolyn Darden District Missionary Glenda E. Finney Missionary Evangeline Wallace Sister Joyce Dixon Missionary Jackie Boyd–Harris Missionary Sharon Collins Sister Jonee Purvis-Boyd Missionary Leetreona Matthews Missionary Mary Hardy Missionary Alexia T. Newby

Bishop Anthony W. Gilyard

Pastor | Brown Memorial COGIC & Bethlehem Judah Christian Fellowship COGIC Prelate | Southwestern Florida Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction Tampa, Florida

Nothing is more influential in shaping and molding our world than a yielded vessel to carry the message of Christ’s hope and deliverance for all. These attributes are found in Bishop Anthony W. Gilyard.

On February 22, 2021, Bishop Anthony W. Gilyard was recommended for Jurisdictional Prelate and on February 26, 2021, the Presiding Bishop and General Board met and unanimously accepted the recommendation. He was appointed Pastor of Brown Memorial COGIC by Presiding Bishop and Chief Apostle J. Drew Sheard on March 24, 2021. He is still the Pastor of Bethlehem Judah Christian Fellowship COGIC, one church, two locations – Elizabeth N.J. and Willingboro N.J. It is Bishop Gilyard’s prayer that the preaching uttered from his lips be both an outreach as well as an inner heartfelt message of hope to all that hear the Word – and that the spoken Word be filled with compassion, revelation and a true deliverance experience that changes the lives of the masses.

Pastor Latoya Brewington

Pastor | Rhema Word Christian Center Wilson, North Carolina

Pastor Latoya Brewington is a powerhouse preacher who is not ashamed or afraid to operate in the power of the Holy Ghost. A native of Wilson, NC, this preacher, affectionately known as “the preacher-girl,” travels extensively doing the work of Christ. She is grateful to God for the souls that have been saved, healed and delivered through her ministry.

At the leading of the Lord, she established Rhema Word Christian Center where she serves as Pastor in Wilson, NC. RWCC is a church that is Birthed out of Prayer, Built on the Word, and Bonded in Love. Latoya has not only endeavored to fulfil her call to ministry, she has earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Studies and has received an Honorary Doctorate Degree of Humanitarianism.

This woman of God believes that the Word of the Lord is true and will not return unto him void. She delivers a message of hope that no matter where you are in life or what you may go through, God is able to deliver you.

She is assured of the Word of the Lord spoken in Philippians 1:6: “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.”

Bishop Linwood E. Dillard

Pastor | Citadel of Deliverance Prelate | Tennessee Metropolitan Jurisdiction Memphis, Tennessee

Authentic, Compassionate, Organic, and Uniquely Gifted are only a small fraction of words that the dictionary provides as a verbal description of Bishop Linwood Dillard, Jr. This pastor, national speaker, vision engineer, and 21st century ministry leader is changing the world with an impactful message of deliverance, hope, and success.

Bishop Dillard’s reach emanates from the sanctuary of the Citadel of Deliverance in Memphis, TN. Citadel was planted by Bishop Dillard and his wife in 2001 and is now one of the fastest growing churches in the city. Bishop Dillard was consecrated to the Office of Bishop and appointed as Prelate and Establishmentarian of the Tennessee Metropolitan Jurisdiction by the former Presiding Bishop Charles E. Blake.

Bishop holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and Master of Divinity Degree from Pentecostal Theological Seminary. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry Degree. He has served in several civic, professional, social, and ecumenical capacities and has received numerous awards, recognition, and honorable mentions.

Archbishop William Hudson III

Pastor | The Powerhouse Chicago Chief Prelate | Pilgrim Assemblies International, Inc. Chicago, Illinois

“I have a determination that will never die! I have a zeal that will never dry up! I have a fire in me that cannot be quenched! I must win the lost at any cost, and I can do it through Christ that strengthens me.”

This determination has manifested itself within Archbishop Hudson since the age of three years old when he began preaching from a picture bible. Archbishop Hudson was licensed and ordained at 12 years old by his pastor, Reverend F. D. Johnson at Zion Temple Missionary Baptist Church. At the same age, he premiered in the sitcom “Amen” as “Rev. Johnny.”

In 1990 Archbishop Hudson established Prayer and Faith Outreach Ministries (now known as The Powerhouse Chicago). In December 1995, he graduated from Chicago State University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Speech, and in June 2000, he graduated from Northern Baptist Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity Degree. On April 5, 2016, Archbishop Hudson was enthroned as Chief Prelate and Presiding Bishop of Pilgrim Assemblies International, Inc.

