Church of the Messiah

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  • An Invitation from Our New Primate

    An Invitation from Our New Primate

    Ash Wednesday is one of my favorite services and Lent is one of my favorite seasons of the Church year. I pray that each of you experience a Holy Lent filled with life-changing encounters and breakthroughs in Christ. You will be in my prayers constantly.

    We are a three streams Church! Not just because we like the three streams, but firstly because we believe in them. We believe in them because we know that when they flow together they create a mighty river of the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Living in that river was the original vision; and it still is the vision of the CEC. In light of this, I want to invite you to join me during this season of Lent in a fast. I know that many of you will be doing your own form of spiritual discipline during this time. I certainly don’t want to distract you from that. However for about five months, the house of bishops in America fasted together two days a week as we prayed about who the next Primate of the church in North America would be. We fasted from after dinner on Tuesday night until dinner on Wednesday and again after dinner on Thursday night until dinner on Friday.

    I will be fasting the same way during Lent this year and I invite you to join me as we pray for the CEC (especially in North America) to flow in the river of the fullness of the Holy Spirit! If you can’t do two days then maybe you can do one. If you’re not able to do either for various reasons then maybe you could give up lunch or something else extra those two days besides your normal Lenten discipline. If nothing else, then simply on those two days spend a little extra time praying for the CEC to be a Church of fresh oil.

    My heart sings with expectation when I think of the clergy all over North America praying for this movement called the CEC; to fulfill her destiny as a church with “Ancient Altars and Pentecostal Fire.“

    If you feel lead to, then please share this with your congregations so that we may also have our laity participating in our common longing to fully be a church in revival. Because if God’s vision for us is going to be realized, it will impact every one of us from the the House of Bishops to each person in our congregations.

    Please keep me in your prayers so that in this time of Lent (which as you know means “lengthen”) my growth in Christ with lengthen so that I, in a Christlike way will fulfill my assignment as your Primate.

    Bless you all,

    Bishop Chuck

  • New Lenten Bible Study

    New Lenten Bible Study

    Fr. Scott Looker will be leading a special Bible Study beginning Tuesday, March 11th.  As we move through the holy season of Lent, we will be studying Adam Hamilton’s book Luke: Jesus and the Outsiders, Outcasts, and Outlaws.  We will be meeting at the home of Harold and Debbie Lawrence every Tuesday night in Lent starting at 6:30.  If you would like to purchase the book (although having the book is not necessary to attend the Bible study), you can purchase the book on Amazon.com or by clicking the LINK to see other buying options.  As we move through this holy season of Lent and draw closer to the Lord, we invite you to join us learning more about how Jesus reached out in love to the least, the lost, and the lonely.  Contact Fr. Scott Looker for more information.

  • Letters from Patriarch and Primate

    Letters from Patriarch and Primate

  • Archbishop Charles Jones Unanimously Nominated

    Archbishop Charles Jones Unanimously Nominated

    From left to right: Bp. David Simpson, Bp. Michael Davidson, Abp. Charles Jones, Bp. Robert Northwood, Fr. Jimmy House, Bp. Chris Moran, Bp. Brett Crompton, Bp. Jason Epps, Bp. David Epps
    The Primate’s Council of the Charismatic Episcopal Church of North America

    The Primates Council of the Charismatic Episcopal Church of North America (CEC-NA) is overjoyed to announce the unanimous nomination of Archbishop Chuck Jones as the next Primate of the CEC-NA. This nomination now moves to the Patriarch’s Council of the ICCEC for affirmation, a step that will officially confirm his leadership in this sacred role.

    This moment is the culmination of three months of dedicated prayer and fasting by all North American bishops, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit in this significant decision. The bishops gathered in Sharpsburg, GA, at the Cathedral of Christ the King on Thursday, January 30, for a day of worship, Eucharist, and prayer. By Friday, with unity and conviction, they discerned that God had spoken—leading them to nominate Archbishop Jones without hesitation on the unity of consensus.

    In the coming days, the Patriarch of the ICCEC will officially affirm his nomination, marking the beginning of this next chapter for the CEC-NA. Shortly, Archbishop Jones will issue a pastoral message, sharing his heart for the church and the path ahead.

    We give thanks for the Lord’s guidance in this process and invite the church to join in prayer, support, and celebration as we move forward in faith.

  • Letter on the Upcoming Feast of Our Lord the Giver of Life

    Letter on the Upcoming Feast of Our Lord the Giver of Life

    Please take a few moments and read this letter on the upcoming Feast of Our Lord the Giver of Life by Archbishop Charles “Chuck” Jones, the Interim Primate of the Charismatic Episcopal Church of North America.  

    Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

    Jesus uniquely identifies with “the least of these,” those who are the most vulnerable and fragile. No living thing is more vulnerable and helpless than a human infant, and no infant is more at risk than a pre-born child in a culture that promotes abortion.

