On October 11, 2014, the Roanoke Church received a wonderful blessing. For several days in September and October, the brethren from the General Conference Council, Doctrinal Council, Regional Secretaries, and Departmental officers were meeting at the GC headquarters to consider various points in preparation for the 22nd GC Delegation Session to be held in Virginia in 2015. So, while these officers were in town, we were able to enjoy a high Sabbath with them together with the visit of brethren, sisters, and friends both from here and from neighboring states.
Nearly 200 believers of all ages assembled in a rented facility about 2 miles from the GC headquarters. Sabbath School was presented by Bro. Paul Chapman, director of the GC Sabbath School Department. Then, the Divine Worship theme entitled "The Covenant of Grace" was presented by Bro. Davi Paes Silva, GC President, emphasizing our great need of Christ our Saviour to fortify us for faithful, victorious service to His honor and glory.
In the afternoon we were favored with missionary news from around the world, sprinkled with items of praise, thanksgiving, and exhortation from young and old alike. It was delightful to enjoy the fellowship of so many—simply a foretaste of next year's convocation to accompany the 22nd GC Delegation and above all, the glories of fellowship in the new earth to come!