Sharing News and Inspiration from the Southwestern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Carrying God’s Light to the World
In this Issue... DEPARTMENTS CREATION Health ...... 4 Shades of Grace...... 5 Pass It On ...... 6 8 Visión Hispana...... 7
FEATURES Mission—A Way of Life Mission—A Way of Life...... 8 Caring Enough to Belong. . . . . 10 Light Through the Prism of the Arts. . 12 aring nough NEWS C E Arkansas-Louisiana ...... 14 10 Oklahoma...... 18 to elong Southwest Region...... 22 B Texas...... 26 Texico...... 30 Southwestern Adventist University. . . 34 North American Division...... 35 Southwestern Union...... 37
NOVEMBER-DECEMBERETCETERA 2011 Classified Ads...... 38 Obituaries...... 44 MyFaith...... 46 For the Record...... 47 Light Through the Prism of the Arts 12
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011, Vol. 110, No. 12. The Southwestern Union Record is a monthly publication of the Seventh-day Adventist churches in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Texas, and is published at the headquarters of the Southwestern Union Conference, 777 S. Burleson Blvd., Burleson, TX 76028, 817.295.0476. Printed at Pacific Press Publishing Association in Nampa, Idaho. www.SouthwesternAdventist.org. On the Cover Evangelism is a top priority in the Southwestern Union. This past fall, 97 people traveled to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, and Livingstone, Zambia, holding 63 ShareHim meetings. The combined efforts of both teams led to 2,289 baptisms. [Photo of Avery Bokovoy preaching in Zimbabwe by her father, James Bokovoy.]
2 Southwestern Union Record President’s Perspective»
By Larry Moore » Southwestern Union Conference President Let Your Common Light Shine
I’ve always been intrigued at how a common person can rise above common tasks and impact generations of people in an uncommon way.
I spent two years in the seminary on the campus of An- of his leadership is still burning brightly on the campuses of Ad- drews University back in the early 1970s. I have vivid memories ventist colleges and academies across the entire North American of watching the Andrews gymnastics team, the “Gymnics,” during Division. The annual Acrofest games that rotate through four of their home shows. Their coach was a charismatic Hawaiian fellow our Adventist universities each year are a testimony to high spiri- by the name of Bob Kalua. His team was wonderfully talented, I’m tual and physical standards that were set by men like Bob Kalua sure, but it wasn’t the amazing floor routines or towering human decades ago. pyramids for which I remember them. I spoke with Chad Hutchinson, our coach for SWAT (South- They stand out in my mind because of Coach Kalua’s vi- western Acrobatics Team) at Southwestern Adven- sion for making Jesus a central part of the gym- tist University, and he told me that he was heavily nastics program. Through sermonettes, skits, influenced by Coach Kalua’s acrobatic style of and prayers, sanctification was happening there gymnastics. But more importantly, Kalua’s focus on the mats in the Andrews gymnasium. on spirituality made a huge impact on Chad’s deter- As an onlooker in 1972, I experienced a complete para- mination to make ministry the focus of his own personal digm shift concerning what a sporting event should be all calling to physical education. about. I was impressed by how they shared their I’m not sure I ever met Coach faith through gymnastics during Kalua, and I haven’t seen him since half-time programs at local bas- my days back in seminary. He was ketball games or other sporting just a common man doing com- events. They told of opportunities mon things, but with God’s help, he lit to witness through gymnastics exhibitions at a fire that still burns today. What about you? county fairs. From middle schools to shop- What common things are you doing that ping malls, they were using their with God’s help could talents to share the start a fire in your Good News. church or com- I’m told that munity? Whatever Coach Kalua is re- God calls you to do, let tired and living in the state of your common light shine in Washington now. But uncommon ways. the legacy
www.swurecord.org | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 3 CREATION Health By Lynell LaMountain
Making Room for Life: Trading Chaos for Connection
Randy Frazee’s world was turned upside down during his first trip to the Holy Lands (Pastor Frazee is the senior minister of the Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Tex., where he serves alongside Max Lucado).
The luxurious, air-conditioned tour bus groaned and weaved But, how important, really, is family dinner to the modern through the arid desert as Pastor Frazee’s group traveled from one family? Research suggests that having regular family dinners sig- ancient city to the next. Dotting the hillsides were the shabby box nificantly lowers the childhood risk of obesity, diabetes, smok- tents of the Bedouin shepherds, whom he pitied because of how ing, drinking, drugs, teen pregnancy, delinquency, eating disor- CREATIONdifficult he thought Health life must Article be for them. Graphic – REV 1 – ders, behavioral12/09-/09 problems, and depression. Having family dinners Just then, their Arab-Christian tour guide started speaking significantly improves eating habits—especially more fruits and into the microphone at the front of the bus. “Off to your right vegetables, fewer fried foods, and sodas—values and priorities, you will see the mobile residence of the Bedouin shepherd and grades, decision-making, conversational skills, reading skills, his family. Once their livestock has emotional health, self-esteem, and family relationships. C Choice grazed the available vegetation,C Choice the Dr. William Doherty writes, “The bigC pictureChoice is that family C Choice C Choice family will pick up their humble meals, and especially dinners, are the single most important ac- homes and move to a new place to tivity that parents can do to enhance the life of their children... R R R R Rest repeat the cycle.” What Randy heardRest Mealtime is a strong predictor of childhoodR well-being.Rest A national Rest Rest next shocked him. “The average study of young children’s time (ages 3-12) found that more meal- E Environment Bedouin,” the tour guide Econtinued,Environment time at home was the single strongest predictorE ofEnvironment better achieve- E Environment E Environment “lives to be over one hundred years ment scores and fewer behavioral problems. Mealtime was more old.” powerful than time spent in school, studying, church, playing A Activity A Activity A Activity A Activity Activity “What? How can that be?” Ran- sports or art activities.” (http://www.barillaus.com/Pages/Expert- A dy blurted out, not really intending Advice-Detail.aspx?AdviceArticleID=2&AdviceAuthor=Dr.