Bishop Ted Thomas, Sr. welcomes you to the 2nd Annual Leadership Summit of Historic First Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction of Virginia!

Registration:  The cost of registration is $60 and includes all summit materials.                 

Overview: Through anointed guidance, it is Bishop Ted Thomas’ endeavor that all leaders under his jurisdiction understand the responsibility, and accountability, of effective leadership in all areas of ministry and witness. Given this charge, he has taken up the mantle to lead by example and equip the leadership of our church during a dynamic, powerful and anointed two-day leadership summit.

Training sessions will motivate, fortify and consecrate leaders in this current dispensation to go forward endowed with assurance. Classes are designed to grow leaders, individuals and congregations so that effective ministries are developed to the edification of the body of Christ.  Leaders will leave this summit empowered and well prepared in the work of the Lord.   

Fully supporting the work of the ministry, Mother Nellie Townes does her part to motivate women in ministry to the same level of effective witness in love, unity, godliness and faithful service. The women’s work develops leaders while giving spiritual guidance for maintaining salvation, prayer for discernment, good decision making and upholding the landmarks of holiness.   

So join us for the Virginia One 2nd Annual Leadership Summit and be endowed with knowledge from on high! This will be a training session you will not soon forget! 

For more information, please contact New Community Temple COGIC at 757-484-8903.

Come Over Here Where the Table is Spread and the Feast of the Lord is Going On!

I searched through Google to find the origin of this phrase. Oddly enough, while the result of my inquiry only gave a couple of gospel artist’s names, none were credited with authoring these lyrics. Therefore I will claim the title for the Historic First Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction’s 90^th Annual Minister’s and Workers’ Conference that was held in Richmond during the week of March 19 – 25. What an awesome display of the Lord’s power and glory!

The saints of the jurisdiction enjoyed powerful and anointed preaching, singing and worship as we gathered in the presence of the Lord. We heard messages from several of our local pastors and superintendents including,  Pastor William Cornick (Body of Believers COGIC), Superintendent John Lyon (Danville District), Elder Victor Thompson (New Community Temple COGIC), Pastor Walter Harold (Sheep Gate COGIC), and Pastor Floyd Hawkins (Shiloh COGIC).  We were also blessed to hear soul stirring sermons from several of our national church leaders – Bishop P. A. Brooks, 1^st Assistant Presiding Bishop COGIC; Bishop Joel Lyles, General Secretary COGIC; and Superintendent Dickerson Wells, National Trustee Board member.

We celebrated with our State Supervisor, Mother Nellie Townes, worshipped with our dynamic Jurisdictional Choir under the direction of Evangelist Missionary N. Kimberly Thomas, had a night of elegance with an operatic performance featuring Sister Dei Ashlei Nikoi, and kicked off our bishop’s campaign for the General Board.  Having said all of this – I still have not mentioned the highlight of the meeting.

The saints gathered Sunday morning at the Richmond Convention Center, anxious to hear from our beloved leader, Bishop Thomas.  The Word of the Lord was presented from I Kings 19 and the theme was, “When Strong Men are Discouraged.”  Bishop Thomas expounded on Elijah’s great victory on Mount Carmel (against 850 prophets) – only to flee from Queen Jezebel and ask God to take his life. Bishop Thomas encouraged the saints to trust the Lord and never become puffed up or full of pride – lest we find ourselves in a state like Elijah. As the message concluded, the Spirit of the Lord descended in the auditorium and the saints went forth in praise. As Bishop Thomas prayed and ministered on the altar (yes – dozens of souls responded to the call to discipleship) a mighty Spirit of deliverance swept through the room. How I wish you could have been there!

I trust that you are enjoying your walk in Christ. I pray that you are living victoriously. I pray that you are walking in the greatness the Lord has called us unto and you have not fallen victim to discouragement. However, just in case you need a little help or word of encouragement – come over here where the table is spread, and the feast of the Lord is going on!  There’s joy over here, there’s peace over here!

