Covenant Church

While the weather has been sultry and hot these past few weeks, the Holy Spirit has been blowing a fresh wind over Covenant Church.

Mind well that the Holy Spirit does not move accidentally, or whimsically. When the Spirit moves it is decisive. The Holy Spirit will have results when he intervenes. Things will not be the same (Genesis 1:1-3).

On this occasion the moving of the Holy Spirit is by invitation. Much prayer, much planning, much labor and much love have been laying a foundation for a time of visitation. Covenant Church has been engaged in a strong effort for the Holy Spirit to strategically employ the congregation in latter day harvest.

For several years a re-visioning of the administrative structure has been carefully crafted to emphasize training on all levels. Development of skilled workers and teachers to teach teachers how to teach has been a priority.

Executive Pastor McCready and the pastoral staff have diligently worked at a team concept. Each staff person is responsible for certain ministry areas, but the work of all staff is inter-dependent. No one works alone. Team effort means that each staff member must work carefully and cooperatively with all staff members to insure overall success.

Elders have been re-structured into a Board of Elders. Each Elder is responsible for an Advisory Board, or at least is a member of an advisory Board. Elders also deal with finances, spiritual direction, discipline, and work cooperatively with the Senior Pastor to guide all ministries of the congregation.

Deacons have areas of service on Advisory Boards or are assigned specific service areas of ministry. Jack Griffin does jail ministry. Ray Barbour does street ministry. Marcia Coles works with community groups and also visits other churches.

Hospital and care facility visitation is rotated by staff. Elders are also called to assist. The Senior Pastor serves special cases and emergency situations.

In recent weeks of the summer, even with vacation, attendance has been strong. Credit for the strong attendance is given to the entire team of leaders who are diligent in preparation.

As University of Virginia classes get under way, the 25-passenger bus recently purchased will be making a route to pick up students. We are prayerful about how to develop a strong campus ministry. Youth Life Pastor Bill Woodruff is leading this new development.

On September 11 the school bus donated by Parham Construction will be leaving for the Indian Reservation in New Mexico. We will have winter coats, Christmas gifts, and at least 100 chairs on the bus.

While we are busy, there is better news. In recent weeks the Lord has graciously blessed us to see a number of persons who have had difficult years come home to Jesus and to Covenant. There are others who have tried other churches, but have come home. There are others who are new to Covenant, excited, and becoming involved in ministry. For example, Laila in September will begin her God-Given Gifts Class with about 50 persons already pre-registered.

The real triumph and measure is Sunday mornings. The Holy Spirit has been moving – beautifully, powerfully. We have asked, He is answering. He has knocked, and we are more than willing to open the door and invite the Holy Spirit to do the work that He wants to do.

Yes, good things are happening. However, in my heart I am convinced there are even better things to come. Let us altogether make ourselves available for the Potter’s Hand to mold us into the vessel that will bring the Potter the greatest glory.

Much Love
Pastor Bare