Children sent bubbles larger than themselves drifting across the lawn. Nearby, adults lingered in conversations over waffles and boba drinks while sitting on picnic blankets. The joy of the afternoon reflected the depth of a community rooted in Christ, where faith found expression in fellowship.
The scene captured the spirit of the ARISE Southern District Convocation, held May 29–30, 2026 at Chehalis Adventist Church as part of Washington Conference’s Beyond Pentecost emphasis.
The southern district gathering launched the first of five regional ARISE convocations planned across Washington Conference. Friday evening opened with a Prayer Train, led by Randy Maxwell, Washington Conference vice president for administration. Through scripture, music and shared prayer, attendees were invited to seek God’s leading, affirming prayer as the foundation of ministry and everyday life.
Approximately 530 people gathered for Sabbath worship, featuring an orchestra and praise team composed of musicians from churches across the southern district. During the service, Alvaro Correa, Shelton and Elma district pastor, baptized Brenon and Kristina Miller into the body of Christ, allowing churches throughout the district to celebrate their commitment to Jesus together.
Throughout the weekend, Ty Gibson, featured speaker of Light Bearers Ministry, presented a series of messages exploring the sanctuary as an invitation into God’s heart. Gibson's presentations renewed appreciation for the beauty of the sanctuary message and God’s plan of salvation while inviting attendees into a deeper relationship with Christ.
Conversations following the meetings suggested that many attendees were not simply discussing theological ideas, but also wrestling with a deeper understanding of God’s character and what that understanding meant for their own lives.
Following a haystack lunch served by volunteers, fellowship continued throughout the afternoon. Attendees gathered in conversation inside the church and across the grounds.
Sven Frantzen, pastor, and the Creative Juices team from Lacey Church extended warm hospitality by offering their signature Norwegian waffles and boba drinks. Andy Roy, known as “Handy Andy,” and his wife, Dina, created engaging activity stations where children could explore while families enjoyed the afternoon together.
Throughout the weekend, the Roys also led children’s programming, using object lessons, balloon art and interactive activities to point young hearts to Jesus.
Pamela Burghart, Chehalis Church office manager and one of the event coordinators, said she was encouraged by the collaboration that emerged throughout the weekend.
"It was both a spiritual event and a time of strengthening relationships," she said. "It fostered a deeper sense of connection between the churches in our region."
Randy Maxwell, Washington Conference vice president for administration, leads a Prayer Train with groups of one, two, three and four people praying successively together, setting a prayerful foundation for the convocation weekend.
Ty Gibson, Light Bearers Ministry speaker and co-director, shares Christ-centered messages exploring the sanctuary as an invitation into God’s heart.
A combined orchestra of musicians from southern district churches provides a musical backdrop for Sabbath worship.
Alvaro Correa, pastor, baptizes a new believer during the convocation, reflecting Washington Conference’s continued emphasis on evangelism and discipleship.
Andy “Handy Andy” Roy engages children with an interactive story designed to point young hearts to Jesus.