On Saturday, March 24, Bishop Ted G. Thomas Sr., the visionary and prelate of the Historic First Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction of Virginia, sponsored the Ways & Means Banquet featuring Holiness Tabernacle COGIC daughter, Sis. Dei Ashilei Nikoi. The eve was young and expectations were high for the banquet’s first operatic concert held in the Marriott Richmond Ballroom.  Who would have envisioned an opportunity for a member of the Jurisdiction to perform in the classical arts of opera, an art in which singers perform a dramatic work and music? Truly, Bishop Ted G. Thomas Sr. gave many a night to remember.

The evening began with an official welcome from Sis Kellie Seals of Reconciliation COGIC.  Following, came the introduction of the soloist by Sis Yolinda McCown of Holiness Tabernacle. As the guests prepared themselves for the concert, one couldn’t help but wonder, what is man that God is so mindful that he shows the work of his hand through His innumerable gifts? Indeed, Sis Dei would show us that God knows what He has bestowed upon us. In her youth, Dei participated in the Sunshine Band and Youth choirs, singing in the alto section. She loved to sing anywhere and everywhere no one could hear her. Finally in high school, she decided to join a choir only to be transferred to the soprano section. From the voice that was in the shadow of the darkness only a few years prior, one would never have guessed the transformation occurring within. In 2007, Sis Dei received her first official voice lesson from Swiss baritone, Valentin Lanzrein, who discovered she had operatic potential. Given her desire to enter law school after graduation, this news definitely came as a surprise. – a surprise that she would one day embrace and give God the glory for her gift..  Post graduation, she rededicated her life to God, was filled with his precious Holy Ghost, and truly began seeking His direction.

On the eve of the banquet, Sis Dei made her debut in front of an audience she could call family, sharing a gift that came from above. With poise and elegance, she entered the room adorned in a beautiful fuchsia gown with her accompanist Karen Dalton, and began with a short explanation that audience members would hear songs in English, Italian and German. Some of the selections for the evening included familiar pieces such as “The Beatitudes” and “The Lord’s Prayer” by Albert Hay Malotte. Less familiar, yet equally beautiful pieces included “Ach ich liebte” by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and “Allerseelen” by Richard Strauss. Sis Dei mesmerized with the sheer sound of her vocal prowess and the captivating, dramatic expressions that she poised during her performance. She made us believe that we were at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC or the Metropolitan Opera House in New York. She gave us a performance of love – “A Night of Elegance” will be cherished and remembered. The evening ended with two familiar selections, “Wade in de Water” by H. T. Burleigh and “Summertime” by George Gershwin that brought the whole house to their feet.

At the conclusion of the performance, Dei presented gifts and thanked Bishop Thomas, Mother Charletta Thomas, Mother Nellie Townes and her Pastor, Elder Eddie B Pruitte Jr., for the opportunity to sing to God’s people and their faith.

Bishop Thomas’s Ways & Means Banquet with Sis Dei was truly a grand success!  The many comments and outpouring of well wishes from the saints and visiting guests were a blessing. What a beautiful example that God’s talents can be used to glorify Him in a variety of unique and special ways.

The Pastor

Superintendent Ronnie Edmonds was born, the sixth child out of eleven children, to the proud parents of Elder Woodley and Maggie Edmonds; their first son. He was reared in the Deep Creek section of Chesapeake, and graduated from the Deep Creek High School. He furthered his education at the Norfolk State University, where he pursued and obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree.

His parents firmly believed in raising their children in the fear of God, and as a result, he was saved at an early age. Elder Edmonds came up through the ranks, at Bethlehem and served in such capacities as: Church Usher, Choir Member, Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, Sunday School Superintendent, Early Morning Prayer Warrior, Ordained Elder, Assistant Pastor, Second Assistant Pastor, and Trustee Board Member just to name a few. Pastor Edmonds served under the late Superintendent Solomon Ferebee, as Second Assistant Pastor for three years, and Assistant Pastor for twelve years, until the Lord called Superintendent Ferebee home to be with Him, in April of 2001. After an interim period of five months, he was appointed pastor of the Bethlehem Church of God in Christ, on August 26, 2001 and at the same time, like Elisha was given a double anointing; he was appointed the Superintendent of the South Norfolk District. In Virginia Jurisdiction #1, he served as the State Executive Secretary for over twenty years and also as the Financial Secretary.

