“From Him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” —
Ephesians 4:16
COA Church recently gathered for its Annual Retreat—a time of worship, fellowship, and spiritual renewal. This year’s theme, “Growing Church,” was
inspired by John Stott’s book Ephesians: Building a Community in Christ and focused on God’s vision for a church that grows in unity, maturity, and holiness.
Throughout the retreat, participants experienced uplifting worship and heartfelt prayer, creating a Spirit-filled atmosphere for reflection, learning, and growth.
Rev. Hovhannes Hovsepyan, COA Church’s leading pastor, offered inspiring teachings and pastoral guidance, encouraging believers to deepen their faith and
strengthen the bonds of love within the body of Christ. The sessions explored the message of Ephesians through three core themes:
Growing in Unity – Ephesians 4:1–6
Believers are called to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” The church grows strong when its members walk in humility, gentleness, and love.
Growing in Maturity – Ephesians 4:11–16
As believers grow, they learn to stand firm in truth (v. 14). A mature church is one that discerns truth from error, holding fast to Scripture in a world
filled with confusion and deception. Growth happens as members serve together, speak the truth in love, and build one another up in faith so that
the body of Christ remains united, strong, and anchored in the gospel.
Growing in Holiness – Ephesians 4:17–32
A growing church reflects Christ’s character. Putting off the old self and living in the new life of the Spirit marks a community of righteousness,
compassion, and purity. One of the most joyful highlights of the retreat was the baptism and communion service by the lake—under the open sky, united in gratitude and awe of God’s presence. Two new members, surrounded by the church family, publicly declared their faith in Christ by being baptized in the Lake of camp Arev. It was a beautiful testimony of God’s transforming grace.
