Petition to the Saints
Dear Saints,
There comes a time in every organization in which certain questions must be asked. The CRE has been a fixture in the Restoration Movement for 31 years now. There has been much good done for the sake of the Kingdom through the efforts of those who have participated throughout the years. While we recognize that the CRE is not “The Church,” it has been fulfilling the missionary role of the Church quite well.
It Is not difficult to look back in recent years and see the declining participation in the Elders Conference and other activities sponsored by the CRE. It has become increasingly difficult to fill the quorums so that they can operate effectively. We could spend hours, or even days postulating on the reason behind this decline. Perhaps life has become busier than in times past? Perhaps it seems to some that the CRE has drifted away from the purpose for which it was formed? Whatever the reason may be, the fact remains that, much like the Restoration Branches themselves, if we continue on our current path, we will continue to dwindle into obscurity.
While the coordinating council has reaffirmed that the conference should remain true to its stated purpose, there may be those who disagree. There are those who would stand on the side of discontinuing the CRE. We could spend unbounded hours expressing our opinions on this topic. There is one thing to remember, however, that is basic to our beliefs. We believe in a God who speaks today. Our opinions, though fruitful for banter, debate, and discussion, are not comparable to God’s will revealed.
We would like to invite all who read this to spend time in fasting and prayer in preparation for the 2026 conference. Pray for the ministry of those who have been tasked with bringing classes, services, or sermons. Pray for the Spirit of God to rest upon all who attend. Pray for peace and harmony in our discussions. Pray that God’s voice will be heard in answer to our petitions.
Let us come together in an attitude of worship and reverence and ask God if He would that the CRE continue, and what His purpose would be. This will be a topic of discussion in our quorum meetings at conference.
May God bless each of you in your daily preparations and ministries. May He be glorified in all things.
Sincerely,
Jay Havener
Coordinating Council Chairman
Jeremy Stephenson
Conference Chaiman
Below is the current mission statement of the CRE:
The CRE exists to:
- Organize the coming together of Melchisedec Priesthood, as well as the Aaronic Priesthood and members for:
- Spiritual preparation and to unify our efforts on behalf of the work to which we are called.
- Much needed fellowship and fraternity to prepare us to defend and preserve the faith.
- Identify and seek divine guidance concerning the critical issues now confronting the church.
- Chart a course of action that will maintain the gospel as restored in 1830.
- Support Restoration Branches in their efforts to work together.
- Provide needed resources to Branches and members as they are requested.
- Offer ongoing support and resources to Restoration priesthood.
