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West Virginia
Photo Credit Kayla Gabbard Ministry
Straight from the book of Acts
AUGUSTA, W.Va. (August 20, 2025) — In a remote corner of West Virginia, more than 5,000 people gathered for what many described as a modern-day revival, resulting in 2,730 baptisms over a single weekend. Worshippers traveled from at least 35 states and six countries to participate in what organizers called a “move of God,” echoing Acts 2, when 3,000 were baptized in one day.
Thousands Gather for Revival
The event, hosted along a rural riverbank, saw people waiting in line up to 10 hours for baptism. Despite the long waits, attendees stayed in joyful expectation. Organizers compared the sight to a scene straight from Scripture.
“We watched the Bible come to life right before our eyes,” Pastor Elwood said, reflecting on the day’s events
Volunteers and local churches joined forces to feed the massive crowd, offering biscuits, gravy, corn, cantaloupe, and more. Like the biblical miracle of the loaves and fishes, the food not only fed the thousands but left leftovers in abundance
Key Highlights
Miracles and Testimonies
One of the most powerful moments involved a man who had long been confined to a wheelchair. His wife brought him to the river, and with help he was carried into the water. Witnesses say he stood and walked after baptism, bringing many onlookers to tears and prompting even skeptical bystanders to step forward for baptism .
Another dramatic moment unfolded when a snake appeared near the baptismal waters. Attendees prayed, rebuked the danger, and watched as it slithered away—interpreted by many as a symbol of God’s protection.
Unity Across Denominations
Attendees noted the spirit of unity. Worshippers from diverse Christian traditions—Catholic, Pentecostal, Presbyterian, Baptist, and more—joined together, celebrating without division. “They realized they were on the same team,” said one organizer .
Visiting pastors from West Virginia testified that witnessing the event had changed their ministries. “It changed the way they look at the church,” Pastor Elwood shared. “They will never be the same”.
Scripture Connection
For many, the weekend recalled Acts 2:41: “Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.” Organizers pointed out that they came within 270 of that same number, underscoring the sense of Biblical proportion.
Missional Impact
Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram quickly flooded with testimonies and videos, spreading the story beyond West Virginia. Organizers hope that attendees return to their home churches with renewed fire. “When you see God move like this,” said one pastor, “you can’t go home the same” .
This revival illustrates the enduring truth that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). What was witnessed in West Virginia testifies that God still saves, heals, and unites His people. As in Acts 2, revival brings repentance, baptism, and communal joy—reminders that the Holy Spirit continues to work powerfully in our generation.
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