The Holy Spirit moved powerfully during the Hope for Humanity Pentecost 2025 evangelistic series, hosted by more than 110 churches in the Pennsylvania Conference. Lives were transformed as people responded to the call through baptism, profession of faith, and commitment to Christ.
The series wasn’t just an event — it was a movement marked by miraculous stories and heartfelt decisions.
One of the most compelling testimonies came from “Mark,” whose spiritual journey began with a dream. He saw himself riding a train bound for heaven, a vivid experience that stirred his heart and led him to study the Bible and seek a deeper relationship with God. When invited to the Prophecies of Hope meetings at the Honesdale Seventh-day Adventist Church, Mark knew he had to attend.
By the second meeting, Mark felt a clear conviction to surrender his life to Christ. His wife, Mariam, joined him in this life-changing decision. On Sabbath, Pastor Stephen Rajan baptized Mark and Mariam, and together they dedicated their daughter, Emily, committing as a family to walk faithfully with Christ.
“That dream of the train wasn’t just a dream; it was God’s invitation to me,” Mark shared. “As I studied the Bible and joined the meetings, my heart was transformed. I knew I wanted to follow Jesus fully, and baptism was my way of saying ‘Yes, Lord.’ The support of my family and church made this journey even more meaningful.”
Another story came from the Mifflintown Seventh-day Adventist Church, reminding us that God calls and equips ordinary members — not just pastors — to fulfill the Great Commission. When Pastor Paul Wasmer invited volunteers to present the evangelistic series because he was committed elsewhere, Darcy Shultz stepped forward. Though she had never led a series before, Darcy trusted God, and the church rallied around her in prayer and support. Anticipation grew, faith deepened, and the Holy Spirit worked mightily. As a result, three individuals joined the church family — one through baptism and two through professions of faith.
Pentecost 2025 also helped many stop “straddling the fence.” “Marcial,” a longtime visitor at Reading Central Hispanic Seventh-day Adventist Church, felt God calling him to be a better husband and father. He committed his life to Christ during the meetings.
“Smarfy,” who had grown up in the church but drifted away, returned and chose rebaptism to symbolize her new life in Christ. Pastor Wilfred Malave baptized both, and the congregation celebrated their renewed faith.
In York, the Holy Spirit continued to move as Pastor Randy Nims baptized five people during the Hope for Humanity series at York Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Overall, the Pennsylvania Conference saw a record 701 baptisms in 2025.
Though “2025” was part of the initiative’s name, its impact will echo far beyond this year. Seeds of faith have been planted, and as we enter 2026, our prayer is that these seeds will grow and flourish — bringing hope for humanity and glory to God.
This article is adapted from reports originally published in the Pennsylvania Conference newsletter.
