Hundreds of multicultural Northwest members gathered May 12–15 in Auburn, Wash., for the 40th annual North Pacific Union Conference (NPUC) regional convocation with a theme of "The Time Is Now." This special gathering has decades-old roots in an original meeting at Sunset Lake Camp in Washington and many annual events at the Oregon Conference campgrounds in Gladstone, Ore. More recent convocations have been held at what is now called Black Diamond Camps in Auburn.
As always, the convocation featured dynamic presentations from several speakers. This year's lineup included William T. Cox, Allegheny West Conference president; Sherwin Jack, Maranatha Church senior pastor in Atlanta, Ga.; and Terrance Taylor, Pasco Ephesus Church pastor in southeast Washington. Geston Pierre, a member of the Grammy-nominated acapella group Committed, provided inspiration for the youth.
Tré Voce, a trio of classically trained women, thrilled the audience during main meetings and in the Saturday evening concert. Anika Sampson-Anderson, Brandie Sutton and Kali Wilder-Blue were accompanied by their founding music director, Lloyd Mallory.
Those who attend this annual camp meeting for regional churches often enjoy the opportunity to stay on site. But the demand for rooms is always higher than the camp can accommodate. While the event will likely continue at the current location for the near future, the NPUC team of Alphonso McCarthy and Pattric Parris are seeking other venues with expanded lodging options to be considered.
The photos here capture a small slice of the 40th anniversary "action" at this year's convocation. If you haven't yet attended one of these special gatherings, resolve now to make it priority for next year.
View a gallery of more photos.
Sherwin Jack preaches for the Friday night program.
The Oromo Church Choir from Portland, Ore., shares musical praise.
Max Torkelsen welcomes attendees Friday night.
Featured during the weekend services was the Multicultural Immigrant Choir from Spokane, Wash.
Tommy Warren shares musical inspiration during the Friday night program.
300 Watts performs special music for Sabbath.
Tré Voce sings hymns of meditation.
Hundreds packed the main auditorium for music and inspiration.
The McCarthy family gathers onstage.
William Cox delivers the sermon for Sabbath's divine worship.
Youth program praise and worship.
