Events Define Generational Ministry
Cleveland, TN–Three separate events sponsored by the International Offices last week represent a cross section of ministries committed to bringing the gospel to multiple generations.
On April 28 – May 1, 2025, more than 800 senior adults attended the annual Smoky Mountain Gathering in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The age 50+ delegates participated in a Redback Hymnal singing on Tuesday evening where Danny Murray led with songs that brought back memories of weeks-long revivals and camp meetings in open-air tabernacles. Former General Overseer Tim Hill was the special guest as he employed his love for Southern Gospel music to cap off the evening of worship and spiritual renewal. The week continued the next day with a spectacular display of Senior Talent competition in music, drama, art, and writing. On Wednesday night, singer/composer Mark Lowry brought a comedic and powerful package, joined by the musical talents of Endless Highway.
General Overseer Gary Lewis and his wife, Lori, brought a message of hope and prayer for the needs of the delegates.
As the Smoky Mountain Gathering moved out, the directors, children, and chaperones moved into the same Gatlinburg Convention Center for Smoky Mountain “KidFest.” Modeled much like Winterfest and SMG, KidFest has been a staple of ministry to thousands of elementary-aged delegates, with games, singing, worship, and life-changing spiritual encounters. This past weekend was no exception.
Wrapping up the week of events was the “WeGather Baltimore,” the second of four regional meetings designed to strengthen and refresh lead pastors in the Church of God. Following on the heels of the successful WeGather Dallas last month, hundreds of pastors and their families came together for a time of fellowship with fellow pastors at Heritage Community Church. The participants heard from inspirational speakers, including keynote presenter Dr. Sam Chand, Assistant General Overseers Wayne Dority and Mark Williams, and General Overseer Lewis. A highlight of the two-day WeGather event was attendance as a group to the Friday night Major League Baseball game between the Kansas City Royals and Baltimore Orioles at beautiful Camden Yards.
“The fellowship, evangelism, and worship at each of these events demonstrates the passion we have for reaching the generations,” stated General Overseer Lewis. “There was a powerful sense of unity and camaraderie among our people that strengthened the unique bonds we have had for more nearly 140 years in the Church of God. That bond makes us a more effective movement to reach the Harvest.”
To see photos of the Smoky Mountain Gathering and We Gather Baltimore, visit the Church of God social media channels @COGHQ.
