OIU Volume Six - Pt. 4 of 7

OUTSIDER'S INSIDE UPDATE™

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Canada Clips from Canada Regional News: 1995

Neil Earle, International Editor of The Plain Truth and Pastor of Glendora Church in California visited Brandon Church Canada June 24, 1995. He addresses over 100 brethren.

[UPDATE: In November 2004 the Worldwide Church of God moved its headquarters from Pasadena to Glendora, California. (Pasadena Star-News, October 25, 2004) At that time Neil Earle was still the pastor in Glendora. The church's name has now been changed to New Covenant Fellowship]

"Mr. Earle said the Nov./ Dec. Plain Truth article entitled 'The Challenge of Africa' brought in $20,000 unsolicited."

"The money was passed on to Orphan Housing and the Nursing sisters in Zambia."

"Our church continues to preach the gospel around the world, and seventh-day observing churches such as in Angola are seeking affiliation with us through our headquarters in Pasadena."

" 'We find ourselves drawn into mission work… and shifting from a strong emphasis on prophecy,' he told the audience."

"We used to lead with prophecy-we made our name with prophecy."

" 'Today we are a non-prophet organization because prophecy can get you in trouble,' joked Mr. Earle."
["Regional News," Aug. 1995]

Gospel now people driven, not media driven
By Colin Wilkins:

"Under Pastor General Joseph W. Tkach's leadership, the church entered a new phase" 'people-driven,' rather than, 'media driven.' For over five decades, the 'Word' had been spread, mainly through massive distribution of The Plain Truth and The World Tomorrow."

"Congregations had sprung up around the world under the care of Ambassador College-trained ministry, but the individual member of the body of Christ had received little training in 'practical,' 'people-directed' Christianity."

"A decade ago we were a closely-knit group of people, secure in our righteousness, ill at ease with the 'world' and certainly uncomfortable about spreading our faith."

"Mr. Tkach taught us to respect those who attend different churches and to love one another rather than being judgmental."

"…the focus of the preaching and publishing of the gospel of the kingdom has been shifting away from a media-driven activity to personal evangelism."

"A sudden decrease in income has forced us to place a different emphasis on the way in which Christ's mission can be accomplished. Instead of a highly priced telecast, local congregations have been conducting open houses. The church has 'come out of the closet.' "
["Regional News," Nov. 1995]

"If you find a turtle on a fence post-- know it didn't get there by accident." - Hilary Clinton

1996 Ecumenical Timeline - The WCG Goes Public With New Agenda

Chuck Colson's Prison Fellowship Ministries:

"The idea for an in-prison ministry was proposed by Philip Rice, pastor of the Lancaster church."

"Prison Fellowship was started by Chuck Colson. Mr. Colson, who served in the administration of President Richard Nixon and spent time in prison for a Watergate-related crime, founded the outreach program for inmates in 1976 after his release."

"Its mission is 'to exhort, assist and equip the church in its ministry to prisoners, ex-prisoners, victims and their families, and in its advancement of biblical standards of justice.' "

"Prison Fellowship with the help of thousands of volunteers, now ministers to inmates at most U.S. prisons. The organization also helps volunteers in other countries to provide a similar service."

"The 20 hours of training Prison Fellowship requires of volunteers before entering a prison consists primarily of familiarizing participants with various rules and regulations of prisons, various teaching methods and how to deal with inmates."

"For more information about Prison Ministries contact Prison Fellowship Ministries General Headquarters, 1856 Old Reston Ave., Reston, Virginia, 22090." [WWN Jan. 4]

[Update: Chuck Colson died at age 80 on April 21, 2012.]

Gene Hogberg, former Plain Truth news editor and church writer of 34 years, retired in March 1995, was interviewed by Neil Earle:

"I appreciate the confidence both Mr. Armstrong and Mr. Tkach showed in me over the years. I will always remember the occasion in December 1993, when Mr. Tkach invited my wife and me to accompany him to the Kennedy Center honors ceremony in Washington D.C." [WWN March 16]

US Regional Pastors meet for Pasadena Conference:

"The regional pastors were asked to read two books before the conference: The New Reformation: Returning the Ministry to the People of God by Greg Ogden, and, In Name Only: Tackling the Problem of Nominal Christianity, by Eddie Gibbs."

"Godfried Fritz, a management consultant from South Africa, gave a day and a half presentation on developing effective strategies."

"Godfried Fritz is an organizational psychologist from South Africa who has helped numerous corporations restructure and renew." [Joseph Tkach, WWN Feb. 27]

"Earl Grant, professor of Practical and Intercultural Studies at Azusa Pacific University, spoke on Ministry for the 21st Century.

"Earl Grant, who has done extensive work in church renewal spoke to us about church goals and involving all the members in the ministry (that of service), each according to his or her gifts." [WWN Feb. 27]

Prayer meeting leads to greater ties with Christian community:

"Group prayer forms closeness with people, but it also pleases God as he sees us share our deepest convictions with one another."

They [those at the meeting] represent the Southern Baptist, Assembly of God, Nazarene, Christian, United Methodist, American Missionary Fellowship and community churches."

"Not long ago I was talking with leaders in our own congregations about the things that would need to happen for our church to reach out to the unchurched of the community. The first thing we had to do, they felt, was to shed the cult label. We talked about ways to do that but made no decision."

"I've been invited to put our church services on radio for four weeks running each year. I can submit articles for the religion page of the newspaper."

We've sponsored a Prison Fellowship training class for all churches."

