Olivet Students, Faculty, and Staff Hold Special Joint Worship Service with Local Anza Church

Olivet University Riverside Campus welcomed Pastor Kevin Watson, senior pastor of Living Hope Christian Fellowship in Anza, for a special Wednesday worship service. The gathering brought together church members, university leaders, faculty, and students for worship, prayer, and fellowship centered on the grace of Jesus Christ.

Pastor Watson delivered a message titled “Grace Empowered Living,” based on 1 Corinthians 15:4–11. Drawing from the Apostle Paul's testimony, he emphasized that Christian service flows from God's grace rather than human effort alone. He encouraged believers to embrace the forgiveness found in Jesus Christ, depend on the leading of the Holy Spirit, and serve God with gratitude and renewed faith.

Olivet University’s Ezra Bartovic introduced Pastor Watson and his wife, Cindy, as longtime friends of the University and members of the Anza Christian community. Reflecting on the University's history, Pastor Watson recalled joining local Anza pastors in prayer on the hilltop near the campus water tank when the property was changing hands. He expressed gratitude for the University's continued ministry and its impact on the local community and around the world.

The service included an intercessory prayer led by Chrystal Lee, a junior in Olivet University's Bachelor of Arts in Theology program. Following the service, the congregation prayed the Lord's Prayer together, and university leaders, faculty, and students gathered to pray for Pastor Watson, his family, and the members of Living Hope Christian Fellowship in attendance.

Rev. Michael Ford, University Chaplain, led a prayer for Living Hope Christian Fellowship, asking God to strengthen Pastor Watson's ministry, guide the congregation in truth, and empower its members to share Christ's grace and love with the surrounding community.

Through worship, prayer, and shared ministry, the University and Living Hope Christian Fellowship joined in seeking God's continued guidance and opportunities to serve others in Christ's name, especially in the local Anza community.