-Wil- T Trust to voice his astonishment.T Trust liam-Doherty) T Trust T Trust T Trust Apparently, the Israeli govern- According to Mary Hyman, M.D., in How Eating At Home Can I Interpersonal ment wondered the sameI thingInterpersonal and Save Your Life, in 2010, 50 percent of meals wereI eatenInterpersonal away from I Interpersonal I Interpersonal RELATIONSHIPS commissioned a study. The assumpRELATIONSHIPS- home and one in five breakfasts were from McDonalds.RELATIONSHIPS Families RELATIONSHIPS RELATIONSHIPS tion was that it was diet, since the eat together three times a week on average, meals last less than O Outlook O Outlook O Outlook O Outlook O Outlook Bedouin eat whole foods, no preser- twenty minutes and are spent watching television or texting. vatives or candy, and very little meat. Here’s a thought. Since so many families celebrate the holiday N Nutrition But it was not their diet. N Nutritionseason with a special family meal, let’s useN this wonderfulNutrition occa - N Nutrition N Nutrition The secret? No stress and fam- sion as a springboard for enjoying our loved ones more often than ily dinner. The Bedouin make room for life. They startCREATIONhealth.com their day just twice a year. What if this was the year thatCREATIONhealth.com we chose to make CREATIONhealth.com CREATIONhealth.com at dawn; each family member has a job–some tend sheep, some room for life? What if we made it a custom to celebrate what mat- Increase circle size by 190% make clothes, others make meals, etc., and they finish their work ters most instead of scattering our energies on things that are here Add Circleby sunset. Their Shadow Object custom Style is that each family gathers back at the today and gone tomorrow? What if we stopped “doing” life and Left offsettents .125”for dinner. They build a fire for their festive evening of sto- started living life? C Choice C Choice C Choice C Choice Add 2ptries, white music, stroke and around singing, box and they connect for three or four hours I invite you to trade chaos for connection and make room Add Shadowas a family. to box for life. Start living life to the fullest...and let it begin with family After hearing that story, Pastor Frazee decided to Rtrade chaosRest dinner. R Rest R Rest R Rest for connection so he could make room in his life for, well, life. (See That’s CREATION Health! his book, Making Room for Life: Trading Chaotic LifestylesE forEnvironment Con- E Environment E Environment E Environment nected Relationships.) Lynell LaMountain writes from Florida Hospital in Orlando, Fla.
A Activity A Activity A Activity A Activity 4 Southwestern Union Record T Trust T Trust T Trust T Trust
I Interpersonal I Interpersonal I Interpersonal I Interpersonal RELATIONSHIPS RELATIONSHIPS RELATIONSHIPS RELATIONSHIPS
O Outlook O Outlook O Outlook O Outlook
N Nutrition N Nutrition N Nutrition N Nutrition
CREATIONhealth.com CREATIONhealth.com CREATIONhealth.com CREATIONhealth.com Shades of Grace By Mike Tucker » Speaker/Director, Faith For Today
True Happiness Comes From Giving
There’s a lot about Christmas that we don’t like. Nobody likes the crass commercialism and Christians still find it difficult to stomach Santa Claus. However, there is still something special about this time of year, and most often the best part of Christmas can be seen in the reactions of children. That’s why I really like this story.
A little girl was excitedly looking through the Barbie dolls in The little girl and her father had been standing at the door- a toy store with a roll of money clamped tightly in her little hand. way. She smiled the biggest, prettiest grin you have ever seen. When she came upon a Barbie she liked, she would turn and ask The father asked his daughter why she had done that. “Daddy, her father if she had enough money to buy it. He usually said “yes,” didn’t Nana and Paw Paw want me to buy something that would but she would keep looking and keep going through their ritual of make me happy?” He said, “Of course they did, Honey.” To which “Do I have enough?” the little girl replied, “Well, I just did!” As she was looking, a little boy wandered in across the aisle We all know that the essence of Christmas has nothing to and started sorting through the Pokémon toys. He was dressed do with Santa, reindeer, or Christmas trees. While Jesus certainly in clothes that were obviously rather worn, and wearing a jacket wasn’t born on December 25th, Christmas is supposed to be a cel- that was probably a couple of sizes too small. He, too, had money ebration of His birth. But the birth of Jesus is actually meaningless in his hand, but it looked to be no more than five dollars or so, at without His sacrificial death and resurrection. In his instructions the most. to the church at Corinth, Paul reminded believers of the impor- He was with his father as well, and kept picking up the Poké- tance of these two great events. “For I delivered to you first of all mon video games. Each time he picked one up and looked at his that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according father, his father shook his head, “no.” to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again The little girl stopped and watched the interchange between the third day according to the Scriptures” 1 Cor. 15:3-4 (NKJV). the little boy and his father. Rather dejectedly, the boy had given Later, Paul concludes in 1 Cor. 15:17-19 (NKJV): “And if Christ up on the video games and had chosen what looked like a book of is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins! Then also stickers instead. The little girl put her Barbie back on the shelf, and those who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. If in this life ran over to the Pokémon games. She excitedly picked up one that only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable.” was lying on top of the other toys, and raced toward the checkout, The death and resurrection of Christ are the two most im- after speaking with her father. portant events in the history of the universe! Without them we Another customer got in line behind the little girl and her have no salvation and no true understanding of the character of father. Then, much to the little girl’s obvious delight, the little boy the Father. and his father got in the same line behind the other customer. But Bethlehem’s Babe touches us in ways nothing else can. After the toy was paid for and bagged, the little girl handed As we think of Joseph and Mary in the manger, our hearts are it back to the cashier and whispered something in her ear. The warmed and we are moved to respond to this great gift by giving cashier smiled and put the package under the counter. gifts of love to others. After the other customer had made her purchase, the little My prayer for you this Christmas is that while you are moved boy came up to the cashier. The cashier rang up his purchases and by the story of the Christ Child, you will not forget the Man, Jesus then said, “Congratulations, you are my hundredth customer to- Christ, who died for our sins and rose again. It is the death and day, and you win a prize!” She handed the little boy the Pokémon resurrection of Christ that gives His birth its special meaning. game as he stared in disbelief. It was, he said, exactly what he had wanted! Mike Tucker is speaker/director of Faith For Today.
