World Missions is a primary vision at Grace Covenant Church of God in New Ellenton, S.C. Our passion is “Reaching Our World for Jesus Christ.”

Grace Covenant consistently leads in World Mission giving in their membership category. This vision was taken to new heights with the passion and vision of Laverne (Sarge) and Vera Kinney.

The Kinneys were involved personally in 60 missions trips in their career—mostly after Sarge retired. They inspired others to go along and worked tirelessly to supply needs in various countries.

Vera, who went to be with the Lord in February, was a modern-day Dorcas. Her life was filled with works of kindness. She knitted, sewed and produced all kinds of materials for those in need. She raised money and missions awareness in the spirit of a pioneer. She set the pace for other men and women to follow in her steps, multiplying her missions efforts through the hands and work of others. She was a true example of Christian love-in-action. One of her last personal projects was to knit 200 stocking caps as Christmas gifts for needy children in Central America.

Vera was one of those responsible for the change of the Men of Action to Men and Women of Action, laboring alongside the men and encouraging women to work in their projects as well.

Laverne, or Sarge as he was affectionately known, now suffers from physical conditions that limit his ability to be on is own. He was a builder, a great bricklayer and man of many talents. Quiet, but persistent and effective, Sarge led many building projects on the field and made a lifelong imprint upon the lives of those with whom he labored.

On Sunday, December 6, 2009, a special recognition service highlighted the accomplishments of this wonderful couple. Many of their family members joined the Grace Covenant Family to honor Sarge and Vera. Songs of dedication and testimonials of those who worked with the Kinneys were inspiring. A special video presentation highlighted their many travels and outstanding contributions everywhere they worked.
A beautiful portrait of the Kinneys was unveiled during the service as well as a dedication plaque. The missions information center in the lobby of the church, which they were leaders in developing, was officially dedicated as the Kinney World Missions Information Center. The portrait and plaque will be displayed here permanently.

A new, lighted information center display was also unveiled. Created by one of the church’s master craftsmen, the display will feature bulletins and updates from the many varied missions endeavors supported by Grace Covenant.

A special feature of the day was the ministry of BRACAMEX field director, and South Carolina missions representative, Ken Anderson. Ken’s ministry was touched by the Kinneys, with whom he traveled and shared many projects. His outstanding message was a fitting climax to this special day and a fresh challenge to reach our world.

Grace Covenant praises God for the visionary and inspired missions ministry of Laverne and Vera Kinney and the living legacy that continues to fuel our passion for “Reaching Our World for Jesus Christ.”

Edgar Foster
Pastor
Grace Covenant Church of God
New Ellenton, South Carolina

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© 2009 Church of God World Missions