Seminars at Raleigh Central Umoja ChurchYield Spiritual Harvest

Each year, Leslie Louis, president of the Carolina Conference, leads a series of Bible study seminars designed to inspire and deepen spiritual connections among church members. This year, Elder Louis had the privilege of holding these seminars at Raleigh Central Umoja Church, where he witnessed firsthand the power of the Holy Spirit working in the lives of attendees.

Reflecting on his time with the church, Elder Louis spoke of the joy he experienced while studying the Bible with members and young people who displayed a passion for evangelism. Together, they delved into Scripture, exploring passages, uncovering answers, and embracing Biblical truths.

One memorable moment occurred when a young attendee approached him after a meeting. Captivated by the truths revealed during the studies, the young person expressed a heartfelt desire to draw closer to Jesus and sought guidance on how to maintain a relationship with Christ. “That’s the joy of what I do,” said Elder Louis.

Raleigh Central Umoja Church, a thriving congregation with a membership of 300-500 people, continues to grow through both baptism and the addition of new members relocating to the area. Many members are immigrants from Africa, while others are young families moving from states such as New Jersey and New York. The church family plays an active role in helping new arrivals settle, guiding them to find housing and schools for their children.

The church is also deeply committed to community outreach. Its food bank ministry provides free food to anyone in need, demonstrating the church’s mission to serve both its members and the broader community.

The Bible study seminars proved to be a spiritual reaping season for the church. Frequent visitors to the meetings were inspired to make their decisions for Christ. By the end of the second week, eight attendees expressed their desire to commit to Jesus, with two choosing baptism. By the close of the fourth week, 10 more young people had made the same decision.

The young attendees were especially moved by the seminars, sharing their eagerness to dedicate their lives to God. “I didn’t want to keep on waiting because (…) there’s no reason why I shouldn’t dedicate my life,” shared Dinah Irobiro, one of the young people who chose baptism.

By the end of the seminar series, around 30 individuals accepted Jesus, either through baptism or profession of faith. Elder Louis praised the dedication of the church family, elders, and members for their role in supporting the seminars and fostering an environment where spiritual growth could flourish.

“I praise God for the wonderful results we have been experiencing through the indwelling presence and working of the Holy Spirit in these people’s lives,” said Elder Louis.

The success of the seminars at Raleigh Central Umoja Church is a testament to the power of evangelism, the unity of the church family, and the life-changing work of the Holy Spirit in drawing people closer to Christ.

—Clarissa Rosario