“He’s on fire for the Lord!” At one time or another, you have undoubtedly heard that phrase used to describe a Christian and their walk with the Lord. Often new converts are characterized in this way. Having recently heard the good news of salvation in Christ, experiencing forgiveness of all their sins — their souls unburdened and their consciences cleansed — and having received the gift of the Holy Spirit, they now know the love of God. And they cannot help but proclaim the wonderful things God has done in and for them to all those whose paths they cross.

On fire for the Lord. What a wonderful and wholly appropriate way to live (Romans 12:1), not just for the new convert but for all who call upon Christ as Lord and Savior. The psalmist captures the passion behind this way of life: “What shall I render to the Lord for all His benefits toward me? I will take up the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the Lord” (Psalm 116:12, 13, NKJV throughout).

Critical to note in the psalmist’s proclamation “I will take up” is understanding that he is not simply conveying a one-time act. Rather, he gives an expression of lifestyle, as the verb tense here is imperfect and conveys intentional and ongoing commitment.

Every two months through Churchright we witness those who, in their own way, show they are on fire for the Lord. From A to Z — from anointing services to Zoom prayer meetings — dedicated souls work tirelessly to plan, organize, and promote events that serve our Lord and His church. Their holy service, fueled by an inner fire for the greater things of God, makes these happenings a reality for the body of Christ.

Holy fire. May it burn within each of us, individually and collectively. The Scriptures reveal that for this very purpose Christ “gave Himself for us, that He might . . . purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works” (Titus 2:14).

With renewed appreciation, may we give praise and thanksgiving to our God for those who so faithfully serve among us. And may we also sense that holy fire burning within us to be used of God, to bring Him glory (John 15:8), and to love Him forever. Yes, by His grace, may it be so!

— Greg Lincoln

GC President

On November 7-9, Noe Damas, Central District Worship Coordinator, visited the Denver and Aurora congregations in Colorado. His goal is to coordinate with district worship leaders and worship ministries to encourage ways to elevate worship. He does this by providing clear paths to success and supporting them with their needs. Noe and his family held two workshops at the churches.

On December 19-21, 119 youth (ages 12-18) and chaperones gathered for our winter retreat in Adrian, Georgia. With the theme of “Foundation,” we separated into seven teams, led by Santos and Sara Velasquez, Keila and Tamar Hernandez, and Jo Allison Krome. We made flags, built foundations, and prepared skits based on seven words beginning with the letter C that we used as an overview of Bible history.

The “Foundation” theme was powerfully presented through a reflection, PowerPoint presentation, and messages prepared by Keila Hernandez, Terrell Walker, Jo Allison Krome, and Cesar Medrano. Youth from Stone Mountain, Georgia, and Tarboro, North Carolina, led our worship segments. Abby Ortiz prepared a take-home craft key chain to remind us that God is there for us and loves us, and to trust His path for our lives.

On December 13, more than 300 women and young girls from across the district gathered in San Antonio for a full-day Women’s Conference, focused on God’s refining work. The day featured worship, prayer, fellowship, and Spirit-led biblical teaching.

Key messages included “Engaged by Grace: God’s Hand on My Story,” by Neysha Jagrup, and “The Refining Fire: Becoming Who God Sees,” by Abigail Gaona. Jessica and Olivia Pila led a guided group activity, Refined to Engage. A special youth session for girls (ages 13-18) was led by SWD Youth Director Judith Salazar and Abigail Gaona. Afternoon sessions encouraged attendees to step into their God-given purpose and live fully engaged for Christ.

The conference concluded with worship and remarks that left women and girls spiritually renewed and united. The 2026 theme, “Radiate: Shining With God’s Glory,” and the 2026 Women’s Retreat (October 23–25 at Camp Buckner in Burnet, Texas) were also announced.

Photo: Mayra Hernandez (El Paso)

The Tree of Life congregation in El Paso hosted the Area 6 Super Sabbath on December 19-21 under the powerful theme “Where Are You?” The weekend was a meaningful time of worship, reflection, and spiritual renewal.

The celebration began Friday evening with a message from Brother Jordan Hernandez, followed by inspiring sermons from Pastors Josue Gutierrez and Esau Hernandez. Taken together, the messages emphasized the urgency of living fully for God and keeping Him at the center of our lives. Through heartfelt worship, the Word, and rich fellowship, a strong spirit of unity and renewal was evident among all who attended.

The weekend concluded Saturday evening with a leadership meeting, where local leaders received valuable information and had the opportunity to ask questions and share insights. We are deeply grateful to the Tree of Life congregation for their dedication and hospitality in making this event such a blessing. Above all, we praise the Lord for His continued faithfulness to His people.

