Living Springs Seventh-day Adventist Church welcomed Albert Zapanta, the mayor of Irving, Texas, as a special guest on Sabbath, June 20, 2026. His presence marked an important moment of connection between the church and local government, affirming a shared commitment to service to the community.
While the congregation has traditionally focused on inviting friends, families, neighbors, and other visitors to its annual Community Guest Day, this year Living Springs extended formal invitations to community leaders, including members of the fire department, the mayor’s office, and city council. This step reflected the members’ growing desire to strengthen civic relationships and build meaningful partnerships that support the broader needs of the city.
During a special program, church leaders described the various ministries of Living Springs and how these ministries have served families, youth, seniors, and residents across the city for the past 12 years. The visit created an opportunity to introduce the mayor to the church’s mission rooted in faith, fellowship, service, and community impact and to explore future possibilities for partnership with the mayor’s office, city council, and other civic departments. Rotimi Abidoye, the congregation’s head elder, welcomed to the stage Mayor Zapanta, who acknowledged the church’s role as a place of worship, fellowship, and community support.
As it continues to grow, Living Springs aims to be not just a place of worship, but also a trusted community partner. It remains committed to working alongside civic leaders to support families, strengthen neighborhoods, and contribute to the continued development and well-being of the City of Irving, and other local cities. In the words of 1 John 3:18 NIV, “Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”
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By Rotimi Abidoye, first elder of Living Springs Seventh-day Adventist Church in Irving, Texas. This article also appeared in the online issue of the Southwestern Union Record. Click here to view the Record website.
Mayor Albert Zapanta
