The presence of God has always been a defining mark of the people of God. Abraham, the father of the faith (Romans 4:16), heard the very voice of God: “Get out of your country” (Genesis 12:1). Moses spoke “face to face” with God (Exodus 33:11). Israel was led by the manifest presence of God by “a pillar of cloud by day and in a pillar of fire by night” (Numbers 14:14). And the New Testament church was birthed by the pouring out and indwelling of the very presence of God through the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:17).

God has promised, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). Yes, He always follows through on His incredible promise with divine moments of revelation and manifestation of His presence.

We must expect no less. From our devotional times to our corporate gatherings in the name of Jesus, we must anticipate that God, who is faithful to His Word, will meet us there.

If there is no expectation among us, we have failed to grasp both the new covenant reality of our faith (Hebrews 8:10) and the vision of God immemorial: “I will dwell in them and walk among them” (Exodus 25:8; 2 Corinthians 6:16). We also risk hearing what Christ told the church in Sardis: “You have a name that you are alive, but you are dead” (Revelation 3:1).

What can you do to help ensure the manifest presence of God within the church? First, firmly place your trust in the faithfulness of God, trusting His promises that He will never leave us nor forsake us and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6). Second, learn to wait on God as you enter His sanctuary. Enter with reverence, letting go of the ordinary conversations of life and fixing your focus wholly on the God who is present. Remember the psalmist’s instruction to be still before Him (Psalm 46:10).

Church of God, as we come in expectancy and reverence, be assured both of His wonderful manifest presence and of His glorious work among us. May it be so!

— Greg Lincoln

GC President

The Denver, CO church celebrated its 75th anniversary October 3-5. GC President Greg Lincoln and Executive Director Daniel Flores joined the celebration and preached the Word in special services. Some brothers shared their stories and anecdotes. Worship, fellowship, prayer, and special offerings reflected God’s presence throughout the years. Pastor John Marlin and the congregation opened their doors with amazing hospitality and food for all attendees, which surpassed 150. The weekend finished with a leadership meeting to encourage local leaders to be strong in the Lord for the next 75 years.

August 29 – September 1 was a weekend filled with blessings at the 39^th Annual Hispanic Women’s Retreat. We enjoyed sweet fellowship and inspiring messages from Pastor Daniel Flores and Sister
Jocheved Martinez, along with great praise and worship by the Lafayette Street congregation.

The setting in Frankenmuth, Michigan, was beautiful with autumn colors beginning to bloom. Some ladies traveled from nearby and some from far away — even from another country.

God was in the house, evident by the joy, laughter, tears, and catching up with friends. The theme “Woman, What Does the Lord Require of You?” was evident in the program. A free day on Sunday allowed the women to enjoy the sights, relax in the water park, stroll through the River Place, or catch a carriage ride.

This great celebration will be continued in El Paso, Texas, on Labor Day Weekend 2026. Register now and join us to learn more about Jesus Christ!

The Southeast District Women’s Ministries held their annual retreat September 26-28 at Adrian Camp, GA, on the theme “Do Not Fear, Only Believe” (Mark 5:36). The 192 ladies attending heard inspiring messages from Sister Jedde Larry, Sister Lili Apen, and Sister Barbara Modeste. The praise and worship teams filled the place with beautiful bilingual music led by churches from Baxley, GA; Tarboro, NC; Haines City, FL; and Stone Mountain, GA. On Saturday evening, we had our annual open mic program, which is always well represented and inspiring. Keila Hernadez was our music director. We enjoyed songs, a skit, and specials by the sisters. We thank our heavenly Father for allowing us to gather and meet ladies from different churches in our district.

The Hammondville church had its annual hayride at the Pells’ farm in Sylvania, AL, on September 11. The food is always delicious with hot dogs, chili, chips, hot chocolate, apple cider, raspberry tea, and yummy desserts. A campfire is a welcome addition, especially when we get to roast marshmallows. For the little ones who have so much energy, there was a pinata for them to break and scramble for the goodies. Members of our Chattanooga church and visitors blessed us with their presence.

Photo by: Martin Ramirez

The Jasper, AR church hosted its annual Octoberfest Family Camp on October 17-19, a weekend filled with fellowship, worship, and renewal. Nearly 100 brethren gathered from across the Southwest and Central Districts, with some traveling from as far as Acme, Alberta, Canada. Attendees enjoyed heartfelt worship, uplifting music, and plenty of good food and laughter. The Jasper congregation thanks everyone who helped make this event a success.

Photo by: Martin Ramirez

On September 27, the Sparks church in El Paso hosted the Area 6 Super Sabbath under the powerful theme “I Surrender.” Superintendent Chip Hinds opened a series of messages Friday night, and on Sabbath, Executive Director Daniel Flores shared an inspiring sermon that encouraged believers to deepen their faith and commitment to Christ. The event concluded Sunday morning with a leadership meeting, where local leaders received valuable information and had opportunity to ask questions and share insights.

