The 103rd International Assembly of the Church of God of Prophecy began at 9:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 15, with a call to worship led by Minister June Gordon. Presiding Bishop Tim Coalter officially opened the Assembly, welcoming delegates from around the world and calling the Church to reclaim its testimony of God’s faithfulness. General presbyters prayed in languages representing their regions, newly reaffirmed presbyters were recognized, and host leaders welcomed the Assembly to Florida. Following worship, Bishop Dr. Richard Ramsey challenged the Church to approach its business prayerfully and in unity.
The morning continued with the opening Business Session. Delegates heard reports from Finance and Administration, the Corporate Board, and the Finance and Stewardship Committee. The financial report received unanimous acceptance, while other presentations highlighted faithful stewardship, accountability, and the Church’s responsibility to wisely manage resources entrusted to its care.
Wednesday afternoon was devoted to the Biblical Doctrine and Polity Committee report, particularly its study of water baptism. Extensive dialogue from delegates reflected the Assembly’s deliberative process. The proposed baptism document received 77.99 percent acceptance, short of the 90 percent required for doctrinal matters, and therefore did not pass. Bishop Coalter nevertheless encouraged the Church emphatically: “What do we do about water baptism? We baptize!” (For more information about Assembly Business discussions, please see the 2026 Assembly Journal which contains the Assembly Minutes.)
The evening brought a colorful celebration of the Church’s global family with the Bahama Brass Band and Parade of Nations. Madagascar, the Poarch Creek Reservation, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Vietnam were welcomed as the Church’s newest nations. Newly selected general presbyters were presented and prayed over. Following worship, Bishop Dr. Tim McCaleb shared, “My Testimony,” using the prodigal son to describe his own spiritual journey. He called the Church to hold truth and mercy together in Christlike love. The opening day concluded with an altar response and prayer.