STORY
Pentecost in Lima
June 18, 2025
Ohio Conference
Lima, OH — June 17, 2025
— A wave of spiritual renewal swept through Lima this past week as the Lima Seventh-day Adventist Church concluded its dynamic evangelistic series, Summer BLAST—an acronym for Building Lives Around Solid Truth. The program, held from June 8 to June 15, drew hundreds from the local community and resulted in 44 baptisms, as well as 10 additional individuals joining the church through profession of faith.
Summer BLAST is based on an innovative evangelism model taught to the Lima church by Pastor Kojo Twumasi, Senior Pastor of the Toledo First and Northwood Seventh-day Adventist churches in Ohio. This model uniquely integrates service with spiritual outreach by meeting the community's basic needs while sharing the gospel message.
Each evening began with an encouraging and motivational message, followed by generous giveaways of essential items, including groceries, diapers, laundry supplies, and toys. Of all the distribution nights, the laundry products day was a standout, attracting over 250 attendees—remarkable for a church that typically welcomes 50 to 60 people on a good day.
"We're not just preaching sermons; we're building trust, building relationships, and showing that Jesus cares about every aspect of people's lives," said Pastor Kojo Twumasi, campaign speaker. "The gospel is most powerful when it is lived and experienced, not just heard."
Pastor Carl Brooks, who currently serves the Lima church, shared his deep gratitude and awe at the response: "team, though small in size, was a formidable force to reckon with; they gave their best effort. By God's power, we were able to meet the demands and challenges with a heart of care mingled with grace. We also want to thank the Ohio conference for their prayers and financial support towards the effort. Likewise, for the visit of our president whose presence did excite and energized the series".
Guests responded with enthusiasm and sincerity to nightly altar calls, with many saying "to Jesus and choosing to take the next step in their spiritual journey. The church is now preparing for continued discipleship and follow-up with the new believers, affirming its commitment to ongoing community engagement and faith-building.
The Summer BLAST series has not only revitalized the Lima church but also set a powerful example of what can happen when faith and compassion walk hand in hand.
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