Since 2013, hundreds of volunteers for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association's internet evangelism ministry have gathered for an annual conference at the Billy Graham Training Center at The Cove. This year, in light of COVID-19, a virtual Search for Jesus (SFJ) summit was held instead, live streamed from the Asheville, North Carolina, retreat center.
The two-day summit included panel discussions, times of prayer and breakout sessions in both English and Spanish for attendees to enjoy. Will Graham, Pastor Bryan Loritts and author and speaker Becket Cook were among the speakers.
Nearly 1,200 people from 10 countries registered for the online event, surpassing the ministry's goal.
Will Graham took time to answer questions from volunteers and give insight on the call of evangelism.
"One of the greatest privileges in life is to see someone come to know Christ," he said. "And when that person makes that decision in coming to know Christ, guess what, that’s a miracle. … That which was once dead is now made alive."
The Jason Lovins Band led worship during the event.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, BGEA's internet evangelism ministry has seen an increase in interaction via its landing pages offering the hope of Christ as people search for answers online. Mark Appleton, director of internet evangelism, took time during the two-day conference to encourage volunteers and remind them of the important work Christ is doing through SFJ.
"Glory be to our Father for allowing all of us to come together; live stream and Zoom rooms. Satan is defeated once more!” Sarah, an SFJ email coach in the United Kingdom, said about the summit.
Though not the in-person conference they're used to, volunteers were encouraged and inspired. “So blessed to participate and be a part of this worldwide community that beats with one heart to share the love of God," one Search for Jesus volunteer wrote. "Thank you SFJ staff for giving me a wider opportunity to share the love of God."