    We are all so grateful that Roe v.Wade was struck down in 2022 but the rescue continues for many states that tragically still promote abortion. In light of that reality, our ministry on behalf of the “poorest of the poor” continues.

    On our collective behalf that ministry goes on daily through CEC for Life and the leadership of Fr. Terry Gensemer, and once a year we all give voice to the heart of Christ for the pre-born by celebrating the Feast of the “Lord and Giver of Life”. This year the Feast Day will be Sunday, January 19 and on that day we ask all of our churches to not only echo with words the message of life that is the heartbeat of Jesus, but to also give financially to CEC for Life to continue to make incarnation our commitment to the pre-born.

    Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these brothers and sisters, you did it to me.” In every pre-born infant Jesus is clothed in His most vulnerable disguise. To give for them is to give for Him.

    With great love and affection for you all,

    your servant,

    +Chuck

  • All Saints’ Day Offering on November 3rd

    All Saints’ Day Offering on November 3rd

    On November 3, 2024, All Saints Sunday, churches across the International Communion of the Charismatic Episcopal Church will be gathering a special offering to support mission work in different regions of our Communion. Here in the United States, these contributions will be dedicated to our mission efforts in Africa.  Please take a few moments and watch the video below to learn more about this offering and how the money received will be used.  You may click HERE to donate to the All Saints’ Mission Offering through Church of Messiah.

     

  • Important News for the Church

    Important News for the Church

    Below are two important announcements regarding the future of the International Communion of the Charismatic Episcopal Church.  The first is from our Patriarch and Primate, Abp. Craig Bates.  The second is from the Primate’s Council of the Charismatic Episcopal Church of North America. 

    Dear Brothers and Sisters,

    Greetings in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

    At the meeting of the Primate’s Council (October 15-17) in Sharpsburg, Georgia, I announced my intention to resign from the Office of the Primate of the Charismatic Episcopal Church-North America. This resignation will take effect on December 28, 2024.

    It is time for me to retire and spend quality time with my wife, children, and grandchildren. We will continue to be active members of the CEC and worship at our new home church – the Church of the Messiah, Jacksonville, Florida.

    I am thankful to the Lord our God for having had the privilege and honor of serving the Church for forty-four years and serving as Primate and Patriarch of the ICCEC for 16 of those years.

    I also announce my resignation as the Patriarch of the International Communion of the Charismatic Episcopal Church, one year from now on December 28, 2025.

    Be assured of my prayers and my enduring affections.

    Under His mercy,

    The Most Rev. Craig W. Bates, M. Div

    Statement from the Primate’s Council (House of Bishops)

    The Primate’s Council of the CEC-NA convened for its fall meeting from October 15-17 at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Sharpsburg, Georgia. During this meeting, Archbishop Craig Bates announced his intention to retire as Primate on December 28, 2024, and as Patriarch of the ICCEC on December 28, 2025.

    Archbishop Bates has led both the ICCEC as Patriarch and North America as Primate since January 2008. Over the years, he has faithfully served as our spiritual father and guide, nurturing the Communion with his tireless efforts, wisdom, and pastoral care. His leadership has been instrumental in navigating many challenges both in North America and across the globe. His contributions are many, but notable highlights include the establishment of a Catechism, the Sacramentary, and the revision of The Canons. He has served as chief consecrator to more than fifteen bishops, led church growth seminars, and facilitated strategic planning initiatives. His steadfast advocacy for the sanctity of all human life, particularly for the protection of the unborn, has resonated powerfully both within the United States and abroad. His impact on the ICCEC cannot be overstated.

    Upon Archbishop Bates’ official retirement as Primate, Archbishop Charles Jones, as the senior bishop in North America, will assume leadership of the Primate’s Council. The Primate’s Council will then undertake the prayerful task of discerning nominees for the office of Primate and submitting those names to the Patriarch’s Council for consideration. The canons of the ICCEC give the authority to appoint a Primate of a Territory to the Patriarch’s Council.

  • Foundation Day is June 23rd

    Foundation Day is June 23rd

    Foundation Day began as Founder’s Day. It was an offering to be taken on a Sunday close to the date of the consecration of Austin Randolph Adler as the first Bishop of the Charismatic Episcopal Church. The offering would be given to him to be used at his discretion.

    I am not sure how the name changed from Founder’s Day to Foundation Day, but I assume it had to do with a decision made by Abp. Adler to use the offering for the purchase of property and the repair of property. One-third of the money would be given as direct grants, one-third as low-interest loans, and one-third to be put in interest-bearing accounts.