www.swurecord.org | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 5 Pass it On... A Monthly Focus on Evangelism in the Southwest
By Melinda Prater
Sharing Jesus, Family-Style
hat a tremendous blessing it is to serve the Lord! Our Daisy, 13, would tell a children’s Bible story to over 200 kids. They family had an amazing experience meeting and work- all listened very carefully and eagerly answered the questions at Wing with the people of Livingstone, Zambia, as we the end. Daisy was surprised that many of the kids took notes as traveled there to conduct ShareHim meetings this fall! We were she told the story. They were very excited to receive the matchbox part of a team of 30 people, mostly from the Joshua, Texas, church, cars that friends back home had donated. that held meetings at 17 sites around the city of Livingstone. That Dean, 16, preached to over 450-500 people who sat on tarps city will never be the same! spread on the ground. The Dambwa North site, where my daughter Zoey Everyone was very and I were assigned, was about three-fourths of a mile warm and welcoming from the Dambwa North Seventh-day Adventist Church. and ready to learn. Even I preached there in an open field in the middle of a busy though the electricity market and residential area. We were blessed to have very was not always there, dedicated church members who took extremely good the love of God was care of us and of our equipment. Everyone was so kind there. Fifty-six people to us; they really did seem like family. From the elders from Dambwa South who prayed with us before and after the sermon to the gave their hearts to the prayer band that kneeled in prayer throughout the entire Lord. sermon, I felt the Holy Spirit was My husband, Ron- in control. nie, was our quiet Zoey, who is eight years old, strength. He provided soon learned that “Isha” means a sense of calm to our uncle in Tonga and she enjoyed family in what, at times, getting acquainted with her new seemed like controlled Zambian family members. Zoey chaos. At Dambwa also visited several other sites, and South they called him everyone always noticed when she G The children were “Big Man.” And we captive listeners as was not there with me. She had a Daisy Prater told the would all agree—he great time with all the children, children’s story at the kept us safe, he kept us Dambwa South site running in the fields before the each evening. grounded, and he kept us meetings and singing with them sane. He is certainly our too! How amazing it was when “Big Man,” and we could I made the call at the end of the never go on these adventures without him. first night’s sermon to see Zoey We are so thankful for the wonderful op- stand up! God is so good! On the portunity God gave our family to share Jesus last Sabbath, Zoey, along with 29 with others. Two years ago we traveled to the people from Dambwa North, were Philippines to conduct ShareHim meetings, baptized! G Dean Prater preached a series of ShareHim and I guess you might say that we got “hooked” sermons at the Dambwa South SDA Church in The Dambwa South site, near Livingstone, Zambia. Fearful of preaching at first, on evangelism. And if God should ever open the the Dambwa South church, where door for us to go and preach again, we are ready Dean, Daisy, and Ronnie were assigned, consisted of three One- and willing to walk (maybe even run!) through it. There is noth- day Churches and a building that they had built themselves out ing more rewarding than seeing others come to Christ, especially of railroad tracks. None of these churches had walls. Each night when it’s your very own daughter!
6 Southwestern Union Record Visión Hispana
un breve noticiero mensual del suroeste
Dejémosle pues, que Él dirija
uando escuche la voz de Dios que me dijo, “pídele a tú no tenía que improvisar usando su propio testimonio de lo que hermano Joaquín, que cante para tu campaña.” Yo pensé, Dios había hecho y estaba haciendo en su vida. C“¿de verdad, cómo puede eso ser?” Pero Él dijo, “hazlo.” Nosotros comenzamos a predicar un viernes y para el miérco- “no es parte de las tradiciones de nuestra iglesia permitir a alguien les de la siguiente semana mi hermano ¡pidió ser bautizado! Él me que no es miembro participar.” Yo razoné, pero seguí escuchando, dijo, “Hermana, yo no sé lo que está pasando pero yo estoy muy “hazlo.” feliz, y yo sé que Dios me ama.” ¡El domingo por la mañana mi Yo he aprendido a obedecer la voz de Dios, por lo tanto llamé hermano fue bautizado en el mar! a mi hermano quien vive en la República Dominicana. Le pedí a el Yo no necesito decir mucho más, solo lo que yo aprendí. Yo que cantara durante la campaña que yo presentaría allá. “de nin- aprendí que nunca deberíamos poner a Dios dentro de una caja guna manera” Yo canto pero no es para Dios, sino para el mundo, creada por manos humanas llena de nuestras ideas y limitaciones, respondió el. (Mi hermano es un cantante profesional, que vivía la en un intento de limitarle a hacer su voluntad a nuestra mane- vida que demanda ese tipo te trabajo.) Pero yo le insistí hasta que ra. Mejor, deberíamos abrirnos al Espíritu Santo que guie nuestro él me dijo que sí. servicio. Después de todo, el Padre, el Hijo, y el Espíritu Santo Creíamos que la única cosa que mi hermano iba a hacer era conocen la manera única en que cada alma puede ser alcanzada. cantar durante mis presentaciones, y así lo hizo pero solo la prime- Muchas personas entregaron sus vidas a Jesús como resultado ra noche. ¡Lo más lejos que nosotros teníamos eran los planes de de las campañas que se llevaron a cabo en la República Dominica- Dios! ¡Era mucho más de lo que nosotros podíamos imaginar! El na, ¡y glorificamos el nombre de Dios por ello! traductor de mi hijo Daniel solo pudo traducir la primera noche, Es mi oración que nosotros le permitamos a Dios que nos use, y mi hermano ofreció traducir para el por el resto de la campaña, y que le enseñemos a otros de su gracia que redime. El versículo de y así lo hizo. Consecuentemente Joaquín no solo estaba cantando la biblia que usamos durante los devocionales fue: Efesios 3:20-21 sino que también estaba predicando mientras traducía. En algu- (MSG) nas ocasiones la computadora de mi hijo se trancaba y mi herma- Dios puede hacer grandes cosas si le dejamos, si le confiamos lo suficiente como pare permitirle que traba- je en nuestras vidas y en la vida de esos que necesitamos alcanzar. Dios desea usarnos, y desesperadamente quiere que salgamos de nuestra zona de co- modidad. Dejémosle pues, que Él dirija.
