Photo courtesy of Courtney Herod
Photo courtesy of Courtney Herod
The Adventist Community Services (ACS) and Sabbath School Week Retreat Rally brought leaders and volunteers to Nosoca Pines Ranch, March 27-29, 2026, for a weekend of worship, fellowship, and practical ministry training. Held under the theme “Gathering to Grow,” the retreat encouraged attendees to strengthen their vision for Christ-centered service and community outreach.
Dustin Hall, pastor, presented keynote messages that blended inspiration with practical ministry application. Hall challenged participants to live out their faith through service, and encouraged leaders to meet real needs in their communities. Breakout sessions focused on ministry effectiveness, building partnerships, and Christ-centered outreach.
Through reflections connected with his Barely Believing podcast, Hall encouraged participants to connect with their communities in meaningful ways. His presentation “Raising the Dead” urged attendees to pray continually, evaluate honestly, remain willing to adapt, and keep Jesus at the center of every strategic plan.
A special highlight of the rally was ACS breakout speaker Mike Ortel, pastor, who shared insights and stories about building community connections. Ortel’s book, Max the Cat, outlines seven principles for fostering healthy, Christ-centered relationships. With humor and sincerity, Ortel emphasized that when God fills His people, they are better able to care for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of others.
Ortel also encouraged attendees to embrace the biblical instruction to “greet one another,” reminding participants that God’s love enables believers to choose compassion over hatred. Cedric Parker opened the afternoon session with a reflection on the Adventist history of city ministry, offering practical guidance, and inspiration for effective community engagement.
The rally highlighted collaboration between new and seasoned ACS leaders, and reminded attendees that service is more than a task; it is a joy rooted in God’s love. Participants left Nosoca Pines Ranch better equipped to serve their churches and communities with renewed purpose, prayer, and love.
Carolina | July 2026
Comments are closed.