Bryant Taylor, D.Min.
Bryant Taylor, D.Min.
Bethany Church, a 100-year-old congregation in Macon, Ga., hosted a historic 23-day community revival, August 2-23, 2025, entitled “System for Survival,” drawing hundreds of attendees and resulting in more than 200 baptisms.
The initiative was led by Ron C. Smith, D.Min., Ph.D., Southern Union Conference president, who served as the nightly speaker, supported by a team of Bible workers. Among the Bible workers were Gregory Stinson, pastor of Bethany Church, and his wife, Carletta. The two not only opened the church for the program, but also participated in outreach efforts.
Organizers said the event combined preaching with practical support for the community. Attendees received food and gifts each evening, while volunteers provided transportation to ensure the attendees could attend the meeting. Each Sabbath the church members hosted dinners for guests, distributed clothing to those in need, and held weekly anointing services for individuals seeking prayer, healing, and renewal.
Smith’s nightly sermons emphasized faith, family restoration, and personal commitment. Church leaders said many families responded by choosing baptism together, and other individuals stepped forward alone.
“The atmosphere of soul-winning was evident every night,” said Stinson. “Our community experienced transformation in ways we could not have imagined.”
Community guests also expressed appreciation for the hospitality and support they received. On the final Sabbath, members and visitors pledged funds for a new church van to transport the growing congregation to church events.
At the close of the initiative, church leaders reported 206 new baptisms, calling the revival one of the most impactful in Bethany’s history.
Bethany members said the event not only expanded the congregation, but also renewed their mission to nurture new believers and continue outreach in Macon.
South Atlantic | November 2025
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