Daisy Quinones
F Daisy Quinones, Joaquin Sanchez, y Daniel Quinones.
www.swurecord.org | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 7 Mission–A Way of Life An Entire Church Gets Involved in Mission Pat Humphrey
How do you get 30 mem- letters, and made appeals bers and friends of one at church to help fund the congregation, including the travel expenses for the pastor, to travel far across group. According to Jeff the ocean to the continent Coleman, the church’s pas- of Africa to preach 17 Share- tor, “We spent $70,000 get- Him evangelistic meetings? ting our people over there That might sound like a [to Zambia]. Some say it is challenging feat for some, money not well spent. But but for the Joshua Seventh- when you look at the bap- day Adventist Church in tisms, you can calculate Joshua, Tex., involvement that we spent $70 per can- in mission is simply a way didate. When you look at of life. “Our church doesn’t it that way, it’s money well just think this was a trip spent.” for only 30 members. This was their trip too, even if they didn’t The mission team was a diverse one, with its members ranging go with us,” says Kerrie Kimbrow, a Joshua member who coordi- from ages 8 to 78. “We were blessed to have a lot of young people nated the travel arrangements for the group. “When we got back with us. This was a fantastic opportunity for them to preach,” from Livingstone, Zambia, about 20 church members met us at says Kerrie Kimbrow. “This gives them affirmation for their faith the airport with banners welcoming us home. The church was and the experience helps to form their life’s direction.” very much involved.” Meetings were held at 17 different sites around the city of Liv- The idea was born about a year ago, when Duane McKey, vice ingstone, and on October 15, the final Sabbath of the series, 588 president for evangelism at the Southwestern Union, and his people were baptized. One of the new converts was eight-year- wife, Kathy, who coordinates ShareHim meetings, visited the old Zoey Prater, who traveled with her family as part of the mis- Joshua church. Ron and Kerrie Kimbrow invited the McKeys to sion team. About 400 other people continue to study and will be lunch and, according to Kerrie, “that started the ball rolling.” The baptized in the near future. “We’ll never really know until eterni- McKeys were already planning a trip to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, ty the far-reaching impact of these meetings,” said Jeff Coleman. for the fall of 2011, where about 50 ShareHim meetings would be Because Bibles are scarce in Zambia and in response to the conducted. So it was decided that a group from the Joshua church many requests for them, Charlene West, executive director of would also hold meetings in nearby Livingstone, Zambia. evangelism for The Quiet Hour, and leader of the Zambia mis- Soon afterward a mission group was organized and the entire sion team, came to the rescue. Hearing of the need, Charlene im- church, it seems, got involved in the planning and fundraising. mediately placed a call to The Quiet Hour in the U.S., request- Families did yard work, held bake sales, sold burritos, sent out ing funds to purchase the much-needed Bibles. Within days, The
8 Southwestern Union Record Top: Pat Humphrey speaks through a translator at one of the evangelistic meetings.
Quiet Hour had wired the money to purchase 900 Bibles so that Above left: The “Happiness Class” met at 4:00 p.m. every day for in-depth Bible each baptismal candidate could be gifted with a Bible of their very study. own on the day of baptism. Any Bibles that were left over would Above right: Each morning the mission team would meet in order to plan for the be used for ongoing evangelistic outreach. day and spend time together in worship and prayer. As one who was part of the team that traveled to Zambia to conduct ShareHim meetings, I can tell you firsthand that the my mind. As I handed her the Bible, she said, “This is the most experience is a life-changing one. But aside from the powerful precious gift I’ve ever received.” I think that says it all. impact it had on my own life, the words of one young lady, for Pat Humphrey is associate editor of the Record. whom I was able to secure a Bible, left an indelible impression on
Bottom row: Nearly 600 people were baptized on the final Sabbath of the series, as hundreds more looked on. Mission team member Zoey Prater (above), eight years old, was among those baptized.
To view a video of the Joshua church’s ShareHim experience in Zambia, visit www.swurecord.org/videos. You can also scan the QR code to the right in order to view the video.
