For the first time in the history of the Assemblies of God, the national youth’s Fine Arts Festival Celebration was a part of the combined youth-adult service, which brought to a close the 52nd General Council on Saturday, August 11, in Indianapolis.

Although electing various leaders occupied much of the daytime sessions Friday at the 52nd General Council, the evening showcased the Fellowship’s missionary force, abroad and at home, already on the field and ready to go for the first time.

During the Friday morning business session of the General Council, General Superintendent Thomas E. Trask awarded Dave Kyllonen, Duane Nicholson and Neil Enloe of the original “The Couriers” music ministry team and layman Richard Hammar the prestigious General Superintendent’s Medal of Honor.

Assemblies of God General Secretary George O. Wood offered encouragement to grieving family members of recently deceased ministers at a memorial breakfast sponsored by AG Financial Solutions Friday morning at the Indiana Convention Center.

Retiring Assistant General Superintendent Charles T. Crabtree Thursday night told General Council attendees they must take discipleship more seriously if the Assemblies of God is going to be viable in the future.

The Assemblies of God’s new officials vowed Friday to follow God’s direction as they provide leadership and guidance to this 93-year-old Fellowship.