Equipping Carolina Members for Mission

Evangelism Impact, hosted by the Carolina Conference, continues to inspire and mobilize pastors, lay members, and ministry leaders in their shared mission to reach communities with the message of Jesus’ love and soon return. Held annually for the past decade, the event has become the largest gathering of Seventh-day Adventist members in the Carolina Conference, drawing attendees from across the region for a weekend of spiritual growth, encouragement, and practical training.

For many, including first-time attendees, the experience was both empowering and spiritually enriching. “This was the first time my wife and I attended, and we are so glad we did,” shared Ryan Turnewitsch from Fayetteville. “It’s been a blessing to build relationships with fellow pastors and leaders from around the conference. We’ve discovered valuable new ministry materials we can use in our local church, and we leave encouraged and inspired.”

Breakout sessions and presentations covered a wide range of topics, from community services to Bible school planning and member mobilization. “I’ve been learning powerful things from amazing presenters,” said Henderson and Wake Forest Pastor Ilcias Vargas. “The tools I’m taking home will help me both personally and in ministry. I’m especially energized by what I’ve learned about empowering members to be actively involved in evangelism.”

Speakers such as Ron Halvorsen, left, and Roger Hernandez, right, reminded participants of the event’s purpose.

“There is a reason for Evangelism Impact,” said Haskell Williams, ministerial director. “It’s about our common mission, a desire to see God’s work go forward. The Church exists to evangelize, and this gathering equips us to do just that.”

Leaders from administration, ministerial and evangelism contributed to a unified call to mission. Attendees appreciated the holistic approach, which combined training, worship, networking, and spiritual renewal.

Various church ministries set up booths to offer resources to attendees. AdventSource is one ministry leadership platform offering tools for pastors, elders, and ministry teams. From discipleship materials to outreach strategies, these resources aim to strengthen local church ministries at every level.

Now in its 10th year, Evangelism Impact continues to grow as members across the Carolinas respond to the call to share Jesus. As churches look ahead, the enthusiasm and training received will continue to bear fruit in homes, neighborhoods, and communities across the conference.