By Joyce Mitchell, Medford Adventist Church Secretary

“I wish we could do this twice a year!” and “It’s wonderful to see so many churches involved!” Comments like these were heard often from those who attended the second annual Valley-Wide Church at Rogue Valley Adventist Academy on Sabbath, August 16.

An event this size takes months of planning and many volunteers to make a reality, but the encouragement and participation are already inspiring next year’s event.

Southern Oregon pastors began planning in May, deciding who would be responsible for each part of the day. All Adventist churches within 50 miles of Medford were invited to close their doors and come together at the school for the day of worship. In the end, six churches attended directly, with members from four more joining in as well. Altogether, over 500 people gathered for worship—one big family!

Throughout the day volunteers helped with parking, deacon duties, and lunch, with many of the local pastors leading out in the service.

The morning started with Sabbath School classes for all ages taught by a team of teachers from across the valley. The adult Sabbath School enjoyed Pastor Kip Bradford and the Gateway Church praise group’s country band filling the morning with joyful music, with Pastor Ed Nelson from Grants Pass Church guiding the lesson study panel.

Worship service followed with a warm welcome from Pastor Tanner Martin of the Ashland and Valley View Churches. Rejoicing Brass from Grants Pass Church brought inspiring music, and Oregon Conference Education Associate Superintendent, Kim Cornette, told the children’s story. Medford Spanish Church provided special music and Pastor Kenton Gonzalez from the Medford Church shared message titled "Join In. Stand Out.” All joined in the closing hymn “We Have This Hope.”

Because the school year was to begin in just a few days, the service was also used as the annual Education Dedication. Educators, school staff and homeschool families were invited to come forward for prayer and encouragement, with Dr. George Knight offering a special prayer of dedication for the school year ahead.

All who attended were truly blessed with a beautiful day, and the joy of worshipping together on a welcoming campus. The day ended with fellowship over a traditional Adventist haystack lunch.

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