Prophet Frank C. Delaney

Senior Overseer | The Well International New Orleans, Louisiana

Frank C. Delaney is the quintessential servant. With an authentic love and passion for people, it’s no surprise that he has quickly become “one to watch”. He is the Senior Overseer of The Well International, and the founder and visionary of Ox Strong Network, a network of prophetic churches and people.

A proud graduate of Dillard University, Frank's voice reverberates from God's most prominent platform – life.

He was licensed in ministry at the early age of 19 under the leadership of Bishop Lester Love (The City of Love Full Gospel Baptist Church in New Orleans). In 2010, he was ordained as the youngest Elder in the history of the ministry. Dr. Vanessa Battle orchestrated his prophetic affirmation in 2014 and he assimilated into the office of the Prophet.

As a trailblazer and innovative thinker, Frank is often sought out as an expert on leadership for the 21st century church. Dozens of ministries have been changed through his teaching, training and mentorship. He is the author of Triple Threat Power, Money Knows My Name, and Money Just Keeps Coming.

The Order of Divine Worship

Tuesday, August 13, 2024 | Evening Service – 7:00 PM “Pastor’s Purse Celebration” The Expeditor

Superintendent Ronald L. Hardy

Chairman, Board of Superintendents Commonwealth District | Greater Joy

The Invocation

Pastor Eugene Spence

The Old Testament Scripture

Elder Michael Walton

The New Testament Scripture

Evangelist Vickie R. Johnson

The Ministry of Music

The Jurisdictional Choir

Prayer & Action Outreach Ministry

New Bethel Cathedral

Mission Church

The Pastor’s Purse Celebration

District Missionary Shakira Baker – Pastor’s Purse Coordinator The Ministry of Music

The Jurisdictional Choir

The Sacred Ministry of Giving

The Jurisdictional Finance Committee

Announcements & Observations The Presentation of the Prelate

Elder Curtis L. Tunstall Sr.

Jurisdictional Secretary | New Bethel Cathedral

Dr. Gregg M. Cooper

Administrative Assistant | New Garden of Prayer – IV

The Voice of our Leader & Introduction of the Messenger Bishop Jonathan G. Willis Jurisdictional Prelate

The Song of Preparation

The Jurisdictional Choir

The Word of God

Bishop Anthony W. Gilyard

Pastor | Brown Memorial COGIC – Tampa, FL Pastor | Bethlehem Judah Christian Fellowship COGIC – Elizabeth, NJ Prelate | Southwestern Florida Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction

The Invitation and Prayer of Healing & Deliverance The Benediction

The Order of Divine Worship

Wednesday, August 14, 2024 | Evening Service – 7:00 PM The Expeditor

Pastor Kimberly Hayes

The Invocation

Pastor Calvin Thompson

The Old Testament Scripture

Elder Conroy Randolph

The New Testament Scripture

Evangelist Iris Mullins

The Ministry of Music

The Jurisdictional Choir

The Sacred Ministry of Giving

The Jurisdictional Finance Committee

Announcements & Observations

Elder Curtis L. Tunstall Sr.

ILTI Co-Coordinator | Faith Tabernacle of Prayer and Praise

New Era Kingdom

Saint Mary

The Presentation of the Prelate

Garden of Prayer Temple – Zion City

Jurisdictional Secretary | New Bethel Cathedral

Bishop–Designate Dwight A. Nixon Administrative Assistant | Saint Mary

The Voice of our Leader & Introduction of the Messenger Bishop Jonathan G. Willis Jurisdictional Prelate

The Song of Preparation

The Jurisdictional Choir

The Word of God

Pastor Latoya Brewington

Pastor | Rhema Christian Center – Wilson, NC

The Invitation and Prayer of Healing & Deliverance The Benediction

The Order of Divine Worship

Thursday, August 15, 2024 | Evening Service – 7:00pm “Service of Ordination, Licensing, and Holy Communion” The Expeditor

Dr. Gregg M. Cooper

The Invocation

Superintendent Donald Finney

The Scripture Reading

Superintendent Joshua Smith Jr.

The Ministry of Music

The Jurisdictional Choir

Administrative Assistant | New Garden of Prayer – IV Father Aaron Bazemore District | Williams Chapel Tidewater District | Holy Jerusalem

The Ordination and Licensing Ceremony The Holy Communion Celebration The Sacred Ministry of Giving

The Jurisdictional Finance Committee

The Presentation of the Prelate

Bishop James I. Johnson Jr.

