During a big weekend for the Kansas-Nebraska Conference last March, believers from across the region gathered for the Kansas City and Wichita Convocations. More than 1,000 people filled the New Haven Church for the Kansas City event, while multiple Wichita churches came together for a Sabbath filled with worship, connection and inspiration.
Kansas City Convocation
The Kansas City Convocation was packed—every seat in the sanctuary was taken, and Commons overflowed with youth and young adults ready to worship. Dr. Alan Parker’s message, There’s Still Room, challenged attendees to personally know Jesus so they can share Him with their communities. Meanwhile, Rogelio Paquini, seminary professor and youth ministry leader, spoke to young people about hope and assurance in Christ.
But worship wasn’t only about the sermons. The Commons worship team filled the space with music, and New Haven Church’s hospitality made sure everyone felt at home. “Their entire team displayed exceptional hospitality, making attendees feel welcome and cherished,” said Pastor Nick Snell, Kansas-Nebraska youth and young adult director. “People left feeling happy and encouraged.”
After lunch, youth and young adults took their faith to the streets for outreach. Meeting at one of the local libraries, they spent the afternoon engaging with the community, putting hands and feet to the message they heard that morning. Later, they returned for a ministry training session with Paquini, equipping them with practical ways to share Jesus. A Q&A with ministry leaders followed, allowing young people to ask real, honest questions about faith, leadership and ministry. The day wrapped up with dinner and a high-energy social at Activate.
Wichita Convocation
A week later, the Wichita Convocation brought together area churches for another incredible Sabbath. Dr. Pierre Steenberg, religion professor at Union Adventist University, shared thought-provoking messages in the main sanctuary, while Pedro Perez, Florida Conference youth director, connected with youth and young adults. His messages were filled with powerful storytelling, making Jesus’ grace and love tangible.
The youth and young adults didn’t just sit and listen—they experienced a full weekend of engagement and connection. Worship, games and time together deepened their friendships, and the evening social at Urban Air reminded everyone that joy is a powerful part of evangelism. “Jesus’ love shone brightly in Wichita,” said Pastor Nick Snell. “Youth pastor Pedro Perez delivered inspiring messages, illustrating God’s grace and love through stories. Games, music and a fantastic night at Urban Air added to the fun, highlighting the power of evangelism through joy.”
Over 90 youth and young adults participated, with leaders and local churches making the weekend possible. The excitement doesn’t stop here—plans are already in motion for future gatherings and outreach events, giving young people more opportunities to grow in faith and community.
Both convocations left a lasting impact, reminding everyone that God is moving in Kansas. As people headed home, they carried renewed energy, fresh connections, and a deeper sense of mission to share Jesus wherever they go.
