Church Revitalization: A Wake-Up Call in Northern Nevada
By Neat Randriamialison
On Sabbath, March 8, members from across Northern Nevada gathered at the Nevada-Utah Conference office in Reno for a much-needed and deeply impactful Church Revitalization Weekend. Led by Bill McClendon, North Pacific Union Conference vice president for administration and evangelism director, the afternoon event drew in pastors, elders, and local leaders with one central focus: “What does it take to bring our churches back to life?”
Drawing from Scripture, real-world experience, and practical case studies, McClendon outlined seven core traits that set growing churches apart:
- They know why they exist. Their mission is clear: to carry the gospel to the world (Matthew 28:18–20).
- They are externally focused. They prioritize reaching people outside their walls rather than only serving those inside.
- They believe growth is possible. They lead with a mindset of faith, not fear.
- They are intentionally led. Leaders are proactive, not reactive.
- They act decisively. They don’t wait around for perfect conditions and they move forward with urgency.
- They deal with challenges. Instead of avoiding problems, they confront them with courage and clarity.
- They are praying churches. They rely on supernatural strength, not just human strategy.
“If your elders or leaders are not willing to lead the church, the devil will,” McClendon warned, reminding everyone that passivity is not a strategy.
“This is the wake-up call we needed,” one of the leaders from the Truckee church shared.
The session wasn’t just theory, it was practical and urgent. Using a case study from a church in Ellicott City, Maryland, McClendon walked attendees through a simple process:
- Get honest about where the church is.
- Cast vision for what it could be.
- Rally leaders around that vision.
- And pray like the future depends on it, because it does.
He challenged every leader in the room to be an agent of change, reminding them that revival doesn’t happen by accident. It’s sparked by vision, sustained by action, and fueled by prayer.
King’s Daughters Galentine's Event
By Brissa Castillo
The King’s Daughters Galentine’s event is more than just a celebration; it is a ministry-driven gathering where women come together to strengthen their faith, support one another, and build a safe and uplifting community in Christ. This special evening is designed to foster genuine connections, encourage spiritual growth, and create lasting memories through fellowship and creativity.
Seventeen women attended the event, including new participants and familiar faces who had not been present for some time. It provided a perfect opportunity for attendees to reconnect and encourage each other.
One of the evening’s highlights was a cake decorating activity led by Yisel, owner of Heavenly Sweets and a regular attendee of the women’s Bible study. The activity served as a reflection on how God shapes and refines lives, adding beauty and purpose. It was a powerful reminder that, despite imperfections, He makes all things beautiful in His time.
Throughout the evening, participants engaged in heartfelt conversations, prayer, and reflection on the importance of community among women of faith.
By the end of the night, each woman left with not only a beautifully decorated cake but also a renewed spirit and a deeper connection to those around her. The King’s Daughters Galentine’s event was more than just a gathering; it was a sacred space where love, laughter, and faith intertwined, strengthening bonds that will last far beyond the evening’s festivities.
