By Pastor Leo Benjamin, MyFaithNews
On September 3rd, pastors from across Vermont gathered at Hunger Mountain Christian Assembly in Waterbury Center for a pivotal meeting. Under the new leadership of “The Vermont Apostolic Council,” which includes Pastor Sue Salameh, Lighthouse Christian Church in Montpelier, Vermont, and Phil Zaldatte of Alliance Resource Center in Williston, Vermont, this gathering, part of a regular series, was marked by a deep sense of unity, a shared vision for revival, and a collective commitment to the work of the Gospel of Jesus Christ in Vermont.
A Time of Transition and Renewal
The meeting opened with a powerful message by Phil Zaldatte from Alliance Resource Center in Williston, emphasizing the need to let go of the past and embrace the new season God is ushering in. He reflected on the biblical account of the wilderness experience, drawing parallels between the Israelites’ journey and the current state of the Church. Phil urged participants to abandon old habits and identities that no longer serve their spiritual growth and to trust fully in God’s plan. As one speaker poignantly stated, “The new beginning is marked by the release of new energy and a new direction—a new identity formed through trust in God’s promise.”
Unity in Diversity
A recurring theme throughout the meeting was the importance of unity within the Body of Christ. Pastor Sue Salameh emphasized the need to move beyond individual ministries and to see themselves as part of a larger, collective mission. One speaker passionately called for breaking down strongholds within the Church, stating, “We are the body of Christ in Vermont, representing the Kingdom of God on Earth. We need to partner together, support one another, and work as a united force to see Vermont transformed.”
Revival and Evangelism: The New Movement
The gathering also highlighted the growing movement of revival and evangelism sweeping across Vermont. Speakers shared testimonies of miraculous healings and salvations, particularly among the youth. The move of the Holy Spirit and the fire of God’s presence were evident. Tommy Zito’s commitment to evangelism in the state, along with events like the “Gathering” with Angela Scott in Waterville and the work in Sheffield with Paul & Misty Nadue at Harvest Nights, were among the stories shared. The meeting was packed with testimonies of God moving powerfully across Vermont as pastors and believers step out of their comfort zones, bringing the Gospel to the streets and witnessing God’s transformative power firsthand.
Upcoming Events and Initiatives
The meeting also served as a platform to announce several upcoming events to further the mission of revival in Vermont. These include:
- The Worship Exchange (September 7th): A seven-hour worship event, starting at noon at the historic Enosburg Opera House, led by local and international worship leaders, culminating with a performance by MaryAnne George, formerly of Maverick City Music.
- Harvest Fest (October 4th-6th): An outdoor worship event at the King George School property in Sheffield, VT, expected to draw hundreds, if not thousands, for a time of worship, fellowship, and spiritual renewal.
- Open Wells Fall Conference (September 20th-21st): Hosted by the Vermont New Hampshire Revival Network at Hunger Mountain Christian Assembly, this conference will feature fresh teaching, opportunities to connect with like-minded believers, prophetic and healing ministry, and transformative worship.
- Community Worship Events: These are regular gatherings at locations such as the Schoolhouse at the Church of the Crucified One, The Well at Calais Woodbury United Church, and Harp & Bowl Worship at Hunger Mountain Christian Assembly and The A.R.C. They aim to foster unity and collective prayer among believers.
MyFaithNews: Amplifying the Gospel
In addition to these events, the pastors were encouraged to utilize platforms like MyFaithNews to spread the word about their ministries and events. As this platform continues to grow, it’s becoming a crucial tool in connecting Vermont’s Christian community and promoting the Gospel across the state and beyond.
A Call to Collective Action
As the meeting concluded, there was a strong sense of anticipation for what God was doing in Vermont. The pastors left with a renewed commitment to their collective mission. Pastor Sue Salameh encouraged everyone attending to be ready to embrace the new season with faith, courage, and a united front. As Pastor Sue Salamehso aptly summarized the day’s sentiment: “The most unlikely place to see revival break out is here, in Vermont. And yet, this is exactly where God has chosen to move. Are we ready to see His plans unfold?”
Conclusion
This gathering of Vermont pastors marks a significant step toward a broader revival in the state. As these leaders continue to seek God’s direction and work together, the impact of their efforts is expected to reverberate across Vermont, transforming not just individual churches but entire communities.
The author is the pastor of the Church of the Crucified One in Moretown, Vermont, and the publisher of MyFaithNews.
