Thousands attended a large-scale Christian revival meeting in Portland during the first weekend of August, led by Athey Creek Christian Fellowship and featuring major modern Christian musicians. The gathering, held at the Moda Center and drawing people from across the region, marked one of the largest revival events the city has seen in decades, reflecting renewed efforts to address social issues through faith.
Mass Gathering for Faith and Renewal
The PDX Crusade saw crowds forming hours before the gates opened, with attendees lining up around the Rose Quarter in anticipation. Hosted by Athey Creek Christian Fellowship of West Linn and led by founding pastor Brett Meador, the event drew both local residents and visitors from afar. Notable Christian artists such as Chris Tomlin and Zach Williams headlined, enhancing the revival’s rock concert atmosphere with music, smoke machines, and dynamic lighting.
Messages of Commitment and Community
The revival began with Pastor Meador urging attendees to renew their commitment to Jesus and take to heart the teachings of the Bible. He addressed pressing local issues—homelessness, rising crime, and Portland’s reputation for secularism—linking these challenges to a perceived lack of faith within the city. Meador’s call resonated with the crowd, many openly displaying emotion, singing, and raising their arms in worship.
Historical Context and Modern Challenges
Evangelistic efforts to “save” Portland have a long tradition, tracing back nearly a century. The recent revival, however, stands out for its scale and timing, confronting contemporary social problems while striving to inspire a new spiritual awakening in a city known for religious diversity and skepticism. The event’s organizers and attendees alike see such gatherings as an opportunity to forge unity and hope amid ongoing struggles in the city.