Pastor Edmonds met and married Miss Debra Benton in 1985. To this union was born two sons; Ronnie Jr. and Fredrick, and one daughter; Maria Christine. Pastor Edmonds is a family man and also a great man of God. One of his favorite saying is, “Hitherto hath the Lord helped us; to God be the Glory.” He loves the Lord and the church with all of his heart. Some call him Preaching Machine, Mr. Humble Pie, Mr. Smiley, Mr. Sunday School, but most of all he is a Born Again Christian and an Anointed Man of God. The Lord Be Magnified!

The Church

Bethlehem C.O.G.I.C. “The House of Spiritual Bread,” has been a pillar and beacon of light in the Deep Creek section of Chesapeake for over 75 years (from its early stages on Cedar Road to its current location on Millville Road).  We are currently in the process of the beginning stages of reconstruction.  A lofty size dining area will be added to accommodate the saints for various occasions.  In addition, with the technological enhancements of the sound, media and music ministry, the church is positioning itself to be able to reach a massive number of people with the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The Mission

The mission of the baptized body of believers at Bethlehem C.O.G.I.C is to live victoriously in every area of life by obedience to the word of God and to effectively show sinners the power of God to save from the deepest dungeons of sin.

2012 Theme

“Love, Duty, Service”              I Peter 4:8-11

Outreach Ministries

Vacation Bible School

Harvest Festival

Christmas Food Baskets

Hospital & Nursing Home Visitations

Wow Happenings!

Many young adults and teenagers have been getting saved, sanctified, and filled with the Holy Ghost the old fashioned way—with the evidence of speaking in tongues.  When the Spirit gets to moving,  these young “thirsty for God” saints can be seen leaping for joy, running around in the spirit, or walking the floor while speaking in tongues.  This is proof that all of our youth are not in trouble and that they are a part of the generation that will seek His face.  Their God hungry approach to living has been contagious and has caused new life to take place in our Sunday School and Young People Willing Workers’ Departments.  To God be the Glory!

Schedule of Services

Sunday:          Sunrise Prayer@ 6:00 A.M

                        Sunday School @ 9:00 A.M.  

                        Worship Service @ 10:30 A.M.                               

                        Y.P.W.W. @ 5:50 P.M.

                        Evening Worship @ 7:00 P.M.

Tuesday:        Prayer @ 11:30 A.M.
Wednesday:   Prayer and Bible Band/ Home & Foreign Missions@ 7:00 P.M.
Friday:           Pastoral Teaching/Focus on the Family @ 7:00 pm

We come to worship and leave to serve!

If you are familiar with ancient Jerusalem, then you know about the Sheep Gate. The Sheep Gate was the first part of the city rebuilt after the captivity; it was where the offerings and sacrifices were brought. Many believe the Pool of Bethesda, the place where Jesus healed the lame man, was near this part of the city. The Sheep Gate is also mentioned as the terminating part of the wall that surrounded Jerusalem – or the “City of God.”  And it truly seemed like such a city for those who attended the February 25th installation service of Pastor Harold the Sheep Gate Church Of God In Christ into the First Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction of Virginia!

View Event Photos

The saints anticipated a high time in the Lord when it was first announced that a new church was being birthed in our Jurisdiction – Sheep Gate COGIC. Continuing our long-standing practice of blessing a new pastor and congregation spiritually and financially, Bishop Thomas announced that the Jurisdiction would support the church with its attendance. Since his consecration as jurisdictional prelate more than 27 years ago, Bishop Thomas and the saints of Virginia One have contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars to newly formed and installed pastors and congregations. 

Long known for his many talents and powerful preaching, Elder Walter Harold also holds the distinguished position of being one of Bishop Thomas’ sons in the gospel. Despite the numerous installations, the saints knew this service would be a little more special and the worship service proved to be just what was anticipated.