"Some ministers have discussed our changes with their churches. The governor of Wyoming was present when a Lutheran pastor asked his fellowship to welcome our members into the household of faith. Our cult status in this small town? It seems that God has largely taken care of it. It's wonderful to be part of the Christian community."

"Christ's prayer for unity has so much meaning. I see that he is speaking of unity that will bridge denominational walls, a unity that is nothing short of a miracle. And the success of the gospel depends on it:

'May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me' " [WWN Feb. 13]

"Joe and Larry Omasta, manager of Electronic Media, attended the National Religious Broadcasters convention Feb. 3 to 6 in Indiana to make contacts with other Christian radio producers and managers of stations…." [NRB is a major arm of the NAE]

Ministers attend Promise Keepers convention:
"Forty-three WCG ministers attended Promise Keepers clergy convention at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Feb 13-15."

"In spite of differences in doctrine and practice these 40,000 voices were singing in true unity because they all agreed on who their Savior is and what he has done for us."

"Bill McCartney, former coach of the University of Colorado football team, and founder of Promise Keepers, in casting the vision for this historic event, said that this convention was a clear invitation to leaders to send a strong trumpet blast for biblical unity. McCartney said that division in the church was the cause of this nation's problems-that it was time to repair the breach. He portrayed two giants that needed to be slain: racial discrimination and denominational discrimination."

"Speakers Tony Evans, Phillip Porter, Jack Hayford, John Maxell and others encouraged pastors to remember their calling from God…."

"One of the most moving sessions for me was the one led by Chuck Swindoll, host of radio program Insight for Living."

"Max Lucado asked, 'If unity creates belief, could it be that unity is the key to reaching the world?' "

Mr. Tkach summarizes church's transition in university address:

"Pastor General Joseph Tkach gave a presentation title 'From Jerusalem to Antioch' at Azusa Pacific University's president's Luncheon Feb. 28."

"In his address, Mr. Tkach summarized the church's transition from an unorthodox group, with doctrines reminiscent of Judaism, toward orthodox evangelical Christianity."

"Mr. Tkach explained that most of the church's erroneous doctrines originate from within Protestant circles, although they were typically unpopular minority views that were discredited at various times in church history."

"On Feb. 29, Mr. Tkach and J. M. Feazell, director of Church Administration, appeared on the Los Angeles area radio program Christian Commentary. The host of the program is Pastor Helms of the Angeles Temple Church, headquarters of the International Church of the Four Square Gospel." [WWN March 12]

New requirements for youth volunteers:

"Most congregations have instituted a children's ministry."

"We have decided that we should standardize our volunteer selection process based on appropriate concern for parents and youths of the church."

"The screening process involves the two following procedures: 1) Completing a Youth Volunteer Application form requiring applicant signature granting permission for the church pastor, or his representative, to check references. 2) Fingerprinting the applicant."

"Fingerprinting can be done at your local police department. Some police departments will come to your group and do everyone at once. The cost is generally around $30 for processing." [WWN April 16]

Regional office staffer, Roger Griffiths comments on Promise Keepers In Australia:

"We are having two Promise Keepers conferences in Australia over the next few weeks, and I'm booked to go to one of them. Anticipation is building and I'm encouraging all to go. It seems to me to be a route to revival."

U.S. churches honor God in National Day of Prayer:

"In Pasadena 515 people attended a prayer service in the Ambassador Auditorium. The keynote speaker was Les Blank, dean of the school of theology at Azusa Pacific University."

[Others attending: Kent Puls, pastor of Canoga Park Lutheran Church; Charles Yuill, a major in the Salvation Army; Garner Scott Odell of Westminster Presbyterian Church; Father Efstathios Mylonas of the St. Anthony Greek Orthodox church]"

"Mr. Lapacka said: 'This service was a much-needed step for the Worldwide Church of God in becoming a part of the local Christian Community.' " "That morning several headquarters employees attended the annual Mayor's Prayer Breakfast at the Pasadena Civic Center.

"Dave Smith, director of computer Information Systems for the church, attended a ceremony near City Hall, dedicating a prayer monument."

"A. Ebeling, pastor of the Boston, Massachusetts, church took part in a public prayer session on the steps of city hall in Boston. That evening Protestant and Catholic clergy met for a prayer banquet." [WWN April]

Big Sandy church participates in resurrection celebration:

Don Mears: "I joined the Gladewater Ministerial Alliance in January and received a warm welcome from those pastors who form the active core of the Alliance."

"During that meeting I was invited to participate in two multi-denominational services sponsored by the Ministerial Alliance…"

Building Bridges - "The March 31 service was at Gladewater Methodist Church. It was a Service of Tenebrae, or darkness, a traditional format going back to medieval times. Sixteen readers, from five denominations, read passages…" [WWN May 21]

87 attend ministerial conference in Europe:

"AIX-LES-BAINS, France-Taking advantage of the English Channel tunnel, the church brought British and continental ministers together for a joint European ministerial conference in the French alpine spa Aix-les-Bains, April 29, to May 2."

"Eighty-seven attendees from 15 European, Middle Eastern and African countries took part. In addition to ministers and wives, administrative personnel from the British and German offices and the French sub-office attended."

"Those present from Pasadena were Pastor General Joseph Tkach and his wife, Tammy; Randal Dick, assistant director of Church Administration International, and his wife, Susie; and Charles Albrecht, international operations manager in Church Administration, and his wife, Susi."

