Special meetings for the Upper Midwest branch churches were held at the Apostolic Faith Church in Madison, Wisconsin, on October 22-24. The Madison congregation spent months getting their church and grounds ready for the meetings since the church building had not been used as much during the past year and a half.

There was a good turnout of fifty to sixty people for the Friday night service, and Olubunmi Omitoyin, the pastor in Worth, Illinois, gave the message. The Lord even provided a church photographer when a recent newcomer in Madison volunteered to take photos.

By Saturday morning, many more people had arrived, and a screen was set up in the church narthex so the overflow crowd could view the services. The Bible teaching was given by Kent Thompson, the pastor in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and his theme was “Looking Forward, Praying Forward, and Moving Forward.” A wonderful prayer meeting followed, as seekers consecrated their lives to God.

Over one hundred people participated in the fellowship meal on Saturday afternoon. While it was a challenge, seating and tables were available for all. Although the weekend was mostly cold and rainy, Saturday afternoon was sunny and mild, making it possible for many to sit outside during the meal.

A youth service was held on Saturday evening, and Joshua Idowu, the pastor in St. Louis, Missouri, preached a stirring message. A revival was felt among the young people as some prayed through to salvation, others were sanctified, and many consecrated their lives for a deeper walk with God. Of course, the prayer meeting was also a tremendous blessing to the adults who prayed with the youth. 

The following day, the Sunday school session included six classes for various age groups taught by branch church teachers. During the morning service, a microphone was set up, and the young people were given the opportunity to tell what the Lord had done for them the previous evening. The victorious testimonies were followed by two music specials, a Scripture reading, and the message.

All of the services were webcast on the Madison church YouTube channel, as well as Facebook Live. There were over two hundred viewers in addition to the 100-150 who attended in person. After the closing service, everyone pitched in to clean up and set up the building for regular use. The Madison congregation has been thrilled to have new visitors and more blessings since the special meetings. They are looking forward to what God has for them in the days to come.