This spring, the Camarillo church concluded a powerful evangelistic campaign—and the results were no small thing.
“Before the series, several people voiced their opinion that prophecy seminars are a thing of the past,” said Erwin Joham, pastor of the Camarillo church. Yet, as Associate Pastor Jason Whitley recalls, “The results from the evangelistic series were all positive.” A follow-up survey yielded concrete feedback: “Many stated that they would be delighted to have another series next year,” Whitley added.
Attendance during the event was consistently strong, peaking at about 195. With the help of two Bible workers from SOULS West, Celestine Maiava and Ella Zerna, the hearts of those in the community were touched in preparation for the event. They went from house to house building relationships and taught church members how to be soul winners. “Not only were they hard workers and super organized,” Joham recalled, “but their winsome personalities made a great impact on the congregation and on new friends from the community.”
Pastor David Machado presented the series, entitled “Revelation of Love.” Twenty-three Bible-based presentations addressed topics including why does a loving God allow sin and suffering?, God’s love in hellfire, God’s remnant church, and the 2,300-day prophecy.
In a way, the series itself was a spark that gave way to a larger revival within the church. “This series brought new life to members as they saw people making decisions to follow Christ and witnessed people becoming more active in current ministries,” Whitley asserted. “Seeing young people present and engaged also made a huge difference.”
Weekly small groups for new and current members grew out of the series, but this, too, was only the beginning of a greater story. “Small groups are something that we feel are very important for the life of the church,” Whitley stated, “and we are wanting to strengthen that moving forward.”
Something incredible happens when the body of Christ comes together. This event is certainly no exception. From moving presentations to community engagement and small group fellowship, every component of this event was equally crucial to its ultimate success. The 35 requests for baptism are a testimony to God’s working through each piece of this series.
“The most powerful part of the event was seeing the Bible as the rule book and the cross being the center of each message, which led people to give their life to Christ,” shared Calvin Gardner, Bible worker at the Camarillo church.
The 23 short sessions started a ripple effect that will forever impact the lives of those involved. “The universal reaction was one of enthusiasm and recommitment,” said Joham. “Hearts were changed and souls saved.”