"On Tuesday morning, Mr. Tkach answered questions for the participants before leaving with Mr. Dick for Washington, D.C. to attend a Mission America Conference."

[UPDATE: WCG was listed on The Mission America Coalition as one of the churches endorsing the 40 days of Purpose initiative and also the Passion of the Christ. That webpage has since been removed, although we saved a copy of the page. They are now listed as a Mission America Coalition Partner under their new name Grace Communion International on their site.] The Worldwide News, 1999, gave a report on a Mission America meeting in which WCG attended: "Dan Rogers, superintendent of ministers, and his wife, Barbara, represented the WCG Jan. 21 at Mission America's annual meeting in San Francisco." ("Mission America: Sharing Christ by the end of 2000")]

"They returned to Europe for the weekend to honor commitments made before the Washington opportunity came up, including a board meeting in Britain." [nothing mentioned about the expense involved] [WWN May 21]

South African conference:

"CAPE TOWN, South Africa-forty-seven ministers and wives from Southern African region gathered at the regional office April 22 to 25 for a regional ministerial conference."

"Godfried Fritz, a consulting psychologist form Cape Town, gave a lecture on the second day of the conference entitled 'Career Management and Development of Pastors.' Mr. Fritz said that we often need to go outside our comfort zone to get results."

"A video by H. B. London of Focus on the Family on the subject of accountability was shown to the men. They were shown two videos. The first, by Tammy Tkach, was on women's ministries, and the other, by Ruth Tucker, author of various books on women's issues, was on, 'Tough Choices.' " [WWN May 21]

Regional pastors meet in Pasadena:

"…the regional pastors heard Robin Webber, a professor of theology at Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois talk about blending contemporary and traditional worship styles.

" …Earl Grant, a professor in the school of theology at Azusa Pacific University, spoke about how the pastors can move from a dependency model to an interdependent model of being a pastor.

Mr. Tkach's address:

"He recommended two books about our identity: Victory Over the Darkness, by Neil Anderson, and Christ-Esteem, by Don Matzat. He also recommended two tapes by Hank Hanegraaff of the Christian Research Institute entitled "Christianity in Crisis," in which Mr. Hanegraaff uses audio recordings of ministers' own words to expose their heresies.

"George Mather, a Lutheran scholar, told me, 'I'm jealous of your Christian journey, because it is nearly identical to the first century Christians,' " [WWN May 21]

Church of God leaders seek common ground:

"Representatives of the Church of God (Seventh-Day), the parent organization of the Worldwide Church of God, visited Ambassador campus April 11-14 to become better acquainted with the university and to seek common ground between the two church organizations."

" 'It was inspiring to see that the people of our two churches can forgive and reconcile,' said Benjamin Martinez.

" ' It seems like there are a lot of Christ-centered churches out there, including us, that want to reconcile with all the other churches that cling to Christ as Savior and Lord.'" [WWN May 21]

Plain Truth Ministries Launched:

"Plain Truth Ministries Worldwide (PTM) was formed in May as an affiliated corporation of the Worldwide Church of God."

"PTM plans to focus its media efforts on encouraging believers and nonbelievers to rise above the issues that often separate Christians. This will be done through the The Plain Truth Magazine, booklets, videos and radio program."

" 'Media has always been an important part of the Worldwide Church of God,' Mr. Feazell said. 'Expertise in media is, I believe, a gift God has given our church, and one that we can and should put to good use in his service. Something else God has recently given us,' he continued, 'and something much needed in the Christian world, is recognition of the need for unity in the faith and in the work of the gospel.'" (Comment: Did God actually give the WCG the gift of media expertise to spread heresy and deception throughout the Christian world for sixty years causing death and destruction of thousands of lives???)

" 'Because of our recent history, we have a heightened sense of the need for Christians of all denominations to rally around the vital, core doctrines of biblical Christianity--the gospel essentials--while respecting one another's nonessential, or peripheral, interpretations or traditions.' "

"Mr. Albrecht said: 'PTM, as a transdenominational ministry, will be a strong voice for breaking down the artificial walls Christians so often erect between themselves and for standing together in proclaiming the gospel to the world, reaching out to nominal Christians, or Christians in name only, as well as strengthening committed Christians, will be the hallmark of Plain Truth Ministries.' "

"The Worldwide church of God provides financial subsidy to PTM, as well as general administrative support, while PTM responds in serving the church by handling mail processing, some video services, proofreading, printing and mailing of receipts and letters."

" 'Consultants have informed us, and findings from a survey conducted by The Barna Research Group show that people who benefit from our ministry efforts and want to help us share the gospel will be more inclined to donate to a ministry rather than to a church they do not attend,' Mr. Wolverton said." [WWN June 18]

Commencement exercises were held on the Ambassador Campus May 20:

"Dr. Les Blank, dean of the C. P. Haggard graduate school of theology at Azusa Pacific University, gave the commencement address exhorting students to build their lives on Jesus Christ: 'Whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it.' "

Commencement exercises were held on the Ambassador Campus May 20
"Dr. Les Blank, dean of the C. P. Haggard graduate school of theology at Azusa Pacific University, gave the commencement address exhorting students to build their lives on Jesus Christ: 'Whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it.' "

Hanegraaff lecture:

"Before the inauguration ceremony Hendrik 'Hank' Hanegraaff…conducted a lecture entitled 'Back to Basics: Essentials of Christianity.' His message focused on preparing Christians to communicate what they believe, why they believe it, and where non-Christians and pseudo-Christians deviate from historic Christianity." [WWN June 18]

Pasadena Church members participate in MARCH FOR JESUS May 25.

