rowds packed the Luther Burbank Center during the prophecy seminar. Greeters had no choice but to turn hundreds away. The second session that night, presented by Dan Bentzinger, also filled.
The Sabbath his wife, Gloria, told her story, many from the meetings visited church. One woman said, "When I agreed to come, I didn't expect to be touched." Very few eyes remained dry as Gloria shared how God healed her brain tumor and her son's cystic fibrosis. Yet the inspiring message alone wouldn't have provided the dynamic connection needed to inspire long-term attendance.
The Spanish Adventurers Club provided a children's choir dressed as cherubs, pointing minds to Jesus and preparing hearts to receive the message. Before and after the worship service, visitors received warm welcomes and dinner invitations. They learned about upcoming concerts and classes.
Recently a family whose children attend the Adventist school decided to check out the church, based on the positive influence of the school. After a couple visits they requested studies. Other Bible study and prayer groups continue to materialize.
What happened?
Prayer is a focus for this group of believers. Wednesday night prayer meeting formerly involved about a dozen mostly retired people. Two groups now meet each Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, with another one on Tuesdays and Sabbaths. Regularly the youth prayer group ranges from 15-20 in attendance. Marriages thought to be over or dried up now bloom. One young man's back tumor proved benign, and he returned to school after two weeks instead of two months. New children's divisions split off, and God provided leaders.
"I'm seeing the idea of involvement more prevalent among God's people. Volunteers sign up unsolicited. We no longer have to beg," Pastor Brian Aalborg says.
Worship becomes more meaningful as members embrace service. Even the youth sacrificed free time to share in San Francisco and New York. The kids came home asking, "What can we do in our town?" A Santa Rosa street ministry is coming. A Bible-based financial seminar has attracted members new and old.
Dan Bentzinger's final message following the evangelistic meetings concluded at 12:45 p.m. that Sabbath. Those recently baptized came forward following the benediction. A line formed along the wall. Hundreds overwhelmed the new members with handshakes and hugs until nearly 3:00 o'clock.
Those at the church that day will not soon forget what happens when the Spirit of God moves. God's Spirit can conquer the roaring lion and wake up His people so that we can cruise, through His power, into His kingdom.
