News of the Living Church of God!

The URL for the official Living Church of God website is www.lcg.org. An official site that is directed towards members and those with a COG background is cogl.org.

LCG's Foreign sites:
	Afrikaans			French	* Living Church of God History. * Living Church of God Statement of Beliefs
	Canada			German	* Listing of Living Church of God Congregations * Sunset Times for the U.S.
	Czech			Indonesian	* COG News * News of Those Once Affiliated of Global * Recent LCG Letters
	Dutch			Spanish	* Prayer Requests * Living Church of God Sermons * LCG Commentary

Here is a link to some COGwriter articles in Italian (translated by google). LCG 2006 Feast of Tabernacles' Information.

01/29/07 a.m. This morning, LCG announced the latest commentary by Richard Ames titled Five Minutes to Midnight:

“Midnight,” according to the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists, represents global disaster—“the figurative end of civilization”. On January 17, 2007, the Bulletin moved the clock from seven minutes (last set in 2002) to five minutes to midnight! Click here to read more.

01/28/07 a.m. Here is the latest update from Douglas Winnail. In it, he mentions travels, Gary Ehman, public lectures, the Living Leadership Course, a new Spanish station, Australasian update, news from the Philippines, a Caribbean update, media, news items, and that real Christians grow.

Here is the Spanish media update:

Spanish Update 

On Sunday, January 14, we began transmitting the Spanish radio broadcast El Mundo de Mañana, presented by Mr. Mario Hernandez, on the Mexican radio station XENR 1140 AM based in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico.  This 50,000-watt radio station covers all of Mexico and reportedly can also be heard in some parts of the United States and South America.  The program will be aired on Saturdays from 4:00 to 5:00 a.m., and on Sundays from 11:00 to 11:30 a.m. We are grateful to God for this new open door to reach the Spanish-speaking world.  

While the above is FABULOUS NEWS, at some time I believe that the Roman Catholics will apply enough pressure to take us off. Lest I seem to be picking on them, I should add that Protestants have gotten LCG's telecast removed from other stations as well.

Here is one of the news items:

Chinese and Japanese Military Cooperation.  Following the “upgrading” of Japan’s Defense Agency to a Defense Ministry, Japan and China are now discussing joint military exercises. China is considering the possibility of Japanese war ships entering Chinese harbors—for the first time since World War II.  These actions are significant in that they represent the two most powerful military powers in Asia working together (Financial Times, January 22, 2007).  In addition, China has the capability to field the largest army the world has ever seen.  Bible prophecy has long predicted the appearance of a military power “north and east” of Jerusalem. This 200 million-man military juggernaut is prophesied to attack and overrun the king of the North just prior to the return of Christ (Daniel 11:44-45, Revelation 9:13-21).

01/26/07 a.m. This morning, LCG's Prophecy comes alive! email reported the following news item:

“Friends of the EU Constitution” Gather in Madrid. This Saturday, representatives from EU member states that have already ratified the Constitution will gather in Spain to discuss options for moving the Constitution process forward. Also invited are the Catholic nations of Ireland and Portugal. They will discuss whether these nations will need to ratify the Constitution again, or whether only those nations that did not ratify it in 2004 will need to do so. Critics fear that only EU “leaders” will be involved in future constitutional talks and that EU citizens will be left out (euobserver.com, January 24, 2007). While the EU currently is made up of 28 member nations, Brussels (like France and Germany) periodically speaks of a “core of nations” in Europe moving forward ahead of the rest “even if other countries—notably the UK—do not want to participate in further integration” (euobserver.com, January 12, 2007). The German Interior Minister, Wolfgang Schaeuble, recently mentioned that Germany preferred to work with the six biggest member states in the EU (Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the UK and Poland) in order to speed up decision-making. He also praised Poland for representing the so-called Visegrad nations—Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovokia (Ibid). The meeting in Madrid could further promote the idea of a smaller core of nations leading Europe. We need to watch the actions of nations that will bring about the final revival of the Holy Roman Empire—the Beast that has been a focal point of prophecy for nearly 2,000 years (see Revelation 17).

The EU will go forward (as noted in the article Europa and the Beast of Revelation).

On other matters, LCG's Gary Ehman reported, "God’s intervention in my recovery was noted shortly after my trip to the hospital, EKGs showed ‘significant damage’ early on, caused by an occluded branch of the right-side coronary artery. The next morning the doctor said there was only ‘some moderate’ damage. The following morning prior to discharge he said there was ‘little, if any damage.’"

01/24/07 a.m. This morning, LCG announced the latest commentary titled A Prediction for 2007 by Davy Crockett: :

As the Roman calendar rolls forward another year, folks pause, if ever so briefly, to contemplate where they have been and where they are going. Uncertainty and unease about the future can be very unsettling. What will the new year bring? What can you expect in your life and on the world scene in the next 12 months? Click here to read more.

01/21/07 a.m. Here is the latest update from Douglas Winnail. In it, he mentions the telecast. Gary Ehman, Australia, New Zealand, India, 2006 income, the value of wisdom and some news items.

01/19/07 a.m. Gary Ehman, Personal Correspondence Department Manager, had a heart attack on Wednesday night, January 17, and was anointed by Mr. Richard Ames, then hospitalized. The doctor believes that Gary Ehman will have a good recovery and will probably be in the hospital for two days. Prayers are requested.

This morning LCG reported:

World Economic Forum Urges Disaster Readiness. In its annual Global Risks Report, the World Economic Forum noted that many businesses and governments around the world feel a false sense of security, and are complacent about the risks they face. Among 23 global dangers listed in the report, the worldwide “housing bubble” was singled out for its potential to cause $1 trillion in economic loss. Michael Cherkasky, Chief Executive Officer of insurance giant Marsh & McLennan, said: “The world has certainly become a riskier place to live, thanks partly to globalization. But there is complacency in business and government, not about talking about the risks, but taking steps in limiting them… We need to be more proactive.” The report gives a 5 to 10 percent probability that a sharp drop in the U.S. dollar’s value will cost the world economy up to a quarter of a trillion dollars. China’s economy is also cited as being at risk for a “hard landing.” Environmental risks, too, have worsened, further threatening economic stability (The Telegraph, January 11, 2007). God said that all nations of the earth would be blessed through Abraham’s seed, and we are reminded of how closely world economies are tied with the Israelite-descended nations (Genesis 12:3).  Today, rich nations have accumulated wealth at the expense of poorer nations, and a reckoning is coming by the God who owns all the gold and silver (James 5:1-3).

01/16/07 a.m. This morning, LCG announced the following commentary by Carl Ponder:

The dying man’s last request was to be prayed for and anointed with oil as the Bible commands for healing. Click here to read more.

01/14/07 a.m. Here is the latest update from Douglas Winnail. In it, he mentions travels, international updates, a Chattanooga upcoming dinner-dance, income, television responses, internet update, warning about false teachers, and some news items.

