Slick Severino has negotiated with the building owner that UCG has rented from, to hold his service at 10:30 a.m. - a couple of hours before UCG meets in the same room.
Dear Brethren,
I want you to know how very sad both Judy and I are in having to write this kind of letter. For the past several months I have agonized over bringing up any matters concerning our church problems because I knew how disheartening it was to hear and that it had the potential to disrupt our wonderful church environment and the joy we all have being together each week. Frankly, it was also personally stressful because I wanted very much to be what you needed me to be. We love all of you and I am committed to serving you as shepherd in the future just as I have for the past five years. Unfortunately, I will no longer be able to do so as an employee of the United Church of God. This morning I tendered my resignation.
I don’t need or want to rehearse what has led up to this point. More details about our decline are found in the Real Issues paper I mentioned in my last update. The Administration and Council have repeatedly reminded everyone of church authority while missing the greater spiritual principles Jesus spoke of in Mat.20:25. If you want people to yield to your leadership you must earn their confidence through service and love. Demanding it is what Christ warns us not to do. I must now say to you that I do have concern for the spiritual safety and wellbeing of any remaining with UCG.
What Does This Mean for Houston North?
I think most all of you are aware that I am not alone in my disappointment with UCG leadership. Dozens and dozens of pastors will be resigning shortly and a sizable number of Houston North and South members have said they are ready to move forward.
For now I would like to have us continue as close to normal as is possible. Beginning this Sabbath, there will be a weekly Sabbath service at our hall at 10:30 AM for any who would like to meet with me. This will be a 90 minute service and we will be off the premises by 1:00 PM so that those who choose to remain with UCG can continue as they have previously, without any awkwardness. We do not want to disrupt the regular routine of those desirous of attending in the afternoon nor in any way make things difficult. I will insure someone is available to help with sound this Sabbath. I also notified Ministerial Services of the need for them to provide a sermon speaker or message.
Everyone is welcomed to be with us in the morning that would do so in peace and it is in no way a declaration of permanent membership, loyalty or commitment. For the immediate future, those attending in the morning will simply be called the Church of God Houston or if from the south, Church of God Houston South. At this point we plan to continue all regular sports programs, the Teen Weekend, the Young Adult Weekend, Fun Show, etc. Everyone is welcomed to participate in these programs and socials and there will be no stipulation as to when you attend services. Many have already made commitments to them. We are all friends.
Huntsville
Technically there never was an official United Church of God, Huntsville congregation. Huntsville was established as a twice-a-month service to accommodate those who live further north. Thus, Huntsville will continue in the same location and time but the meeting will be serviced as a part of the Church of God Houston and not the United Church of God. This Sabbath Mr. John Perry will bring the sermon and church will be at the regular time of 11:00 AM. Please be informed that neither in the morning service at Broze Hall nor in Huntsville will any negative conversation about the United Church of God, its officers, or members be permitted. This is not only unnecessary at this point, it is also distasteful to God and not what the Sabbath is about. We plan to joyfully gather in worship on God’s Sabbath day.
New Organization?
Over the months the UCG administration has publically claimed that many of us were planning a “split” or organizing a new Church association. These claims are also false. Dozens of men are now being forced to resign and thousands of members around the world will leave as well. In going forward it would only be normal for there to be an effort to reorganize with those of like-mind and view. That is something that can be considered as it develops. I would like us to have a congregational, town meeting when it is convenient to discuss a variety of topics concerning going forward.
Final Thoughts
Judy and I are both very sorry for the trauma this crisis has caused and apologize if we have fallen short in our service to you prior to, or during, this latest trial. We can all be completely confident that we are not alone. As we, more than ever, sharpen our focus on the holy calling we have been given, God will strengthen us and our bond together as a spiritual body will be even stronger. We look forward to being with you this Sabbath.
J.S.
