"SAINTS", Not Merely "Christians"

Thankfully, I have been blessed by God to have known and served under some of the greatest leaders in the Church Of God In Christ. Long ago I would hear the late Bishop Dr. T.T. Rose formerly of Illinois Central Jurisdiction COGIC say, 

The Late Bishop Dr. T.T.  Rose
Springfield, IL. 

"I would rather be called a Saint any day than a 'Christian'." when I asked why? He would respond by saying "Saints, live right. They are the one's that God has called. You are subject to find a Christian doing anything...I don't want to be called a Christian, I want to be called a Saint!"

On Thursday night 11/7/2013 at the 106th Annual Holy Convocation of the Church Of God In Christ, Bishop Darrell Hines (see teaser video below) picked up on that same sentiment and theme and began to explain what Dr. Rose knew and was convinced of some nearly 70 years ago and I thought I should repeat this for all those younger individuals who don't know or have not been taught why we call one another "SAINTS" in COGIC as opposed to calling one another fellow "Christians" as is commonly done in many if not most Christian churches.

Slight Western History

In 1897 when the Church Of God In Christ was first formed, through its first reorganization in 1907 when it became a Spirit Filled and Pentecostal church, the believers that followed the teachings of Bishop C. H. Mason, were quick to call themselves Saints. 

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The COGIC 106th Annual Holy Convocation...A Time For Reconciliation!

Theme 1: Discovering The Power Presence And Person Of Jesus Christ

Theme 2: Experiencing The Power Of Jesus Christ, Pursuing His Mission & His Righteousness

Although I really can't say that I know exactly what theme that the 106th annual Holy Convocation of the Church Of God In Christ will be, (click HERE and read the banners for yourself) either theme sparks much fruitful and spiritual contemplation and is painted on a ripe canvass of both victory, mystery and even further controversy.  

The 2013 Holy Convocation promises to be another in which COGIC will have the opportunity to address many issues and hopefully take the opportunity to set the pace as it pertains to standards of safety and integrity within the modern Christian church. However, they are starting from a deficit. There are some serious problems that must be dealt with including lawsuits, abuse, and unresolved ongoing personal conflicts and issues. 

COGIC Victim's Advocacy...The Need STILL Exists

The wonderful part is that COGIC now requires background checks for all new clergy coming into the organization and a thorough and extensive training program for all clergy licensees. In addition, we have received certain information that there is a counseling plan or program that exists, whether officially or not, for victims of sexual abuse in some areas of the country. That's the GOOD NEWS! 

The BAD NEWS is that sexual abuse within the church continues to occur and that COGIC has failed to implement a true Victim's Advocacy program and plan that will effectively minister to the needs of victims and their families. There is yet no clear "bill of rights" or path to recovery plan as we have proposed and recommended within the IMBKCAC plan. There is yet no organizational system of accountability on the issue of abuse in all forms. A solid advocacy plan, will meet the needs of both victims, the public, and the church insuring that COGIC is a safe and family friendly place of worship which embraces safe practices that not only prevent sexual abuse from occurring, but also affords victims the very best care, compassion and concern as they place their lives and families back together. An solid victim's advocacy plan is of essential importance if the goal and aim of the church is to be relevant within the community in which it exists and all around the world.

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