Here are three of the subjects covered:

Gerald Weston Reports: The year 2006 was another good year for Canada with modest but steady growth in Church attendance, about 6 percent increase over the previous year.  The semi-annual letter was mailed to 29,000 subscribers and, as of this date, 3,800 cards have been received requesting Mr. Meredith’s latest booklet.  This is a little over 13 percent response; and cards are still coming in. We had a surprisingly large number of new donors (111) in the month of December, mostly as a result of the semi-annual letter.  This was in part the reason for a very strong finish for the year.  The results of the first telecast on CH television network were modest, with 80 calls received. The prayers of God’s people for its success are greatly appreciated...

FINANCE  

As we consider our income figures for 2006, it is not about the numbers, even though the numbers do tell a story. The growth in the income of the Church for 2006 is 8.6 percent over 2005. This is outstanding and illustrates the dedication and sacrifice made by our members to support the Work. It also shows growth in the number of donors and co-workers.  For example, as of December 31, 2006, we had 2,616 donors, which is an increase of 38.67 percent over 2005.  For the same period, our co-workers totaled 2,766, which is a 23.21 percent increase over 2005. A heartfelt thanks to all of you, and especially to the great God, for your steadfast support of His Work. Your prayers, tithes and offerings provide the resources to preach the Gospel of the Kingdom of God and to “feed the flock” as we have been commanded to do.—Davy Crockett...

Television Responses 

The first full week in calendar year 2007 turns out to be our best beginning-of-year start for the Tomorrow’s World telecast! TV stations across America and Canada aired Mr. Ames’ program, “Keys for Christian Success,” which offered TV viewers an audio-CD entitled: “The Seven Laws of Success.”  Our Canadian viewers turned in the highest response that we have ever seen for our daily 3:00 am Eastern Time broadcasts on Vision-TV.  One morning 73 Canadians called in—at 3:00 am!—requesting the CD, and on a second morning 52 more Canadians called in.  This was amazing for so early in the morning.  (Vision-TV airs the Tomorrow’s World television program every weekday at 3:00 am Eastern Time, plus Sunday evenings at 5:30 pm Eastern Time.) By the end of the air week, “Keys for Christian Success” generated more than 4,200 responses.—Wayne Pyle   

 01/12/07 a.m. From Daniel Campos in the Spanish-speaking portion of LCG:

We are living in frightening times. Events taking place in our world today give people many reasons to be fearful. Click here to read more.

The commentary begins with:

Our end-time generation faces the prospect of imminent calamities, on a global scale, unlike anything mankind has seen before in all of history. “For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened” (Matthew 24:21-22).

01/07/07 p.m. Here is the latest update from D. Winnail. In it, he mentions German response, camp in the Philippines, the new Bible study course, media, and news items.

Here is the German area portion:

In 2006, the Living Church of God’s German language Web site, www.weltvonmorgen.org, registered 35,553 visitors, an increase of 28 percent compared to 2005; 8,671 booklet downloads, 60 percent more than 2005; 19,414 article downloads, an increase of 21.2 percent compared to 2005; 4,070 Bible Study Course lesson downloads, an increase of 105.4 percent compared to 2005. Additionally, the following printed publications were mailed in 2006: 409 booklets, 335 articles, and 275 Bible Study Course lessons. The overall increase of literature distribution was 37.25 percent more than 2005. Interest in our publications has continued to increase with the advertising program via Google.  We have now topped a total of 100,000 distributed publications since inception in 2000, with 104,850 publications downloaded over the Internet (96.5 percent of all distributed publications) and 3,811 printed copies mailed out. 

Here is one of the three news items:

The European Union: America’s Friend or Foe? The European Union could not have been created without the wholehearted support of the United States. Decades ago, American planners envisioned the E.U. as a tool that would ensure world peace by helping age-old European enemies forge an economic union that would be a valuable U.S. ally. Now, in 2007, the E.U.’s population could reach 484 million—outnumbering the U.S. by 184 million.  Differences between Brussels and Washington continue to widen, especially over trade and foreign policy. The E.U. now has its own parliament, executive, supreme court, currency, prosecutor, emblem—and fledgling army. French and Dutch opposition to the proposed E.U. constitution has merely slowed the process of unification, as the new buzz-word has become “mini-constitution”—a term proposed by French interior minister Nicolas Sarkozy, who is trying to slip a constitution in through the “back door” by proposing a document that would give the E.U. all the attributes of a modern state: a president, foreign minister, and the authority to sign treaties and participate in international organizations as a single European entity. Under this proposal, British citizens’ long-cherished rights of habeas corpus and presumption of innocence would no longer exist (Spero News, December 26, 2006).  The U.S. has helped create a monster that will soon turn against its benefactors. Our former “lovers” will become our conquerors (Jeremiah 30:14; Ezekiel 23:5-10). 

An article of possible interest may be, Europa and the Beast.

On other matters, some at WGN apparently feel that LCG's telecast is sometimes preaching against immoral behavior stronger than they would prefer, this is sad, but part of the reality of the world today. I presume, that unlike last week, they will actually air the telecast today.

01/03/07 a.m. In his latest commentary, LCG's Davy Crockett states:

Recently, I watched a documentary entitled Obsession: Radical Islam’s War Against the West, which showed actual footage of Muslim extremists and their religious leaders using classic propaganda techniques to inflame their followers to hate Westerners, particularly Israelis, Americans and the British. Click here to read more.

12/31/06 a.m. Here is the latest update from Douglas Winnail. In it, he mentions the singles activities, internet, travel, media, income, and world news items.

Here is one of the world news items:

Saber Rattling in the Middle East.  “Egypt rebuked Iran’s president on Monday for claiming his state is ‘a nuclear country’—a comment that touched a nerve among Iran’s neighbors in the Middle East… Iran’s decision to declare itself a nuclear power could undermine Egypt’s campaign to get the Middle East to declare itself a zone free of nuclear weapons… Many Sunni Arab states, including Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia are worried about the growing influence of Shiite Iran in Iraq, and its potential for stirring up religious tensions between the region’s Shiite and Sunni populations” (Associated Press, December 25, 2006).   End-time prophecies indicate that Egypt will play a prominent role in world events, and that Egypt—not Iran—will ultimately be involved in a critical clash with the king of the North (Daniel 11:42-43).

An article of related interest may be Is there a future king of the South?

On other matters, it was announced in services in New Jersey yesterday that this weekend is the first to feature Wally Smith as a presenter for Tomorrow's World. It is great to get another presenter as it should broaden our audience and give the other presenters more time to work on other matters.

12/28/06 a.m. From the LCG website:

The video can be watched online by clicking America on the Brink

12/26/06 a.m. Death Announcement:

Sunday, 12/24/06
***************

Mr. Darrell Morrison, passed away earlier this morning at the Prescott Valley Regional Hospital in Prescott Valley Arizona. Though his demise was very sudden, he did not seem to be in any pain.

The ministry serving the Arizona congregations, Rodger L. Bardo, Jim Nork, & Gary Stein, all went to the hospital to be with, & pray with, Darrell's family.
Mr. Bardo had the following comments:

"Many times we are taken a back by an an event as this, but then Romans 8:28 comes to mind, that: "...ALL things work together for GOOD to those who love God.." And Darrell certainly loved God. His life reflected it.
Darrell was a fine man of 46 years, in the prime of his life. Yet we know that God is the One in control; we are trusting in Him.

