STORY
Hope For Today: A United Effort in the Greater Toledo Area
October 31, 2024
Kojo Twumasi
The Hope For Today city-wide evangelistic campaign was a historic moment of unity, community
service, and spiritual revival in the Greater Toledo Area. It occurred at Owens Community
College from August 31 to September 14, 2024.
It was a testament to the power of collaboration as all five local churches in the city's metro
area, including Bowling Green SDA, Toledo First SDA, Swanton SDA, Northwood SDA, and
Parkwood SDA, joined forces in a cross-conference collaboration. Also, two Spanish
congregations in the city's metro area - Toledo Spanish SDA and Bowling Green Spanish SDA
held campaigns simultaneously at a separate venue.
The program was also a testament to what could occur when the various levels of the church
synergize. While the initiative was grassroots-led, the Ohio Conference, Allegheny West
Conference, and the Columbia Union assisted with sponsorship via their presence, prayers,
finances, and resources.
Impact on Individuals and Families
As a result of the event, 87 individuals joined the churches by baptism and profession of faith.
These new additions were the culmination of the Holy Spirit working through compassion
initiatives, meaningful conversations, one-on-one Bible studies, and powerful messages by the
campaign speaker, Pastor Ryan Day of 3ABN. Many of these individuals expressed that the
sense of community and compassion drew them in and helped them take this step.
In addition to the numerous adults who attended Hope For Today, the event welcomed 40 to 100
children each night into a warm and fun environment. The facilitators taught kids Bible stories,
played games, helped with crafts, and blessed the young ones with snacks. This robust
children’s program called the Hope Zone effectively motivated parents to attend the nightly
meetings.
Serving the Community's Practical Needs
Understanding the practical needs in the community, Hope For Today offered tangible support
for families by distributing groceries, diapers, clothes, laundry supplies, and dinner each
evening. These items met essential needs and showed the community the church's commitment
to caring for them on multiple levels. Families were deeply grateful, and many expressed that
this outreach significantly impacted their lives.
One attendee said, "I just wanted to thank you for this event. I recently took custody of an infant
and am struggling financially. Not only were the diapers a blessing, but I also won the Meijer gift
card!"
Preparing Through Prayer, Training, and Unity
In preparation for "Hope For Today," the churches engaged in multiple five-day prayer sessions
seeking God’s guidance and blessing for the outreach.
Additionally, on May 18, 2024, the pastors of the local churches hosted an evangelism boot
camp, training members on engaging with the community, sharing their faith effectively, and
meeting people where they are.
On August 24, a joint rally gathered everyone before the event started, strengthening the spirit
of unity and purpose. During the rally, the keynote speaker, Dr. Bob Cundiff, president of the
Ohio Conference, reminded the church members that their spiritual efforts were worthwhile.
Moreover, church members noted that their boldness for Jesus increased as they kept inviting
others to the campaign.
Lasting Impact and Continued Growth
The bonds formed among the five churches have only strengthened since "Hope For Today"
concluded. The churches continue to grow as new members join them, and existing members
remain inspired to stay connected and involved.
Pr. Eccles, the Bowling Green & Swanton church pastor, mentioned that "the program gave our
church momentum and direction as we prepare for Pentecost 2025."
In post-assessment, Pr. Steven Valles of Parkwood SDA Church noted, "Hope For Today was
more than an event—it was the beginning of a movement. Our churches are excited to continue
building on this momentum, knowing that when we come together, we can make an incredible
impact on our community and beyond. Together, we look forward to further opportunities to
serve, grow, and bring hope to those around us."
Written By: Kojo Twumasi
Pastor | Toledo First & Northwood SDA
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