The Jurisdictional Choir opened the service and sang under the anointing – the saints responding as the glory of the Lord filled the room.  When it was time for the Word of the Lord, Bishop Thomas preached on the topic, “A Workman Approved of God,” coming out of II Timothy 2:14-21. Bishop Thomas encouraged both Elder Harold and his lovely wife, Missionary Harold, to continue in the Lord and to hold fast to God’s promises. 

“Brother Harold,” Bishop Thomas declared, “people will come and go, but the Lord will never leave you!”

After the saints rejoiced again, it was time for the ceremonial installation of the new pastor and congregation. Our hearts beamed with pride as the Elder Harold and officers of the new church came forward to sign their charter and other official documents, birthing them into the Church Of God In Christ. After the jurisdictional officials had signed their names, Bishop Thomas addressed the now Pastor Harold. The saints looked with awe as the distinguished leader was brought to tears; they were all moved to see a father give his blessings and bid his son god speed.

A day that began with praise at the Sheep Gate was now ending with praise and the godly embrace of a leader and new pastor. We praise God and celebrate for a new branch of Zion – Sheep Gate COGIC, under the leadership of Pastor Walter and First Lady Harold!

In the words of Jurisdictional Supervisor of the Historic First Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction of Virginia, Mother Nellie M. Townes, “To God be the glory for the great things He is doing among and through us!”

View Event Photos

On Saturday, February 11, the Thelma G. Vaughan Memorial Annual Prayer Breakfast and Baby Contest took place in the grand ballroom of the Richmond Marriott hotel. Saints from every district came out in large numbers to show their support for the event.

The ballroom was quickly converted into a house of worship as the Jurisdictional Choir set the atmosphere with their renditions of Jesus is the Light and There’s No One Like You. Next came a season of sanctified prayer as various district superintendents declared blessings upon the Jurisdiction, the nation, the babies, and the sick and shut-in.

Evangelist Missionary Vivian Pruitte gave a special presentation to our Elect Lady, Mother Charletta Thomas, providing a single rose to the rose of our Jurisdiction. With her usual elegance, Mother Thomas followed with greetings to the church body. 

Soon after it was time for the Word. Superintendent John H. Lyon of the Danville Virginia introduced the speaker of the hour, Pastor James A. Williams of Holy Temple COGIC.

“Now don’t you let any of those forks and knives come flying this way,” Elder Williams began with a smile, noting that the waiters had not removed all of the eating utensils and glasses from the table. An anointed man of God, Elder Williams preached the unadulterated Word with conviction and boldness, focusing on the topic “God, Who Has Allowed Us.” 

The service could not end without remarks from Bishop Ted Thomas Sr., prelate of the Jurisdiction. Bishop Thomas exhorted the people of God to stir up the gift that God had placed within them and reminded the Jurisdiction to remember the old landmarks – our theme for 2012. 

Before long, the entire house was on its feet as Bishop Thomas reiterated his decision to run for the 2012 General Board of the Church Of God In Christ.

“It’s time to pass the mantle!” he echoed throughout the ballroom to cheers and applause.

Finally, it was time to announce the winner of the baby contest. The contest is a fun way for the districts to support the ministry of the Jurisdiction. Through friendly competition, each district sponsors a baby to see who can raise the most.  

A hush filled the room as people waited to hear the outcome of a long-standing competition between the two reigning districts – the Great Northern District, who has taken home the prize for the last several years, and the Central District who often places just behind them. With cheers and excitement, Missionary Judy Little announced William Marson Simuel Thomas, son of Elder Marc and Missionary Kim Thomas, as the winning baby – with the Central District raising just over $8,500 for his district!

The adorable faces of cute little ones in their outfits far exceed expectations as the contestants provoked each other to good works – surpassing the previous year’s benchmark and making everyone winners.

In closing, Mother Townes reiterated her elation at the success of the benefit. “Let’s keep this love,” she expressed. For indeed, that is how the First Jurisdiction of Virginia operates together – in love!

Join us as we continue to make history and celebrate our Annual Minster’s and Worker’s Conference:

Pre-Musical Celebration | top

Monday, March 19

Come worship in song with the churches of the Jurisdiction and hear the anointed sound of our great Jurisdictional Choir under the leadership of President and recording artist, Evangelist Missionary Naomi Kim Thomas.

