Dr. David K. Bernard, a prominent leader in the United Pentecostal Church International, discusses the highlights of 2023 and anticipates exciting developments for 2024. He shares insights into the church's significant growth in church planting and youth engagement, especially at the North American Youth Congress. The conversation covers plans for global outreach, the expansion of Ersin College into a university, and establishing a new district in Quebec. Bernard’s optimistic vision emphasizes financial stability and innovative initiatives for community engagement.
In 2023, UPCI experienced a historic growth with 238 new churches and a total of over 11,700 ministers, reflecting positive ministry expansion.
For 2024, UPCI aims to enhance educational facilities and implement new safeguards for child protection, underscoring its commitment to integrity and development.
Deep dives
Significant Growth in Church Planting
In 2023, the United Pentecostal Church International experienced notable growth, with the planting of approximately 238 new churches, daughter works, and preaching points across the U.S. and Canada. This 5% increase sets a historical benchmark for the organization, contributing to a net growth of 2.2% in total works. Alongside this, the number of ministers rose by nearly 4%, indicating a thriving ministry, now totaling over 11,700. The successful North American Youth Congress, which attracted over 33,000 participants, further showcases the commitment and enthusiasm of young believers, reflecting a promising future for the church.
Global Missions and Unreached People Groups
The organization is making strides in global missions, now extending its reach to 238 nations and territories, with strategies in place to engage unreached people groups within those nations. Despite significant progress, efforts are underway to ensure that isolated tribes and language groups are introduced to the Christian faith, exemplified by their systematic approach to reach areas like India, where millions lack a Church presence. This initiative includes developing strategic growth measures for each country and district, aimed at multiplying ministers and strengthening existing churches. The financial support from their recent general conference, raising over $5 million for global missions, illustrates their commitment to hastening the return of veteran missionaries to the field.
Strategic Developments and Future Aspirations
Looking ahead to 2024, the United Pentecostal Church International plans to continue its growth trajectory, particularly in expanding the campus of Ersin College and introducing a new doctoral program. The acquisition of additional land aims to enhance educational facilities, allowing for a future auditorium capable of hosting a thousand people. Furthermore, a new judicial procedure has been established to address child abuse accusations, reflecting a proactive stance on maintaining the church's integrity and safety. Overall, the leadership envisions an exciting year filled with opportunities for ministry growth and continued outreach to those in need.
In this special New Year's Day episode, Dr. David K. Bernard reviews the highlights of the past year while looking ahead to what 2024 may bring.
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