Holy Greetings,
 
“I thank my God every time I remember you.” We read this verse of scripture in Philippians 1:3.

Just as Paul said it to the people he loved, so do I say it to you, constituents and friends of Arkansas First Jurisdiction.  God has tremendously blessed us with a wonderful jurisdiction of people who possess an array of talents and gifts for the ministry.  

I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation to each one of you for making our 97th Holy Convocation both memorable and spiritual.   I appreciate the support and influence of our Administrators, Superintendents, Pastors, Jurisdictional Supervisor and the Women’s Department.  I appreciate the ushers, greeters, parking attendants, security personnel, janitors who kept our Convocation venue clean and prepared for day and evening services, as well as the chefs and other kitchen support staff.  Even with record attendance that created unexpected challenges, thank you for allowing the love of Christ to show through as you attended to the needs of the Saints.

It is not that we expected anything less, but attendance was beyond capacity.  I extend my apology to those who opted to leave when you could not obtain access to the main sanctuary.  Be assured that we are working diligently to alleviate seating as well as parking challenges for future meetings.

As we prepare for the fiscal closing of our jurisdictional affairs, I want to thank those of you who have completed your jurisdictional budget.  If you have not done so, I am asking that you do so as soon as possible, preferably before August 31, 2010.  God is well pleased when His people are faithful in every area of their life, and we cannot overlook finances when evaluating our spiritual health.

Again, thank you for an anointed and spirit-filled 97^th Holy Convocation.  
I pray that each of you continue to experience God's blessings as we do His work.

For the Towel,

Jewel R. Withers, Jr.
Jurisdictional Bishop
Arkansas First