Date: December 15, 2024

Holy greetings, my brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I remain saved, sanctified, and kept by the power of the Holy Ghost. I give honor to our General Chief Overseer, Bishop Dr. Calvin Worthem, the Assistant Overseer, Bishop Dr. Bonnie Guster, the Chief Helper, and all officials who work tirelessly to spread the word of God and bring souls to Christ.

As we gather during this joyful Christmas season, my heart is filled with gratitude for the love and hope that comes with celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. This is truly a sacred time, and I feel blessed to witness the unity of our churches in Mississippi as we came together to honor our Overseer’s birthday through a heartfelt Christmas program accompanied by delicious food and fellowship. It was a special privilege to have Trial Bishop Michael Randle and his Memphis, TN, members with us. We were further blessed by the surprise visit of Chief Helper Bishop Anthony Taylor from Dayton, Ohio, who shared such rich words of encouragement. His message reminded us that “Jesus is the Answer,” a comforting truth we can always lean on.

As we enjoy this season with our loved ones, exchanging cards and gifts and sharing meals, let’s pause to reflect on Christmas’s true meaning. The arrival of Jesus in our midst opened the door to hope and salvation, showing us a pathway to heaven. In St. John 14:6, we are reminded, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by me.” Satan may feel threatened by the light that came into the world through that precious baby, striving to bind us in sin. But let us hold onto the truth that Jesus came to free us from that bondage. He offers love, hope, and the promise of a new beginning. May we welcome the peace of Christ into our hearts this Christmas, now and always.

As we near the end of 2024, my heart goes out to anyone who might be feeling hurt, angry, lonely, or weighed down by the loss of a loved one. If you’re struggling with feelings of unforgiveness or battling depression, please remember that you are not alone in this journey. I encourage you to turn to God with an open and sincere heart, seeking comfort and healing. Share your burdens with Him and articulate your desire to release any pain or resentment; rest assured that God will embrace you with love and forgiveness. Our path to healing and renewal begins within each of us, and it’s important to know that Jesus came to seek and save those who feel lost and alone. As it says in St. Luke 19:10, “For the Son of Man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

Hence, as we enter 2025, let’s embrace the opportunity for a fresh start and a clean slate. This New Year brings the chance to become a new version of ourselves. Trust that the Holy Spirit is there, guiding and supporting you on this journey if you listen and follow His lead. Taking this step toward healing and renewal is something you deserve.

In closing, the Overseer and I want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all our members and churches for the beautiful birthday and Christmas cards, clothing, hats, jewelry, and monetary gifts. May God’s blessings continue to shine upon each of you. The Overseer, Macy, Kenny, and I wish you all a Merry Christmas filled with warmth, and a New Year overflowing with blessings. 

ALL PRAISES BE TO THE TRUE AND LIVING GOD!!!!!!

Deaconess Linda Worthem

First Lady of COTLG-Jewell Dominion