Service at Reconciliation COGIC 630 E 16^th Street Richmond, Virginia 23224 begins at 7:30 p.m.

Weeknight Services | top

March 20-22, 2012

“Behold, how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” Come magnify the Lord together during our weeknight services as we bless our leaders during the Good Shepherd services and receive a powerful Word.

Join us Tuesday, March 20 and Wednesday, March 21 as we celebrate Good Shepherd’s Night.

Join us Thursday, March 22 with special guest, First Assistant Presiding Bishop of the Church Of God In Christ, Bishop P.A. Brooks.

Services at Community COGIC 1801 Park Avenue Richmond, Virginia begin at 7:00 p.m.

Women’s Day Celebration | top

Friday, March 23

Join the Women’s Department during their Annual Worker’s Day Celebration as they celebrate State Supervisor, Mother Nellie Townes and focus on the theme Call for the Mourning Women (Jer 9:17-18).

Workshops at Community COGIC 1801 Park Avenue Richmond, Virginia begin at 10:00 a.m.

Bishop Ted G. Thomas for General Board Campaign Kickoff | top

Friday, March 23

Don’t miss the official kickoff of the Bishop Ted Thomas’ run for the 2012 General Board! Invited special guest is National Trustee Board Member of the Church Of God In Christ, Superintendent Dickerson Wells. Visit the official campaign website www.bishoptedthomasforgeneralboard.org for more information.

Service at Community COGIC 1801 Park Avenue Richmond, Virginia 23220 begins at 7:00 p.m.

Ways & Means Benefit Concert and Banquet | top

Saturday, March 24

Join us for this formal affair, featuring operatic soprano Miss Dei Ashilei Nikoi in her debut Jurisdictional concert.

Time: 5:00 p.m.

Location: Downtown Richmond Marriott 500 East Broad Street Richmond, Virginia 23219

Cost: $50 General Seating, $75 Preferred Seating

For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Pastor Eddie B Pruitte, Jr. at 703-497-7928.

Official Day Service | top

Sunday, March 25

Come receive a rhema Word from the Lord through the vessel of our esteemed leader – Bishop Ted Thomas! Let’s demonstrate our love and support of him on his official day.

Sunday School at the Richmond Center 403 North Third Street Richmond, Virginia 23219 begins at 9:00 a.m. and service begins at 11:00 a.m.

Sunday Evening Service | top

Sunday, March 25

Come out to hear the conclusion of the whole matter with special guest speaker, the General Secretary of the Church Of God In Christ, Bishop Joel Lyles.

Service held at Community COGIC 1801 Park Avenue Richmond, Virginia 23220 begins at 7:00 p.m.

Hotel Accomodations | top

Omni Hotel  – Click Here

You don’t want to miss the Annual Minister’s and Worker’s Meeting – we’re sure to have a “landslide from glory and a Benjamin feast!” Make plans to attend now by calling (757) 484-8903.

Contributed By Sis. J. Clark-Melvin ("The Lion of Judah” COGIC)

The One-Day Gospel Feast, which took place Saturday, January 28, was an astounding celebration! The Lord was in His holy place and every aspect of the service was phenomenal. Indeed, God established precedence for His Spirit – showing up on every level.

As the saints entered the sanctuary, a sense of expectancy permeated the whole house. The service opened with energy and excitement by Pastor Andy Cork, Mt. Peniel COGIC, who moved the service as the Spirit led. Like a fresh wind blowing down the aisle, it soon became clear that the Lord was ready to move.

The opening prayer was charged by Pastor William Cornick Jr., Body of Believers COGIC, and he led us into the presence of the Lord. The prayer, chant, scripture readings, to the anthem, along with the Liturgical Praise Ministry exuded worship; you simply had to be there!

Under the direction of Missionary Naomi Kim Thomas, the Jurisdictional Choir sang by the unction of the Holy Spirit. They were unified as a mighty army dressed in black with gold accents, tearing down the house singing, “…I know that my God is a ‘Right Now God’!” The Lord showed Himself strong and awesome in that place. It was a melodious sound that resounded from the people of God – they sang as unto the Lord, and you could tell. 

