Living Church of God Canada
The Living Church of God Canada is a registered nonprofit organization (Business Registration Number 897927935RR0001) affiliated with the international Living Church of God (LCG), an Independent Christian denomination tracing its origins to Sabbatarian Churches of God movements. The Canadian branch operates as part of the LCG's global network, adhering to doctrines rooted in the teachings of Herbert W. Armstrong and the former Worldwide Church of God (WCG).

History

The Living Church of God was founded in 1998 by Roderick C. Meredith after doctrinal disputes within the Global Church of God (GCG). Following Meredith’s dismissal from GCG leadership, he established LCG with a focus on preserving Armstrong-era teachings, including observance of the seventh-day Sabbath and biblical festivals[2]. The Canadian branch emerged as part of LCG’s international expansion, which now claims over 330 congregations worldwide[2][5].

Beliefs and Practices

The organization emphasizes strict adherence to biblical literalism, including:

• Sabbatarianism: Weekly worship on the seventh-day Sabbath[4][5].
• Holy Days: Observance of annual festivals such as Passover and the Feast of Tabernacles[4][5].
• Prophecy: Teaching end-time warnings and the coming Kingdom of God[4][5].
  Its doctrinal stance rejects mainstream Christian traditions deemed inconsistent with its interpretation of Scripture, including the Trinity doctrine and eternal hellfire[2][4].

Activities

LCG Canada focuses on three core missions:

1. Evangelism: Disseminating teachings via literature, online platforms, and media[3][5].
2. Pastoral Care: Providing spiritual guidance through local congregations[4].
3. Prophecy Outreach: Emphasizing warnings about global crises and the "Great Tribulation"[4][5].

Organizational Structure

LCG operates hierarchically under a Presiding Evangelist, currently Gerald E. Weston, who assumed leadership after Meredith’s death in 2017[2]. The Canadian branch aligns with this structure, adhering to directives from the U.S.-based headquarters while serving members nationally[2][5].

Membership and Outreach

While specific Canadian membership figures are undisclosed, the global LCG reports approximately 16,300 adherents[2]. The organization engages primarily through its Tomorrow’s World media program and free Bible study courses[5]. Congregational practices emphasize close-knit community worship and adherence to Old Testament-derived customs[4][5].

Governance

As a registered Canadian charity, LCG Canada complies with federal nonprofit regulations, focusing on religious education and community support[3]. It remains distinct from its parent organization in governance but shares doctrinal and operational frameworks[3][5].