Williams Represents Church of God at Mennonite Church USA General Convention
Church of God General Overseer Dr. Mark Williams accepted the formal invitation of Dr. Ervin Stutzman, Executive Director of the Mennonite Church USA, to attend their General Convention in Phoenix, Arizona, July 1-2, 2013. The Church of God and MC USA has been in a fraternal relationship for about eight years. This dialogue has focused on the Body of Christ coming together in faith and love for fellowship and worship (Eph 4:16). Dr. Williams was accompanied at the convention by Dr. Tony Richie, the current chairperson of the Church of God-MC USA dialogue.
L-R: Dr. Gerald Shenk (MC USA), Dr. Ervin Stutzman (Executive Director, MC USA), Dr. Mark Williams (Church of God General Overseer), Dr. Tony Richie (co-chair, Church of God), and Pastor Virgil Vogt (co-chair, MC USA).
“The fraternal relationship between the Church of God and MC USA has been fruitful,” said Richie. “It has produced several scholarly encounters, some pastoral and congregational exchanges, and significant high level leadership interactions. These last included the highest levels of MC USA leadership visiting Church of God International Offices in Cleveland and attending two General Assemblies (Orlando) as fraternal guests.” Previously, Dr. Cheryl Bridges Johns and Rev. Bill Claypoole attended consecutive MC USA conventions as Church of God representatives. However, the Phoenix meeting marked the first time a Church of God Presiding Bishop has attended a MC USA General Convention.
Williams and Richie attended numerous functions and services, enjoying the hospitality of their Mennonite hosts. A private meeting with the Executive Board of Directors (comparable to the Church of God Executive Council), while they were in session, was a highlight. A leadership banquet with the Executive Board and other honored guests from several denominations and parachurch organizations was another. During these meetings Williams frequently spoke to the gatherings about the distinctive history and unique identity of the Church of God.
At times Williams was asked to address current issues before all American churches. For example, the General Overseer was asked about immigration reform, now a matter of pressing concern for our Mennonites sisters and brothers. Other guests expressed great interest in a Church of God perspective on a variety of topics. Richie reports that “Always, Dr. Williams was an eloquent and exemplary spokesperson for something he is obviously passionate about—the ministry and mission of the Church of God.”
