Living Hope Christian Fellowship of Anza joined Olivet University Riverside Campus for a special worship service Wednesday,
Oct. 21, featuring a message by Senior Pastor Kevin Watson on God’s grace and its power to transform Christian life and ministry.
The gathering brought Living Hope members, university leaders, faculty and students together in Olivet University’s Main Chapel for worship, prayer and fellowship.
Olivet University’s Ezra Bartovic introduced Pastor Watson and his wife, Cindy, as longtime friends of the school and members of the Anza Christian community. He highlighted Pastor Watson’s ministry in Anza, where he began serving in children’s education in 1998 and became senior pastor of Living Hope Christian Fellowship in 2008. He has also extended his ministry through online outreach to communities in Nigeria, Pakistan and Uganda.
Pastor Watson delivered the sermon, Grace Empowered Living, based on 1 Corinthians 15:4–11. Drawing from the Apostle Paul’s testimony, he encouraged believers to rely not on their own strength, but on God’s grace and the leading of the Holy Spirit. He emphasized that Christian service is a grateful response to the forgiveness and love received through Jesus Christ.
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 ministry and its continued impact on the local community and beyond.
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 and the congregation’s prayer of the Lord’s Prayer, Olivet University leaders, faculty, and students gathered to pray for Pastor Watson, his family and Living Hope Christian Fellowship.
Rev. Michael Ford, Olivet University Chaplain, led a prayer asking God to strengthen Pastor Watson’s pastoral ministry, guide the congregation in truth, and empower its members to share Christ’s grace and love with the surrounding community.
University students lead praise and worship during the service.
Participants left the gathering stronger in mutual faith, looking forward to the next time they meet.
For more information about Living Hope Christian Fellowship, visit: livinghopeanza.com.
To learn more about Olivet University, visit: olivetuniversity.edu.
