Children of Promise Brings CHOG Agencies Together for Conferences, Concert

By Carl Stagner

How much do you know about the new Global Strategy? Have you heard about the new vision that is pushing Christian Women Connection to new heights, or practical ways Children of Promise is changing lives for eternity? Anderson University’s president, John Pistole, has been at the job for a year, but have you had the chance to hear him speak? In the midst of a shaky economy, do you know the basic principles and strategies to best steward your resources? Servant Solutions knows. On April 2, Children of Promise is bringing together each of these agencies at Madison Park Church of God in Anderson, Indiana, for an afternoon of special conferences, a pizza party, and a gospel concert featuring the Townesmen. You’re invited.

When Children of Promise started, Global Strategy (then Global Missions) was there. Christian Women Connection (then Women of the Church of God) was there, too. “Their support was the basis for what became an amazing ministry,” Kirk Bookout reflects. Kirk, who serves as development director for Children of Promise, continues, “Of course, we recognize that there are many great ministries, but these are all a part of our Church of God family. We share common roots and convictions. Anderson University has many students who volunteer time to Children of Promise and make a real difference. Servant Solutions has been a friend and supporter. Jeff Jenness serves on our board of directors. We are especially thankful to Servant Solutions for helping fund this event.”

Photo: Townesmen Quartet

On Saturday, April 2, Madison Park will graciously open its doors at noon for “Children of Promise & Friends.” Children of Promise executive director Paul Maxfield will begin sharing the basics of the Church of God child-sponsorship ministry. Two conference time slots will then allow attendees to choose from seminars led by Anderson University, Global Strategy, Christian Women Connection, Servant Solutions, and Children of Promise. A pizza party—offset by freewill donations—will satisfy hunger for food and fellowship, and a concert will follow at 6:00, featuring the Townesmen.

The Townesmen Quartet has become a beloved southern gospel ministry in the Church of God over the past several years. With Pastor Mitchell Burch at the helm, their four-part harmonies and substantive lyrics will draw worshipers close to the heart of Jesus. “We are excited about their music and message,” Kirk says. “This is truly an opportunity to attend a great concert, connect and visit with old and new friends, and enjoy being together with the family of God.”

Kirk has been serving in ministry at Children of Promise for a year-and-a-half now. He can’t say enough about how God is using this ministry to change lives, which is why he’s so excited for April 2. “I thought Children of Promise was great when I came,” he reflects. “But it’s even better than I thought. It is one of the historically most-effective ministries that grew out of the Church of God. It was created not to do the ministry for churches around the world, but to partner together with churches around the world. It makes an amazing difference in children’s lives each and every day, and also has a great record of opening doors of hope for the future.”

A schedule of the afternoon as follows:

12:00 Doors Open
1:00–1:15 Welcome and Announcements
1:15–2:15 Children of Promise 101
2:30–3:30 Conference Opportunity #1
3:45–4:45 Conference Opportunity #2 (each conference option is repeated)
4:45–5:45 Pizza Party
6:00–8:00 Concert, featuring the Townesmen

During the concert, special recognition and honor will be given to Children of Promise founders Sidney and Jean Johnson.

Can’t stay for the entire afternoon? That’s okay. Come for as much as you can, when you can. Registration is not required, and the events are free. But if you plan to eat pizza (homemade cookies, fruit, and drink available, too!), please RSVP online at http://www.echildrenofpromise.org/ourevents/april-2-2016/ or call 765-648-2190. Madison Park Church of God is located at 6607 Providence Drive in Anderson, Indiana.

Learn more about Children of Promise at www.echildrenofpromise.org.