It was a packed house (230) for our special Sabbath afternoon event focusing on Christian education and youth. Honestly, those of us behind the scenes, making plans, were a little nervous about a Sabbath afternoon program knowing how such events have been attended in the past. But we couldn’t have been more excited when Adventists from all over the valley began showing up and by the 3pm start time it was difficult to find a parking space or a spot in a pew.
After Pastor Sergio Romero’s opening prayer we entered a spirit-filled praise and worship time lead by Salt Lake Jr. Academy students and Mr. S. The program flowed smoothly from there with music by the West Jordan church choir, a video presentation from Trevor Kendall on the ministry of Summit Christian Academy, followed by a special appeal to support the school by sponsoring a puzzle piece. Students from Summit Christian Academy gave a special music, which was followed by an interview with special guest NBA player Kyle Korver. Just before the message by NV-UT Conference Youth Director David Hall the Samoan church group provided a powerful special music. Pastor Hall’s message was engaging and centered on the question, “What about the children?” After pastor Hall, youth from the Nueva Esperanza (Spanish church) had a special music that was followed by some closing remarks and the entire audience joining in singing Amazing Grace.
Following the event in the Wasatch Hills sanctuary everyone headed downstairs to munch on cookies and juice. Young people and adults flocked to Kyle Korver seeking autographs and photos with the NBA star.
It was truly a special time of worship, fellowship, and unity for our Adventist churches in the SLC valley, and I’m hoping that it will be the start of many more such events that bring Christian education, young people, and church unity into focus.