STATEMENT FROM PRESIDING BISHOP J. DREW SHEARD

On Shooting in Shreveport, Louisiana

 

On behalf of the members of the Church of God in Christ, my brothers and sisters, I am heartbroken.

Eight children — three boys and five girls, ages 3 to 11 — are gone. Jayla. Shayla. Kayla. Layla. Markaydon. Sariahh. Khedarrion. Braylon. Their names deserve to be spoken. Their lives deserved to be lived.

These children appear to have been shot in their sleep, an act of evil so deep that no words are sufficient. We weep with every mother, every family member, and every person in Shreveport who woke up to a community forever changed.

This tragedy is a sobering reminder that domestic violence is a crisis in our communities, and the most innocent always bear the heaviest cost. The Church of God in Christ calls on every believer to pray, to act, and to protect the vulnerable in your midst.

“Suffer the little children to come unto me.” — Mark 10:14

Rest in God’s arms, little ones.

 

 

 

 

 

Bishop John Drew Sheard
Presiding Bishop and Chief Apostle
Church of God in Christ, Inc.

Statement from Presiding Bishop J. Drew Sheard On President Trump’s Recent Truth Social Post

The Church Of God In Christ is deeply troubled by the circulation of a racially demeaning image shared through the President’s social media channel depicting former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama in a manner long associated with the dehumanization of Black people. Such imagery is painful, offensive, and incompatible with the values of human dignity and respect affirmed by the Christian faith.

Scripture reminds us that “God created humankind in His image” (Genesis 1:27), and any action or expression that demeans, mocks, or dehumanizes another person or group stands in direct opposition to that truth. The Bible further teaches that “death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21), and those entrusted with leadership bear a heightened responsibility for the impact of their words and actions.

While explanations have been offered attributing this post to others, the larger concern remains unresolved. Leadership requires accountability, moral clarity, and a commitment to reject racism in all its forms—whether explicit or implied. The presence or tolerance of racially harmful behavior has no place in our public life and should never be excused.

As a church, we call on all people of faith to reject racism, resist dehumanization, and speak with wisdom, humility, and love. We urge believers to remember that allegiance to Christ must always supersede political loyalty. As the Apostle Paul reminds us, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2).

The Church Of God In Christ remains committed to justice, reconciliation, and the sacred worth of every human being. We pray for our nation, for those in authority, and for a renewed commitment to leadership that reflects the righteousness, compassion, and integrity demanded by the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Sincerely,

 

 

 

 

 

Bishop John Drew Sheard
Presiding Bishop and Chief Apostle
Church of God in Christ, Inc.

A Pastoral Statement from Presiding Bishop J. Drew Sheard

 

Regarding the 2026 Leadership Conference

Beloved Saints of God,

Grace and peace be unto you.

After prayerful consideration and careful review of the severe winter storm impacting travel conditions across the nation, I, along with Leadership Conference Chairman Bishop Charles McClelland and the General Board, have decided to reschedule the 2026 Leadership Conference out of caution and deep concern for the safety and well-being of our church family.

The Church Of God In Christ 2026 Leadership Conference, originally scheduled for January 26-29 in Little Rock, Arkansas, will now take place on:

February 16–19, 2026
Little Rock, Arkansas

Additionally, the Service of Episcopal Consecration and Installation will now be held on Monday, February 16, 2026.

This decision was not made lightly. We recognize the sacrifices many of you make to attend this important gathering. However, the safety of those traveling by air and by car must take precedence. Scripture reminds us that her children demonstrate wisdom, and it is with wisdom, care, and pastoral responsibility that we undertake this step.

Though our dates have changed, our purpose has not. We remain steadfast in our commitment to leadership development, spiritual renewal, and unity as we come together to advance the work God has entrusted to us.

I am grateful for your understanding, your prayers, and your continued faithfulness. We look forward to gathering safely in February for what I believe will be a powerful and meaningful Leadership Conference.

To our local members and residents in the Little Rock area, please stay warm, and remain attentive to local weather advisories. Please take these important steps by preparing your household with essential supplies, reaching out to elderly members and those who may need help, and staying off the roads as conditions worsen. To our church family across the nation, thank you for your understanding, flexibility, and prayers.

May the Lord keep you, cover you, and guide your travels until we meet again.

With love and pastoral care,

 

 

 

 

 

Bishop John Drew Sheard
Presiding Bishop and Chief Apostle
Church of God in Christ, Inc.

Church Of God In Christ, Inc.
Office of the Presiding Bishop

 

Dear Saints,

Grace and peace be unto you in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

The 117th Holy Convocation has come to a close, and my heart is filled with gratitude for every delegate, attendee, and supporter who helped make this sacred gathering a resounding success. From Morning Manna to the O.T. Jones Memorial Training Institute, Women’s Day Service, and Queen Vessels For the King; from every midday and evening worship service to the inspiring COGIC Charities “We Care” Banquet; from the Presiding Bishop’s Forum to our powerful Lord’s Day Service; and every departmental event in between—your presence, prayers, and participation made the difference.

Each moment reflected the power of unity, worship, and faith. Together, we experienced the spirit of excellence, purpose, and divine vision that defines who we are as the Church Of God In Christ. Your dedication and commitment to ministry continue to move this wonderful church forward—from Beyond the Vision: From Unfinished to Finished Business.

As we move forward, we look with great anticipation to our return to St. Louis, Missouri for the 118th Holy Convocation, taking place November 3–8, 2026. We can’t wait to gather again and experience an even greater outpour of God’s glory.

Thank you for being a vital part of this historic 117th Holy Convocation. May God bless you abundantly for your service, sacrifice, and steadfast love for this great church.

With heartfelt appreciation,

 

 

 

 

 

Bishop John Drew Sheard
Presiding Bishop and Chief Apostle
Church of God in Christ, Inc.

Statement from Presiding Bishop J. Drew Sheard on the Death of Demartravion “Trey” Reed

The Church Of God In Christ (COGIC) grieves the tragic death of Demartravion “Trey” Reed, a 21-year-old Black student whose body was found hanging from a tree on the campus of Delta State University, in Cleveland, Mississippi, on Monday, September 15, 2025.

Our hearts are broken for his mother, Sister Sophia Reed, his aunt and uncle, Pastor Jerry and Lady Patsy Reed of Living Faith Miracle Temple COGIC in Grenada, Mississippi, and the entire family. COGIC is acutely aware that these circumstances may evoke a painful history and raise urgent questions. While we acknowledge intensified community concerns, we pray that they will be fully and transparently addressed by investigators.

I had the opportunity to speak with and pray for the family during this most painful time. I ask that the entire Church Of God In Christ family join me in lifting the Reed family and the entire community that knew and loved Brother Trey in prayer.

University officials have stated that, at this stage, campus police do not suspect foul play. We will await further information as state and local authorities continue their investigation and medical examiner findings.

COGIC stands with the Reed family, with DSU students and faculty, and with all who mourn, believing that “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). Together, we cry out for comfort and for peace.

In His Service,

 

 

 

 

 

Bishop John Drew Sheard
Presiding Bishop and Chief Apostle
Church Of God In Christ, Inc.