Brethren, Greetings in His most excellent name! I was awestruck at the overwhelming flow of the Holy Spirit's presence at this year's convention in Elk Grove, California. I anticipated something refreshing would take place, but I had no idea what God would do in the hearts of His people. The psalmist writes "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell … [Read more...]
In Loving Memory
Brethren, Greetings in the precious name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to "the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are registered in heaven." This week we heard the news that one of the great pillars, consummate leader, and long time minister of our beloved organization, Reverend Emeliano Valle Jr. has graduated and is now in the presence of the Lord. … [Read more...]
Exceeding the Vision – International Convention 2017
Brethren, Greetings in His glorious name! I just returned home from attending the International Convention and Leadership Summit in the Philippines. We have had international conventions in the past, but for the first time we had a unique gathering of delegates from all over the globe! I was blessed with great joy to meet and revisit the superintendents from our new … [Read more...]
New Year 2017
Brethren, Happy New Year and Greetings in the joy and strength of our Lord Jesus Christ! I welcome this new year with great enthusiasm, and with a great sigh of relief. I hope your past year in ministry fared well but I experienced something that deeply challenged me spiritually and I am grateful it now remains in the past. The Prophet Isaiah wrote, The Lord says, Forget … [Read more...]
The Heart of Christmas
Brethren, Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" We've arrived at the most wonderful, and busiest, time of the year! Our churches have already began preparations with the anticipation and excitement of childlike wonder. We willingly participate in church decorating, choir practices, and play rehearsals so we can invite family and friends to come … [Read more...]
Refreshed & Renewed – Post-Ministerial Conference 2016
Brethren, To the saints of God in the International Assemblies of the Firstborn; grace and peace to you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. We just returned from the Ministerial Conference in Lomita, California where all those who attended experienced a "time of refreshing"- Jeremiah 31:25 "I will refresh and satisfy the faint". Those who arrived the first night assumed it … [Read more...]
Post-2016 Convention Message
Brethren, Greetings in the wonderful grace of the Lord Jesus Christ! I hope everyone who attended the California convention will continue to unleash the flame and power of the Holy Spirit as we spread the gospel to the uttermost ends of the earth! We were reminded to remain steadfast in our vision to strengthen California, for in doing so we can only get better in serving … [Read more...]
Unleash the Flames of Pentecost – IAFB Convention 2016
Throughout the Pentecostal movement we have read about, and even witnessed, the ebb and flow of the manifestations of the Holy Spirit. It is these giftings that have not only caused such a stir in history, but also a spiritual division within the Church today where many Pentecostals have allowed these manifestations to cease in the service. I believe we have a great opportunity … [Read more...]
Easter 2016
It's an interesting thought how we in the Body of Christ relish the end of the year holiday festivities, and why shouldn't we? It's Christmastime! A time we recognize Immanuel and worship the newborn King, but this advent holiday contrasts with the holiday at springtime which has a tendency to sneak up on us each year and misses the same kind of enthusiasm it so richly … [Read more...]
Blessed New Year 2016
Happy New Year! Once again we are preparing to usher in a new year, but before 2015 is gone we will look back and reflect on the things we have accomplished in ministry such as annual events, discipleship, outreaches and special programs. Some of us use these as barometers to measure church and spiritual growth and we have a sense of fulfillment when we see our congregation's … [Read more...]