    So much has happened with the money given to this account. The most recent event is the building of a cathedral in the Mid-Atlantic Diocese. I have seen the land and the pictures of the construction. The building will soon be finished, and I am already planning on being there on July 28, 2024. At the time of the CEC-NA Convocation in Orlando, the building will have been completed (except for many small details). I am sure Bishop Northwood, his wife Sarah, and each of their children (and spouses) will have plenty of pictures on their phones to share with you. They can be proud. And we can be proud that we were a part of it.

    There is a long list of projects funded in one way or another by the Foundation Day Offering. My own cathedral, which, under Bishop Brett Crompton, is now debt-free, also benefited from the offering as we added an addition to our very small facility. Again, the folks of Intercessor gave and gave over the years, but we are well aware that it was also sacrificial giving on the part of people all across the country who helped contribute to the endeavor.

    So this year, once again, we will take an offering that will be given to the Primate of the Church in North America. Yet again, it will go into that special fund. The only difference is that the money is no longer being used only for buildings and property but also for activities and ministry that will grow the communion.

    I believe the money in the account is “legacy money.” It is always tempting to spend “savings” or “investments” rather than wait. We have spent some, but this is a fund that the founding generation, many of whom are now retiring from the ministry, is leaving the new leadership who are living the future. The Primate—that’s me—believes that this “passing of the baton” is critical.

    I hope that each rector or vicar will take this offering seriously. It is $10 per person. Cathy and I are always thankful to put in our $20, plus $80. I am particularly excited because the Church I attend somewhat regularly is looking to purchase a building. The future is still before us.

    Under His mercy,

    +Craig W. Bates,

    Patriarch

    For more information, visit the Foundation Day website.

  • Church of the Messiah Co-Sponsors March for Life Florida

    Church of the Messiah Co-Sponsors March for Life Florida

    As State Supreme Court Prepares to Hear Challenge to Abortion Amendment, Floridians Rally for Life in Jacksonville

    JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Jan. 8, 2024 /Christian Newswire/ — This Saturday, January 13, at 10 AM, pro-life Floridians from across the state will gather at James Weldon Johnson Park in Jacksonville for the 2024 March for Life & Special Liturgy for the Preborn.

    Speakers include national pro-life leader Frank Pavone of Priests for Life, Florida State Representative Dean Black, and Sarah Neely of Operation Rescue. Fr. Scott Looker will lead the special Liturgy for the Preborn.

    The March kicks off with a one-hour rally set to be a time of encouraging words from national and local leaders, as well as a special moment of corporate prayer for the preborn, for their mothers and fathers, and for the end of abortion in the state of Florida. A prayerful walk that will pass by the nearby county and federal courthouses will follow.

    Fr. Scott Looker, rector at Church of the Messiah in Jacksonville and one of the main organizers for the event comments, “Florida is a true battleground state and stands at a crucial crossroads for children in the womb, especially as we await two huge decisions from our state Supreme Court — one that could uphold a previously passed six-week ban and one that could stop a dangerous effort to enshrine even late-term abortion in our constitution. Now is the time to stand together, to pray together, and to make every effort we can to peacefully, prayerfully and legally uphold the sanctity of life.”

    It was recently announced that pro-abortion groups collected the required amount of signatures to move forward with an “Amendment to Limit Government Interference with Abortion,” which they aim to see on the November ballot. However, first the Supreme Court will hear a challenge from the Florida attorney general that could prevent the amendment from going any further.

    Sarah Neely, Project Coordinator for Operation Rescue, says, “With Roe gone, abortion extremists around the country are pushing for constitutional amendments that will enshrine abortion in state constitutions and upend life-affirming laws that currently protect children in the womb at the state level. These amendments are shrouded in euphemisms and dangerously vague language meant to persuade voters to believe they are voting for so-called reproductive freedom when, in reality, they are often voting for unfettered abortion through all nine months of pregnancy. This proposed Florida amendment is no different.”

    The Florida State Supreme Court will hear arguments for the amendment on February 7. Floridians are also waiting for the Court’s decision on a 15-week ban, which they heard arguments for back in September. If the Court upholds this ban, it will automatically uphold a 6-week ban that was passed in the interim.

    The 2024 March For Life is co-sponsored by Church of the Messiah, Charismatic Episcopal Church for Life, Jacksonville for Life, Operation Rescue and Pro-Life University of North Florida.

  • Convocation Website is LIVE!

    Convocation Website is LIVE!

    We are so excited about the National Convocation coming this Summer!  We are excited to announce that the CEC North American Convocation has launched its website.  By visiting the website, you can review the calendar and schedule of events, register for the Convocation, book your hotel rooms, and volunteer to be part of the team working to make the Convocation an incredible time of revival for the Charismatic Episcopal Church in North America and throughout the world.  Be sure to bookmark the website and check back in for updates.  The 2024 North American Convocation is going to be a phenomenal gathering to worship The Lord.  Be sure to get started making you plans to attend so you won’t miss any of what God is doing.