This is also encouraging to all of us who love God, as we know, this works to God's purpose, in some GOOD way, though we may not see the specific reason now. We also surely know, and have the trust and faith in God, that Mr. Morrison will surely be resurrected with a shining new body, in the very family of God, which he so many times spoke of and preached to all of us.

Mr. Morrison will be sorely missed. Well respected, a Deacon in God's Church, and full of zeal, his love for the Brethren and the work done in service to both his family and the church, very evident from whoever you talked with. He and his family are a real tribute to this Christian life!

Karen, his wife, & the daughter of Gerald & Velma Shoquist, will need special strength now; as will the Shoquists, Darrell's parents the Morrisons, & all of Darrell's loved ones, to get through this immediate time. Please keep them all in your prayers."

As details of a service are confirmed, there will be a further announcement.

Address For Condolences:

Mrs. Karen Morrison & Family
6960 W. Potter Drive,
Glendale, AZ 85308

I do not recall if I have ever met this family.

On other matters, I corrected the link for the weekly update from Douglas Winnail.

12/24/06 a.m. Here is the weekly update from Douglas Winnail. In it, he mentioned media, replacing two positions, two deaths, Living 4 Tomorrow, Canada, South Africa, church eras, and some news items.

Here is what it says about LCG and Church eras:

Questions about Church “Eras” 

Some critics believe Mr. Herbert Armstrong taught that Church eras were successive, but the LCG teaches that today several Church eras exist side by side or contemporaneously.  Some also assume that the idea that LCG is a remnant of the Philadelphia Church in the Laodicean era contradicts Mr. Armstong’s statement that the Laodicean Church would only appear after the Philadelphia Church was taken to a place of safety—which means the Philadelphia Church would be the only era in existence prior to the Tribulation.  This issue generates questions due to a confusion of terms.  The Bible indicates (Revelation 2-3) that Church eras are successive—this is what LCG believes.  An “era” is the period of time that a particular Church would be predominant in the history of God’s Church.  The Ephesian era covered the time of the apostles and possibly their immediate successors—from about 30-120 AD.  The Thyatira era appears to extend from about 1000 to 1600 AD.  The Sardis era covers a period from about 1600 to 1900 AD.  The Philadelphia era is understood to have begun with the ministry of Herbert Armstrong in the 1930s and the era (but not the Church organization) appears to have ended at his death in 1986.  Dr. Herman Hoeh felt the Laodicean era began shortly after Mr. Armstrong died, and it does seem with the appearance of hundreds of spin off groups from the WCG—where many are now following their own doctrinal ideas—that we are living in the Laodicean era (see Revelation 3:14-22). 

Although Church eras are successive in a historical sense, confusion arises when we see Church organizations continue beyond their eras.  Waldensian churches that originated in the Thyatira era still exist today.  While early Waldensian churches appear to have kept the Sabbath, Holy Days, dietary laws and other biblical doctrines, many modern Waldensian churches have adopted Protestant doctrines—Sunday worship, Christmas, Easter, etc.  In other words, their era representing the Church of God is over, but the Church organization still exists. However, by changing fundamental doctrines, these churches no longer represent the historical teachings of the biblical Church of God.  The same situation exists for Church organizations from the Sardis era that continued to exist during the Philadelphia era and still exist today.  Mr. Armstrong felt and said that the Sardis churches he came into contact with were God’s people—yet their era was over.  While Revelation 3:1-6 refers to Sardis as a “dead” Church, the knowledge of the Sabbath and other doctrines was preserved during this era, and God said He had a “few” in Sardis who would receive a final reward in the Kingdom.   

The Philadelphia Church (not the era) is promised protection during the Tribulation because it would “persevere” in preaching the Gospel and in doing the Work (Revelation 3:7-11).  This implies that it would continue doing its job even after its era had passed—thus it would be a remnant of the Philadelphia Church in a Laodicean era.  While we now appear to be in the Laodicean era—where many are laid back and lukewarm about doctrine and other religious practices—the actual identity of the Laodicean Church as an organization may not become obvious until the Philadelphians are taken to a place of safety.  This seems to be essentially what Mr. Armstrong was saying over 25 years ago.  An important key to understanding this issue is that Church eras and Church organizations are not necessarily synonymous and they are not always contemporaneous.

Long time readers of the COGwriter site will note that official LCG's position on these matters is essentially the same as mine, and that we both tend to use approximate dates for the earlier eras. An article of related interest might be The Philadelphia Church Era.

12/19/06 a.m. This morning, LCG announced the following:

Different ideas and practices are often unsettling to people. Some readily accept the premise that there might be another way to live, while others retreat from anything that is contrary to their belief and practice. How about you? Are you willing to at least look into the source of the customs of Christmas that you see all about us? Click here to read more.

An article of further interest may be What Does the Catholic Church Teach About Christmas and the Holy Days?

12/18/06 a.m. Several have asked me about LCG's teachings on the 144,000 of Revelation. Perhaps the best thing to do is to quote some of what HWA taught, as well as what LCG's literature teaches on that subject.

First from Hebert W. Armstrong:

WHO Are the 144,000?

You have probably heard many interpretations. They are all in error. Men are unable to interpret this prophecy. The first thing to notice is that the TIME of the sealing of this 144,000 is yet in the future--it is after the Great Tribulation and the heavenly SIGNS, and just before the plagues of God's Judgments! It has not happened yet!

Second, this prophecy is plain, and means just what it says-- 144,000 of the 12 tribes of Israel--12,000 of each tribe. Where are they today? Where are the lost ten tribes?

But these 144,000 are not all! "After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands... And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they? And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb" (Rev. 7:9, 13-14) (Armstrong HW. The Book of Revelation Unveiled at last!. WCG, 1972, p. 35).

Now from LCG:

The above is every statement directly mentioning the 144,000 by LCG's late John Ogwyn in his Revelation: The Mystery Unveiled booklet. This is not to say that some adjustment may not be made in this subject as even HWA had some questions on this from to time. But this is currently what I have found in HWA's and LCG's writings on the subject.

Furthermore, here is the one written statement from RC Meredith that I found:

After a large number of both Israelite and Gentile peoples are "sealed" and are protected from God’s final wrath (Revelation 7), then the "trumpet plagues" begin (Meredith RC. When Will Jesus Christ Return? Tomorrow's World. May-June 2000).

And that statement is consistent with what HWA and John Ogwyn wrote.

12/17/06 a.m. Here is the latest update from Douglas Winnail. In it, he mentions travels, singles events, Australasian updates, doctrinal differences, and world news items. In addition, this update specifically deals with the inaccurate charges of various critics concerning LCG's position on the gospel--in my opinion, it is a must read (and it is specifically quoted on the GCG news page).

Also in the weekly update, Bruce Tyler reported:

God’s Work in Australia continues to flourish.  We have received the initial influx of semi-annual responses, which are now being processed.  Our current count stands at 1,789, an 11-percent response so far.  According to previous responses, we estimate that we will receive about a 15-percent response requesting Prophecy Fulfilled: God’s Hand in World Affairs. All members will automatically receive the booklet. 

