April 29, 2011
New Hope (Alliance) Church Community hosted its annual Easter Fest at City Park-the oldest neighborhood park in Vallejo, California-Saturday, April 23. Nearly 300 people packed the park to enjoy a day of free Easter activities. “The purpose of the event was to bring joy into the lives of our children,” says Pastor Terrence Nichols. “These are difficult times for everyone, so we wanted to do something special for the children in our community.”
The day was filled with free games, prizes, and, of course, the much anticipated Easter egg hunt, which brought smiles to children of all ages. Separate hunts were held for different age groups, giving all the children an opportunity to find the colorful treasures. “Everyone left with baskets full of plastic eggs that were filled with delicious candy treats,” says Pastor T, as he’s known to his congregation. “We have some awesome merchants in Vallejo, and we are thankful for those who donated various items to make this a successful event.”
After decades of decline, City Park had an amazing resurgence when several neighborhood groups, including New Hope, worked tirelessly to renovate the “city jewel,” says the pastor, “opening events like this one to everyone in the community.” Throughout the park, the church had trained evangelism team members who passed out tracts that explained the Resurrection story. They talked to at least 30 people about the real meaning of Easter and prayed with several people who were depressed or discouraged. “It was a powerful way to share the love of Christ,” Pastor T says.
New Hope Church Community has recently formed Hands of Hope Ministries, which is the outreach arm of the church. Hands of Hope provides food and clothing for the needy as well as organizing community events, such as the Easter Fest. “God has called New Hope to be a light in the Vallejo community,” says Pastor T. “What better way than through the eyes of the children?”
Learn More
Read more stories about what U.S. Alliance churches are doing to reach their communities for Christ. legacy.cmalliance.org/news/topics/gochurch
What You Can Do
Pray that God will open doors to share the gospel as New Hope members build bridges of trust in their city. Give to Alliance Great Commission Ministries, which supports Alliance initiatives worldwide. legacy.cmalliance.org/give