Administrative Assistant | Crusade for Christ FWC

The Voice of our Leader and Introduction of the Messenger Bishop Jonathan G. Willis Jurisdictional Prelate

The Song of Preparation

The Jurisdictional Choir

The Word of God

Bishop Linwood E. Dillard

Senior Pastor | Citadel of Deliverance – Memphis, TN Prelate | Tennessee Metropolitan Jurisdiction

The Invitation and Prayer of Healing & Deliverance The Benediction

The Ordination and Licensing Ceremony + The Opening

Superintendent Harold Woodley Chairman, Board of Ordination

Leader: “I cried unto the Lord in my distress, and He heard me.”

People: “He delivered me out of a horrible pit.”

Leader: “Oh that men would Praise the Lord for His marvelous works unto the children of men.”

People: “We will praise Him in the Sanctuary.”

The Licensing of Missionaries

Bishop Jonathan G. Willis, Jurisdictional Prelate Mother Sharon Alston–Felder, Jurisdictional Supervisor District Missionary Beth A. Dickens, Dean, School of Licensing

Words of Exhortation

Mother Sharon Alston–Felder

The Dean: Bishop Jonathan G. Willis, Supervisor Sharon Alston-Felder, I present these candidates to you. They have acknowledged a call of God in their life and have served as an Aspiring and Deaconess Missionary. Their Pastor has recommended them for Licensing. They have completed and met the requirements as set forth in the Virginia Third Jurisdiction School of Missionary Licensing.

THE INQUIRY OF THE JURISDICTIONAL SUPERVISOR: Women of God, as a candidate for the Evangelist Missionary and Deaconess Missionary License, you have acknowledged being saved, sanctified, and filled with the Holy Ghost. The time has come for the hour of Ecclesiastical Consecration. Being awarded the occasion and the challenge to service that it presents, will you in reverence to God answer the following questions?

Answer: I will.

Will you endeavor to live an exemplary life of Holiness as a Licensed Missionary in the Church of God in Christ?

Answer: I will by the help of God.

Will you through firm biblical teaching present the Word of God for the perfecting of the saints; edification of the church and the glorification of God? Answer: I will do so, the Lord being my helper.

Will you diligently perform all the duties required of a missionary as outlined in the Handbook of the International Department of Women Church of God in Christ and as assigned to you by your Jurisdictional Supervisor, Jurisdictional Bishop, District Missionary, District Superintendent, as well as your Pastor and officers of your Local Church?

Answer: I will by the help of God. Do you pledge your continued loyalty, financial support, and faithful attendance to your home jurisdiction, Virginia Third, as well as the required financial obligations as set forth by the National Church of God in Christ for Evangelist Missionaries and Deaconess Missionaries?

Answer: I will by the help of God. THE RECITING OF THE MISSIONARY PLEDGE: I believe in the doctrine of this, the Church of God in Christ, as it is interpreted by our founder, Bishop Charles Harrison Mason, and perpetuated by the ministers of the said church to be the Doctrine of the Bible. As a MISSIONARY, I pledge my loyalty to this church and its doctrine, pledging to teach it faithfully and no other, as long as I hold its license. I further pledge my loyalty to the leadership of this church, always holding them in honor and esteem. I also pledge my obedience, and service to the best of my ability, according to the education of the dictation of the scriptures.

THE CAPPING OF EVANGELIST & DEACONESS MISSIONARIES AND PRESENTATION OF THE LICENSES

The Ordination of Elders

Bishop Jonathan G. Willis, Jurisdictional Prelate Superintendent Harold Woodley, Chairman, Board of Ordination THE ECCLESIASTICAL CHARGE: The Bishop (To the Candidates): Do you believe in your heart that you are truly called of God to preach the Gospel?

Candidates: I DO BELIEVE. The Bishop: Do you believe the Holy Bible to be the infallible Written Word, inspired by God to lead all to Eternal life by Salvation, and is the only rule for our faith and practice?

Candidates: I BELIEVE THAT IT IS. The Bishop: Are you willing to preach the Word of God, to do the work of an Elder and uphold the Doctrine of Christ and the Church of God in Christ to perform the ordinances of the Church?

Candidates: BY THE HELP OF GOD, I WILL. The Bishop: Will you be diligent in prayer and fasting, in the reading and practice of what is contained in the Holy Scriptures, to Study to show thyself approved a worker unto God that needeth not to be ashamed?

Candidates: I WILL, THE LORD BEING MY HELPER. The Bishop: Will you be obedient to those who have rule over you, to obey the Church of God in Christ’s Constitution, Administration and Judicial Governing Laws as a Minister of the Church of God in Christ?