www.swurecord.org | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 9 Caring Enough to elong Bby Chelsea Bond with Conna Bond
few months ago, I started feeling like I don’t belong—at We arrived on Wednesday, met our church elders and drivers church, with my friends, and even sometimes at home. on Thursday, and preached our first sermon on Friday night. We AMaybe it’s because I’m out of high school but not yet into were to preach again on Sabbath morning, Sabbath evening, and college. Human nature, it seems, always wants to be “in” to some- Sunday night. Many of us were young, including my little brother thing. and sister who were only 13 and 11. For me, getting through that I delayed starting college by one semester to travel with my first weekend was like scaling Mt. Kilimanjaro. family to Zimbabwe, Africa, on a ShareHim mission trip. All six of On that first Friday night, we all waited with our laptops, pro- us—my mom, dad, two sisters and brother and I—preached at six jectors, and cords at the front entrance of the hotel lobby as our different sites in and around the city of Bulawayo. drivers arrived one by one. It was daunting to leave with strangers. We arrived on a bus late at night during one of the routine roll- None of us had cell phones that worked. We were completely cut ing electricity blackouts that are just part of life in Zimbabwe. I off from each other. have never felt so lost and out of place as I did that night. When we arrived back at the hotel that night, we shared our war I’d been to Africa before. But the first time, I was more afraid stories. I had survived, but I certainly didn’t feel like I belonged. than anything else. Afraid to fly. Afraid to go alone without any And I really didn’t even want to. I just wanted to get through it close friends or family. Afraid of dying from some terrible disease. and get home. But I had a wonderful time. God clearly has helped me overcome Every day our lives revolved around the random blackouts. For- the obsessive fears I experienced as a child. Fear no longer defines tunately, the generators kept the hotel lights on. But when the me. And I know it was God who changed me. electricity would suddenly blink on and the generators click off, Feeling out of place brings with it a whole new spectrum of we’d rush to charge up our laptops and electronics, blow-dry our emotions. Where do I belong? And what does it really mean to hair, and boil water for Rooiboos tea while we practiced our next belong, anyway? Is it a feeling or a perfect set of circumstances? sermon. The first few days in Africa were spent sightseeing, so I didn’t We were fortunate to have drivers, and they were fortunate have a lot of time to think. We were frantically running from place to have cars. Some sites were 20 to 30 miles outside the city, and to place visiting friends, hunting for wildlife, haggling for cheap most who attended our meetings came on foot. Many sat on blan- souvenirs, and just taking it all in as quickly as possible. kets laid out on dirt or cement slabs, and shielded themselves with But the wondering hit me again on the bus as we drove up to umbrellas against the hot sun on Sabbath mornings. our hotel, with its humming generators and the lingering smell of Everything was strange. Everything was inconvenient. Getting fried caterpillars—a smell I never got used to. About 50 of us ar- places. Communicating. Getting equipment to work. Figuring out rived that night, some by way of Victoria Falls and others through a routine. Learning to understand the culture. It’s so much the Harare. We each had 16 sermons to preach, and we were already same there and so different at the same time. If I squinted, I could exhausted. We turned on the water to wash our hands and take almost imagine I was in a mid-sized American city. There were all showers, and the water was brown. the trappings of home, but not everyone had them. I was completely overwhelmed. I had preached before, but nev- The first night was the hardest. My sermon went well, but I had er with a translator, and certainly not 16 sermons in a row—after trouble putting my heart into it, knowing I still had 15 more to go. showers in brown water. I love to preach, and I love the messages our church has to share. Most of our sites were partially-built One-Day Churches. Some Messages straight from the Bible that are largely overlooked or ig- didn’t have electricity at all. Most used generators, regardless, be- nored. But somehow I was having trouble getting past me. cause the daily rolling electricity blackouts were unpredictable. I was so relieved when Tuesday came. Tuesday was our day off,
10 Southwestern Union Record and I finally had time to think. And on Tuesday, I realized some- In reality, they started to realize that I actually cared about the thing was different. I felt good. I felt hopeful. I actually looked for- same time I actually started to care. And I realized that belonging ward to Wednesday and to preaching again to faces and smiles also has to do with caring. It’s being completely and deliberately that were already growing familiar. where you are and caring about what really matters. I sort of felt like I...belonged. I’m really glad to be home again and back in my own bed. But I Since I’ve been home, I’ve thought a lot about what happened in now belong as much in Africa as I do here. Because I’ve been there. those first first few days. About what changed. And it occurred to And I’ve cared. me that what changed...was me. Most of us know exactly where our comfort zones are. And we It also occurred to me that belonging has very little to do with try to stay in them as much as possible. In reality, we often feel like circumstances. In fact, it has nothing to do with being in the right we don’t belong, even when we’re in them. And that brings me to place, with the right people, at the right time. my final point. by Chelsea Bond with Conna Bond In retrospect, I’ve decided that belonging is becoming. Becom- Achieving a sense of belonging isn’t accidental. It comes from ing the right person. Becoming something you weren’t—some- choosing to belong. Sometimes we simply choose not to, and it’s times because you want to and sometimes because you have to. always a selfish choice. When it happens, it’s kind of like growing wings. Things may be You can go through your entire life and never feel as if you be- just as bad as they were before, but suddenly you’re soaring above long, but it doesn’t have to be that way. In just about every situa- it all and accomplishing things you never thought you could. And tion you’ll find the same problems and frustrations with the same you know it isn’t you. kinds of people. Belonging has nothing to do with the way things And you discover that you’re actually happy being right where are. you are, with the good and the bad, and that you actually belong. Belonging is your choice. You stop wishing you could be somewhere else, doing something else, with someone else. You realize that one place is really just like any other, no matter where you are, what you’re doing, or who you’re doing it with. There’s good and there’s bad. Belonging isn’t about where you are. It’s about who you are. But it’s even more than that. It’s about having a sense of purpose. During my first couple of sermons, I was miserable. I didn’t want to be there. I just Chelsea Bond shares a sermon through her interpretor while preaching in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. wanted to be done. And then it finally hit me that the information I was sharing really mattered. Not just to And no one does more to protect that choice than God Himself. them, but to me. He’s the One who gives you freedom. The freedom not to be the And that’s when they started to respond and I started to relax. right person. The freedom not to care. The freedom not to belong. We began laughing together and sharing inside jokes. I fell in love Your choice is your choice, now and for eternity. Because now with their language. Ndebele has clicks and consonants I’d never and eternity are connected. And choosing to belong here is choos- heard before. I loved hearing my translator take my words and ing to belong, period. It’s practice for heaven. make them his. I started throwing Ndebele phrases into my sermons, like “Un- kulunkulu muhle” (God is good), and learning familiar songs in Chelsea Bond is a recent graduate from their language. They loved it. Chisholm Trail Academy in Keene, Tex.
