Bright Sun-shiny Day

Watch video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SyIBhbGN7o4

Listen to audio: https://cloud.gci.org/dl/MiscVid/Presidents-Update-March-2026.mp3

GCI President Greg Williams reflects on how Christ, the true light, leads us through seasons of challenge into renewed clarity and hope. As he shares encouraging updates from across GCI, Greg invites us to step forward together into a bright season of Kingdom Living.

Watch video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SyIBhbGN7o4

Program Transcript

GCI President Update | March 2026

There is an old classic song by Johnny Nash that speaks well to where we are in GCI.

I can see clearly now, the rain is gone
I can see all obstacles in my way
Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind

This song echoes biblical themes of emerging from darkness, trials and confusion that can blind us, into light, the clarity and salvation we receive through Jesus.

John 1:1-9 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ²He was in the beginning with God. ³All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being ⁴in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. ⁵The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.

⁶There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. ⁷He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. ⁸He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. ⁹The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.

Enlightenment and spiritual breakthrough come when we receive and believe in Jesus. It is only through the eternal King that we find healing and clear vision. Christ doesn’t want his church stuck and suffering blindness and hardship, he desires us to come through the dark storm and find hope and purpose in him.

In a conversation with our Superintendent of Europe, Gavin Henderson, he referenced this analogy of coming out of the storm for the pastors and churches he oversees. Keep in mind that he says they are experiencing fresh air and clear skies, he did not say that ministry was easy and that they are skipping in the park. I like how the song says the dark clouds are gone and that I can see all obstacles in my way. Seeing ahead with clarity and purpose is the space where we want to be.

The song’s lyrics “dark clouds” and “rain” parallel spiritual struggles, contrasting with the “bright sunshiny day” of divine understanding, much like John 1:5 highlights Christ as the Light overcoming darkness.

Statistics from around the world in GCI validate what Gavin shared with me at our Worship Celebration in Italy. In 2025 we remain active in 62 countries with about 27,000 faithful members. Last year, we celebrated 1,200 baptisms and we are making progress in reaching more young people. We are breathing fresh air in Jesus, and the skies are clear for us to continue growing into the best expression of the church as we can possibly be. Hallelujah!

The Chorus points us forward:

It’s gonna be a bright, bright, bright
Sun-shiny day

I think it will be a “3-times bright” sun-shiny day because of the love and guidance of Father, Son and Spirit. I think 2026 will be a bright, bright, bright sun-shiny year as we move forward in his light seeing our call to actively proclaim his sovereignty and to live as representatives of his Kingdom now.

In July we will host our Denominational Celebration in Dallas, TX, US. If you haven’t registered, you still have time. Susan and I look forward to seeing you there.

For 2026, let’s continue living the kingdom and moving forward by the light of Jesus!

Devotional—It Is Finished

Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. John 19:28–30 NIV

Jesus did everything the Father asked of him. In the midst of intense human suffering, he gave up his spirit in union with the Father — an act of faith and implicit trust. He did not hesitate. Instead, he surrendered himself into God’s care and courageously entered death for our sake.

We participate in Christ’s death. This participation invites us to reflect continually on what may need to die in us. There are seasons when we have completed what God has asked of us, and the time comes to move on.

At times, this means allowing relationships, jobs, or responsibilities to end so that new ones may begin. We may not know what lies ahead or how it will all unfold. But in Christ, we are invited to step forward into the new life God is opening before us.

How might Christ’s love, poured into you by the Spirit, be closing a door in your life? How might the Spirit be inviting you to enter a world of new possibilities and new relationships?

Prayer
Jesus, thank you for loving us all the way to the grave. Father, thank you for never abandoning your Son. Thank you, Holy Spirit, for raising Jesus, and us in him, to new life. Amen.

Adapted from the following resource: April 7, 2023 – Good Friday – GCI Equipper

Kingdom Living—Discipling Through Fun

Read below to learn how two Australian regions are bringing together youth and families for a weekend of fun and discipleship.

Queensland, Australia

In January, forty-six enthusiastic participants gathered at Tallebudgera, Queensland for a weekend of connection and growth. The event kicked off on Thursday afternoon with meaningful discussions about the weekend’s themes and ways to support one another. Icebreaker activities and board games after dinner set a joyful tone of fun, faith, and fellowship.

Breakfast devotionals were held on both Friday and Saturday focused on Jesus’ baptism and what baptisms mean for us today. Campers were deeply moved by heartfelt testimonies shared about personal journeys of faith.

Friday brought adventure on the canoes as groups worked together to explore the beautiful Tallebudgera Creek. A thoughtful session on responsible social media use followed, along with a beach swim, dance practice, basketball, jump rope, and more games to end the day.

Saturday challenged campers at The Cliffs with abseiling and a thrilling height drop. The afternoon was spent preparing for Sunday’s worship service, followed by swimming, soccer, and dinner. That evening featured a Sacred Imagination dinner and an energetic dance session.

