By Tommy McGhee
The Alpha Conference held their 94th Annual Session and 13th Quadrennial Session on Saturday, June 30, 2018, in Anniston, Alabama. Pastor Jonathan Pate and the Life Worship Center Church served as host for the day. The business session was highlighted by Bishop Mike Gray’s State of the Conference Report. Bishop Gray reported that “the conference has entered into its second decade in which the churches have reported over 1,000 salvation testimonies per year. Fourteen churches 28% experienced some level of annual composite growth. In addition, six churches experienced growth in their annual worship attendance by 10 percent or more.” He also spoke of their commitment to the Arise 2033 initiative that was shared by Bishop Beacham during the closing service of the 2017 General Conference. Bishop Gray shared some of the following goals for Alpha Ministries:
- An annual goal of three to five new churches with intentional focus on new counties
- 10-20% annual growth in existing Alpha churches
- Doubling our credentialed ministers by 2033
- Visionary and missionary leadership for all senior pastors, staff and church leaders
In conclusion, Bishop Gray shared these words of blessing and declaration:
“The Lord continues to impress the victory and vibrancy of Jesus into my heart. Karen and I often pray and declare this blessing over Alpha pastors, ministers, and churches.”
“May the Lord bless Alpha Ministries as never before; may you be filled with the presence, peace, purity, purpose, and power of the Holy Ghost; may you experience victory and vibrancy in your life and walk with Christ; may you be increasingly aware of the greatness of God; may you experience happiness, health, and favor, even as your soul prospers!”
The Credentials Committee recommended three candidates for Local Church Minster’s License, two for Conference Minister’s License, and one for ordination. The Bylaws Committee Report was adopted without any questions or motions from the floor. This was a first in my experience as a presiding officer. Elections were all by acclamation:
- Conference Superintendent – Bishop Mike Gray
- Assistant Superintendent – Rev. Jason Beiler
- Council Members – Jonathan Pate, Al Bethea, and Jon Potter
After a time of recognition, awards, and promotions, the Conference Memoirs Report was read and concluded with a moment of silence and prayer. It was my honor to participate in the laying on of hands for the official ordination of Rev. Tim Nichols. This is always a holy and precious moment in the Conference Session. The day concluded with the installation of officers with the congregation joining in prayer for their leadership team as they purpose to hear the voice of God and faithfully lead in obedience to Him.