www.swurecord.org | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 11 Light Through the Prism of the Arts Costin and Leah Jordache
hat do you do if you’re a mission-minded local church actor who presents the entire gospel message in one act, entitled located in the same neighborhood as a dozen art gal- The Chosen Garment. Wleries, and a football’s throw from a world-class arts The keynote address was delivered by Nathan Greene, ac- district? The answer should be fairly straightforward: host an claimed Adventist artist whose work is widely known and appreci- annual arts festival, celebrating the intersection between art and ated in the Christian world. He challenged attendees to consider faith; open your church to the public, inviting community artists the powerful effects of art in communicating the gospel message. to share their work; and invite community art enthusiasts to ex- He was pleasantly surprised to find a local church putting such an perience a church that un- intentional emphasis on the derstands how significantly arts and expressed a desire art has contributed to faith, to see more local churches and vice versa. catch a similar vision. That’s exactly what the The weekend continued Dallas First Church (DFC) on Saturday night with a did. Located in the shadow concert featuring special of downtown, DFC de- guests Michael Cruz, Pricilla cided to include a ministry Piedra, and Kristina Can- focus with a commitment non, which led into the most to serve members of its extensive event of the week- congregation and its sur- end: the DFC community art rounding community. Out gallery. of that commitment grew Transforming most of the the Celebration of the Arts, side rooms and both foyers an annual weekend that into professional gallery en- invites DFC members and vironments, DFC members Dallas residents to engage made room for over 200 in a conversation about the pieces of art from a num- relationship between faith ber of genres. Most of the and art. art was submitted by Dal- For the past three years las residents who were not DFC members and staff affiliated with DFC. Judges have planned an annual walked from room to room weekend-long experience and awarded winners in each featuring notable guest category. Upwards of 200 speakers, concerts, hands- people from all walks of life on workshops and a com- came to enjoy the art and munity art gallery. This one another’s company. The year was no exception. The transformation into a beau- weekend kicked off with a tiful upscale art gallery was dramatic presentation by made complete with gour- Steven Mosely, a Christian met hors d’oeuvres.
Nathan Greene teaches an engaging painting workshop.
12 Southwestern Union Record Even at that, the weekend of Seventh-day Adventists was far from over. Sunday fea- shares and understands the tured a number of art courses needs and interests of its com- offered to the public in areas munity and extends an open such as clay sculpture, digi- invitation to have a real rela- tal photography, and paint- tionship with the people in the ing, taught by the weekend’s world around it. special guests and other local Perhaps artist Nathan artists. All of these highlights Greene said it best. “Art does are the elements that gave have the amazing ability to substance to the Celebration cross denominational and cul- of the Arts weekend and made tural boundaries, leaving us on it a success. common ground to celebrate During the Celebration of beauty, aesthetics, and the gift the Arts weekend, many who of creativity God has shared attended had never stepped with all of us.” inside a Seventh-day Adventist So why should you be excit- church, or any church, for that ed about any of this? Perhaps matter. There were artists who because the Celebration of the were deeply grateful to a local Arts offers a model. A model Seventh-day Adventist church for innovative ministry within for allowing them to share our cities and communities their passion. One artist even that encourages us to truly be donated ten percent of his the “salt of the earth and the weekend sales to DFC.
That weekend new rela- light of the world”—enhanc- tionships were formed. That ing the flavor of life within our weekend children were in- community and creating an spired to develop their artistic unquenchable thirst for God skills for the glory of God. And using a shared community that weekend, with the help value, in this case, the beauty of three of the most listened and creativity of art. to radio stations in the Dal- las/Ft. Worth Metroplex, the Costin and Leah Jordache light was shining bright and serve as pastors at the Dallas the message rang out loud and First Church of Seventh-day clear: The Dallas First Church Adventists.
Steven Mosely performs The Chosen Garment.
www.swurecord.org | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 13 14 Arkansas-Louisiana Conference Southwestern UnionRecord L Lake Charles Community GetsMoving! healthful eating.Other itemsinthebags ing theForks OverKnives on documentary it, andbrochures andflyers insidepromot- received a bag with our church address on members participated. Eachparticipant this outdoorevent, andalmostall of our Church members were excited tohelpwith place winnersindifferent agecategories. awarded first-, second-, and third- and thechildren finisheda1K. We up for theevent. Adults dida5Krun, the civic center, and76people signed place indowntown Lake Charles at Charles community. Theevent took Day” madeabigimpact intheLake day ofhealth and fitness. Seventh-day Adventist-sponsored 8:00 p.m. toadvertise thisexciting area bythefood courtfrom 1:00to Charles church to use the common ber 25.Themallallowed theLake tion for “Let’s Move Day” onSeptem was theenergetic sceneofahuge promo- the Prien Lake MallinLake Charles, La., wild life, he was put in jail after being cited to workasaflight paramedic. Still livinga years laterin2007,went toNome, Alaska, alcohol andleading ariotous life. Navy and it wasn’t long before he was using At theageof17,hejoined the the church. concluded thathedidn’t needreligion or Through rationalization, Roger Saturday. clear thattheseventh day oftheweekwas to church onSunday, when itseemedso wenthimself, hequestioned why everyone after reading the Ten Commandments for ake rapture thatmadenosensetohim,and Ten days later, our“Let’s Move Roger becameaparamedic, andsome C people inhischurch talkingabouta harles much timeatchurch. He heard Roger Daggett didn’t spend Arkansas-Louisiana News As a young boy growing up, L , The Light ThatKeeps onShining a . » On September 15, - moting pant. Walmart andgivenoutfree toeachpartici the “Let’s Move Day” logo were donatedby by oursponsors.T-shirts with other promotional itemsoffered Hope Seminar, along with were anadvertisement for anupcoming puzzling questions that he had as a young as hefound soundBible answerstothose associates modeled Jesus before him,and and lifestyle begantotake place ashiswork Sabbath. Aradical transformation ofheart Doug Batchelor, andgoingtochurch each gan studying theBible, watchingvideosby to shineinto Roger’s mindandlife. He be- was here thatthelight ofthegospelbegan for Roger andtook himinto theirhome. It Owens family assumed full responsibility Asaprovision oftheagreement, the jail. the local authorities andgotRoger outof tered into a“third partyagreement” with Adventists. One ofthem, Mike Owens, en who worked withRoger were Seventh-day A couple ofpilots andafellow paramedic with aDWIwhile drivingasnowmobile. We willbeatthemallagainsoon,pro-
Forks OverKnives andtheHope Mall advertising for “Let’s Move Day,” held on September 25, pays off! pays 25, September on Day,”held Move “Let’s for advertising Mall - - upcoming events. Please pray for God’s blessings on these been givenoutfor eachoftheseevents. Seminar. More than 350flyers have shine onthepathway ofothers. same “light” thathenowendeavors to “light” that illuminated his pathway is the as adeacon.The the Scriptures, andserves encouraging themtostudy andmemorize He is engaged with the youth of his church, newfound faithandwalkwiththeLord. tism. Today heisenthusiastic abouthis life toChristthrough thewatersofbap- and inDecember, Roger surrendered his Elroy Tesch were engaged in Bible studies Church. It wasn’t long before heandPastor sought outtheSeventh-day Adventist Ark., where he had grown up, and he boy. In 2010, Roger returned to Jonesboro, Sorin Munteanu, pastorSorin Steve president Orian, ARK-LA Conference