International Directors conference: diversity within Unity By Joseph Tkach, Jr.
" 'Diversity within unity' emerged as a key theme of the international directories conference in Palm Springs, California, June 10-13." [WWN July 23]

WCG and Seventh-day Adventist Church officials meet:

"Silver Spring, Maryland-Leaders of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and the Worldwide Church of God met for the first time at the Adventist church World Headquarters in Silver Spring, June 26.

"The historic meeting came about because of interest on the part of the leadership of both denominations to discuss their mutual beliefs in light of doctrinal changes in the Worldwide Church of God."

"Robert S. Folkenbur, Seventh-day Adventist Church world president, and Pastor General Joseph Tkach led the delegations, which included representatives of both church's departments and administrative staff. Attending with Mr. Tkach were Greg Albrecht, executive director of Plain Truth Ministries; Randal Dick, assistant director of Church Administration International, and Tom Lapacka, manager of church relations."

"In welcoming guests, Pastor Folkenbuerg said: 'It's with a great deal of Christian compassion that I view what the Worldwide Church of God has gone through.' "

"We've always thought of the Seventh-day Adventists as spiritual cousins, Mr. Tkach said, but now we see you as brothers. We share a mutual church history and we have been so very appreciative of the welcome and the fellowship we have had with you."

"The one-day meeting included several presentations by representatives of the two churches covering issues of theology, mission and organization." [WWN July 23]

Ralph Woodrow: author of Babylon Mystery Religion:

"Pastor General Tkach joined Greg Albrecht, Tom Lapacka on April 19, to talk with Ralph Woodrow, author of Babylon Mystery Religion-Ancient and Modern, a book that was once read and studied by the WCG." (Comment: The WWN relates how Woodrow made many changes to his book about pagan origins. Ralph Woodrow's revision of pagan understanding aligns him ecumenically with other New Age proponents.) [WWN July 23] [Note: Ralph Woodrow now holds the preterist view of N.T. prophecy.]

Christianity Today article features Worldwide Church of God:

"The article was written by Ruth Tucker, a visiting professor at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Dr. Tucker wrote: 'The changes-as they are referred to by insiders-are truly historic. Never before in the history of Christianity has there been such a complete move to orthodox Christianity by an unorthodox fringe church.' " (Comment: see back issues of OIU regarding Ruth Tucker's secretive association with David Hulme, current president of the United Church of God.) [WWN July 23]

[UPDATE: Christianity Today has turned to promoting mysticism, contemplative prayer and other New Age, anti-Christian practices.]

Pastor speaks to Croatian Adventists:

"Munich, Germany-Wilhelm Mandel, WCG pastor of the Nuremberg and Munich Germany, and Salzburg and Vienna, Austria churches spoke to Seventh-day Adventist church in Slavonski-Brod, Vroatia, during Unleavened Bread."

"Mr. Mandel was invited to speak by Pastor Duvhjak, who is acquainted with the church's doctrines through The Plain Truth and his visits to the Salzburg church." [WWN July 23]

News From Plain Truth Ministries Greg Albrecht:

"The audience, as you know, was never asked for money, and they simply continued to receive the magazine and booklets, and the television program, free of charge. We are in the process of converting this group of people into paid subscribers and product buyers."

"We also feel that we have both experience and gifts in the mass media. God has blessed us with human resources as well as background in both electronic and print media. We are zealous to use this gift and experience for his glory and to lift up our Lord and Savior."

(Comment: How does God bless HERESY and BLASPHEMY, DECEPTION, MANIPULATION and FINANCIAL, EMOTIONAL, PSYCHOLOGICAL, PHYSICAL and SPIRITUAL CORRUPTION?)

"As you know, Plain Truth Ministries is a transdenominational ministry. We exist to bring people to Christ, and to bring people who already enjoy a personal relationship with our Lord and Savior into a closer walk with him. Therefore, we minister across denominational barriers, and do not exist to bring members into one denomination opposed to another."

"…We are building bridges to believers and nonbelievers alike, helping them focus on the life-changing gospel of our Lord and Savior."

Press release distributed by Plain Truth Ministry:

"We are delighted to announce the formation of Plain Truth Ministries Worldwide. PTM will proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ through the mass media-challenging nonbelievers to investigate the claim of Christianity and leading nominal Christians toward a closer walk with their Savior, while distributing inspirational Christian resources of value to all believers."

"A transdenominational ministry, Plain Truth Ministries will emphasize the historic, core beliefs of Christianity. Affiliated with the Worldwide Church of God, a church that has recently undergone a miraculous transformation by the grace of God, PTM will not promote any denomination over another. PTM will offer a variety of Christian products, including books and booklets, as well as audio and video cassettes."

"Reflecting its historic transformation and fresh vision for faithful Christian ministry, the church has launched PTM as a semi-autonomous media ministry. Please refer to the seven-page article, "From the Fringe to the Fold," by Ruth Tucker in the July 15 issue of Christianity Today."

"PTM is a member of the Evangelical Press Association (EPA) and the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA)" [written by Greg Albrecht - WWN Aug 27]

Racial healing for all:

"We are planning to publish and interview with Tom Claus, president of CHIEF Inc., in Phoenix, Arizona."

"Tom is a Native American pastor to native American pastors. He believes that the best way to reach Native Americans with the gospel is through the tribal leadership."