In times past, our illustrious prelate, Bishop Ted Thomas Sr., would bring forth the Word of God. This time, with sincere graciousness, he shared his pulpit. But as he introduced the guest speaker, Bishop Thomas torched the church with his now very familiar song, “I Am Healed.”  It was truly an atmosphere setter, preparing the saints for God’s Word from the mouth of Bishop E. Charles Connor of Sacramento, who preached with power and authority.  His subject was “God is a God of expectations” and he came from Psalm 62:8.

Bishop Connor stood flat-footed and preached about our need to look forward, think forward and focus forward on the great things God has for us. Trusting in, leaning on and knowing that God is with us, and wants to do a new thing. Bishop Connor identified three areas of expectancy: blind expectation (II Kings 7:3), determined expectation (Mark 5:24-28), and  faith-driven expectation (Matt 8:5-10), as he encouraged us to look up. Afterwards, he prayed for the pastors of the Jurisdiction, and spoke a word over the choir, elders and ministers.  It was just a great service.

It is certain that this was not the typical jurisdictional budget service; it was a refreshing flowing from God’s Spirit! All should partake of the One-Day Gospel Feast and experience the power and presence of God first-hand.

It is with great regret that I inform you of the passing of Bishop Barnett Karl Thoroughgood, a son of the Historic First Jurisdiction of Virginia and a former Adjutant General of our denomination.  Bishop Thoroughgood also served as the Second Administrative Assistant to Bishop Samuel L. Green, Jr. of the Virginia Second Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction.

Our brother, Bishop Barnett Karl Thoroughgood, accepted Christ at an early age, was licensed to preach by the late Bishop David C. Love, and began his ministerial work as an elder and later pastor of New Jerusalem COGIC within the Historic First Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction of Virginia.

We mourn the loss of our dear brother, who was loved by a God-fearing family and a devoted congregation.  The Thoroughgood Family and the Virginia Second Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction are in need of our fervent prayers at this time.

I encourage the full support of the Adjutants, Usher Board, Music Department and the entire Historic First Jurisdiction family to show their support during the National Homegoing Celebration being held at the Virginia Beach Convention Center in Virginia Beach.

I remain your Chief Servant,

Bishop Ted G. Thomas, Sr.

If available, please support the planning session being held at New Jerusalem COGIC at 7:30 pm.

For more information in regards to the Homegoing Celebration, please visit COGIC Virginia Second Jurisdiction.

The History

Pastor William O. Cornick Jr., is one of seven children born to the late Elder William O. Cornick Sr. and Evangelist Lillie Ann Cornick. Pastor Cornick is a native of Virginia Beach (Seatack area) where he attended St. Stephens COGIC of the First Jurisdiction of Virginia, under the leadership of the late Bishop David C. Love, now led by Jurisdictional Prelate, Bishop Ted Thomas Sr.

Pastor Cornick is not a novice to serving in the body of Christ or his country. As a child, he has diligently served in the youth choir and sunshine band. In faithful service at age eighteen, he served as a Sergeant in the United States Army, receiving several accommodations and a host of awards that positioned him for the next ranking of an E-6. Due to family commitments, he separated from the Army in 1986, to bask in the last precious hours of his father’s life as he remembered his sayings, “Wait until the smoke clears, so you can assess the damage” and “There’s one thing a man takes to the grave with him: his name.”   

Soon after, Pastor Cornick relocated to the Northern Virginia area.  While coaching football, he was regularly confronted with and directed to Jesus. He acknowledged that no matter where his feet would take him, someone would draw his attention to God. This created the stir in his spirit that he was hell-bound and needed desperately to change his fate.   

The Transformation

Praise the Lord! On September 15, 1995, Pastor Cornick received the gift of salvation and not much later he received the baptism in the Holy Ghost. He remained faithful to the ministry serving as head deacon, usher, drummer, praise team member, security team member and adjutant at his local church. 

