August 25, 2014
Alliance churches in north San Francisco Bay Area received no damage from a 6.0 magnitude earthquake early Sunday morning. The minute-long tremor left more than 100 people injured and caused widespread destruction, including ruptured gas lines that sparked fires.
Jesus Risen Lord Alliance Fellowship (JRLAF) is in American Canyon, the epicenter of the quake. Terrence Nichols, who pastors New Hope Church Community (Alliance) in Vallejo, five miles south of American Canyon, has been in touch with JRLAF as well as the C&MA Church in Napa, a few miles northeast of the epicenter.
“God is good!” Pastor Nichols declared. “We have been spared. The Napa and American Canyon churches report no major damage—just overturned furniture, broken glass, and fallen wall hangings.” Church members experienced only slight disarray of personal items in their homes.
Pastor Rob Goerzen, from nearby Sonoma Alliance Church, gave a similar report. “There’s no real damage to the church,” he said. “All church attendees are safe.”
“The same is true of New Hope Church and members,” said Nichols, who believes the timing of the quake is significant.
“Sunday evening, Vallejo pastors launched a scheduled, week-long community revival,” Nichols said. “Due to the earthquake, an unmistakable atmosphere of praise to the Lord filled the packed sanctuary, and several people came forward for salvation after the message.”
Several minor aftershocks rumbled throughout the day and more are expected. “Pray for continued safety,” requested Ray Van Gilst, superintendent for the Central Pacific District. “Also, pray for opportunities to share Christ’s love with people in need.”
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