Photo: Tory Capetillo

More than 33 couples gathered December 5-7 with the Truevine congregation in Austin for a blessed and uplifting Marriage Retreat themed “TwoGether.” The weekend focused on strengthening marriages through God’s design and purpose.

The retreat featured inspiring messages from Central District Superintendent Ronald Rousseau and his wife, Lupita, along with Brother Alo Sanchez and Moises and Pete Capetillo. Each message encouraged couples to remain united, grow together in faith, and pursue a God-centered marriage.

Couples also enjoyed a special Gala Night filled with fellowship, games, and powerful testimonies shared by Brother Ivan and Sister Mara Villeda. We are excited to begin what we hope will be a new annual Marriage Retreat for the Southwest District.

Be on the lookout for details regarding next year’s retreat, to be held in El Paso, Texas.

Photo: Tory Capetillo

On October 25, the El Paso Central congregation joyfully celebrated Pastor Appreciation Month. We honored our pastor, Rubén Beard, and his wife, Susana (center), along with our co-pastor, Santiago Trejo, and his wife, Graciela (right). During the service, the children’s department shared heartfelt art and crafts they had created especially for this occasion. We were also blessed by the presence of Minister Eduardo Villalba and his wife, Socorro (left).

On December 2-10, Cindy Baker (Marion, Oregon), Jennifer Stucker (Marion, Oregon), and Sarah Castro (Arizona) traveled to San Jose, Costa Rica, to partner with Transforma, a ministry dedicated to empowering women through education, discipleship, healing, and economic opportunity. Transforma accompanies individuals and families experiencing extreme poverty, domestic violence, migration vulnerabilities, social exclusion, and limited access to education or dignified work.

We visited Barrio Sinai to deliver groceries to single mothers and their children. This community is known for significant hardships, including drug activity, human trafficking and criminal influence, and occult practices. Many residents experience severe social and spiritual challenges, and missionaries often avoid this area because of these extreme conditions. Our team of fourteen women courageously walked door-to-door, greeting women, entering their homes, and praying over them and their children.

We also visited a newly built classroom that will be used for young students. Standing together in this space, our team prayed aloud, simultaneously lifting “thunder prayers” over the students, the ministry, and the community.

Before ministering at our women’s retreats, our team walked through the Beauty for Ashes retreat study for ourselves. We then hosted four sessions at two different churches, pouring into the local women through teachings on the woman at the well,  Christ’s constant presence, Jesus as the Son of the Living God, and the adulterous woman.

Through Scripture, testimony, small group ministry, and creative reflection, women encountered the love of God, released past burdens, and discovered hope, dignity, and restoration in Christ.

One-on-one ministry times were deeply personal and powerful. Our team prayed for women facing trauma, emotional pain, relational struggles, domestic violence, sexual exploitation, spiritual warfare, financial hardship, anxiety, insecurity, and loss. Through these moments of listening and intercession, women received comfort, encouragement, and renewed hope.

We also had the privilege of praying for and encouraging the Transforma ministry leaders, who carry significant emotional and spiritual burdens as they minister to women in crisis and poverty. Our time reminded us of their resilience and the beauty of the global church supporting one another in Christ.

We joined the ministry leaders in serving students and families during a special graduation night. Students received certificates of completion, awards, and family gifts. Children were blessed with clothing, special treats, and school supplies.

Our time in Costa Rica revealed the transforming power of God’s love, the strength and resilience of the women at Transforma, and the beauty of partnership in the body of Christ. We are grateful for every story restored, every heart encouraged, and every seed planted.

To God be the glory!

— Jennifer Stucker

On December 6, about 300 brethren from Arizona, California, and Nevada gathered in Tempe, AZ, to celebrate the annual West Coast Super Sabbath. The theme of the day, “A Worshipping Church,” emphasized the event’s central purpose. GC President Greg Lincoln and Executive Director Daniel Flores served as guest speakers. The day was filled with worship, fellowship, and communion. Most importantly, it was an edifying experience marked by powerful sermons that encouraged each member to commit their lives more fully to worshipping the Lord. We look forward to seeing everyone again at next year’s Super Sabbath!

Early Fall 2025 Graduates

Richmond Douglas – Associate of Christian Leadership (Pastoral Ministry), Summa Cum Laude

Eliasar Escobar – Associate of Christian Leadership (Pastoral Ministry)

Late Fall 2025 Graduates

Pete Capetillo – Bachelor of Arts in Christian Leadership (Pastoral Ministry), Summa Cum Laude*

Karlene Green – Associate of Christian Leadership, Cum Laude

Neftali Hernandez – Associate of Christian Leadership (Pastoral Ministry), Magna Cum Laude

* Graduate was incorrectly recognized with an Associate of Christian Leadership at the commencement ceremony during convention in Salt Lake City, Utah. We apologize for this embarrassing oversight.

