Greetings to all the people of the Lord. I am so happy to greet you on this day, to praise God for your involvement, for your support of the Southern California, First Jurisdiction.

In my 50th year of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and 100 years since the founding of our Grand denomination, I have been elevated to the office of the Presiding Bishop of the Church of God in Christ, worldwide. Even as I serve the National Church, it is more than a joy  to serve the First Jurisdiction. I've been able to see many wonderful things happen - much growth, much development. Everything that we've been able to do is because of people like you.

Bishop S.M. Crouch, Bishop J.A. Blake, Sr., my predecessors, lifted this jurisdiction to such a high level, my challenge has been to carry forth this work with the same quality of excellence and commitment that they did.  I am so proud to be associated with them. I am so proud to be associated with you.

UJC will bring our six outstanding departments: Evangelists, Missions, Music, Sunday School, Women and Youth, and our auxiliaries together under one roof, in one spirit for a week of spiritual development, inspiration, fellowship and communion.

In this day of political upheaval, domestic and international disasters, wars and rumors of war, we are dedicated to strengthening the most important unit that is under attack around the world and that is the family.  Through UJC, we endeavor to unite the family, ministry, and community to divine Purpose.

Chairpersons Frances Harris and Melvin Hartidge along with the UJC Executive Team have worked tirelessly to assist me in providing a spiritual experience filled with joyous singing and worship, illuminating day sessions, anointed preaching by outstanding guest speakers, and much much more.

From the opening night to Official Day, the Anointing and Power of the Holy Ghost will be present and available to save, to heal, to deliver, and to set captives free.

I look forward to you, your family, and your entire congregation joining me at the United Jurisdiction Convocation. Come, be refreshed and stirred and empowered to take dominion over the souls, the roles and this globe of ours.