Last June, evangelists Luis and Andrew Palau partnered with more than 175 churches and 40 organizations throughout Alaska to deliver a clear message of faith, fun, unity, and hope. They wrapped up a six-month-long initiative partnering with hundreds of faith, business, and civic leaders to serve the state and share a clear message of hope through Jesus Christ.
The campaign concluded with two major festivals, one led by Luis Palau in Anchorage, the other in Fairbanks with Andrew. As a last minute addition to the initiative, a one-hour, prime-time television broadcast of the Anchorage festival helped spread Palau’s message of hope to the entire state on Monday and Tuesday nights.
Love Alaska Festival represented the finale of a region-wide community service effort that began in January of 2014. Thousands of volunteers from local churches participated in dozens of service projects throughout the state, focusing specifically on issues of hunger, homelessness, neighbourhood revitalization, foster care, and education. The two evangelists joined forces with many local leaders to make Love Alaska possible. They included Governor Sean Parnell of Alaska who delivered opening remarks at the festival in Anchorage. He was part of the campaign’s board of reference and a great encourager of the long-term initiative.
The campaign also included several initiatives in outlying communities, and also gatherings for women, business leaders, the Hispanic community, military, and prisoners. “This truly was a statewide initiative,” said Luis Palau. “How wonderful to see so many churches, from so many different areas and backgrounds, setting aside their differences to serve their community and share the Good News of Jesus Christ.”
“This is just the beginning!” asserted Richard Irwin II, pastor of Anchorage City Church. “We have a vision for the long term… that these collaborative relationships with one another will continue. We want to say thank you so much to the Palau organization. They have been wonderful to work with.”
The Love Alaska campaign was several years in the making and will continue on for many years to come. Local leaders have made it clear they want to continue on in unity, serving the city and proclaiming a clear message of hope to those who need it most. Leaders from the Luis Palau Association will continue to encourage, train, and guide leaders in Alaska, offering insight and wisdom as they move forward. Packed crowds came to the final meetings in Anchorage and Fairbanks. Many in attendance either gave their hearts to Jesus Christ for the first time or rededicated their lives to Him, giving the local churches much follow-up work to do. Praise the Lord!
Source: Luis Palau Evangelistic Association
BIBLE STUDY: Acts 17:22-34
Day 25 – PRAISE: God that whole regions still flock to hear and respond to God’s Word when His people come together in prayer and common purpose.
Day 26 – PRAY: That the local churches may continue working together to see a harvest of souls in Alaska.