Today is the fifth anniversary of the start of the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq.

Initially, the minority Christian population in Iraq was mostly elated with the fall of Saddam Hussein. They envisioned the coming of peace, safe places to work and live and complete freedom to worship.

Dr. Charles W. Conn

For more than seven decades, the Church of God has received the wisdom and leadership of one of the most versatile individuals ever to be part of the denomination. Dr. Charles W. Conn passed away late Tuesday evening, March 18 at a Chattanooga, Tennessee hospital following a heart attack four days earlier. He was 88.

Ed Mrkvicka’s newest book, “Be Not Deceived,” a book devoted to helping those who have lost their salvation to the deceptions of the modern world, has been named “Best Christian Study of the Year” by Christian Story Teller.com. Previously “Be Not Deceived” was 2007 Books-And- Authors Best Christian Book of the Year and was awarded the prestigious Faith Writers Seal of Approval as an “Outstanding Read,” as well as being recognized as an award-winning finalist in this year’s National Best Book Awards in the category of Christian Inspiration.

Lapulapu Church of God

In early May 2007, we started working on two buildings that needed extensive repairs. The property was purchased by Church of God World Missions, but the buildings were our responsibility. Step by step we have been able to repair and renovate the larger building and are also using the smaller building even though it needs extensive repairs.

I had the honor of meeting with two vice governors of the Phnom Penh Province and City Department of Urban Poor Municipality. These men are responsible for the global partnership of non-government organizations who commit to work with the Cambodian government on the “Poverty Reduction Project.”

By Dr. Robert Crick, Director, Chaplains Commission

New center in Ecuador

During the recent International Care Conference in Quito, Ecuador, a new multipurpose building was dedicated. The building serves as a chaplaincy, urban missions, trans-cultural studies and social development center.

I remember a time in my early ministry when Easter truly came alive for me.

The leadership of the Church of God International Youth and Christian Education Department is extremely excited about the upcoming Smoky Mountain Winterfest. It is a highlight event of the Youth and Christian Education calendar each year.

By J. Lee Grady

Charismatic Bible teacher Kenneth Hagin Sr. is considered the father of the so-called prosperity gospel. The folksy, self-trained “Dad Hagin” started a grass-roots movement in Oklahoma that produced a Bible college and a crop of famous preachers including Kenneth Copeland, Jerry Savelle, Charles Capps, Jesse DuPlantis, Creflo Dollar and dozens of others—all of whom teach that Christians who give generously should expect financial rewards on this side of heaven.