Photo by: Karen Pardon

Churches in Area 1 of the Southwest District gathered in Dallas on October 11 for a powerful Super Sabbath centered on the theme “Do You Love Christ but Not His Church?” More than 400 brethren enjoyed a day filled with heartfelt worship, reflection, and fellowship. GC President Greg Lincoln delivered an inspiring message on aligning with God’s vision and purpose, and Minister Zuri Gutierrez’s sermon addressed the struggles of addiction that many youths face today. The youth and SWORD service provided space for honest discussion, spiritual encouragement, and renewed hope for young believers. Worship throughout the day was uplifting, and the children’s evening presentation provided a touching highlight that brought joy to all in attendance. On Sunday morning, pastors, ministers, and leaders from the area gathered for a leadership meeting. The Dallas congregation expressed deep gratitude to everyone who contributed to this blessed weekend!

A cake auction was held September 13 to benefit the Couples Department Ministry at the El Paso Central church. The event was organized by the directors of this ministry, Eduardo and Socorro Villalba. We pray that God will continue to bless our couples in their marriages and keep them strong in their faith.

Organized by the women’s group of the El Paso Central church, a breakfast reunion was held September 14. The group enjoyed a delicious breakfast and a devotional thought from Susana Beard on the importance of trusting God with everything. We hope that our sisters and their guests had the opportunity to spend a relaxing time during this event and that they continue to strengthen their relationship with God.

September 10-14, the Senior Adult Retreat at beautiful Sis-Q Meadows was a time of fellowship, worship, and renewal in the Lord. Surrounded by both long-time and new friends, participants shared encouragement through prayer, service, and time together.

Each day began with a devotion and small group study led by Brother John Howell. This was followed by inspiring messages from Pastors Tim Hinds and Andy Hassen on serving others with compassion, based on Matthew 25:40. Joel and Ruth Miller led praise and shared testimonies of God’s faithfulness. Afternoons were filled with fellowship, service projects, crafts, and moments of rest, while evenings featured testimonies, art, and worship.

A highlight was the Sabbath anointing prayer service, where many experienced God’s healing hand in a mighty way. The week was filled with many blessings, gratitude, and joy. Plan now to attend the Sis-Q Meadows Senior Adult Retreat on September 16-20, 2026.

— Jan Shibley and Barb Burrell

The Eugene congregation welcomed six new members into our church family on September 13: Juan and Petra Leandro, Josh and Carolina Diaz, and David and Smyrna Leventhal. We were especially blessed as David and Smyrna also became official members of the Church of God (Seventh Day). Adding even more joy to this special Sabbath, their son, Isaac, was baptized, publicly dedicating his life to the Lord. It was a beautiful day filled with love, celebration, and heartfelt thanksgiving to God. — Melva Smith

On October 4, while the men attended a regional Men’s Retreat, the Eugene congregation experienced a beautiful Sabbath of worship in new and meaningful ways. Carolina Diaz led the congregation in song, and Juan Leandro, joined by his son and nephew visiting from California, shared the special song “I’d Rather Have Jesus.” Lynnette Chalus inspired everyone with a chalk drawing titled “The Woman at the Well,” accompanied by the songs “He Touched Me,” “There Is a River,” and “Something Beautiful.” Testimonies from Karen Riggs and Petra Leandro reminded us of God’s perfect timing and faithfulness in their families’ moves to Oregon. It was a truly blessed Sabbath of praise and thanksgiving. — Melva Smith

The West Coast District gathered on September 20 in Sherman Oaks, CA, for a Super Sabbath, with over 400 brethren attending. Greg Lincoln and Daniel Flores participated for the first time as GC president and executive director. The day was filled with worship, fellowship, and nurture from the Word of God. On Sunday, a leadership meeting took place in Ontario, CA, where representatives from more than fifteen congregations gathered to share in the Church’s vision and mission. We thank God for His continued faithfulness and blessings upon His people!

“Bible Boot Camp” was the theme for our regional Men’s Retreat, held October 3-5 at Sis-Q Meadows Camp in Cave Junction, OR. Sixty-one men gathered for fellowship, praise, and biblical inspiration. Our youngest participant was 13 and the oldest 82. We enjoyed hikes, basketball, a fire in the picnic shelter, and even some swimming! Worship and workshops focused on the reliability of the Bible, its uniform message throughout, how to interpret it, and how to apply the living Word to our lives today. Adding to the fun, we did team competitions with Bible Jeopardy, a Bible scavenger hunt, and SWORD drills. Men, continue the challenge of growing in God and in your knowledge of His Word! — Kurt Lang

On August 30, the Church of God (Seventh Day) in Mesa, AZ, gathered at the beautiful Salt River to celebrate a baptism. Surrounded by family, friends, and God’s amazing creation, the moment was filled with faith, renewal, and new beginnings. This baptism stands as a testimony of commitment and devotion, a step forward in walking with Christ. May this day always be remembered as a milestone of faith and blessing.

On August 10, two people were baptized from the congregation in Laval, Quebec: Lydia Meiggs and Oscar Correa. Obed Valladares, pastor of the Laval church, and Min. Isai Urizar performed the baptisms. We welcome these  new members into the body of Christ!

The Etobicoke church held a community barbeque August 17. Fun activities, giveaways, and food filled the day with joy.