Celebrating Unity: Texico Convocation in Corrales
CORRALES, N.M. – The Texico Conference continued its convocation series with a warm gathering on Aug. 23-24, at the Sandia View Academy campus. The weekend event echoed the spirit of the previous convocation in Lubbock, Tex., and welcomed more than 750 attendees who came together in unity under the theme “One Family, One Hope.”
The convocation featured recognized speakers. John Bradshaw, “It Is Written” president, shared messages that inspired the English-speaking audience. Similarly, Manuel Moral, Ph.D., D.Min., Oakwood University professor of religion and theology, delivered sermons that touched the hearts of the Spanish-speaking attendees. Both speakers emphasized the importance of faith, unity and hope in challenging times.
The event also featured an engaging youth rally led by Stacey DePluzer, Illinois Conference associate youth director. DePluzer brought energy and inspiration, encouraging young attendees to embrace their spiritual journey and contribute positively to their communities. The children’s program, designed for ages 5-12, offered an exciting exploration of nature and science led by enthusiastic naturalist John Henri Rorabeck. The program provided a fun and educational experience, captivating the young minds with interactive activities.
For many attendees, the two-day convocation was an emotional homecoming as they returned to a place where Texico hosted many camp meetings in the past. Several attendees expressed how meaningful it was to have the Texico Convocation held on the Sandia View Academy campus once again, rekindling memories of past gatherings and fellowship.
“You have no idea what having this event here means to me. It’s like coming home after all these years,” said Rebecka Salazar. Her voice filled with emotion and there were tears in her eyes as she reminisced about her childhood memories of living nearby and hearing the camp meeting tents being set up. She and her siblings would run to the campus and envision where friends and loved ones would gather. “The joy of seeing our brothers and sisters come together, especially here, where so many memories were made, is indescribable. It’s like a preview of what awaits us in heaven.” For Salazar, this year’s convocation was a heartfelt reunion that brought her closer to her faith and the hope of Christ’s return. For others, especially new members, it was their first experience of such a special occasion.
As the convocation concluded, the leadership of the Texico Conference expressed their gratitude and excitement for the event’s success. They highlighted the significance of gathering as one family and the importance of nurturing hope within the community. The convocation’s theme, “One Family, One Hope,” served as a reminder of the shared mission and collective strength of the Texico Conference family.
With hearts full and a renewed sense of purpose, attendees left the event eagerly anticipating next year’s gathering in the Albuquerque area. The Texico Conference Convocation series concluded in El Paso on Oct. 25-26, fostering the same spirit of togetherness that the Texico Conference aims to carry forward.
