Council of Elders - United Church of God
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Report on the meetings between the UCG and the CGCF
Press Release
CGCF/UCGIA Hold Frank and Open Discussions
Cincinnati, Ohio: The Executive Council of the Church of God, a Christian Fellowship (CGCF), and the Council of Elders of the United Church of God, an International Association (UCGIA), met together March 12, 2001, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to further the discussions that have been underway for some time. It was like a reunion for many ministers and wives who hadn't seen each other for some time.
Task forces of the two groups had met in August and November last year. After those meetings both organizations felt that it would be helpful to expand the discussions beyond the task force level. Consequently, it was agreed that a combined meeting of the two councils would take place in March.
Meetings between the two councils began with an executive session in the morning. Other non-council ministers of the two organizations as well as wives attended in the afternoon. The combined meeting, with more than 50 in attendance, was chaired by Roy Holladay, chairman of the UCGIA Council.
The discussions included frank and open examination of questions about doctrinal topics. As mentioned after previous meetings, there is clear agreement on most doctrinal topics. However, the terminology used in some doctrinal statements raised questions that needed to be addressed. The face-to-face meeting enabled both organizations to explain their understanding of these doctrinal issues and the use of certain expressions. Further discussions between representatives of CGCF and UCGIA can address remaining questions.
CGCF ministers continued with ministerial meetings Tuesday and Wednesday. They joined the UCGIA Council and home office staff for a tour of their offices and refreshments on Tuesday afternoon. CGCF President Larry Salyer also addressed the UCGIA Council on Thursday to express appreciation for the opportunity to get together with their Council and ministry.
The meetings and other social occasions made a good start on building relationships and addressing rumors and other misunderstandings between the two fellowships. Ministers from both groups applauded the openness and friendliness of the meetings.