Sunday’s Worship Service was a highlight. Youth led every aspect, even the sermon, showcasing their gifts through music, art, readings, testimonies, and a Fijian dance. The service was deeply inspiring and reflected the servant-heartedness of these amazing young people.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all church members for your prayers and support that made this camp possible. We cannot wait to see what God has in store in 2027!

By Lara Olsen, GCI-Australia Admin and Registrar
Camira, Queensland, Australia

Victoria, Australia

In January, the first Victorian Youth and Family weekend was held on Port Phillip Bay near Melbourne. Thirty people attended. Each morning after breakfast we had a time of devotion focusing on God’s delight is us, his love, and willingness to carry all our burdens. The Amazing Race activity, a race around the camp with various puzzles to solve, was enjoyed equally as much as a casual beach stroll exploring the nearby rocky foreshore and cliffs.

At our Sunday worship service, the Congolese Bolikoko family led us in songs. We also heard from two recently baptised young adults about their journey thus far. They shared moments when they felt God’s presence during difficult times, describing baptism not as a single profound moment but as a growing awareness of a lifelong journey with God. They spoke of learning to trust God’s guidance, even as letting go of control remains an ongoing process.

Along with conversations and laughter, the three days were also filled with outdoor sports like the giant swing, volleyball, gaga ball, and the most favourite of all – 9 Square in the Air. When we needed relief from the heat and wind, we enjoyed indoor activities like trivia, karaoke, and tie-dyeing t-shirts. The t-shirts were a big hit. At the end of camp, we had ‘the reveal’ as each person’s shirt, after being washed and dried, was unfolded to smashing applause and cheers.

It was an enjoyable and meaningful time, and we are very grateful for the staff that attended. We look forward to returning in 2027.

By Matthew Gudze, Pastor
Mooroolbark, Victoria, AU

Citizens’ Toolbox—Equip Youth and Children

Citizens of God’s kingdom live embedded in Kingdom Culture. One aspect of Kingdom Culture is whole-life discipleship. Citizens equip children to follow Jesus from the very beginning of their lives. We value and prioritize youth and children as disciples — not future disciples, not partial or lesser disciples.

Check out GCI’s age-graded resources to help congregations disciple their members — all their members!

Meet Gio Lizares

“I am a good example of how God can turn things around and how he can change and transform lives.”

Meet Gio Lizares, pastoral intern at GC Bacolod in the Philippines. His journey is marked by intentional, faithful steps as he learns to follow God one season at a time.

Get to know Gio here.

DC26 | Registration Closes in 3 Weeks

The Denominational Celebration
will be held
in Dallas, Texas, U.S.
on July 23-26, 2026.

Save your spot and register today!

Registration closes April 15.

We would love for you to participate in our time together. This gathering gives our fellowship time to worship, learn, and enjoy being together. The schedule offers steady rhythms of teaching, connection, and shared worship.

Our theme for this celebration is Kingdom Living. Throughout the event, we will explore how God invites us to participate in his life, reflect his goodness, and join his ongoing work in the world. The theme will guide our worship, breakout sessions, and main teachings. It will help us focus on the hope we share and the way we live it out in our daily lives.

Join us for:

- - Daily worship setting a hopeful tone each day
  - Breakouts that explore discipleship, calling, and mission
  - Messages from our leaders, including Greg Williams
  - Interviews with leaders who will share insights and stories
  - Communion that reminds us of our shared life in Jesus
  - Time for meals, fellowship, and personal reflection
  - The GCS ceremony honoring our graduates

Death of Earl Jones

Retired Pastor Earl Jones died in February. Join us in praying for his wife, Betty, and their family. His daughter Deborah Jones and his granddaughter, Monica Jones, are members of the GC Durham church plant team.

We share in their grief and in their hope of resurrection. Deborah shared the following obituary.

Cards can be sent to:
Betty Jones
168 North Gaines Street
Southern Pines, NC 28387

Earl Jones passed away peacefully at home on February 26, 2026, at the age of 84. Born on July 11, 1941, Earl lived a life defined by strength of character, steady determination, deep faith, and unwavering love for his family and community.

He attended schools in North Carolina and New York, experiences that helped shape his broad perspective and keen sense of purpose. Earl continued his education at North Carolina Central University. Answering the call to serve his country, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps for a brief stint.

Earl dedicated many years of his professional life to Ingersoll Rand, from which he retired after faithful and committed service. Known for his strong work ethic and leadership, he earned the respect of colleagues and friends alike.

Most importantly, Earl devoted his life to his faith and to serving others. He retired as pastor of Grace Communion Fayetteville, where he provided spiritual guidance, encouragement, and compassion to countless individuals and families. His ministry reflected his deep love for the triune God and his unwavering commitment to uplifting others. His greatest joy was telling others about the goodness of God. He often said, “I am who I am because of the great I AM.”

