Living Hope Partners with New Birth International in Rally/Concert

Living Hope Church is partnering with Pastor Sylvia Nash and New Birth International Outreach Ministries as the latter hosts an "I Pledge Abstinence" rally and concert. The event will take place in the Grand Lobby of the Ozinga Chapel on the campus of Trinity Christian College on Friday, November 19, at 7 p.m. There is no charge to attend the event for which Living Hope will be providing audio equipment and electronic instruments.

The rally and concert is the first of its kind for New Birth International, and will feature six speakers, four guest artists, and the ministry’s praise team. Speaking will be Sylvia Turner, Ashley Hodges, Pastor Sharon Lockhart, Rev. Christopher Choice, Evangelist Darnella Johnson, while the guest artists include Nicole St. Victor, Joshua Scott, and Laraine McCaa. Sylvia Turner was the connection to Living Hope Church, having attended and met Pastor Sam Hamstra in the past. Her church also meets on campus every third Sunday in the afternoon; Living Hope has provided the sound system for their services as well. Turner, who is serving as coordinator for the rally, is a student at Trinity Christian College, and is slated to graduate this December.

“The biggest thing that we want people to know,” Turner said, “is that it’s not just a concert, it’s a rally. It is geared toward the youth, but we want everyone to be there. And, it’s not just about abstaining from sex, but also drugs, violence, and alcohol – anything not in the will of God.”

Near the end of the event, Turner said, there will be a ceremony and mock wedding where abstinence to God will be pledged. There will be pledge cards handed out to be signed along and buttons will be given away.

“We are both excited and nervous as it all comes together,” said Turner, “but I know it will be an encouraging night.”