"Tom is becoming known because of his work with Promise Keepers. At the Promise Keepers Clergy conference in Atlanta in February, more than 90 Native American tribes were represented." [WWN Aug. 27]

Carl George--In an Aug. 17 session, church consultant Carl George (author of: Prepare Your Church for the Future) said that each movement is chastened so it can do more. He said that it is through adversity that God makes us able and competent ministers.

Ruth Tucker teaches at Ambassador University:

"Ruth A. Tucker a visiting professor at Trinity Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois, taught History of Christianity at Ambassador July 28 to Aug. 2." "…she has taught at Calvin College, Fuller Theological Seminary (Pasadena) and Moffat College of Bible in Kenya." [WWN Aug. 27]

Good Will Tour--Plain Truth Ministry was invited to meet with Four Square Gospel personnel July 25:

(Tkach, Jr. was Pastor Helm's guest on radio in Feb. `96 and was guest speaker at the Pentecostal tongue-speaking church in April `97. This visit was never publicized to the ministry, but for those interested in hearing Joseph Tkach speak to the Four Square members during the tongue-speaking services, request the tape from the ESN. Include a donation to cover the costs of tape and postage)

Promise Keepers: life-changing experience
By George Kuo:

"Having read reports from our ministers who have attended Promise Keepers conferences, I would like to share the following comments about the Promise Keepers conference I attended May 24 and 25 in Washington, D.C."

"I felt uncomfortable in the beginning with the open expression of worship such as standing up and clapping hands as we sang worship music, or people raising one hand or two hands during prayers. Since I couldn't see anything wrong with this kind of worship, I joined the fun and learned to enjoy it totally."

"One thing that was refreshing for me was the fact that even after one whole day of participating in the conference, I was not tired or energy-drained at all. Instead, I was excited, inspired and energized. These kinds of worship service involve our total being, including our heads, our minds, our spirits and our emotions. Maybe we can learn something from these types of worship services and incorporate some of them into ours." [WWN Aug. 27]

Lunch Meeting-church officials meet with Paul Cedar, director of Mission America, Aug. 23:

Shown in picture on back page of WWN -- Randal Dick, superintendent of missions; Mr. Cedar; Greg Albrecht, director of Media Services; and Pastor General Joseph Tkach, Jr. [WWN Sept. 17] (Comment: Mission America, like the National Religious Broadcasters is a division of National Association of Evangelicals (NAE). Ruth Tucker and Trinity Divinity are associates with the NAE.)

Feast of Tabernacles:

"In Rotorua, New Zealand, Monte Ohio, one of New Zealand's foremost Maori Christian leaders, spoke of God's guidance in the planned World Christian Gathering of Indigenous People to take place in Rotorua Nov. 10-17. Mr. Ohia, strategy manager for the Qualifications Authority of New Zealand, and co-chair of Vision New Zealand, a congress of Christian leaders from throughout the nation to meet in January-shared his vision of all people being able to come to God through Jesus Christ not as white men, but as themselves worshipping him in all their languages, dances, cultural forms, dress and crafts."

"In Lake Tahoe: Dr. and Mrs. Ron Jenson conducted a two-day seminar on family relationships. The Jensons are featured presenters with Family Life Ministries Weekend to Remember seminar. Dr. Jenson is a leadership trainer for Promise Keepers. [WWN Oct. 29]

Prayer breakfast: testimony to what God can do:

"More than 200 Los Angeles area ministers of various denominations met in the Ambassador Auditorium Nov. 5 to pray at the quarterly meeting of LOVE LA."

"Love LA is a group of pastors who meet regularly to pray for the city at various host churches."

"One of the co-founders of the group is Jack Hayford, pastor of The Church on the Way in Van Nuys, California."

"Harold Helms, senior pastor of the Angeles Temple in Los Angeles, introduced Pastor General Joseph Tkach."

"Pastor Helms said that the changes the church has made have 'blessed us as a Christian community. We are absolutely delighted that you would call us brothers now.' "

Joseph Tkach: "It grieves my spirit that the picture that Christianity has presented, especially in Western society, is one of division. I think the Holy Spirit is starting to deal with that. I think the Holy Spirit is moving in many people to bring a new spirit of unity that I think has been lost in the church for too long a time. But praise God that he is starting to bring it about." [WWN Nov. 19] (Comment: Both pastors listed are Pentecostal. Hayford is on the board of Promise Keepers.)

PTM: Helping to bring people to Christ:

"The church uses Plain Truth Ministries as a major vehicle for providing doctrinal and Christian-living instruction for members of the CG. All doctrinal positions proclaimed by PTM are those of the WCG. Even though The Plain Truth is transdenominational, leading readers to Jesus Christ first and foremost and not promoting one church or denomination over another, The Plain Truth is nevertheless an educational and instructional tool for promoting the fundamental doctrinal position of the WCG, which is historical biblical Christian faith in the evangelical tradition. [WWN Nov. 19]

Plain Truth Ministries Advertisements:

"…Plain Truth Ministries placed ads in a variety of publications. The advertisement for the creation-evolution video appears in Christianity Today, Sunday Parade supplement and Group (a magazine for Christian teens). Advertisements for subscriptions to The Plain Truth appear in Saturday Evening Post, Charisma and New Man, while the just-released video Babylon-Past, Present and Future is advertised in Biblical Archeology Review." [WWN Nov. 19] (Comment: The New Man is Promise Keeper's publication and published by Stephen Strang of Charisma magazine. Strang has been exposed for occult and New Age writings.)

