African American Leader Named to Head Multicultural Ministries
August 8, 2014–Fifty years ago, the Church of God took a stand against the ugly racial assaults on blacks—taking a strong stand with the Civil Rights movement that involved the elimination of racial prejudice in its fellowship and the advancement toward full unity and oneness in the church. In its International General Assembly, which concluded last week in Orlando, Florida, the church took another step that embarks on a multiracial paradigm with significant breakthroughs that involves the merger of the Black Ministries department with Multicultural Ministries.
Ken Hill
After the denomination’s 1964 resolution supporting Civil Rights and its 1966 statement urging total integration of all congregations and ministries, a Black Ministries office was created to network with church leaders, monitor progress, promote evangelism, and facilitate regional fellowship activities. That office has been filled over the years by seven able and creative black leaders, including Dr. Kenneth Hill, who was appointed in 2010. One of those leaders, Dr. Wallace J. Sibley, was later elected to the position of assistant general overseer.
Dr. Kenneth Hill, the former Director of Black Ministries for the Church of God, was named the Director of Multicultural Ministries during the 75th International General Assembly, which met July 29 – August 1. The theme of the Assembly was ONE, and the sermons and business proposals advocated plans and actions to move the church toward deeper unity in its ministries.
From this position, Dr. Hill will coordinate activities involving a broad range of diverse bodies throughout the country, including Indonesians, Filipinos, Jamaicans, Haitians, Indians, and others of the denomination’s language and culture groups. The aim of Multicultural Ministries is to ensure fellowship and evangelism and to create intentional relationships that are purposeful among the groups. Dr. Hill will also encourage the well-established regional fellowship alliances to continue their valuable service.
Wallace Sibley
“Dr. Ken Hill’s appointment as Director of Multicultural Ministries is a healthy and sound assignment in our church,” said Dr. Sibley. “At least 40 different language and culture groups worship in congregations across the nation, and he will bring strong leadership and coordination to our variegated ministries.”
“This is a great opportunity for red, brown, and yellow people to come together, respecting each other in a unique bond of oneness and peace,” said Dr. Hugh Bair, senior pastor of Christian Life Church in Baltimore, Maryland.
Anthony Pelt, state administrative bishop in Cocoa, Florida, also commented, “As we strive to be one, adjustments will have to be made. Our differences have been covered by the blood of Jesus, and God has made room for everyone to ‘come and dine.’ I know Bishop Kenneth Hill will do a great job ensuring that cultures know they add value and worth to the mission of the church.”
The new assignment becomes effective this month.
