To fulfill the great commission, the apostolic church must purposely design and implement strategic programs that will positively impact the community and build relationships for the glory of God.  One such program is the implementation of our Appreciation Sunday.

Our first coordinated effort was the launch of our nationwide First Responders Appreciation Day in 2016, which included the Police, Firefighters, and Emergency Management Technicians. This event was remarkably successful for our churches who participated in implementing this program. Honorees brought along with them family members, colleagues, friends and neighbors to share in their celebration on that iconic day.  In 2017 and 2018, we hosted Educators and Healthcare Providers Appreciation Day.  These events were phenomenal.

Can you imagine if every United Pentecostal Church (UPC) of North America would collaborate and honor a select group of individuals within the community to which the local church resides? This could potentially advance the growth of the local churches, the district and the organization at large; resulting in repeat visitors, new converts, and ultimately new members added to the church while building relationships and bridging the gap.

Honoring Entrepreneurs in 2019

 The United Pentecostal Church of North America has built upon the success of 2016, 2017, and 2018. And in 2019, several entrepreneurs were honored for demonstrating leadership in serving as role models and contributing to the standard of living and economic development within their communities.

The entrepreneurs honored included innovators, business owners, or startup founders of companies with experience of five years or more. Despite the challenges entrepreneurs face, these men and women have played a pivotal role in creating jobs, increasing the standard of life, and inspiring others within their communities. All honored entrepreneurs were nominated by their clients and other stakeholders whom they have served and impacted their lives.

Let us take up the challenge by the General Superintendent Bishop David K. Benard, who appeals to each church to participate in this strategic endeavor and show Appreciation to different demographics nationwide.

Listed below are past and proposed Appreciation Sunday honorees:

• 2016 First Responders

• 2017 Educators

• 2018 Healthcare Providers

• 2019 Entrepreneurs

• 2020 Outstanding Students

• 2021 Military Professionals

• 2022 Transit Workers

• 2023 Civil Servants

• 2024 Educators

• 2025 Healthcare Provider

 The primary focus of these events is to give churches a clear evangelistic strategy for the next six years. This proposal is based on a six-month plan to be launched in April and executed by the second Sunday in September of each year.

We can succeed with fervent prayer and careful implementation of the strategy. The harvest is ripe, and the possibilities are endless. The time is now. Let us seize the moment.