Residents from across Buchanan County and the surrounding region are invited to gather for three evenings of worship, preaching and fellowship at the Generations United Revival, scheduled for Aug. 6-8 at Roger and Susie Rife Park at Southern Gap.
The free outdoor revival will begin each evening at 7 p.m. and feature messages from Joel Horn, pastor of The Anchor at Souls Harbor; J.T. Harman, pastor of Oakwood Full Gospel Church; and Whitewood native Stephen Ward, with worship led by Ward and his wife, Lori.
Organizers encourage attendees to bring a lawn chair for the outdoor event.
For Ward, the revival is more than another stop on his ministry schedule — it marks a return to the community where his faith first took root.
Ward, originally from Whitewood, grew up in Buchanan County before pursuing his calling to ministry. After working on staff at Redemption Church in Greenville, South Carolina, he and his wife started The Living Room Movement in 2016, a full-time ministry dedicated to leading worship, preaching and inspiring others to grow closer to Jesus. They currently travel across the United States, holding revival services and church events.
Ward said returning home to minister in Buchanan County is especially meaningful.
“It is truly an honor,” Ward said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to come back and pour into a community that invested so much in my life and spiritual journey.”
Ward credits his upbringing in Southwest Virginia, along with the influence of his family and church, for shaping his faith and ministry.
“Growing up in Southwest Virginia taught me the importance of keeping God at the center of every area of my life,” he said. “That foundation has shaped both my ministry and my career.”
He hopes those attending the upcoming revival will experience more than just a worship service.
“I believe people can expect more than just a concert,” Ward said. “They can expect an authentic encounter with God. My heart is that people experience His presence, healing, hope and the reality of miracles, signs and wonders.”
Organizers say the revival is open to everyone, regardless of church affiliation, and is intended to unite generations of believers while offering hope and encouragement to the community. Admission is free. For more information, contact Jerry Ward at 276-935-5672.
