Chestnut Assembly of God:
2024 Year in Review
Lord, We Say Yes!
We entered 2024 with a great burden and the privilege of understanding that God wants to use all of us in greater measure. Yet, so many of us are afraid and full of insecurities that keep us from the full manifestation of our purpose and destiny in God. At the beginning of 2024, God challenged us: no more excuses, no more distractions. What He desires from us is our "YES." The theme for 2024 was clear: Lord, We Say Yes!
Many heard the call from heaven and responded like never before. We were stretched in ways we never imagined, took ground from the enemy, and, symbolically, stepped out of our boat to walk on water for the first time. Praise God!
A Sacred Season
January 2024 began with a powerful Sacred Season, where we prayed, pressed in, fasted, and gave like never before. As we surrendered everything to God, our house stepped up in faith, leading to record numbers in prayer, fasting, and giving. Nothing significant happens without prayer and without putting God first, as stated in Matthew 6:33.
We recognized that the Church is not confined within four walls but must take territory and release God's agenda for our city. And that’s exactly what we did.
Making an Impact in the Community
In early spring, an army of believers attended the Vineland School Board Meeting, where a debate on policy limiting parental notification was taking place. Chestnut Assembly of God showed up in record numbers, allowing many of us to speak directly to the board. Because of our legitimate concerns and the mighty movement of the Holy Spirit, the policy was repealed. Praise God! This was the Book of Acts Church alive and well in Vineland, NJ.
Powerful Encounters with God
It’s impossible to describe all the incredible encounters we had with Almighty God in 2024. From special services to guest speakers, we were blessed with moments of profound spiritual impact. Some highlights include:
Guest Ministers: Prophet Erick Ampah, Prophet Daniel Soto, Evangelist Jermel Mayo, Evangelist Doug Eccles, Evangelist Mark Turner, and Evangelist Jean DiBenedetto
Seasonal Celebrations: Christmas and Easter services
Tent Season Revival
Discipleship & Growth: Freedom, Growth Track, Water Baptisms, and Baby Dedications
Missions & Outreach: Antigua Mission Trip, Missionary Windows, and the Food Pantry Building Project
Prayer Services & Personal Ministry: Every week, lives were touched and transformed at our altar
One of the greatest miracles we witnessed in 2024 was that nearly every single Sunday, someone gave their heart to Jesus at our altars. We saw people being rescued from the grips of hell and brought into His marvelous light!
Embracing Change & Growth
This year, we embarked on a Branding Process to evaluate everything that represents Chestnut Assembly—our How, What, and Why. Growth requires constant evaluation, ensuring we don’t get stuck in routine and tradition. As Isaiah 43:19 reminds us, "God is doing a new thing; do you not perceive it?" Change is good, uncomfortable, but necessary. There is new wine for this next season—will you take a drink?
Worship & Original Music
A new area of focus in 2024 was the development of original worship music. God has spoken repeatedly to our worship and production teams about releasing music that will impact the world. Strategic people have already joined this ministry, and we eagerly anticipate the release of our own worship songs. We believe that soon, churches around the nation and the world will worship God through music birthed from this house. Praise God!
Honoring Pastor Emeritus Ralph Snook
On November 1, 2024, our beloved Pastor Emeritus Ralph Snook went home to be with the Lord. This was a painful loss for us but a glorious moment for him. While we navigate this new normal, he is face to face with his Savior. Pastor Snook’s legacy of revival and passion for the lost will continue at Chestnut through a new generation of passionate and zealous believers.
We also honor Sister Marilyn Snook, and we express deep gratitude to Chari & Greg for their investment in all of us. We are eternally grateful.
Gratitude & Vision for 2025
A heartfelt thank you to our Pastoral Staff, Support Staff, Lay Staff, Elders, and Deacons who co-labor in advancing God's Kingdom in our region. I could not do what I do without their help and support. Each of you is deeply loved and appreciated.
I also extend my deepest thanks to my wife and children, who have stepped up in powerful ways to support the call on our family and this house.
As we step into 2025, let’s continue to believe God for the impossible. He has great plans for us—will you believe with us? Let’s join our faith together, work hard, and do life together as we watch God move mightily in the new year.