The Lord laid it on Pastor Michael H. Baker's heart in 1999 to break the church down into tribe families. I, Anthony Ervin, chose to represent the Tribe of Joseph, because of Joseph's faith in God that continued to develop. The Lord was with Joseph from being his father's favorite, to having favor from The Father. Even through his circumstances, temptations, and difficulties, Joseph continued to do what was right because he was empowered by the presence of the Lord.
Just as Joseph maintained his integrity and resisted all the advances of sin we try to model his behavior by saying "no to sin". We must remain committed to what is right regardless of the circumstances. Just as Joseph continued to do his best for the Lord even in the worst situations, we must continue to do our best, regardless of what's going on in our personal lives and what's happening around us. Joseph could have easily abused his power and influence for revenge, but just like Joseph, we try to remain humble in the work that the Lord has commissioned us to do.
Our tribe started out with approximately 20 members at our first Tribe Family meeting. Later the Tribe of Napitali combined with Joseph upon the resignation of Servant Nash. The Lord has continued to bless the tribe, by sending members that were searching for a tribe family. Immediately, the tribe started having Bible studies on every other Friday nightm so that we could grow together. Those that teach Bible studies, feel as though the Lord has given them a gift to teach. We try and encourage each member to let the Lord lead him or her in a study that they can come back and share with the Tribe family.
The Tribe of Joseph is also a firm believer in fellowshipping, because that's the only way that you can really get to know someone. Yes, there are some people in our tribe that don't know each other, but that's because they haven't participated with the tribe. The tribe plans two fellowshipping each year that requires and overnight stay.
The Tribe of Joseph has Bible Study every Friday @ 6:00 P.M. followed by Candlelight Prayer Services @ 7:00 P.M.
We believe that "WE ARE OUR BROTHER AND SISTER'S KEEPERS".