Earl was also involved in civic engagement and community advancement. He was a member of the West Southern Pines Civics Club and the NAACP, supporting efforts that promoted equality, education, and opportunity for all.

Above all, Earl was a devoted husband. He was married to his beloved wife, Betty, for 60 wonderful years — a testament to enduring love, commitment, and partnership. They took the words “til death do us part” literally.

Earl found immense joy in traveling and staying active through walking and weightlifting. He had a deep love for learning and devoted much of his time to studying history, especially African American history. He enjoyed watching the History and Military channels, reading, and engaging in thoughtful conversations. A dedicated collector, he took pride in stamp collecting and maintained an extensive music collection that reflected his wide-ranging tastes. He especially cherished conversing in Spanish with his granddaughter, finding joy in sharing language, laughter, and connection across generations. He was also a loyal sports fan who proudly supported Georgetown Hoyas men’s basketball team and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents, Will and Bessie Diggs and Geneva Washington; his beloved daughter, Dionne Michelle Jones; and his brother-in-law, Willie Gillis.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Betty; his children, Deborah Jones and Earl Maurice Jones (Rosie); his cherished grandchildren, Monica Jones and Charleigh Williams; his brothers-in-law, James Gillis (Janet), Donnie Hines, Ollie Hines (Libby), Woodrow Hines (Clara), Leon Hines, Jerry Hines (Esther), Scottie Hines, and Johnny Hines (Thomasine); his sisters-in-law, Carolyn Jenkins, Margaret Gillis and Sandra Jones, Stephanie Davis (Michael); and a host of extended family members, friends, and loved ones.

Though his passing leaves a profound void, his legacy of faith, strength, compassion, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Baptisms in Bangladesh

Join us in celebrating four baptisms in Bangladesh in March.

Hiring Digital Content Developer

Grace Communion International is seeking a Digital Content Developer to serve on our Media Team. This full-time, non-exempt position is based in Charlotte, NC, and reports to the Media Coordinator.

The Digital Content Developer helps tell the story of what God is doing through Grace Communion International by creating thoughtful, engaging digital content including video, podcasts, and graphics. This role collaborates closely with the Media Team to develop projects from concept through completion.

We are looking for someone who values creative excellence, collaboration, and lifelong learning, and who resonates with GCI’s commitment to sharing the gospel and participating in the love and life of the triune God.

Applicants should have relevant education or experience in digital media production and be aligned with GCI’s mission and theological commitments. See the job description here.

If you would like further details on the position or would like a GCI job application, please contact Human Resources at humanresources@gci.org or 980-495-3960.

Please share this announcement with qualified candidates who may be gifted for this position at the Home Office.

Hiring HR and Risk Coordinator

Grace Communion International is seeking a Human Resources and Risk Coordinator to serve in our Financial Services Department. This full-time, non-exempt position is based in Charlotte, NC, and reports to the Chief Financial Officer.

Applications are now being accepted. See the job description here.

If you would like further details on the position or would like a GCI job application, please contact Human Resources at humanresources@gci.org or 980-495-3960.

Please share this announcement with qualified candidates who may be gifted for this position at the Home Office.

LiLY Women’s Conference | Register Soon

Early bird registration and group discount for the hotel ends Friday, March 27.

2026 LiLY Women’s Conference
April 24-26, 2026
Embassy Suites in Independence, Ohio

Theme: Aligned with Purpose

… let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. Hebrews 12:1b-2 (NIV)

Read the schedule here.

Registration Fee:

- - $85 Early Bird Pricing — Register by Friday, March 27, 2026
  - $95 Regular Pricing — Register by Friday, April 17, 2026
  - $60 Special Teen Rate — Ages 13-17

Online registration ends on April 17, 2026.

Hotel Reservation/Cost:

Embassy Suites, 5800 Rockside Woods Blvd. Independence, Ohio, U.S.

Overnight hotel rate: $134 per night, per suite, 4-person room
(Total with tax is $315 for both nights. Breakfast and manager’s reception are included for hotel guests only.)

Click here to make your reservation online.

Group Name: LiLY Women’s Conference
Group Code: LW4
Central Reservations Number: 1-866-315-1185
Deadline for hotel reservations at the special rate is Friday, March 27, 2026.

Register today online at gccle.church/lily

If not registering online, mail your registration fee with checks payable to:
Grace Communion Cleveland
4499 Canterbury Road
North Olmsted, Ohio 44070

(Please include your name, address, phone number, emergency contact name and address, and if you are staying for Saturday night dinner)

If you have any questions, please email us at: LiLYwomensministry@gmail.com

Rosa Hulse
Women’s Ministry Leader
Grace Communion Cleveland

Like/Follow us on Facebook at LiLYWomensConference.