When Power Fails, Faith Prevails: Ottawa Adventist Church’s Sabbath Testimony
Posted: August 3rd, 2023
Last Sabbath, July 29th, the Ottawa Seventh-day Adventist Church faced an unexpected challenge when high winds, lightning, and thunder swept through the area, bringing down several trees and causing a power outage. Despite the circumstance, the church community rallied together to make ready for worship, resulting in a heartwarming and vibrant service.
As the electrical utilities worked to restore power with a forecasted timeline of 5 pm, church members immediately sprang into action. First, they notified the membership of the power loss through an emergency phone system that made robo-calls to all members who were given the option to attend the nearby Nepean Adventist church. However, in a remarkable display of dedication, members chose to come to their home congregation, resulting in a nearly full service.
Adapting to the lack of electricity, many members stepped forward to offer their assistance in ensuring the safety of everyone present and making the worship experience as vibrant as possible. Some members voiced their faith and enthusiasm, saying, as they listened to choirs singing acapella. "We may have no power, but we have the power of God." Others playfully remarked that "the atmosphere of worship was electric," reflecting on how members were in high spirits and a deep sense of togetherness.
Lead Pastor Robert Greaves, reflecting on the worship, said, "While we had a shortened service, it was wonderful! The music was vibrant, and the members were engaged and afterward, we all spent time in the parking lot, in fellowship and sharing our gratitude to the Lord."
Pastor Greaves also noted the powerful role of the Holy Spirit in bringing the church community together during this crisis. He said, “The adversity became an opportunity to adapt, demonstrate resilience, and give glory to God on His Sabbath day.”
At the end of the day, the Ottawa Seventh-day Adventist Church praised God for the positive outcome. Despite the high winds and power outage, there was no damage to the church building, no incidents among the members, and most importantly, the church family was brought even closer together in the worship of Jesus.
