Church of God International invites
Aaron Dean to speak at headquarters

TYLER, Texas--Aaron Dean of Cincinnati, Ohio, informed The Journal that the United Church of God (UCG), of which he is a member, is finding ways to cooperate with the Tyler-based Church of God International.

One of the ways the cooperation manifested recently was Mr. Dean, who serves as the UCG's international adviser, speaking Nov. 30, 2013, to the headquarters congregation of the Church of God International (CGI).

The two churches are also cooperating to help victims of the typhoon in the Philippines in November.

Mr. Dean, an elder and former UCG treasurer, said the two churches are also seeking other ways to cooperate with each other.

He told The Journal how the speaking invitation came about.

Far-flung groups

"Since I recently was appointed as international adviser for UCG, I was encouraged to look into ways to cooperate with other groups in far-flung areas," he said.

"I was going to be in Texas visiting family for Thanksgiving, so I took advantage of the opportunity to visit with Charles Groce and Vance Stinson of the Church of God International."

Conversation about gospel

Mr. Dean said both church organizations are interested in "preaching the gospel" and serving church members.

"Earlier in the week [before the church service] I had a very enjoyable visit with Charles and Vance where we discussed the efforts each of us were making to spread the gospel," he said.

"We know that no organization has the resources to service all the needs in other parts of the world.

"The current UCG administration feels comfortable in giving and receiving cooperation from other church groups who serve the brethren."

Focus on Philippines

Mr. Dean said the discussion turned to the recent weather troubles in the Philippines.

"Both church groups were making efforts to help the victims of the recent typhoon in the Philippines," he said.

"The Philippines is one area where both groups have a number of members, but each group has limited ability to serve the needs of the people. It makes sense to find ways to work with other Church of God groups."

Continued opportunities

Mr. Dean said he thinks the two church groups can continue to work together. "I think CGI and UCG are on the same page on this issue. We want to enhance cooperation between groups. Our meeting was a good start."