Giant Card Presented to Council of Elders
December 6, 2010
Shortly before the Council of Elders meeting lunch break today, two members from the Cincinnati East congregation, Fred and Judy Fenner, presented a giant appreciation card to the Council of Elders on behalf of United Church of God members around the world. Melvin Rhodes, chairman, accepted the card from the Fenners and offered the Council’s thanks.
The Council of Elders, home office administration and the Fenners with the giant card of appreciation.
More than 700 people signed the card, which included several congregations signing it as a group as well. On the outside of the card it had “thank you” in many different languages. Inside the card the message said: “In these challenging times we appreciate the leadership you provide, and we encourage you to continue to serve God’s people conscientiously and effectively as Christ’s leads you!”
Dennis Luker and Melvin Rhodes read the comments and signatures.
Many people included their own personal, encouraging messages—like this one from a family in Santiago, Chile, written in Spanish: “’Onward Christian Soldiers.’ We are praying for you from the distance; so you can march on behalf of Christ and defend God’s truth. We send you all our support.”
Another person, a lady from the Dayton, Ohio, congregation, wrote: “Thank you for your service to the Church. We are all in this together and praying for all of you.” A man from Houston, Texas, signed: “Thank you for all you do. Stay strong in these difficult times.” And, a member from the Netherlands penned: “Holland is behind you.”
This card was provided by Della Mazzi from California, the originator of the idea. It made it’s rounds “electronically” across the globe, gathering over 700 signatures in support of the Council. A group photo was taken, with the Council and administration flanking the card. The card will reside in the meeting room where the Council is deliberating so they can be reminded that the brethren are supporting them.
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I wish we all could have signed it. Our best wishes are with you all.
And I’m very sure that many more signatures would have been on that card if more people had known about it!!!!! Our prayers for and love to you all.
Yes I would of loved to sign the card also! Hopefully next time it can make more stops!
Hi all I can still add your name if you just send me your name to janettread@yahoo.com
We pray for your success in leading the church according to our Father’s will, inspiration, and direction. Thank you for all your efforts, hard work, dedication and fine examples. In all of our patience, possess we our souls — especially during trials.
An excellent opportunity to show support for the Council of Elders. I too would have loved to have been able to sign the card. We pray that you continue to be strong as you lead God’s Church in these difficult times.
We stand together with you, united in one accord. Thank you for your service.
You all, each and every one, are in my prayers. I have asked the head of the church, Jesus Christ, to give you the insight to make the difficult decisions you must make. Thank you for your devotion to this work.
We wish to add our support and deep gratitude for the hard work in difficult times that the Council of Elders has done and continues to do!!!! You are in our prayers, daily!
FYI, The Country Chile is spelled with and “e” at the end, not an “i”. Somewhere in the 2nd or 3rd paragraph.
The giant card was a wonderful idea and I am certain that there are many more like me who would also say thanks for your loyal service with those who signed the card. We pray daily for your continued health,strength and courage as you lead us onward in the work we have been given to do. Love, Rachel
I have been very excited for the card to be delivered to the council and administration. Thank you for the pictures. Anyone who has not signed the card and would like to, please notice the above post. Janet can still add your name. Just contact her at janettread@yahoo.com.
This is very encourging because we hear so much discontent. I know it takes only a few to keep that fire burning. Let’s hope God puts it out for GOOD!!
Thank you for your service during these difficult times. I’m sure posting the other letters of support that you have received from international areas would be a good idea too.
We want you all to know that we are praying for you. We know you will lead our church in the right direction with Gods guidance. We are praying that God remove Satan from this situation. Be a ROMAN TURTLE! This needs to be over and done with so that we can continue to spread Gods word. I believe we must be embarking on something amazing if Satan is attacking like this.
In Christian Love,
Craig and Loreita Holladay
I am a member of UCG but never knew of the card mentioned. Just wanted you to know I, too support the council as they follow the head of the church, Jesus Christ. Lots of folks I perceive like me didn’t have an opportunity to sign the card but are praying for the council and focusing on having eyes to see and ears to hear what Jesus Christ is saying. We will finish God’s work.
You can still have your name added to the card. The information about the card was sent through word of mounth through internet. Anyone who would like to and knows of anyone can still have their name added to the card. Just sent you request to janettread@yahoo.com
How encouraging to see all the comments and all the people behinde the council. Me and my family are very greatful for the councils continued work in the church and the dedication to gods work and truths. God be with you and strengthen you to continue this great work.
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