What would you do in my place?

Originally Posted by keith4him

I have reached out to the local UPC presbyter in my section, but because the local city Pastor believes that he should be the only UPC pastor in his town, he will not allow a competing church.

Our city has 70,000 people in it.

I agree with the fundamental doctrine of the UPCI, always have, always will.

But my attempts to be a part of the organization in which I was raised and have tremendous appreciation and respect for, have up to this point in my life been unfruitful.

However I have been asked by a larger non-UPC group (many, if not all the ministers are ex-upc) to fellowship and eventually join their group.

Should I do this?

Or remain independent, hoping for a better day in the Western District?

What say ye?

Bro. Keith,

First, let me say that this is tragic for the souls of your city.

As to the real question, I would ask myself if I could walk in agreement with the men of this larger group. I would also ask myself if fellowship and membership in this group would positively or negatively affect my walk with God.

It is a tough situation and one I have been contemplating for several years. Desiring covering and fellowship I have explored many opportunities with numerous groups and I have come away convinced that I am prospered spiritually and ministerially more by remaining an independent fellowshipping in UPC circles.

I will be in prayer for the direction of the Holy Spirit in this matter as I see the decision affecting not only your ministry, but also your family.

Originally Posted by keith4him

I have been praying about this over the last 7 years, my only desire is to a part of something larger than myself, make a contribution, and gain some of what is best about the UPCI.

I understand that completely. There are some good things being a part of the UPCI and I pray that God's will is done in this situation.

[Hoovie]

K4H, Call your church the Pentecostal Fellowship Church and show up at every possible UPC function - local, district, and national and when someone asks why you aren't licensed UPC tell them. You will have the respect and the fellowship with the exception of a few narrow minds.

Originally Posted by Stephen Hoover

K4H, Call your church the Pentecostal Fellowship Church and show up at every possible UPC function - local, district, and national and when someone asks why you aren't licensed UPC tell them. You will have the respect and the fellowship with the exception of a few narrow minds.

[Pastor Keith]

Originally Posted by philjones

Bro. Keith,

First, let me say that this is tragic for the souls of your city.

As to the real question, I would ask myself if I could walk in agreement with the men of this larger group. I would also ask myself if fellowship and membership in this group would positively or negatively affect my walk with God.

It is a tough situation and one I have been contemplating for several years. Desiring covering and fellowship I have explored many opportunities with numerous groups and I have come away convinced that I am prospered spiritually and ministerially more by remaining an independent fellowshipping in UPC circles.

I will be in prayer for the direction of the Holy Spirit in this matter as I see the decision affecting not only your ministry, but also your family.

I have a feeling this is will be where I remain. Thank you for your wise post!

I still want my children (sons) to marry girls who believe as we do, when they are older I will take them to a large local UPC church for them to do youth activities with.

[Pastor Keith]

Originally Posted by Stephen Hoover

K4H, Call your church the Pentecostal Fellowship Church and show up at every possible UPC function - local, district, and national and when someone asks why you aren't licensed UPC tell them. You will have the respect and the fellowship with the exception of a few narrow minds.

I do actually like that name!

But I don't think you are familar with the forces at work in the Western District.

[BoredOutOfMyMind]

Originally Posted by keith4him

I do actually like that name!

But I don't think you are familar with the forces at work in the Western District.

If you moved 10 miles down the road, would the Bishop allow you then to start it up?

[Rico]

Ok. First of all, let me say that it is completely unreasonable for one man to think his church will be enough to serve the needs of the people in a city of70,000. I would go over whose ever head I needed to to join, if I were you, Brother. Just make sure it's something the Lord wants you to do.

Originally Posted by Rico

Ok. First of all, let me say that it is completely unreasonable for one man to think his church will be enough to serve the needs of the people in a city of70,000. I would go over whose ever head I needed to to join, if I were you, Brother. Just make sure it's something the Lord wants you to do.

Preach it Bro!!!!

[Hoovie]

Originally Posted by keith4him

I do actually like that name!

But I don't think you are familar with the forces at work in the Western District.

How about just continuing what you are doing and hope to get the credentials in the future. As you know it is easier to say "no" to a possible new work then it is to rebuff a work that is already in existence and has a track record of attendance and established membership. The longer you are there the more credible becomes your arguement.