The December 2007 National Convention was a historic event for Church of God by Faith, Inc. It marked the 20th consecutive year that the December National Convention has been held in Atlanta, Georgia. Additionally, it was the 19th consecutive year that the Hyatt Regency Atlanta has hosted the convention. In December 1987, the Executive Council (the governing arm of the church) moved the December National Convention from Ocala, Florida to Atlanta, Georgia and we have enjoyed every moment of it.

Most importantly, this convention cumulated in the celebration and honoring of our Presiding Bishop, James E. McKnight, Sr. for achieving fifty years in ministry. The presiding bishop and his first lady, Mrs. Jessie M. McKnight had previously never been honored on a national level of this magnitude. Both have humbly served COGBF locally (at their home church in Gainesville), on a district level (the Gainesville District), and nationally for over fifty years. This event had to be special for the two of them.

The planning committee for this gala event put everything in motion and on Sunday morning during the closing session of the convention as all of the elements came together. The black and gold theme colors could be seen just about everywhere you looked over the audience. The stage was elaborately decorated. The scent of fresh flowers filled the air as red and white poinsettias enhanced the room. Beautifully decorated white Christmas trees, wreaths, and garland, all flowing with gold steams of ribbon, adorned the stage. Glowing lights laced through and through warmed the ballroom. Everything blended together magnificently to create a look of pure elegance. The McKnights’ grandchildren and other family members graced an entire section in the ballroom to show their love and support.

Bishop McKnight has always delivered the closing message and, of course, announced the pastoral appointments for the upcoming year. It wasn’t going to be easy taking that job away from him; after all, he’s done it for 23 years. However, this year we persuaded him to sit back, relax, and hear an awesome word from God delivered by Bishop Loran E. Mann, pastor of Pentecostal Temple Church of God in Christ, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. National recording artist Evangelist Beverly Crawford, who happens to be the McKnights’ niece, blessed our hearts with several song selections.

The presentations made to the McKnights by the membership of Church of God by Faith, Inc. truly expressed appreciation for their many years of service. Unquestionably, this event will be held close to the hearts of Bishop and Sister McKnight for many years to come.

On behalf of the McKnights, thank you “By Faith Family” for accepting the challenge and coming through the way you did. You were absolutely, terrific!

The Man, The Mission, The Ministry...
An extraordinary convention was highlighted by the appreciation service for Bishop James E. McKnight, Jr.’s 50 years in ministry on Sunday, December 23, 2007. The following will provide insight into the man, the mission, and the ministry of our great presiding prelate. [Click here to continue...]