In a time of grief and transition, the Foundation of Faith Missions International (FOFMI) team embarked on a heartfelt journey to Middle Georgia. This mission was not just a trip—it was a testament to faith, resilience, and the power of assembling together in Christ. Their purpose on this trip: to support Apostle Dr. J. Watkins after the passing of his wife, the late Supervisor Dr. M. Watkins, a towering figure whose legacy remains imprinted on the hearts of many.
A Word in Season: Healing the Brokenhearted
Apostle Hoffman delivered a Word straight from the heartof God, drawing from a wellspring of Scriptures: Psalm 147:3, Hebrews 10:23-25, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17, Revelation 7:9-17, and Ephesians 4:5-6, 11-13. These passageswere skillfully woven into a message titled, "When We All Get Together," that emphasized the importanceand power of unity and coming together in the body of Christ.
Dr. Hoffman began with an examination of brokenness, referencing Psalm 147:3, whichdeclares, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” He explained that the healing of the heart is intrinsically tied to the gathering of the saints. Disassembled, we are broken; assembled, we are whole. In a vivid analogy, he compared the body of Christ to a physical body: without the joints, the body cannot move or function. Likewise, in the church, the five-fold ministry—the apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers—serves as the joints that connect and mobilize the members.
The Power of "Together"
One of the most compelling aspects of Dr. Hoffman’s sermonwas his breakdown of the word “together.”He illustrated that within this word lies the essence of purpose and fulfillment. "When we come together," he declared, "we get what we came for." There is a corporate anointing that can only manifest when the saints assemble. While individual anointing serves for personal edification, corporate anointing is for the edification and empowerment of the body as a whole.
Quoting Hebrews 10:23-25, Dr. Hoffman reminded the congregation of the importance of notforsaking the assembly of believers. “There are just some things that cannot happen until we all come together,” he proclaimed. He emphasized that isolation leads to spiritual stagnation, while unity brings spiritual breakthrough.
Christ as the Head
Dr. Hoffman delved deeper into the analogy of the body,explaining that Christ is the head of the church. The head houses the brain, the eyes, and the ears—without which the body is directionless and powerless. It is only through adherence to Christ, the head, and submission to godly leadership that the body can move with purpose.
Leadership, he noted, is the vessel through which God’s vision and plans for our lives are revealed. “God gave gifts to men,” he said, referencing Ephesians 4:11-13, “and those gifts were men—the five-fold ministry.” These leaders are vital joints in the body of Christ, connecting members and enabling them to work together in unity and love. Through this imagery, he underscored the critical importance of adhering to God-ordained leadership, as leaders carry the divine vision and plan for the Church.
Healing Through Unity
Dr. Hoffman’s message culminated in a powerful conclusion:when we come together as the body of Christ, we not only see Christ more clearly but also experience healing, holiness, and restoration. Quoting Revelation 7:9-17, he painted a pictureof the ultimate assembly of believers before the throne of God—a vision of unity, worship, and eternal healing.
He stressed that there are revelations of Christ that canonly be comprehended when we are in fellowship with other believers. In isolation, our vision is incomplete; in unity, it is made whole. This is where broken hearts are mended, and lives are transformed.
Giving Honor Where Honor is Due
A pivotal moment in the service was the presentation oftwo significant awards. Apostle Hoffman honored Apostle Dr. J. Watkins and the late Dr. M. Watkins with the FOFMI Humanity Project Humanitarian Award for their selfless service andcontributions to the welfare of humanity. Additionally, the Interfaith University Pillar Award, established in memory of the late Chief Apostle L. E. Watkins, was presented. This award, which offers scholarships to deserving members of the congregation, symbolizes the enduring legacy of dedication to education and faith.
As Apostle Hoffman presented these honors, he reflected onthe cherished bond between his wife, Dr. L. Hoffman, and the late Dr. M. Watkins. He shared a touching memory of their camaraderie and mutual respect. In a moment of humor and grace, he recounted how Dr. M. Watkins gently corrected Apostle Watkins on a matter, and when her wisdom was acknowledged, she humbly replied, “I’m his support.” This story, laden with affection, brought smiles and fond memories to those present, celebrating the profound partnership and love shared by the Watkins.
The evening was not only a time of remembrance but alsoone of profound encouragement for Apostle. The love and unity displayed by the FOFMI team served as a balm for his grieving heart. Through the prayers, words, and presence of Apostle Hoffman and the team, the essence of the message—healing, wholeness, and Christ’s love—was brought to life.
A Call to Action
The message of "When We All Get Together" reverberated far beyond the walls of thesanctuary. It was a call to action for believers to recognize the strength found in unity and the power of assembling together. Apostle Hoffman’s words, steeped in Scripture and divine inspiration, reminded everyone that some blessings and revelations can only be experienced in the context of community.
As the service concluded, ApostleWatkins expressed his heartfelt thanks for the encouragement, love, and honor
shown to him and his late wife. The awards and memories shared stood as a testament to the enduring impact of their ministry and the unbreakable bonds of faith and fellowship.
The journey to Middle Georgia was a profound reminder ofthe Church’s role in uplifting and supporting one another in times of need. Through their actions, the FOFMI team exemplified the beauty of the body of Christ coming together—each member playing a vital role, each joint supplying strength, and all eyes fixed on Christ.
Indeed, when we all get together, we find healing forbroken hearts, a renewed sense of purpose, and the unshakable presence of Christ among us. The unity displayed in this community serves as a powerful reminder: there is no substitute for the corporate anointing, no replacement for the strength found in fellowship, and no greater joy than seeing Christ revealed in the midst of His people.
This gathering was more than an event; it was a divineencounter. The FOFMI team’s journey to support Apostle Watkins served as a reminder of the power of presence and the necessity of unity in times of grief and beyond.
Dr. Hoffman’s message of When We All Get Together is more than aninspiring sermon—is a call to action for allbelievers to step forward in unity, offering support where it’s most needed. In a world that often prioritizes individuality overcommunity, his words challenge us to embrace the corporate anointing that comes through assembling together. It is in this sacred assembly that we find healing, purpose, and the fullness of Christ. This event is a vivid reminder of theChurch’s role in bringing healing, encouragement, and provision.
As the FOFMI team returned home, their hearts wereundoubtedly filled, not just with the joy of having supported their brother in Christ but also with the deep spiritual truth that when we come together, we find Christ—and in Him, we find everything we need.
As FOFMI continues its mission, you are invited to join hands with them.Whether through prayer, volunteering, or a financial contribution, your support helps extend the message of unity and love to more communities. By sowing into this ministry, you become part of a movement that uplifts the brokenhearted, strengthens the weary, and brings the light of Christ into every situation.
Your generosity can make an eternal impact. Let’s come together—becausewhen we all get together, healing flows, purpose is renewed, and Christ is revealed.
Support the Mission Here: www.FOFMI.org