Pacific Union Recorder

Last summer, the Stockton-Mayfair church hosted a weeklong tent revival and got a dose of that old time religion designed for today's generation.

"In the Storms of Life, There is an Anchor" was the theme for the meetings, which were held in a red and white, 40 by 80 foot tent on the property where Mayfair's new church will soon stand.

"Mayfair is committed to using every method available to reach souls for Christ," said Pastor Lanston Sylvester. "We conducted a tent meeting to try to cast out a net instead of fishing with poles."

Passersby and neighbors came from their houses and sat in their yards to see the services — full of lively music, joyful praise and heartfelt worship. "My favorite part of the week was to see people outside of their homes, sitting in their lounge chairs listening and participating in the service," said church member Stella Williams. "I watched a young boy, about 10 or 12 years old, ride up on his bike and sit on his bike and listen to the whole service.  People felt free to stop and listen without the pressure of commitment."  

Speakers included Sylvester, NCC Ministerial Director Ivan Williams, Oakland-Grand Avenue church Assistant Pastor Dexter Thomas, NCC Executive Secretary Marc Woodson and NCC President Jim Pedersen.

The week was filled with programs and activities designed to make a positive impact and bridge the gap between the church and the community. Activities included a Vacation Bible School program, "Kingdom of the Son: A Prayer Safari," led by Lily Lusk, and presentations from Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University seminar. "I no longer envy others, because I see what the material things in life cost ... our family, freedom and mental well being at times," said Althea Keever, who attended the seminar.

Nurse Stephanie Walton presented the nightly "Health Spotlight," which focused on diabetes and high blood pressure. On Sabbath morning, Walton and others offered free health screenings.

During a special mid-week service, Sylvester and the elders prayed for and anointed everyone who responded to a call for healing.

The week ended with a grand finale as four people were baptized in a portable pool.

"God's Word never returns to Him void," said Sylvester. "I believe the meetings were a blessing to both the community and the members of the church."