Candidates: I WILL, SO HELP ME GOD.

INVESTURE OF ELDERS

The Prayer of Consecration

(Laying hands, Bishop will offer prayers unto God.)

The Acceptance The Bishop (To the Congregation): Saints of Christ, do you, Under God, accept these your Sisters and Brothers as Elders and Missionaries, and will you support them with prayer as they seek to carry out the responsibilities of their Ministry?

The Congregation: WE WILL DO SO, GOD BEING OUR HELPER The Bishop (To the Candidates): My Sisters and Brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Great Head of the Church and by the authority invested in me, I do hereby ordain you as Elders and License you as Missionaries.

I also by the recommendation of your pastor approve your appointment to hold the title of Licensed Minister.

The Order of Divine Worship

Friday, August 16, 2024 | Mid-Morning Service – 10:00 AM “Women’s Day” Honoring our Jurisdictional Supervisor ~ Mother Sharon Alston–Felder

The Call to Worship

Missionary Brenda Nixon

The Expediter

Missionary Leetreona Matthews

The Invocation

District Missionary Alvinia Quarles

The Chant

The Jurisdictional Choir

The Old Testament Scripture

Pastor Lucie Wright

The New Testament Scripture

Pastor Karen Robinson

The Ministry of Music

The Jurisdictional Choir

The Welcome

Minister Ingrid Banks

Marshal, Women’s Department | Saint Mary Garden of Prayer Temple – Zion City Saint Mary

Good News Family Worship Center Resurrection and Life Ministries

Garden of Prayer Temple – Zion City

The Virginia Third Mother Claudine T. Austin Scholarship Presentation Dr. Diane Hawkins and District Missionary Beth A. Dickens Greetings

Mother Judith L.W. Willis The Mother of the Jurisdiction

The Virginia Third Department of Women Honors Bishop Jonathan G. Willis First Lady Felicia E. Willis – The Bishop’s Wife The Sacred Ministry of Giving

The Jurisdictional Finance Committee

The Presentation of the Jurisdictional Prelate

Bishop Melvin L. Austin

Administrative Assistant | New Bethel Cathedral

The Voice of our Leader & Introduction of Supervisor Bishop Jonathan G. Willis Jurisdictional Prelate

The Song of Preparation

Pastor Naman H. Potts III Bread of Heaven

The Jurisdictional Supervisor’s Annual Address Mother Sharon Alston–Felder Jurisdictional Supervisor

The Invitation and Prayer of Healing & Deliverance

Elder Mary E. Johnson

The Benediction

Mother Amelia J. Boyd

Crusade for Christ FWC

Assistant Jurisdictional Supervisor Designate Prayer of Faith Temple – Zion City

The Order of Divine Worship

Friday, August 16, 2024 | Evening Service – 7:00 PM The Expeditor

Superintendent George W. Bond

Greater Western District | Guiding Star Ministries

The Invocation

Pastor James Hamm

The Old Testament Scripture

Elder Cornelius Bennett

The New Testament Scripture

Sister Latosha Branch

The Ministry of Music

The Jurisdictional Choir

The Sacred Ministry of Giving

The Jurisdictional Finance Committee

Back to Life

Announcements & Observations The Presentation of the Prelate

Emmanuel New Birth

St. Paul

Elder Curtis L. Tunstall Sr.

Jurisdictional Secretary | New Bethel Cathedral

Bishop Melvin L. Austin

Administrative Assistant | New Bethel Cathedral

The Voice of our Leader and Introduction of the Messenger Bishop Jonathan G. Willis Jurisdictional Prelate

The Song of Preparation

The Jurisdictional Choir

The Word of God

Archbishop William Hudson III

Pastor | The Powerhouse Chicago Chief Prelate | Pilgrim Assemblies International, Inc.

The Invitation and Prayer of Healing & Deliverance The Benediction

Official Day

The Lord’s Day Worship Celebration Sunday, August 18, 2024 Sunday School | 9:30 AM Official Day Service | 11:00 AM

The Lord’s Day Worship Celebration

Sunday, August 18, 2024 | Sunday School – 9:30 AM

SUNDAY SCHOOL

Missionary Karen Harris-Hancock, Sunday School Superintendent Pastor Jesse Staton, Sunday School Coordinator

Summer Quarter | Lesson 13 “Treasure In Clay Jars” 2 Corinthians 4:2-15

Bible Truth:

God gives believers the power in the midst of hardship.

