Wednesday, May 2, 2001
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Wednesday, May 2, 2001 |
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South metro churches meet to break down barriers There is aconflict which almost automatically erupts between churches of different denominations. This conflict brings attention to the strategic need to develop relationships across denominational walls. Attempting to formulate a unity out of this diversity, six different churches in the south metro area will come together Friday through Monday, May 4-7 in a conference designed to address specific issues that divide the church. Called "Pulling Down Strongholds," the conference will take place each night at 7 p.m. at River's Edge Community Church, 1091 Jeff Davis Drive, south, Fayetteville. Churches with Baptist, Pentecostal, Independent, African-American, and Full-Gospel orientations will represent the diversity. "No one is asking anyone to forfeit their own particular doctrinal prejudices, but we are challenged to come together to demonstrate that our unity is found in Jesus Christ who is neither Baptist, Catholic or Pentecostal," said Dr. John Hatcher, conference participant and host pastor for the event. Topics to be addressed include divisions in the Body of Christ due to denominationalism, racism, gender, and worship style differences. Speakers include Pastor Eddie Thomas of Edgefield Baptist Church, Pastor Richard Green of New Covenant Metropolitan Church, Pastor Donnie and Minister Andrene Monk of "Glory to God" Bible Church, and Hatcher. Musicians will join from all the churches to form a mass ensemble and provide worship and praise under the direction of the Rev. Michael Robey, pastor of Corinth Baptist Church in Cartersville. The Rev. Calvin Smith, pastor of Abundant Life Worship Center in Tyrone, will emcee the service. A nursery and children's activities will be provided nightly for children through third grade. "Two things that the average Christian questions is why there are so many different denominations and why the most segregated hour of the week is Sunday morning from 11 a.m. until noon," Hatcher said. "We must come up with some answers. This conference's twin goals are to identify the 'strongholds' that divide us encouraging each person to make commitments to make changes and to foster unconditional love and forgiveness in our communities." For more information on the conference, call 770-719-0303 or e-mail Hatcher at jamlorea@bellsouth.net.
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