You're half way through this OIU.
Yes, it's lengthy, but worth the effort if you want the untold story.

"The devil is in the details."

A demonstration of Christian co-existence:

"Grand Bay, Dominica-Wednesday, June 19, marked a magnificent demonstration of Christian co-existence in Dominica. The occasion that brought this about was the burial of Lambert Henderson, deputy principal of the Grand Bay Secondary School. Mr. Henderson was a member of the Worldwide Church of God for 22 years until his battle with abdominal cancer ended June 13, at age 42. Simply put, Henderson was an exceptional Christian man, whose life was dedicated to the service of God and fellow humans. These qualities were so visible that Jerome Moody of the Roman Catholic Church offered the facilities of his church and cemetery for the burial service and interment in the event of Mr. Henderson's death."

"This offer could only have been accepted today because of our understanding that there are Christians in other churches." [WWN Nov. 19]

The Church is a priesthood of believers:

"In the opening session Mr. Tkach noted that 40,000 former members of the WCG are not attending anywhere. They have not joined one of the splinter groups." (This is the first introduction of this myth. Embellishing the member count helps support and substantiates the $200,000,000 (average) a year income from 1987 to early 1990s.)

Church officials attend Bible Society meeting:

"NEW YORK, Pastor General Joseph Tkach and Greg Albrecht, Plain Truth editor, were invited to attend the annual American Bible Society (ABS) National Church Advisory Council (NAC) meeting in New York City Dec. 3 and 4. The council addressed the challenges facing denominational and ministry leaders as they proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ."

"Mr. Tkach and Mr. Albrecht addressed the council, explaining the historic changes in the Worldwide Church of God."

"Mr. Tkach said: "The American Bible Society does the godly work of spreading the Word of God to people of various languages. They are the largest translators of Scripture, and it is our joy to become associated with their work of making Bibles available to people in all the world."

"Denominational leaders, pastors and representatives attended the conference from the following churches: African Methodist Episcopal Church; Armenian Orthodox Church; Assemblies of God."

"Church of God, Anderson, Indiana; Christian Methodist Episcopal Church; Church of the Nazarene; Evangelical Congregational Church; Evangelical Lutheran Church in America."

"Free Methodist Church; Greek Orthodox Church; International Church of the Foursquare Gospel; Lutheran Church/Missouri Synod; Mennonite Brethren; Moravian Church; National Baptist Convention."

"North American Baptist Conference; Pentecostal Church of God; Presbyterian Church (USA); Reform Church in America; Roman Catholic Church; Seventh-day Adventists; Southern Baptist Convention; United Brethren in Christ; United Methodist Church; and the Wesleyan Church."

Mr. Tkach, Mr. Albrecht attend church council:

"BEAVER CREEK, Colorado. Pastor General Joseph Tkach and Plain Truth editor Greg Albrecht attended the North American Ministerial Council of the Church of God (Seventh Day) in Beaver Creek, Nov. 11-15."

"Mr. Tkach said that 'the invitation to attend as observers is yet another positive cooperative development between our two fellowships.' Mr. Albrecht commented: 'We attended all-day meetings that discussed doctrine and teaching. In addition, we were invited to join in worship and praise services, as well as a concert of prayer.' "

" 'Not only do we know these fine people as friends, we know many of them personally, as brothers and sisters in the Lord.'"

"Mr. Tkach and Mr. Albrecht had several lunch and dinner meetings with Church of God (Seventh Day) officials, including Whaid Rose, chairman of the board of directors; Calvin Burrell, president of the General Conference; Jerry Griffin, director of the Summit School of Theology; and Robert Coulter, coordinator of the Southeastern District, member of the board of directors, and past president of the General Conference."

"Worldwide News readers may remember that Mr. Rose spoke at the Worldwide Church of God fall festival in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina."

"Both fellowships plan to continue to meet and explore future cooperative projects. [WWN Dec.17] [Comment: The reader should be aware that counter-cult evangelicals such as Lorri MacGregor speak strongly against Adventists, while highly supporting the Tkach propaganda cover-up!]

1,000-voice choir praises God:

"The Worldwide Church of God headquarters choir, with director Ella Marie Schatz, united with 19 other church choirs to form a 1,000 voice choir at Lake Avenue Church in Pasadena, Nov. 24. This event marked the 100th anniversary of the Lake Avenue Church. [Dec. 17 `96]

1996 Regional News from Canada

Regional News is targeted to Canadians in the WCG. Members from the US are not privy to this publication. US members are briefed minimally on any Canadian activities. Joseph Tkach, Jr. is president of the Canadian board. Refer to Canadian update for WCG developments with real estate, investments and reorganization.

Bill Hall appears on Vision TV
Canadian editor answers questions on church's doctrinal changes:

" 'Some members were shocked,' said Mr. Hall. 'But the thing that Mr. Tkach (Jr.) and the church have been trying to do is to inform members. As the church is changing he has tried to educate members where we're going and not leave anything unsaid.' "

"Mr. Opneer noted the WCG has been considered a cult by Christian leaders, including Walter Martin in his book The Kingdom of the Cults."

" 'We practiced isolationism, we had a strong leader who was charismatic and also in some respects we were very intolerant to other believers. And these things do tend to have us labeled a cultish practice'"

"Mr. Hall stressed the church's current teaching that 'Christians are those who have God's Holy Spirit. It's not the denomination that you belong to.'"