This week we also had a very encouraging response to Mr. Ames’ Tomorrow’s World program #286, offering the audio CD titled, “The Day of the Lord.”  Our previous highest response of 338 requests was for the booklet Satan’s Counterfeit Christianity, back in February.  So far this week we have received 342 requests for the CD and our projected total should take us over the 350 mark for the week.   

12/15/06 a.m. This morning, LCG reported:

Another Challenge for Evolution. Scientists recently discovered a Jurassic period shrimp in the Coral Sea. This shrimp was thought to have been extinct for 50 million years (Reuters, December 11, 2006). Darwinian theory and evolutionists posit that because the “fittest” species adapt and survive, there should be only a fossil record of “ancient species” because they will have greatly changed and evolved or become extinct in 50 million years. This discovery creates one more problem for advocates of macro evolution. However, the Bible clearly states that “by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth.” (Colossians 1:16).

There are so many holes in the evolutionary model, that no true scientist should be able to accept it. Two articles of related interest may be Is God's Existence Logical? and Is Evolution Probable or Impossible or Is God's Existence Logical? Part II

In the today's co-worker letter, RC Meredith reported:

Here are some of the latest statistics supplied to me by our capable staff:

    Well, that’s about it for this time, dear brethren and co-workers. In closing, let me just urge you to pray fervently for Christ’s return and His wonderful Kingdom to be set up. We truly “need” it.

The little flock of LCG truly does attempt to do the work. And article of possible interest might be There are Many COGs: Why Support the Living Church of God?

12/12/06 a.m. LCG announced its latest online commentary this morning:

Tis the season ... a time for beautiful music, lovely pageantry, parties, fun and family time, the annual bedlam in shopping malls, specialty stores, discount houses and now the Internet. Click here to read more.

12/10/06 a.m. Here is the weekly update from Douglas Winnail. In it, he discusses Pearl Harbor, focusing on the big picture, Charles Bryce's departure, area updates (Midwest, Philippines, New Zealand), singles activities, a family activity, and some news items.

Kinnear Pennman provided this update from New Zealand:

The responses to the Tomorrow’s World program are continuing at very good levels.  Many people who make contact comment that we are the only Church they know of that is teaching and warning about what is happening in world events.  An increasing number of viewers acknowledge that the world is indeed “close to the end”. On Sunday, November 11, we held a working-bee and prepared 3,377 semi-annual letters for mailing. Responses already exceed 600 and have come in quicker that on previous occasions. A greater number of response cards are returned with donations included. This month we added ten new co-workers to the list. A total of 4,107 items of mail were posted during the month and the total for the year-to-date is 23,648. This is lower than for 2005 but we are no longer mailing out Tomorrow’s World magazines locally, and that reduces the total mail markedly. More than 120 new students were enrolled in the Bible Study Course thanks to the Tomorrow’s World program offering it. A total of 174 batches of lessons were mailed.

12/08/06 a.m. In an email sent this morning, LCG reported:

European Court Rules on Parental Rights. In a landmark case, Konrad vs. Germany, the European Court of Human Rights ruled that the German government had the right to ban home schooling. The court ruled in favor of Germany, saying every child has a right to a “pluralistic” education (an education that teaches all children to live together with mutual respect for races, religions and views—as defined by the state). This hallmark case sets an important precedent for other nations that adopt international law as their own (CourtReport, November-December 2006). Is it interesting or “telling” that Germany would be the first nation in Europe to pursue a ruling that gives it the right to mandate a pluralistic education for all children—giving it once again the ability to “indoctrinate” its young citizens with the pluralistic education the state (the Fatherland) deems appropriate? The numerous recent political, military, and judicial actions taken by Germany bear continued watching, given their prophesied potential to lead the coming Beast power (Isaiah 11:11; Zechariah 10:10-11, Revelation 17:12-13).

There will likely be many unusual laws and interpretation of laws in Europe as the end comes closer.

12/06/06 a.m. Last night, LCG announced a new commentary:

The world has watched with interest (and, perhaps, apprehension) as Pope Benedict XVI has undertaken his first excursion to a Muslim nation. The common thought has been that the Vatican had large stakes riding on the visit and that the pope had to tread carefully. Click here to read more.

On other matters, information related to the Charles Bryce matter is at the News of Those Once Affiliated of Global page.

12/03/06 a.m. Here is the latest update from Douglas Winnail. In it, he mentioned various TW matters, appreciation for prayers, income, an updated baptismal report, an Ontario singles weekend, L4 tomorrow, what kind of light are you, and news items.

Here is the baptismal report:

To date, our TV coverage in countries around the world reached 183,050 responses since the beginning of the year, which is 26 percent more than last year’s TV response for the same period.  This is indeed our biggest year ever in sheer TV-response counts.  North America is up 27 percent over last year, Australia is up 23 percent, New Zealand is up 24 percent and the response from our three satellites over Europe and the Middle East is up 81 percent over a year ago.  The telecast has been averaging 3,800 responses each week since the beginning of the calendar year.  One encouraging highlight is all the new co-workers we are seeing here in the United States.  To date, 768 of our Tomorrow’s World magazine subscribers, most of whom started subscribing as a result of the telecast, have become co-workers this year. We are also watching the spiritual seeds coming to fruition, with more than 800 baptisms in North America from the telecast alone since its launch in January 1999, of which 414 of these baptisms originated directly from the Tomorrow’s World telecast. Our member files now show more than 1,800 baptisms from all sources in our U.S. and international Living Church of God congregations since 1999 (Pyle W. MEDIA. The World Ahead Weekly Update. November 30, 2006).

LCG probably has the highest percentage of people baptized in the past 8 years of any COG. And the highest number of people baptized who did not have a prior COG background.

How do LCG's responses compare to those that HWA got? Notice what HWA reported:

Since the beginning of 1985, we have averaged around 13,000 telephone responses per program (Armstrong HW. Recent History of the Philadelphia Era of the Church of God. Worldwide News. June 24, 1985).

Since HWA's WCG had 20 times (140,000 vs. 7,000) the Feast of Tabernacles attendance as LCG has, but only 3x the number of television responses per attendee, LCG is clearly doing an effective work by the standards that HWA set.

One of the news items in the update was:

U.S. Democrats Debate Military Draft. When the new Democratic-controlled Congress meets in January, Rep. Charles Rangel (D-NY) plans to introduce a bill to activate the military draft.  Rangel explained his reasoning in an interview on CBS’ Face the Nation: “If we’re going to challenge Iran and challenge North Korea and then, as some people have asked, to send more troops to Iraq, we can’t do that without a draft” (Reuters, November 19, 2006). Incoming House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says she will oppose Rangel’s legislation, calling it merely “a way to make a point that this war has not involved or made any shared sacrifice” (CNN, November 21, 2006).  The last years of military draft in the U.S. were between 1948 and 1973. Most observers do not expect Rangel’s bill to pass, but many acknowledge that an all-volunteer armed forces will be unable to meet America’s future military needs.  In warning Israel of the drawbacks of a human king, God noted, “This will be the behavior of the king who will reign over you: he will take your sons and appoint them for his own chariots and to be his horsemen, and some will run before his chariots” (1 Samuel 8:10-11).  God also noted the result of falling away from Him, “Your men shall fall by the sword, and your mighty in the war” (Isaiah 3:25).  We see God’s warnings coming true NOW.