In 1999, Pastor Cornick was encouraged to attend a watch night service held at the “Yeshua” COGIC in Manassas, VA. Joining the ministry there, he served in many capacities: Chairman of the Masters’ Builders, Men’s Day coordinator, Men’s Sunday school teacher, YPWW teacher, Pastor’s Aide Committee member, Sanctuary choir member, Men of Promise male chorus, Usher Board member, and Outreach/Mission team.  

He has been a member of the COGIC International Youth Department Juvenile Crime Prevention Reduction Commission since 2009. He has presented Hip Hop Culture seminars and Gang Awareness trainings at all levels of the Church. He serves whole-heartedly in the Great Northern District and Jurisdictional music departments.

As a youth, Pastor Cornick had visions of himself preaching and laying hands on others. The visions continued throughout his adult life until God showed him the letters B.O.B. in 2002. In 2005, the visions were revealed; the ministry was to be named the “Body Of Believers.”  

The Birthing of the New

In summer of 2006, God showed Pastor Cornick a vision of him standing outside, looking at the side of the church building. Instructed to look closely, he heard a thunderous sound resembling an earthquake coming from inside the church. The explosion catapulted the roof into the air. He noticed a suspended hand from the roof, reaching for the earth above the church. As it reached into the earth, the vision was made clear; the Spirit of the Lord named the church the “Body Of Believers Outreach.” Once awake, he shared his vision with his beloved wife, Evangelist Jane Gatlin-Cornick who encouraged him to “write the vision.” He continued to seek the Lord and the godly counsel of his Pastor, Elder Campbell, who imparted wisdom and insight concerning ministry, and continued to pray with him concerning the vision from the Lord. The “Body of Believers Outreach” Church of God in Christ was fully birthed and incorporated on January 8, 2011, and held its first service one week later.

The Mission of the Church

Pastor Cornick’s vision for “B.O.B.O.” is far beyond the four walls. It is to reach those who are in need of spiritual healing and enlightenment. Thus, “Body Of Believers Outreach” COGIC considers themselves to be community oriented. For example, they were blessed to provide food baskets to eight families in need during the Thanksgiving holiday. “B.O.B.O.” has also participated in the 31^st District Court Service Unit’s outreach of shopping and delivering groceries to seventy-four families during the Christmas holiday.

Takin’ It 2 The Streets is the signature evangelistic portion of “B.O.B.O.”  and consists of:

• Tent revivals
• Mentoring programs – (Young Marines) for youth from 8-18 years old; teaches discipline and responsibility and is a collaboration with the Commonwealth Challenge Program.
• Mobile care unit
• Clothing boutique
• Food bank
• Internet radio services

In 2010, “B.O.B.O.” established J.O.M.A.X. Theatre Productions (Jane, Oliver, Michael, Alexandra and Xavier). J.O.M.A.X. has presented skits, plays, enactments, and looks forward to hosting full scale productions in the near future as an extension of spreading the gospel.

The Heart of the Man:

Pastor Cornick enjoys playing chess, ping pong and attending sports events. He relishes spending time with his best friend – his wife. Together they share the blessings of three children, Michael, Xavier and Alexandra, who willingly work by his side in the ministry.

Along with his dedication to the service of the Lord, Pastor Cornick is gainfully employed by the Prince William County Government as a Social Worker in the Child Protective Service/Prevention unit. He has also worked in various divisions of the court system, shelters, Juvenile Detention Centers and much more. He is a certified Virginia Gang Investigator.

In answered call to ministry, Pastor Cornick has been endowed with insight, understanding and wisdom concerning the weights of the sinner and believer regarding their past. He understands the strategy of the enemy to use past life styles which preempt the acceptance of the full redemptive work of Christ on the cross. He labors to preach the gospel without compromise, and to let all know that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for all men. His expression is that true forgiveness can be received from God through repentance and faith in the precious blood of Jesus Christ.

“Body of Believers Outreach” COGIC welcomes you to join them in changing lives and making a difference:

Sunday:          Sunday School @ 9:30am & Worship Service @ 11am
Tuesday:        Prayer & Bible Study @ 7:30pm
Thursday:      Community Outreach @ 7:30pm
Friday:           “B.O.B.O.” Family Night