"Noting the WCG's 'enthusiasm and tremendous skill in communication,' Mr. Opmeer asked if the church is going to throw its weight behind evangelicals' efforts to preach the gospel to the world." [Regional News, Canada Feb. `96]

Building a better Canada:

"Liberal Member of Parliament (MP) thanked Neil Earle for ideas he submitted for a government discussion paper on national pride. A non-partisan group of MPs plan to publish a discussion paper containing 40-50 ideas submitted by Canadians. The paper would then be circulated to all Members of Parliament." [Feb. `96]

Brownies savor awards - Vancouver:

"The Religion in Life program is open to all Girl Guides and Boy Scouts in Canada. The program encourages the spiritual growth of children within the context of their own religious denomination." [Feb. `96]

Youthquake` 96 rocks Saskatchewan town:

"Imagine a chapel filled with 3,500 Christian teens all bursting with energy and anxious to enjoy a 48-hour retreat with ministry, youth workers and each other."

"Youthquake `96 Christian Teen Retreat was the culmination of 10 months of planning. Buses rolled in from Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Yukon Territories, Northwest Territories, Newfoundland and all across the United States."

"Our teen's words best describe their first experience at a multi-denominational Christian retreat."

"After registration we walked into the main chapel and saw about 5,000 people, mostly teens. There was an illusionist on stage and he was talking about what was real and what was an illusion. He told us that Christ and his works were real and not a cheap magic trick."

"Saturday and Sunday followed with lots of church services and Bible studies plus great Christian rock bands like PFR, Sixpence, None the Richer, and the Kry."

"On the last day we had a massive prayer meeting and a couple of minutes of silence…"

"The one thing that we all had in common was our Christianity."

"There were so many activities to choose from: garage bands, a comedy hour, and Operation Underground, which is an activity where you are taken and placed in a setting from the past--for example, Hitler persecuting the Jews--to show what it was like years ago not to have religious freedom."

"Sight for Blind Eyes was the motto for the weekend. We learned how to help others understand what we are all about, to show them why we are special and to make them aware of what we believe and why we believe it." [Regional News, May `96]

Neil Earle presents paper in Seattle:

"At the Association for Canadian Studies in the United States (ACSUS) biennial conference in Seattle Nov. 16, Plain Truth international editor Neil Earle presented a paper entitled 'Three Stories, two visions: the West and the building of the CPR in Canadian culture.' "

"The paper looked at Canada as a complete nation from the point of view of three Canadians."

" 'We as Christians must come out of our cocoon and engage the culture,' Mr. Earle said. [Regional News, May 1,`96]

Canada-MARCH FOR JESUS
`96 Brampton: Sunshine, banners, music and prayer:

"Joy is contagious at this assembly of Christians from churches of many denominations."

"All along the route the air is ringing with the joyous voices of Christians of many denominations singing the praises of Jesus with sounds of music emanating from the speakers atop our vans."

"With cheers, clapping, whistling and waving of banners from the marchers, the leaders say: 'The Lord has prepared a feast of welcome for all who will come. Let's take the invitation to the ends of earth.' "

Pedestrians do about-face; join 4,500 at march in Ottawa:

"Attendance was approximately 4,500 with 145 church groups registered from various denominations."

"Every denomination walked in their assigned order, under homemade banners declaring Jesus as Lord and Savior. Some had dancers in costume-with flags, tambourines, etc. who performed along the route."

"After arriving at Parliament Hill for a celebration service, the March music was played until every group had arrived, at about 3 p.m."

"Over the next two hours, we enjoyed praise and worship groups from two Ottawa churches leading us in songs giving glory to Christ, moving testimonials, prayers and scripture readings, and a time for group prayer."

"All over the Hill, strangers formed circles and prayed spontaneously for our political leaders, national unity, world peace, and freedom to worship, and thanked God for Christ the Savior of the World, for whom we gathered to honor that day as a witness to our community." [Regional News, Oct. `96]

We're not the only ones going through change
By Kevin Armstrong (pastor of the Montreal English congregation):

"It's understandable enough, but you may be surprised to know that ours is not the only denomination experiencing change-and I'm talking change with a capital C."

"I first noticed this in recent issues of Faith Today, the national magazine of Canadian evangelicals."

"Many of their recent cover stories mirror our own progression, such as 'Retooling the Pastor' and 'Marketing the Church,' both of which dealt with the church's need to rejuvenate the way it engages society in this present age."

"Michael Green, in his book Evangelism Through the Local Church, sums up the net effect this way" 'We Christians have become very settled in our ways and those ways no longer reach out effectively to society.' "

"He points out that only those churches that are able to change to meet the needs of the 21st century will survive. Cell groups, discipleship training, contemporary worship services-all are part of the same movement or change within those churches that desire to be God's messengers in the future."

"It's true that our journey has also included sweeping doctrinal changes; but I believe that those must be seen in light of this other, greater change, which is the redefining of the Church in the Western cultures."

Cornwall hosts worship concert, 650 attend:

"Some 650 Christians stood shoulder to shoulder and hand in hand, launching Cornwall's first Concert of Praise on Oct. 11."

"The free event… was organized by Christians from many denominations, including Roman Catholic, Baptist, Pentecostal, Anglican, Christian Reformed, United Church of Canada, Presbyterian, Wesleyan, Salvation Army, Worldwide Church of God, and other independents."