Perhaps this may be a good time to remind everyone that we in LCG do not participate in carnal warfare. An article of related interest may be Military Service and the COGs.

12/01/06 a.m. This morning, LCG reported:

China-Egypt Nuclear Pact.  Recently China agreed to assist Egypt in the development of nuclear power for civil purposes. Egypt has long been a China supporter, and was the first African nation to recognize China’s communist regime (Adnkronos International, November 7, 2006).  This recent deal between China and Egypt could prove to be very significant.  Bible prophecies indicate that Egypt will become a major player on the world stage at the time of the end, no doubt contributing greatly to the power of the king of the South (Daniel 11:43; Ezekiel 30:4; Ezekiel 46:8-10). With greater financial capability, due to the development of gold reserves, Egypt will have the power to “buy” the resources and the allegiance of nations it needs.   Nuclear capability coupled with the largest standing army in the Middle East will give Egypt even more power and leverage over its neighbors. This is yet one more situation to note as prophecy marches on.

Speaking of China and Egypt, some articles of possible interest may include:

China, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 1: Genesis and Chinese Characters This article provides information showing that the Chinese peoples must have known about various accounts in the Book of Genesis up until their dispersion after the Tower of Babel.
China, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 2: The Sabbath and Some of God's Witness in China When did Christianity first come to China? And is there early evidence that they observed the seventh day sabbath?
China, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 3: China in Prophecy What is Ahead for China? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese?
The Dramatic Story of Chinese Sabbathkeepers This reformattedGood News article from 1955 discusses Sabbath-keeping in China in the 1800s.
Is There A Future King of the South? Some no longer believe there needs to be. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? What does the Bible say?

11/28/06 a.m. This morning, LCG announced its latest commentary by Carl Ponder with the following:

Recently I spent some time with my 92-year old mother. She had just received her latest issue of AARP The Magazine, which contained a very sobering interview with Dr. Robert G. Webster, one of the world’s leading virologist and flu experts. Click here to read more.

11/26/06 a.m. Here is the latest update from D. Winnail.

Here are two interesting news items from it:

Israelite Nations of Europe Are Falling. Britain and Ireland are leading Europe in crime rates. Ireland has the overall highest “victimization rate” in all of Europe. Only Britain surpassed Ireland in rates of car thefts and burglaries, according to a recent EU report (Times Online, August 27, 2006). Meanwhile, British researchers have recently sought permission to conduct research that will insert human DNA into cow embryos in order to speed up stem cell development. Although 99.9% human, the new embryo will technically be a mix of the two species. Stem cells will be harvested from the new embryo at six days of age before destroying the new, living, embryo. Calum MacKellar, from the Scottish Council on Human Bioethics, said, “In this kind of procedure, you are mixing at a very intimate level animal eggs and human chromosomes, and you may begin to undermine the whole distinction between humans and animals” (BBC, November 6, 2006). When God confused the languages at Babel, He stated as a reason, “now nothing that they propose to do will be withheld from them” (Genesis 11:6). God prophesied against Israel saying “Make a chain, for the land is filled with crimes of blood and the city is full of violence” (Ezekiel 7:23). Crime IS rapidly increasing in these once sanctified nations. This new research is also proposing even to “abort” newly formed human/cow embryos, just a week after their formation. For their disobedience, God promises to punish Israel. “They shall seek peace but there shall be none. Disaster will come upon disaster, and rumor will be upon rumor… the law will perish from the priest and counsel from the elders…” (vv. 25-26). This is exactly what we are seeing in the nations of Israel now! 

China Taking Steps to Gain Naval Supremacy. Two-thirds of the world’s surface is covered by water. For 300 years, Great Britain and the United States ruled the seas and thereby controlled ocean-bound commerce. Now, China is undertaking a major naval expansion that threatens to put the Asian power in control of the Pacific. Recently, a Chinese diesel-powered attack submarine came within striking range of the American carrier Kitty Hawk, yet was not discovered by U.S. naval surveillance until it surfaced (Reuters, November 13, 2006). In less than 20 years, China’s rapidly growing submarine force will be able to patrol the west coast of North America at will. General Wen Zongren, from China’s elite Military Academy of Sciences, has said, “China must ‘break’ the blockade [by] international forces against China’s maritime security... China must pass through oceans and go out of the oceans in its future development” (Heritage Foundation, March 1, 2006). China wants to secure the sea routes by which it receives raw materials from around the world, fueling the Asian giant’s goal of global domination. How else could the kings of the East amass the resources to sustain a military that will confront the final revival of the Roman Empire, and ultimately Jesus Christ Himself? (Revelation 16:12-14) 

11/21/06 a.m. LCG's Gary Ehman's latest commentary is titled Really, I am thankful. It begins with:

Jesus Christ said in Matthew 6:25: “Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?” Click here to read more.

11/19/06 a.m. Here is the latest update from Dr. Winnail. In it, he discusses last week's Council of Elder's meeting, a Copper Mountain FOT-related request, singles activities, media, the key to real friendship, and world news items.

Here is one of the news items:

Britain Continues to Depart from The Faith. “For the first time in 400 years, a member of the British Royal Family (Lord Nicholas Windsor) will marry in a religious ceremony at the Vatican and the Queen of England has expressed her approval.” “The 36-year-old royal was received into the Roman Catholic Church in a private ceremony in 2001. His fiancée is also Roman Catholic. His mother was the first member of the British Royal Family in modern times to convert to Catholicism in 1994” (Catholic News Agency, November 1, 2006). Concurrently, Prince Charles has apparently decided to hold a multi-faith coronation in the sacred Westminster Abbey (to include Muslims, Jews and Buddhists), following his state coronation by the Church of England. Alison Ruoff, member of the Church’s parliament, said, “I cannot see how Prince Charles could do this. Multi-faith and the Christian faith do not go together…As part of the coronation ceremony he has to take an oath to be ‘Defender Of The Faith’, so if he misses this out I cannot see how he could become King… He cannot be ‘Defender Of Faiths’ because other faiths are in complete opposition to the Christian faith” (Daily Express, November 15, 2006). Because of the sins of Israel, God promised “I will cause the pomp of the strong to cease, and their holy places shall be defiled… the law will perish from the priest” (Ezekiel 7:24-25). Interestingly, the priest performing the wedding of Lord Nicholas recently converted to Catholicism from the Anglican Church. 

I noticed that the Catholic News Agency reported a couple of days ago "Speaking to the participants at the plenary session of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, Pope Benedict recalled that the primary goal of ecumenical dialogue remains the same: to reach one, single, visible Church". And this may include Anglicans.

