In Nehemiah 6, the repair of the walls and gates was completed in 52 days, just before the beginning of the seventh month of God's calendar. The people gather together in Jerusalem for the Feast of Trumpets (first day of the seventh month) and listen to God's word, showing deep respect and understanding that they have departed from it. In chapter 8, we see the pattern of the holy convocation as Ezra, Nehemiah, and the scribes spoke to the people, and we see their repentance and tremendous attitude in desiring to return to God and His ways.

Rick Shabi

President, United Church of God

Rick Shabi was ordained an elder in 2000, and relocated to northern Florida in 2004. He attended Ambassador College and graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science in Business, with a major in Accounting. After enjoying a rewarding career in corporate and local hospital finance and administration, he became a pastor in January 2011. Since then, he and his wife Deborah have served in the Orlando and Jacksonville, Florida, churches. Rick served as the Treasurer for the United Church of God from 2013–2022, and was named President in May 2022.