The Religion News Service blog reports:
The Church of God in Christ has long held its annual Holy Convocation in Memphis, Tenn. How long? More than 100 years.
But come 2010, the historically black Pentecostal denomination will hold its meeting in St. Louis.
“Memphis is our home,’’ said COGIC Presiding Bishop Charles E. Blake in a statement. “We love this city, but we have been offered a better package that is more cost-effective for the membership of our church.’‘
The denomination cited several factors, including discounted hotel rates and the ability to hold convocation activities in one facility instead of several buildings.
The Tennessee city stands to lose $35 million in revenue when the convocation—which draws some 50,000 people—leaves town.
More from the Memphis Commercial-Appeal. Before John Calipari left town, I would have headed to St. Louis too. He’s gone now, but I guess that doesn’t change the country’s economic situation. Unfortunately for Memphis, though, it is going to make things a lot worse.