11/17/06 a.m. This mornng, LCG reported:

A Coming European Army? Kurt Beck, leader of Germany’s Social Democrats, recently called for a single European Army. He said the army should be used as a “global peace power” and should be separate from NATO, so as to avoid being manipulated by the U.S. Although he disagreed with the army being separate from NATO, the Polish EU President called for the EU force to become 100,000 strong. A European security expert noted that an independent EU army would “lead to more efficient defense spending… when countries are reluctant to increase military budgets…” He continued, “Giving up those [redundant military services] would hurt some countries. I could imagine that the U.K. would hate the idea of an integrated European defense force and single command.” The EU is already beginning to operate independently from NATO (International Herald Tribune, November 6, 2006). Interestingly, the creation of such an army may act to further marginalize Britain from the EU. Also, Germany is once again pushing Europe to adopt its own view of a European defense force—a force prophesied to exist at the time of the end. “At the time… the king of the north shall come against him [king of the South] like a whirlwind, with chariots, horsemen, and with many ships; and he shall enter the countries, overwhelm them, and pass through. He shall also enter the Glorious Land, and many countries shall be overthrown…” (Daniel 11:40-41).

Two articles of possible interest may be Europa and the Beast and Is there a future King of the South?.

11/15/06 a.m. This morning, LCG's Daniel Campos announced:

You can see on line the Tomorrows World Magazine in Spanish, Nov - Dec 06 in www.mundomanana.org, then "Revistas".

11/14/06 a.m. This morning, LCG announced:

While visiting a dear friend in the hospital, I was waiting in the hallway until the nurses completed a procedure that required privacy. Click here to read more.

This is for the commentary America, what are you thinking? By Davy Crockett.

11/12/06 a.m. Here is the latest update from D. Winnail. In it, he mentions the semiannual letter, prayer requests, the leadership program, a Caribbean update, an Australian, an Indonesian update, FOT attendance, singles events, a record media response, the value of education., and some news items.

Here is information on the FOT:

Feast of Tabernacles 2006 Attendance 

Hosting 45 sites in 30 countries around the world, the Living Church of God had an overall Festival attendance this year of 7,120.  This is an increase from the previous year’s attendance of 7,057 (both figures include shut-ins, mostly in the USA, who were unable to attend the Feast and received FOT CDs).  Notable increases in attendance this year were observed in international areas such as Canada, Latin America, United Kingdom, Philippines, Africa, and French-speaking areas...

11/07/06 a.m. This morning, LCG announced:

Commentary: Stem cell research: what BOTH sides miss...

With mid-term elections drawing near, politics at its “best” has been on display. One of the most heated and passionate races has not been between two people, but between two views on a contentious issue: embryonic stem cell research and what many call “cloning.” Click here to read more.

11/06/06 a.m. LCG's Daniel Campos reported the following this morning:

News of the Living Church of God
Spanish Work

We have added a Bible Study on the Book of Daniel in 5 videos by Mario Hernández. You can watch them in www.mundomanana.org, then “Cursos bíblicos”, and then “Cursos en video”.

11/05/06 a.m. Here is the latest update from D. Winnail. In it, he mentions the Feast, the semi-annual letter, some health issues (including Dibar Apartian's injuries), he has a writing from RCM concerning the meeting with UCG who again mentions that there will be no merger, singles and young adult activies, setting right goals, media, and some world news items.

The following media report was from Wayne Pyle:

Normally, time-change weekends—changing from daylight savings to standard time—do a number on our TV audience and reduce our response. This weekend may have been no different, but the response is higher than what our Friday morning projection indicated. We aired program #280, “Unlocking the Mystery of Revelation,” which offered Revelation: The Mystery Unveiled! From Thursday through Sunday, we received 2,362 phone calls, and we are expecting the final response for this week to go well over 2,900. 

The Revelation booklet had been offered in 14 TV airings previously and in the most recent airing last month, this booklet broke our all-tome record for a single telecast with 4,880 TV requests, and the exact same telecast back in April drew 4,762 TV responses. Overall, the Revelation booklet is our third highest-pulling booklet among our TV viewers. 

Last week we finished digging out from under thousands of responses that came in during our Festival break. The North American numbers came together to show that a new milestone had been achieved—over 700,000 responses since the Tomorrow’s World program was launched in January 1999 in the United States and Canada. 

Thanks to this week’s TV replies, the total cumulative North American response since January 1999 is now up to 705,341, bringing the total response from all TV stations around the world to 875,874 responses. In the nearly seven years since our first year in 1999, the telecast around the world grew at an average of 57 percent per year.

Absolutely fabulous! An article of related possible interest may be Should the Church Still Try to Place its Top Priority on Proclaiming the Gospel or Did Herbert Armstrong Change that Priority for the Work?

11/03/06 a.m. Yesterday, LCG reported:

Watching Germany Rise Again.  After WWII the German army was reorganized to prevent it from terrorizing Europe again. Now the German army is reorganizing again, this time for the purpose of not only “defending the fatherland,” but also pursuing enemies outside the German borders (Financial Times, October 24, 2006). Germany’s responsibility of guarding waters off Lebanon is one indication of how tides of military “protection” are changing in Germany. In addition to the German army now being able “go on the offense” for the first time in just over 60 years, former German defense minister Rupert Scholz recently called for developing nuclear weapons in order to “protect” against future terrorist aggression (Expatica Magazine, January 26, 2006). The now “offensive army” may also have a “nuclear option” at its disposal in the not too distant future. Germany demonstrated twice in the last century that it had the will to enforce its desires on Europe and beyond, and Bible prophecy indicates that it will do it again in the near future (Isaiah 8:4-10; Zechariah 10:10-11). It is likely that we are watching this once powerful nation return again to its former glory!

An article of possible interest may be Europa and the Beast.

10/29/06 a.m. Here is the latest update from Dr. Winnail. In it, he mentions the FOT, Southern Africa, meeting with UCG, a prayer request, upcoming singles activity, a job opening, a media update, savoring the big picture, and some news items.

Regarding meeting with UCG, RC Meredith and I discussed this meeting a few hours after it occurred. He mentioned that he specifically stated at the beginning of the meeting that LCG has no interest in any type of merger with UCG. He stated UCG and LCG have different works, differing governments, and differing focuses. He told me that they concurred with all of those comments. And he told me I could post about it if I thought it would be helpful.

Essentially, the meeting was used to discuss certain areas of mutual interest and when better communications between the two groups may be appropriate. After the meeting, Dr. Winnail, RC Meredith, Dibar Apartian (and I believe Richard Ames) had lunch with the two UCG representatives.

There is no merger in the works. And nothing like that is planned or hoped for. What is hoped for is that UCG members who wish to be faithful to the teachings of the old WCG will realize LCG is truly the remnant of the Philadelphia portion of the COG and come with us--that is RC Meredith's position and he repeated it to me earlier this week.

We in LCG consider that the differences between us and UCG will always prevent a merger such as the type that took place between the old CGCF and UCG (see the old article Beware, Doctrinal Compromise is in the Air!). While we consider that UCG could have some members that are Philadelphian, we do not consider that UCG is carrying on the Philadelphia work that LCG does. I continue to pray that any Philadelphians who are scattered, will be gathered together with us before it is too late (please see the article There is a Place of Safety for the Philadelphians. Why it May Be Petra).

An article of possible interest may be Differences between the Living Church of God and United Church of God.

10/25/06 a.m. Here is LCG elder's Gary Ehman's latest commentary:

It’s that time of the year again; pumpkins, witches, goblins, black cats, bats and vampires swirl around in the heads of children as they plan their annual assault on the neighborhood to get treats while threatening tricks.

