From April 18 to 20, churches across the United States affiliated with Olivet Assembly USA (OA USA) gathered for deeply moving and spiritually enriching Easter Retreats, commemorating the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The retreats were held under the theme of John 11:25–26:
“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.”
Hosted by regional presbyteries and local church plants, the three-day retreats focused on the power of Christ’s cross and resurrection through Bible expositions, prayer meetings, worship nights, performances, sharing sessions, and a variety of fellowship activities. Children’s programs also ran concurrently, filled with joyful praise, crafts, Bible-based storytelling, plays, and traditional Easter events like the egg hunt.
Highlights from Across the Regions
In St. Louis, Missouri, the Central Region’s Easter Sunday service at Immanuel Community Church concluded the retreat with a sermon from Pastor Anthony Chiu, who preached from John 20:11–18, highlighting the empty tomb and Mary’s encounter with the risen Christ. The congregation partook in Holy Communion, remembering Christ’s sacrifice with reverence and unity.
In Dover, New York, part of the Northeast region, Pastor David Chang delivered a powerful message titled “They Will Look on the One They Have Pierced” from John 19:34–37, reflecting on the piercing of Jesus’ side and the profound meaning of His sacrificial death. The service included baptism and communion, providing a meaningful close to the retreat. The region concluded with renewed joy and dedication to Jesus’ commandment to “Feed my sheep.” Churches now look ahead to Pentecost, praying to reveal the power of the resurrection more boldly.
At the Washington D.C. Church, Easter Sunday was celebrated with heartfelt worship, a choral performance, and a message centering on the “invisible bread”—God’s Word. Several members were baptized, and the service ended with communion. Afterward, many visited Terrapin Nature Park near the Chesapeake Bay, offering praise amid the beauty of creation.
The Atlanta Church gathered with the message titled “My Resurrection” based on Luke 24:13–35. Pastor Thomas encouraged believers to embrace the living Christ within them, calling them to embody resurrection power in daily life as His living body on earth.
Ohio New Hope Community Church hosted both Good Friday and Easter Sunday services across Warren and Cleveland. The Good Friday service focused on Luke 23:26–49, highlighting Jesus’ forgiveness and the repentant thief. Easter Sunday emphasized Luke 24 and the confidence believers gain from the reality of the resurrection in fulfilling God’s promises.
In Dallas, the Easter Retreat opened with a rich reflection on John 18–20, retracing the events of Holy Week. The final service on Easter Sunday was filled with praise, communion, and joyful table fellowship as members shared testimonies and meals. Many testified to renewed spiritual clarity and commitment to Christ.
In San Francisco, Gratia Church joyfully culminated its retreat with Easter Sunday service. Pastor Peter preached from John 19, reflecting on Jesus’ suffering and sacrificial love. The message led attendees to a deep contemplation of the cost of the cross and the grace poured out through Christ’s obedience unto death.
A Word from OA USA Leadership
“It is truly important to be reminded and celebrate the Risen Christ. In Him, we have new hope in life and are strengthened to press on with the Word of the Lord, which is not in vain, but rather reveals His glory,” shared Pastor Mark Spisak, General Secretary of Olivet Assembly USA.
As the retreats concluded nationwide, believers returned home revived, carrying with them the message of the cross and resurrection. With hearts set on Christ, churches now look toward Pentecost, united in prayer and purpose to reveal the power of the risen Lord to the world.