Welcomes New Youth Director Arkansas-Louisiana Conference Shreveport » Youth today need mercy Adventist Youth organizations, and even enth-day Adventist Church existed. As a and forgiveness like never before. The sta- Sabbath School. These uplifting events church member was getting to know Cin- tistics are grim. In the next two hours: and activities reach a person’s heart, lead- dy, a youth from the church, the topic of • 960 will self-injure their bodies ing them to become open to God and summer camp came up and she said, “Why • 3960 high school seniors will drink al- break away from the bondage of the past. don’t we invite some of my friends? They cohol don’t have anything to do this • 160 will drop out of school summer, anyway.” The church • 178 will be abused or neglected member working with Cindy • 120 will run away from home took her to visit these friends one • 480 will get high on prescription drugs Sabbath afternoon to invite them • 97 will be raped to camp. Three of them were • 120 children will be born to a teen overjoyed when they found that mother with full sponsorship from the • 720 will contract an STD church, they were indeed going • 1 will be shot to death to Camp Yorktown Bay. While As I begin my new role as youth direc- at camp, they encountered many tor for the Arkansas-Louisiana Confer- opportunities to open their ence, I am constantly filled with thoughts hearts to God. By the end of the of the desperate and sometimes dangerous week, they were so full of love plight of our youth. Ellen White was keen and God’s grace that all three of on reaching our youth when she said, “The Ray and Becky House are eagerly seeking God’s leading as Ray them decided to be baptized! begins his new position as youth director for the Arkansas-Louisiana youth need more than casual notice, more Conference. God is wanting to break than an occasional word of encourage- through to every young person ment. They need painstaking, prayerful, We need to double our efforts in creating in these last days. He is urging all of us careful labor” (Gospel Workers, p. 208). events with the distinct purpose of expos- to make every effort to bring our youth My mission is to create breakthrough ing youth to God’s love, joy, and purpose. to places where they can encounter God’s encounters in which young people can I have seen the amazing results of break- grace and break free from the bondage of find God’s calling and purpose in their through encounters! I wish you could meet this sin-sick world. lives. Many of our churches already offer three youth that came to Teen Camp at breakthrough opportunities in the church Camp Yorktown Bay this summer. These Ray and Becky House school, Adventurer and Pathfinder clubs, young people didn’t even know the Sev- Slidell Church Hosts VBS Slidell, La. » The Slidell Seventh-day The artwork of Nazareth was fan- Adventist Church hosted “Hometown tastically done in a way to make one Nazareth—Where Jesus was a Kid” Va- feel they were really in ancient Naz- cation Bible School, June 13-17, 2011 at 6 areth. On Sabbath the children put o’clock each evening. Approximately 30 on a presentation of songs, readings children and numerous helpers attended and a slide show of VBS activities each night to learn of ancient Nazareth. they participated in and learned Each evening was filled with songs, games, during the week. The service con- crafts, and delicious snacks. Denise Dero- cluded with the presentation of An attactive mural depicting life in Nazarath helped set the am was the VBS leader this year, and had certificates to the children who stage for the Slidell VBS program. several willing young helpers that made participated and to those who took VBS fun, exciting, and successful again this time from their schedules to volunteer as by all after the service. year. helpers. A delicious potluck was enjoyed Vernella Rogers
www.swurecord.org | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 15 Arkansas-Louisiana News Conway Church Leads Community in “Let’s Move Day” Conway, Ark. » As part of the nation- she says. wide response to First Lady Michelle Richard Obama’s “Let’s Move” campaign, the Hall, pastor Conway church organized a group to go of the Con- walking, jogging, running, and cycling on way church, September 25. This “Let’s Move Day” was was also glad led by a recent UCA nutrition graduate, to be a part of Juanita Montelongo. The Conway church’s an event that group of about 20 participants contrib- highlighted uted 68 miles of vigorous exercise to the the Adventist 1,000,000 mile challenge. They started at focus on health 9:00 a.m. and traveled the entire length and wellness. of the Tucker Creek Trail in Conway. The “Let’s Move is challenge culminated with a potluck-style a good thing picnic of healthy fruit, vegetables, and for both our whole grain foods. church’s abil- Juanita Montelongo eagerly put her ity to connect About 20 joggers, walkers, and cyclists logged 68 miles during Conway’s “Let’s Move Day.” knowledge to use by doing something good with the com- for the local community. “We need to do munity and to reconnect with some of our lifestyle choices they are making,” he says. as much as we can to help solve the prob- members’ needs. The community sees us lem of childhood obesity within our gen- participate and remembers that we are eration, so that our kids have a chance to health advocates. Our members also get Amie Regester make it to adulthood at a healthy weight,” to refocus and gain support for the healthy Five New Members Baptized Alma, Ark. » Pastor Bill Painter had the leading out in the construction along with tist Church because their uncle and aunt privilege of baptizing five new believers at their sons, Troy and David. As the Cruses attended there, and they found a new and the Alma Seventh-day Adventist Church, became aware of how much God loves exciting relationship with Christ. They including Michael and Leta Cruse. The them, they began attending church and love the quiet and dignified services, the Cruses live next door to the church build- studying their Bibles. They were among the messages that are Bible-centered, and the ing, but were unaware of Seventh-day first five to use the church’s new baptistery. members who love them so much. Adventists and what they believe. When Also baptized were Mike and Terri Melanie Rose Liberto was baptized for the church bought the adjoining building Morse. Before Mike’s mother passed away, the second time. She had accepted the and began a massive remodel, it drew the she pleaded with him to consecrate him- end-time message three years ago during Cruses’ attention and they visited with the self to God. He and Terri began looking for a seminar, and had requested to join the Arkansas-Louisiana Conference Arkansas-Louisiana Albert and Joann Mason family, who were a church to attend, but were not able to remnant church through baptism. But as find one in which they were time passed and she learned to love the comfortable. He had been Lord, Himself, she wanted to make a heart- baptized many years earlier felt dedication of her life to her Savior. in a Pentecostal church, and Cassie Reynolds was baptized at Camp Terri had been baptized at Yorktown Bay during summer camp this age 12 in a Baptist church. year. The church showed the video of her They began attending the baptism at camp and she was received into Alma Seventh-day Adven- membership along with the others. We are delighted to be part of Cassie’s life and to Newly baptized members (From left) be able to share the love of Christ with her. Melanie Rose Liberto, Pastor Painter, Cassie Reynolds, Leta Cruse, Michael Marilyn Harris Cruse, Michael Morse, and Terri Morse.
