shaunmckinley@me.com
shaunmckinley@me.com

Presiding BIshop Announces Creation of Global Communications

In his visionary, biennial address to the 102nd International Assembly of the Church of God of Prophecy, Presiding Bishop Tim Coalter announced the creation of a third entity to International Offices operations, the division of Global Communications.

Drawing inspiration from Acts 2, Bishop Coalter emphasized the importance of church ministries—at all levels—effectively communicating across cultural and linguistic barriers. In this passage of Scripture, diverse peoples heard the gospel message in their own languages. Bishop Coalter emphasized that the Church embrace contemporary communication methods to effectively reach individuals and communities.

The addition of this new department, the first major restructuring of the International Offices since 1996, brings the editorial, art, information technology, translation, web, and media services of the offices together under one leadership umbrella. The goal of this effort is to “provide the environment for greater collaboration, cohesion, strategic planning, and accountability,” said Bishop Coalter.

Recognizing the impact of digital platforms on today’s society, Bishop Coalter highlighted the use of tools like social media, podcasts, and online streaming as essential in reaching today’s interconnected world. He highlighted the methods of the past that served to advance the mission of the Church and aid in its global expansion. Looking ahead, he expressed optimism about the role of the newly established department in equipping leadership at all levels with resources and training to navigate modern communication opportunities.

“The decades ahead promise to be some of the most exciting in the history of the world,” concluded Bishop Coalter. “Our vision for this unique day should be filled with anticipation for the future. The work of the International Offices’ Global Communications department will help us become fluent in the languages of today and tomorrow so that every man, woman, boy, and girl will hear in their own language the wonderful works of God.”

Bishop Coalter also highlighted a few communications-related advancements and needs for the international church’s work. He celebrated the recent transition of the church’s official publication, The White Wing Messenger, from print to digital format. This move has enabled free access to the magazine for anyone with Internet connectivity. He noted the shift to a digital format as a pivotal moment in the history of the magazine, ensuring its relevance and reach for generations to come.

In addition to the advancements of the official magazine, Bishop Coalter advocated for increased financial support for the church’s translation efforts, echoing the transformative impact of Pentecost when diverse languages facilitated the spread of the gospel. These funds would be utilized to make the Church’s resources accessible to additional people groups around the world where the Church is just beginning or has yet to receive materials in their language.

Concluding his section on Communications, Bishop Coalter shared a call for “bilingual ministers.”  He encouraged those in the audience, especially the youth who were present, to embrace language learning, believing it can enhance ministry effectiveness, both locally and globally. Citing statistics from various countries, this call underscored the value of language proficiency in preaching, teaching, and communicating directly with diverse audiences.

As these ministry initiatives continue to form and take shape, additional details will be shared on the church’s website and social media pages.

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Dr. Shaun McKinley serves as the international director of Children’s Ministries, administrative liaison to the general overseer, and public relations coordinator for the Church of God of Prophecy International Offices in Cleveland, Tennessee.