Area 3 Churches Unite for First Area Convocation at Monterey Bay Academy

Monterey Bay, CA — The Area 3 churches of the Central California Conference came together in a spirit of unity and joy for their first-ever Area Convocation, hosted at the Monterey Bay Academy Church. Nearly every congregation in the area participated, making the day a vibrant celebration of faith, fellowship, and mission.

The program opened with a series of musical presentations that reflected the diversity and talent within Area 3. Worship teams and individuals from Monterey Peninsula, Hollister, the Dennis Family (Hollister), Marryline Dube-Dzambukira (Gilroy), and Gianella Reyes (Soquel) led the congregation in heartfelt praise. The second part of the program featured powerful performances from the Salinas, Santa Cruz, Seaside Hispanic, and Monterey Korean churches, as well as the Monterey Bay Academy Choir, whose voices filled the sanctuary with songs of devotion.

Following the music, Pastor David Dean, Executive Secretary of the Central California Conference, delivered an inspiring message from God’s Word, encouraging the attendees to remain united in purpose and spirit.

The success of the event was made possible through the dedicated leadership of Area 3 pastors — Cris Suarez, David Pikop, Byungshul Shin, Cesar Alfonso, Emmanuel Hernandez, and Pablo Maldonado — along with numerous elders, music leaders, and volunteers who worked together to make the convocation a memorable experience.

As the sun set, the fellowship continued at the Monterey Bay Academy Gym, where attendees enjoyed the quarterly Area 3 Gym Night — a tradition that fosters connection, laughter, and Christian camaraderie.

Centered on the theme “One Spirit, One Mission,” the convocation reflected the prayer of Jesus in John 17:20–22:

“That they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.”

With renewed unity and shared purpose, the Area 3 churches continue to move forward—committed to serving together in faith and mission.