The Atlanta, Georgia, special meetings began on Thursday, March 21. There were four days of special meetings, including evening evangelistic services, a sing-along, and spiritually refreshing fellowship, worship, and prayer. The guest speaker for the meetings was Demetrius McElveen, of Washington D.C., and he was accompanied by his wife, Linda. The theme for the weekend was “Evolve,” and was aligned with the spiritual direction of the Atlanta church for the year. 

The Thursday evening service began with an opening song, “When We All Get to Heaven.” Sister Linda shared an encouraging testimony of praise and gratitude and requested continued prayer as she and Brother Demetrius seek to do the will of the Lord. The text for the message came from Hebrews 6:1-6, admonishing believers to take a stand. Those in attendance were reminded that the heritage of this Gospel is worth fighting for. Brother Demetrius cautioned the congregation not to get comfortable with their testimonies of earlier years, but to strive to have an evolving relationship with their Lord and Savior, requiring present-day victories in Jesus.  

Friday evening’s service was led by Reginald Segres of Kingstree, South Carolina. The audience heard overcoming testimonies of victory that illustrated the power of healing, the assurance of comfort and restoration, and confirmation of God’s love. Drawing from Luke 7:18-23, the topic of the sermon was “Will the Lord remember me?” Brother Demetrius stated, “We mustn’t get weary in well-doing. As in war, regardless of the circumstances, there is no retreat. The Lord will remember your prayers.”

The Saturday evening sing-along allowed members from various branch churches to share their musical talents through individual and group songs, instrumental renditions, and chorus selections. The exhortation for the evening was given by Joshua Garraway of Houston, Texas. Brother Joshua shared an inspiring testimony of God’s providential care, highlighting an earlier experience when financial challenges threatened to halt his college career. Then, out of nowhere, his supervisor presented him with a blank check allowing him to complete his pharmaceutical studies. He encouraged the congregation to be ready “when an unchanging God wants to do a new thing.”

As the revival services came to an end on Sunday morning, Brother Demetrius referred to Joshua 1 in his message titled “Unfinished Business.” He reminded the congregation to have the courage to overcome whatever may hinder them and do the work God has called them to do. 

The Atlanta special meetings provided a time for spiritual renewal. Those in attendance included visitors from neighboring regions and districts including Athens, Carrollton, and Columbus, Georgia; Birmingham, Alabama; Kingstree, South Carolina; Houston, Texas; St. Louis, Missouri; Washington D.C.; and Portland, Oregon. The power of God’s love and the spirit of sweet fellowship shone through as many were blessed.