Parents nervously give into childish demands, driven by the economics of retail profiteering, expressed in the seasonal advertising blitz aimed at the kids who make the demands on the parents. Isn’t this just all a big bunch of fun? If so, why do we have the glaring, screaming headlines each year?..

“Halloween is a time when we expose kids to behavior that is not the norm. Children connect the holiday with death,” said Clark, whose study, titled, “Tricks of Festival: Halloween, Children and Enculturation” was published in the anthropological journal, Ethos (www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2005/09/050922020544.htm).

Is there a real story behind Halloween and other holiday traditions that claim to be Christian? Read our revealing article “What Is Hidden by the Holidays?” It will open a new understanding to why you do the things that you do – traditionally.

You can click here for the complete commentary.

An article of related interest may be Is Halloween Holy Time for Christians?

10/21/06 p.m. The following obituary is from the Crossville Chronicle:

Zona E. B. Kerley

June 2, 1905 — Oct. 3, 2006

Zona Edith Burgess Kerley, 101, of Crossville, passed away Oct. 3, 2006. Funeral services were conducted Oct. 5 from the chapel of Crossville Memorial Funeral Home, with Jim Sweat officiating. Burial was in Green Acres Memorial Gardens.

Mrs. Kerley was born June 2, 1905, in Cumberland County, the daughter of Canza and Anna Walker Burgess.

She was a homemaker and a member of the Living Church of God.

Survivors include her daughter, Ruby Tabor of Crossville; son, Herbert Kerley of Georgia; grandchildren, Larry Tabor, Tim Tabor, Carolina Eldridge, Suni Nelson, Connie Shadwell, Sherry Kerley, Walter Kerley, Keith Kerley and Kimberly Kerley; 19 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and sister, Jean Watley of Elyria, OH.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Kerley; son, Hubert Kerley; grandson, Tony Tabor; great-grandson, Jeff Tabor; seven brothers; and five sisters.

Pallbearers were Larry Tabor, Tim Tabor, Hossie Burgess, Steve Bridges, Jason Eldridge and Chad Tabor.

Crossville Memorial Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. was in charge of the arrangements.

http://www.crossville-chronicle.com/obituaries/local_story_282165605.html

She was one of LCG's oldest members.

10/20/06 a.m. LCG's Daniel Campos sent me the following in Spanish:

My family attended the FOT in Guatemala.

10/04/06 a.m. In his latest commentary, LCG's Carl Ponder stated:

What has happened to America’s and Britain’s ability to produce wealth out of the ground, such as in Birmingham and thousands of other locations throughout these two nations?...

The answer is not popular, but it is true: God gave us the blessings if we would obey Him, “Now it shall come to pass, if you diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I command you today, that the Lord your God will set you high above all nations of the earth. … Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the country. Blessed shall be the fruit of your body, the produce of your ground and the increase of your herds, the increase of your cattle and the offspring of your flocks.” (Deuteronomy 28:1–4).  

And we, as nations, have refused to obey even the “least” of God’s commandments. We have brought His displeasure upon ourselves, “But it shall come to pass, if you do not obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments and His statutes which I command you today … Cursed shall you be when you come in, and cursed shall you be when you go out” (vv. 15–19). 

We have reached the stage now where everything we try to do, whether in manufacturing, foreign policy or war, slips away. To see what lies just ahead for our English-speaking nations read our free booklet, The United States and Great Britain in Prophecy. 

You can click here for the complete commentary.

10/01/06 a.m. Here is the latest update from Douglas Winnail. In it, he mentions travels, RC Meredith discussing the departure of Syd Hull, three ordinations, and some FOT announcements.

One item that LCG's RC Meredith mentioned was:

Incidentally, if any of you want to really know the details of David Pack and his confused approach, please check up on him on the Internet site of Dr. Robert Thiel, members.aol.com/cogwriter/lnews.htm. Here you will find many facts about what is really happening.

The above link will take you to the GCG news page which has certain news and links to various articles including Why Not the Restored Church of God?

9/29/06 a.m. Yesterday LCG reported:

Television has brought in more than 400 in the United States and Canada, whose first contact was the Tomorrow’s World telecast and then they were subsequently baptized over the past seven years.  In addition, another 400 individuals, who were previously baptized, came with Living as a result of the telecast.  At present, approximately one out of every 600 TV viewers added to our mailing list are coming to baptism; and for TV viewers on our subscription list for seven years, we are seeing an average of one out of 200 being baptized.  Back in Mr. Armstrong’s time, only one out of each thousand TV viewers on the mailing list were baptized.

 Since January 1999, a total of 1,550 individuals have been baptized in the Living Church of God, from all sources. 

This morning, LCG reported:

EU President Supports the Pope.  “European Commission chief (currently from Italy) Jose Manuel Barroso has said he is ‘disappointed’ that EU leaders did not do more to support the Pope after his controversial remarks on Islam.”  Mr. Barroso went on to comment “I was disappointed that there weren’t more European leaders who said: of course the Pope has the right to express his views. The problem is not his remarks, but the reactions of the extremists.” Mr. Barroso “accused European leaders of letting the Pope Benedict XVI down” after his September 12 speech in Germany (EUobserver.com, September 25, 2006). As time goes on, it appears that European politics and religion are becoming increasingly intertwined—EU President Barroso’s comments this week merely accentuate this fact. God warned that at the end of the age, the “woman would ride the beast,” indicating that a religious power would end up directing the political affairs of the Beast power and being supported by that same political power (Revelation 17:3-7)...

Egypt in the Spotlight Again.  “President Hosni Mubarak’s son has said Egypt must offer a new political vision for the Middle East—one not imposed from outside, but based on Arab values… ‘We reject these foreign ambitions to erase Arab identity in the framework of what they call the Greater Middle East initiative,’ Mr Mubarak said… During the lengthy address, his statement that Egypt should consider developing nuclear energy was met by loud applause” (BBC News, September 19, 2006). Meanwhile, the US Ambassador to Egypt pledged U.S. support in helping Egypt develop nuclear technology (Egypt Daily News, September 25, 2006). God prophesied that Egypt would play a role in end-time world politics and very likely in the King of the South’s power base. In fact, Egypt will be involved to the extent that the King of the North will directly attack Egypt (Daniel 11:42-43). Egypt appears to be taking an increasingly more visible role in Middle Eastern politics, just as God prophesied.

Egypt will have an important role with the Future King of the South, and the Vatican will have an important role with the future king of the North.

09/27/06 a.m. LCG reported:

Public comments that spark outrage in the Muslim world are nothing new. But when the comments come from the spiritual leader of more than one billion Catholics, the world sits up and takes notice – as well it should. Click here to read more.

09/26/06 a.m. In his latest co-worker letter, RC Meredith writes:

Greetings from Charlotte, NC! Britain, Canada and America are at war! Make no mistake. Regardless of his good intentions, when President Bush ordered the attack on Iraq, he unwittingly set in motion a chain of events which will help “break” the pride and power of our peoples (Lev. 26:19). Although few could have foreseen where this Iraq adventure would lead, it is now developing into a full-scale war—not just with Iraq—but with the entire “Muslim nation.” For, regardless of national identity, hundreds of millions of Muslims look upon themselves as one people. And their militant leaders are now playing on this theme with increasing effect.

