Pictured, is the Abide in the Vine Worship Team at last year’s event. (Provided Photos)
A large crowd gathered for last year’s “Greater Owego Tent Revival”.
On Thursday evening at 6 p.m., a collaborative effort between local churches will unite for the “Greater Owego Tent Revival”, a four-day event held at the Tioga County Fairgrounds in Owego, N.Y. that has been dubbed a community celebration of praise and hope. Last year, over 1,000 attended this event.
According to Pastor Brian Scanlon from Sword & The Spirit, revivals originated in the 1920’s, with this larger effort beginning in Owego last year. Prayer for revival, on the other hand, has been a major part for nearly two decades, with Pastor Brian Scanlon and Sword & the Spirit receiving the first vision.
Scanlon stated, “Reaching Owego for Jesus is an effort of over 30 churches throughout the ‘Greater Owego’ area, and many local organizations and businesses supporting the effort.”
Things will kick off at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 10, with Pastor Terry Steenburg from “He’s Alive Ministries” opening up with worship for all. Guests arriving will hear Real Life Stories by Matt Kuhlman and Betsy James, and there will be music provided by the Abide In The Vine Praise Group.
On Friday evening, at 6 p.m., Pastor Bill Prentice from Campville and Gibson Corners United Methodist Churches will pray and unite everyone to pay tribute to the fallen heroes from the events of 9-11. This “Tribute to Fallen Heroes” will begin with the National Anthem sung by Andrea McBride, the VFW Honor Guard will be present along with a 21-gun Salute and Taps. Guests, on Friday, will also be able to hear A Real Life Story told by Hal Coghill, and the McMynes will provide music.
On Saturday, at 11:30 a.m., the fun begins with children activities. There will be a story time and there will be clowns (Joygem Tinkerbell and Jimmy), balloons, make a bracelet to take home, goodie bags, stickers, music and fun. At 1 p.m., Pastor Bill Anderson from Tree of Life Christian Fellowship will host a “Children and Family Event”. Cody Daniels will tell a Real Life Story, and the Sword & The Spirit Praise Group will provide music.
Later in the evening, at 6 p.m., Pastor Chuck Relyea from Abide in the Vine Christian Fellowship will continue with an event for youth. Guests will hear Real Life Stories by Shane Reeves and Debra Peake, and Owego Calvary’s Love Praise Group will provide music.
On Sunday afternoon, at 1 p.m., the event will culminate when Pastor Brian Scanlon, from Sword and the Spirit Christian Fellowship, offers a “Community Celebration”. Guests will hear Real Life Stories by Bob and Kathy Leonard and Carol Weale. There will also be music provided by the Halsey Valley Praise Group.
Those attending will hear real life stories of trials, tribulations, and triumphs from local residents, there will be plenty of celebrating, and refreshments will be served daily.
According to Scanlon, the event has been well received by the community.
“We have had incredible support from the local businesses, the village, local churches and residents,” said Scanlon.
The main message, stated Scanlon, is “The power and love of God for all people, as evidenced in the gift of grace and sacrifice in Christ Jesus.”
