The Albany Church was blessed to host a series of evangelistic seminars during the month of October. Robert Zama, Oregon Conference field evangelist, presented the series Hope Dawning: Overcoming Fear Through Bible Prophecy.
Flyers were mailed out to the surrounding towns resulting in the preregistration of nearly 70 people. Local church members contacted family members who had slipped away from a regular relationship with Jesus. Both new and familiar people eagerly showed up as the seminars began on the evening of Oct. 9. Altogether, there were nearly 100 guests on the first night!
With COVID-19 precautions still in place, greeters wearing masks welcomed guests with their smiling eyes. Guests who had forgotten a mask were given a disposable one.
Children were able to attend their own meetings — much like vacation bible school — led by Mary Gaslin and the children’s ministry team. Their presentations focused on the same themes that were being shared with their parents. Using specially-written guides to share Bible prophecy, children looked for "buried treasure" as they enjoyed activities, story time and fun.
Zama’s enthusiasm for the word of God, and his love for Jesus were evident in his presentations. Animation and laughter were well-mixed with the serious points of the message, and even the subjects that can be harder to understand were well-received. As the decision cards returned, it was evident that many hearts were convicted. Jesus was very important to each individual life.
Erma Glasgow had been raised in a Seventh-day Adventist home, and her mother had been a long-time member of the Albany church in years past, but Erma had never committed her life to Jesus. Now she eagerly attended each meeting, absorbing the precious truths. Her son, Ken McCoy, attended with as a youngster, had briefly attended Central Valley Jr. Academy, now Central Valley Christian School. As they came each evening, their smiles grew bigger, and their voices joyful, as their hearts were pointed to Jesus.
The final meeting day, Oct. 30, was a day of joy as the Albany Church family witnessed the baptism of six individuals by Berry Taylor, Albany Church pastor, who welcomed them into church fellowship. In his last presentation, Zama shared about the unimaginable beauty and joys of our heavenly home, and about the most precious gift given to mankind — the Holy Spirit.
The day of worship and fellowship was topped off by a fellowship meal. Albany is known for its haystack meals, and no one left hungry or disappointed. June Morris, one of the newest members, commented, “That is a REALLY good meal!” Her sister, Nancy Shoemaker, also a newly-baptized member, heartily agreed.
It was a high Sabbath.