 

      Britain’s highly esteemed magazine, The Economist (September 7, 2006), points out that there are now 1.3 billion Muslims! And we are beginning to realize that increasing tens of millions of this vast multitude are starting to absolutely hate the United States and our allies with an increasing depth of hatred which our peoples have seldom, if ever, experienced. Iran, for instance, has blatantly expressed its intentions toward America and Israel.

The entire letter is available at http://www.cogl.org/cgi-bin/cogl/coworker/cogl-coworker.cgi?action=view_coworker

Daniel Campos reports:

Concerning false teachers, Douglas Winnail wrote:

Beware of False Teachers!  Warnings about false teachers are found throughout the Bible, with much emphasis in the New Testament.  Jesus warned of false teachers who would come in “sheep’s clothing” (smooth talking, congenial, appearing spiritual) but were inwardly “ravenous wolves” who would seek to divide and devour the flock—and whose fruits (track records) would become obvious over time (Matthew 7:15-19).  Jesus said that at the end of the age “many” would come in His name and would “deceive many” (Matthew 24:5, 11, 24).  Paul warned that false teachers guided by a “different spirit” would even masquerade as “apostles of Christ” as they mislead people and function as ministers of Satan (II Corinthians 11:1-15).  Peter warned that false teachers would use deceptive words to promote divisive and destructive heresies, and they would speak evil of the truth and work of God (II Peter 2:1-3).  The Bible reveals that false teachers will speak lies (John 8:44), repeat rumors (Proverbs 11:13) and dig up evil to make accusations against others to discredit them (Proverbs 16:27; Revelation 12:9-10).  These prophesied events are happening today.  Let’s remember the numerous warnings and ask God for the spiritual discernment [sound mind] to recognize false teachers (II Timothy 1:6-7), because we will all be tested in this crucial area.

The update also states:

In less than 15 days, the Living Church of God will be celebrating the Feast of Tabernacles and the Last Great Day at 43 different Feast sites throughout 30 countries—on six continents—and for the first time in Nigeria!  As our excitement increases for God’s Fall Holy Days, remember to pray for good weather, protection, safe travel and God’s powerful inspiration on the messages.

An article of related interest may be The Feast of Tabernacles: A Time for Christians?

09/19/06 p.m. This morning, LCG sent out the following announcement:

The Roman Empire was the most powerful, far reaching, and longest-running empire of the last 2000 years. It once stretched from North Africa to Scotland, from the Atlantic well into Asia. It was centered in modern-day Europe and ended with the abdication of Francis II in 1806 - following nearly a millennium of rule in Europe. Click here to read more.

After reading that, a related article of interest may be Europa and the Beast of Revelation.

09/17/06 a.m. Here is the latest update from Dibar Apartian. In it, he mentions new telecasts, a December singles activity in Charlotte, a Spanish work update, Canadian update, UK & Philippines update, FOT updates, new tv stations, news items, and lessons from Jonah.

One news item was:

A Nation of Criminals. The cost of criminal detention in the United States is an indication of the nation’s moral fiber. U.S. taxpayers are bearing an ever-increasing penalty for America’s broken religious, educational, political and criminal justice systems. More than 13 million adults pass through America’s jails and prisons annually. New laws have increased the current inmate population to 2.2 million. The U.S. has almost 5,000 jails and correctional institutions, which cost an estimated $60 billion per year. (Washington Post, June 8, 2006). One of every 136 people in the U.S. is behind bars. From June 2004 through June 2005, approximately 1,100 inmates per week—more than 500,000 in a year—were added to the prison population. Local jails hold about one-third of U.S. inmates—nearly 750,000—while the remaining 1.4 million are in federal or state prisons, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics.  Judges, increasingly reluctant to release people before trial, often hold the accused in local jails (Associated Press, May 22, 2006). Speaking of civil authorities, God’s word says:  ”Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God…For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil” (Romans 13:1-3). Additionally, God prophesied through Paul that “in the last days… men will be… lovers of money… disobedient to parents… unholy… unforgiving… without self-control… despisers of good… headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God” (II Timothy 3:1-5). All of these characteristics are abundant in society now and lead to much greater rates of incarceration. 

09/13/06 a.m. In his last co-worker letter, RC Meredith reported:

Meanwhile, the number of people writing in and requesting a visit from one of our ministers or representatives has essentially doubled in the last fourteen months! We had 106 such requests in June of 2005. With various ups and downs—but mainly up—the chart I have been given describing these responses now indicates that we reached 216 such responses in July of this year—with an even higher number, 269, in May of this year! So God, through this Work, is now bringing in twice the number of people wanting to actually act on God’s Truth and become involved in living God’s way of life and sharing this precious way by worshiping together with others who also understand. Thank God!

You can click here for the entire letter.

09/10/06 a.m. Here is the latest update from Dibar Apartian. In it, he mentions travels, FOT updates, news items, and that God commands the FOT.

The following report from New Zealand by Kinnear Penman was included:

We completed mailings arising from the semi-annual letter. The final tally was 796 cards received for The Bible: Fact or Fiction? This figure amounts to 25.3% of the letters mailed. To those responders who had not received The Middle East in Prophecy booklet previously, we sent Mr Meredith’s offer letter. So far 104 (28.8%) of these booklets have been requested. We also made a special offer of the Living Church News to long-time co-workers. Three out of these 18 co-workers have so far accepted the offer of a regular LCN subscription. A total of 1,868 mail items were posted in August. August was also a busy month for visits. I made seven visits to “new” people.  

09/04/06 a.m. For the first time the Spanish work of the Living Church of God has put in the Internet a Tomorrows Word TV program on line in spanish. Everybody can see this TV program presented by Mario Heranandez in http://www.mundomanana.org/paginas/construccion.htm 

09/03/06 a.m. Here is the latest update from Douglas Winnail. In it, he mentions that Rod King is also making telecasts, Fall Holy Day offerings, FOT updates, telecast responses in Australia/New Zealand, a Malaysia update, what causes strife, and some world news items.

Here is one of the world news items:

Petroleum Producers Turning Against West.   The competition for limited supplies of oil is increasing. Any major supply disruption will be devastating to the economies, and defense establishments, of oil-dependent nations. Iran controls our planet’s second-largest oil reserve, and its government is threatening to “turn off the tap,” if anyone seeks to pressure Tehran to cease its nuclear program. In war-torn Iraq, Iranian influence is increasing; if these two nations combined their oil reserves, it would be the world’s largest. Meanwhile, anti-oil rebellions in Nigeria are threatening the flow of crude oil. Chad’s president has just expelled all foreign oil companies from his nation. In South America, Ecuador has passed a law confiscating half of foreign companies’ oil revenues, and U.S.-Venezuela relations continue to deteriorate, threatening oil sales to North America.  Russia has now become the planet’s biggest producer of oil and natural gas. President Putin has already used the “energy weapon” to impose his policies on other countries (Weiss Research, Money and Markets, August 25, 2006). Israel’s lovers are beginning to turn on her, in ever-increasing numbers (Ezekiel 23:22).

08/30/06 a.m. LCG announced its latest commentary, which is by Rod McNair. He stated:

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COGwriter, 2006/2007