"It was the inspiration of key organizer Bernie Fortier, a Pentecostal, who got the idea after participating in Cornwall's third annual March for Jesus earlier this year."

"The concert brought together some 20 community churches which have likewise been stirred to re-open to Christ's call for unity within the body of believers."

"We prayed that the many denominations represented… would unite in proclaiming Jesus Christ and his gospel of love and salvation for all humankind." [Regional News, Dec. `96]

Sheridans attend evangelism conference:

"More than 600 pastors and wives from 55 denominations, eight provinces and 33 states shared four days focusing on our Lord's command to 'go make disciples.'"

"The intensive training focused on the spiritual and physical preparation necessary for evangelization and the appropriate discipling of those who put their faith in Christ."

"Some of the statistics given were staggering! Last April, Billy Graham's global telecast to 200 countries in 20 languages was watched by 2.5 billion people! This is the actual audience, not the potential audience of five billion."

"A recent crusade at a new football stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, attracted 75,000 each night with another 13,000 watching on a giant screen outside!'

"Over the four nights, 22,249 people walked down the aisle to make a commitment for Jesus."

"The gifted speakers included: Dr. Joseph Aldrich, President of Multnomah School of the Bible and author of Lifestyle Evangelism; Dr. H. Eddie Fox, world director of evangelism for the World Methodist Council."

"A personal highlight was the message given by Franklin Graham, oldest son of Billy Graham. He is president of Samaritan's Purse, an international Christian relief organization that meets emergency needs around the world."

"Just as our Pastor General Joseph Tkach succeeded his father, so Franklin Graham is slated to take over when his father, now 78 and suffering from Parkinson's Disease, chooses to step down."

"Overall it was a thrilling and spiritually exciting time of personal renewal. The opportunity to spend time with those from other denominations, ranging from conservative to charismatic, was priceless." [Regional News, Dec. `96]

1997-FULL BLOWN ECUMENICISM

In effort to bring readers up to date with the WCG planned agenda, we will now bullet the organizational changes that coincide with the WCG partnership with the Catholic/Protestant Ecumenical one world religion and unification goals of the United Nations.

The key factors surrounding the WCG division, fragmentation and propagandized transformation are:

Business--
Financial--
Political--
United Religion-unification of all religions and leaders by 2000 AD

Some reasons for the WCG restructure, reorganization and downsizing are (not conclusive or in any order of priority):

The WCG's mass Marxist message was declining since 1969--
The exposure and exposé of cults drew media and public attention since the Jonestown Massacre--
The WCG leaders were widely exposed for financial, sexual, and criminal charges starting from the early 1970s--
The corruption with televangelists drew acute awareness of duplicities and religious frauds with other TV ministries into the public eye--
The international bankers, elite, and governmental agencies behind the WCG's multimillion-dollar conglomerate, modified investment, political and global strategies--
The WCG non-profit church corporation embraced the New Age religious global mission in preparation for the coming millennium.
All cults modify after their leader dies--
The failing WCG, with less than 40,000 members at the time of Herbert Armstrong's death, plotted the downsize operation and distribution of the financial empire. An operation, such as this, takes keen planning using propaganda, distraction, decoy, manipulation, deception, diversion, flanking, along with surprise attacks on different fronts or skirmishes. Any and all tactics of war are used to subvert the real story behind the event. The WCG perpetrators have used a plethora of these tactics to liquidate assets and redistribute WCG financial holdings of the fraudulently acquired multimillion-dollar enterprise as it prepares for its New Age agenda.
Switching from "destructive cult" status with aberrant religious teachings (considered by Catholic and Protestant markets to be "satanic"), into the widely growing, prosperous, United Nations supported, ecumenical, inter-denominational, New Age, evangelical and Catholic Churches (all of which support the World Council of Churches) propels the (tax-free) WCG financial and political agenda to prosper in many ways. The new WCG image has paved the way for acceptance and penetration into countries once barring any WCG associations. Now the banking and investing opportunities are endless. While the "Armstrong cult" had zero products to sell, the New Age ecumenical package is a gold mine that can serve many associations. And as far as membership in the "Armstrong cult" was concerned, few passed the stringent mind-control test of initiation; now, however, the new global ideology of "collectivism" cemented by New Age emotionalism, and enforced by auto-suggestion and hypnosis through prayer, could manipulate thousands into the everlasting web of the WCG. And just think about all the FREE PR.
Last but not least--the WCG controllers were given new orders from their superiors!!!

As the WCG corporate empire, along with its latest corporate entity, Plain Truth Ministries, functions behind the guise of a "church," it's necessary to embrace the ecumenical, New Age, occultic, religious game plan which encompasses Catholic, Protestant and Jewish denominations, along with various sects, such as Mormons, Unification Church (Moonies), Seventh-day Adventists, Reformed Churches (such as Robert Schuller) and thousands of other belief systems. The Ecumenical strategy aims to incorporate a global ideology of submission, mission, and mass control of the populace. Ecumenism sells itself under the guise of "love" and "Jesus Christ." That dear readers, is a BIG LIE! As you will soon see, sweeping emotionalism, Charismatic Pentecostalism and new mass movements such as Promise Keepers, will replace the Christian church of the 20th Century. The development and historical account of the post 1950 cults serves as an excellent declaration to the mind control techniques currently targeting the entire society under the guise of "reconciliation and unity."

[UPDATE: Willow Creek - Hegelian Dialectic & The New World Order (Covers the new church growth movement and its agenda; includes Willow Creek Community Church and Saddleback Church.)]

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