Memory Verse:

“We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.” (2 Corinthians 4:8-9)

Lesson Aim:

By the end of the lesson, we will CONSIDER Paul’s position in seeing himself as a slave for Christ’s sake; CONTEMPLATE goodness in relation to God and community; and COUNT on God’s power to work through us to do His will in ministry to others.

The Lord’s Day Worship Celebration

Sunday, August 18, 2024 | Official Day Service – 11:00 AM “The Year of Glory” (Haggai 2:9)

The Order of Divine Worship (+) Where indicated, please stand.

The Organ Prelude

The Jurisdictional Musicians

+The Call to Worship

Superintendent Brandon C. Allen

Chair, Program Committee F.M. Batts Memorial District | St. Paul

+The Processional

The Jurisdictional Adjutancy

+The Expeditor

Bishop James I. Johnson Jr.

+The Invocation

Superintendent Carl G. Singleton Sr.

+The Chant

The Jurisdictional Choir

+The Old Testament Scripture

Superintendent Avis Newby

+The New Testament Scripture

Superintendent Harold Woodley

+The Hymn

The Jurisdictional Choir

+The Affirmation of Faith

Superintendent Robert A. Laury

The Anthem

The Jurisdictional Choir

The Deacons The Ministers The Council of Pastors and Elders, Led by the Chairman The Board of Superintendents, Led by the Chairman The Officers of the Office of the Bishop The Administrative Assistants to the Jurisdictional Prelate THE JURISICDICTIONAL PRELATE

Administrative Assistant | Crusade for Christ FWC

Chairman, Council of Pastors and Elders New Tri City District | Emmanuel New Birth

President, Evangelism Department Portsmouth District | Mission Church

Chairman, Board of Ordination New Central District | Union Bethel

Virginia Beach District | Center of Love

The Ministry of Missions

Superintendent Michael E. Plummer Sr.

The Ministry of Music

The Jurisdictional Choir

The Sacred Ministry of Giving

Bishop Melvin L. Austin

The Presentation of the Jurisdictional Prelate

Bishop–Designate Dwight A. Nixon

The Song of Preparation

President, Missions Department Norfolk District | Miracles of the True Vine

Administrative Assistant | New Bethel Cathedral

Administrative Assistant | Saint Mary

The Jurisdictional Choir

The Official Message THE RIGHT REVEREND JONATHAN GERARD WILLIS

Jurisdictional Prelate | Third Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction of Virginia Pastor | Garden of Prayer Temple – Zion City East and Prayer of Faith Temple – Zion City West

+The Invitation and Prayer of Healing & Deliverance +The Benediction +The Recessional

The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former, saith the Lord of hosts: and in this place will I give peace, saith the Lord of hosts.

Haggai 2:9 KJV

THE HYMN

“Since Jesus Came Into My Heart” Rufus H. McDaniel (1914)

What a wonderful change in my life has been wrought Since Jesus came into my heart!

I have light in my soul for which long I have sought, Since Jesus came into my heart!

Refrain: Since Jesus came into my heart, Since Jesus came into my heart, Floods of joy o'er my soul like the sea billows roll, Since Jesus came into my heart.

I have ceased from my wand'ring and going astray, Since Jesus came into my heart!

And my sins which were many are all washed away, Since Jesus came into my heart!

(Refrain) I shall go there to dwell in that city, I know, Since Jesus came into my heart!

And I'm happy, so happy, as onward I go, Since Jesus came into my heart!

(Refrain)

THE AFFIRMATION OF FAITH We affirm our faith in the Bible.

Congregation: We believe the Bible to be the inspired and only infallible written Word of God.

We affirm our faith in God. Congregation: We believe that there is only One God, eternally existent in three persons: God the Father, God the Son and, God the Holy Spirit.

We affirm our faith in the blessed hope.

Congregation: We believe in the blessed Hope, which is the rapture of the Church of God, which is in Christ, at His return.

We affirm our faith in repentance.

Congregation: We believe that the only means of being cleansed from sin is through repentance and faith in the precious Blood of Jesus Christ.

We affirm our faith in salvation.

Congregation: We believe that regeneration by the Holy Ghost is absolutely essential for personal salvation.

We affirm our faith in Jesus Christ.

Congregation: We believe that the redemptive work of Christ on the Cross provides healing for the human body in answer to believing prayer.

We affirm our faith in the Holy Spirit.

Congregation: We believe that the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, according to Acts 2:4, is given to believers who ask for it.

We affirm our faith in sanctification.

Congregation: We believe in the sanctifying power of the Holy Spirit, by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a holy and separated life in the present world.