Fall 2025 Dean’s List* Recipients

William Aba, Stamford, CT; Pete Capetillo, Albuquerque, NM; Dan Davila, Justice, IL; Otoniel de la Cruz, Stamford, CT; Adiel de Leon, Lantana, FL; Otniel De Leon, Baxley, GA; Pedro Estrada, Pico Rivera, CA; Elias Gomez Marroquin, Worthington, MN; Armando Guevara Sr., Antioch, TN; Alvaro Hernandez, El Paso, TX; Neftali Hernandez, Spring, TX; Kurt Lang, Harrisburg, OR; Pablo Martinez, Sherman Oaks, CA; Wilfredo Mejia, Toms River, NJ; Dan Melendez de la Torre, El Paso, TX; Ottoniel Pérez González, Atlanta, GA; Justo Perez Marroquin, Homestead, FL; Jose Perez Vasquez, Bridgeport, CT; Ledy Portocarrero Agredo, East Elmhurst, NY; Oscar Retana, Moreno Valley, CA; Luis Rodriguez, McAllen, TX; Felix Uz Cubule, Ridge, NY.

* Dean’s List recipients earn eight credits per quarter with a minimum 3.5 GPA.

Did You Know?

You can audit select online courses! See Calendar Events (below) for courses with auditing seats available. To view all audit courses for the 2025-2026 school year, see the Course Schedule at https://my.artioscollege.org/en/catalog/current/academic-calendar.

Learn more about auditing at
https://my.artioscollege.org/en/catalog/current/academic-policies#auditing.

To audit a course, register at
https://my.artioscollege.org/en/courses.

Calendar Events

February 10 – Late Winter registration closes

February 16 – Late Winter classes begin

March 30 – Early Spring registration closes

April 5 – Early Spring classes begin

Late Winter Classes

BIS 101 History and Literature of the Old Testament*

COM 121 Written Communication for Leadership

HIS 321 History of Western Christianity

LEA 111 Essentials of Vibrant Leadership*

THE 201 Christian Theology

Early Spring Classes

BIS 104 History and Literature of the New Testament*

COM 121 Written Communication for Leadership

LEA 331 Church Administration

WOA 311 Prayer Ministry

* Course with limited audit availability.

Register at https://my.artioscollege.org/en/courses.

1933 – 2025

Nick Nimchuk (92) was born to Mike and Dora Nimchuk on December 4, 1933. He passed from this life on December 31, 2025.

Nick was raised on the family farm near Foam Lake, Saskatchewan. The family later moved to the farm in Hazel Dell, Saskatchewan. In 1957, he left the farm to work in the British Columbia mills. He married Dorothy Stiede on December 19, 1959, in Tacoma, Washington. They made their home in New Westminster, BC, before moving back to his Saskatchewan farm in May 1960. He survived a bout with tetanus later that summer due to the grace of God. Four daughters were born during these years.

In 1965, the Nimchuks moved to Stanberry, Missouri, where Nick attended classes at Midwest Bible College. He also worked in the print shop of the Bible Advocate Press.

Upon graduation, Nick preached for the Church of God (Seventh Day) in Saskatchewan, Alberta, South Dakota, and British Columbia. He retired in 2002, and he and Dorothy eventually settled in Medicine Hat as a final move.

“Show me once. I’ll do it” was Nick’s mantra for life. From stitching the ripped stomach of his favorite dog using a darning needle and upholstery thread, breaking horses for riding, to standing up for his beliefs in any situation, he was ready.

Nick leaves to mourn his beloved wife, Dorothy; daughters Karolyn (Lowell) Forbes of Denver, Colorado; Virginia (Paul) Ling of Eleva, Wisconsin; Florence (Omar) Mellado of Willis, Texas; and Judi Nimchuk of Atlanta, Georgia. Grandchildren Elizabeth (Benjamin) Roti, Lindsey Parks, Philip (Jenna) Russell, Stefanie (Nick) Kraus, Nikki and Tony Mellado, Logan Dais, Moira (Jack) Robran, and Grady (Clarabelle) Ling. Nieces and nephews: Donna (Mark) Hollman, James (Robyn) Mudry, Mark (Cory) Mudry, Warren Mudry, Walter (Sandra) Andruszko, Gloria Andruszko, Margaret Andruszko, Ron (Lori) Thompson, Anita (Harry) Toews, Steven (Linda) Hrynchuk, Virginia (Stan) Sherwood, Wesley (Skye) Hrenchuk, and a host of other relatives and friends.

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.