16 Southwestern Union Record First Annual Northwest Arkansas Health Expo Northwest Arkansas » The first an- and they were encouraged not only to follow continued with follow-up programs being
nual Northwest Arkansas Health Expo was up with their doctors, but were directed to conducted by area churches: Arkansas-Louisiana Conference an exciting success with 800 to 1,000 at- other health and spiritual outreach efforts tendees, and more than one hundred vol- being conducted at area Adventist churches. Rogers Church: unteers launching this ambitious new out- The children’s area was bright and fun, • Reboot Your Life Juice Fasting reach. In March, the Lord impressed the and focused on teaching kids the eight laws • “Fresh Ideas from the Kitchen” idea to reach the public in a big way in the of health through hands-on demonstrations monthly potluck, focusing on a plant- area of health on the hearts of Martin Kel- and activities. Each child was given some- based diet and lifestyle. ly, a Bentonville church member and nurse thing special to remind them of that particu- • Full Plate Diet program anesthetist, and Jeff and Nancy Riedesel, lar NEWSTART lesson. Good, healthy habits • Evangelistic meetings vegan and raw food chef/instructors from can be cultivated at an early age, and that is • Personal and small-group Bible stud- the Rogers church. Their vision required why we wanted to provide learning tools for ies children as well as adults. Bentonville Church: The health • Stretch and Flex (exercise and stretch- expo didn’t stop ing class) there! Two ad- ditional large Fayetteville Church: rooms were re- • Evangelistic meetings with a “Health served for medi- Nuggets” feature cal lectures by John Clark, M.D., Decatur Church/Wellness Secrets: an orthopedic • Ongoing lifestyle change classes and surgeon dedi- health lectures
G Attendees of the NWA Health Expo receive counseling from medical and health professionals.
E Vegan and raw food chefs and nutrition instructors demonstrate the steps to prepare a healthful key lime pie. months of preparation and volunteers gave hundreds of hours, ulti- mately engaging the cooperation of four cated to teach- Seventh-day Adventist churches—Ben- ing preventive G Participants go through the health screening section at the health expo. tonville, Rogers, Decatur, and Fayetteville. medicine, and a This daring, all-day event became a reality second room featuring nutrition and natu- The success of these events has given on Sunday, October 2, at the John Q. Ham- ral remedy demonstrations. Dr. Clark taught supporters the enthusiasm to begin plan- mons Convention Center in Rogers. prevention and potential reversal of today’s ning the Second Annual NWA Health Expo, This was not a typical health expo; it was most prevalent lifestyle diseases, including which will be held in the fall of next year. really two events in one—one for adults, an- heart disease, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Jesus invites us to follow His example by other for children! The adult area included Three professional chefs, a “Full Plate Diet” ministering to people through the right arm NEWSTART wellness education, medi- instructor, and two medical missionaries of our message—the health message. Surely cal screening stations with a range of tests teaching “Natural Remedies From the Kitch- the Lord will again bless and help us reach culminating in a health profile for every en” conducted diet, cooking, and natural even more people next year through the im- participant, and physician counseling ses- remedy demonstrations hourly in the sec- portant ministry of health evangelism. sions to evaluate all the health data that was ond room. God greatly blessed the efforts of Laura Weyer, Rogers church collected. For many this was a wake-up call, many, many volunteers, and attendees have
www.swurecord.org | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 17 18 Oklahoma Conference Southwestern UnionRecord hard ortheattemptisnotgenuine. too tive witnesswhen someoneistrying think thatwehave allexperienced anega light toshine,notmake ourlight shine.I Number one,weshouldlet (allow), our quickly tomindasIread thispassage: ther inheaven.” Acouple ofthingscome see your good works and glorify your Fa light soshinebefore men,thattheymay “Let your of Matthewchapter5,verse16. expression comes to us from the Gospel “letting theirlight shine.”Ofcourse,that can betrueisifthechurch membersare C Holleys Welcomes the Choctaw Church share thatfuture withus! these meetings. bers are praying for renewed energyandcommitment asaresult of through November andmem Attendance sofarhasbeengood, 19. night, Sabbathmorning,andeveningfrom October28 which are currently inprogress. Theyare beingheldeachFriday if thechurch wouldbewillingtohostaseries ofrevival meetings, church family. Assoonastheyhadsettled in,Pastor Holley asked that drew many visitors, followed byawonderfulfellowship meal. their tenure atChoctaw onOctober1,withaspecialSabbathservice new pastoralcouple, Leighton and Betty Lynne Holley. They began hoctaw seems tomethattheonly way thatthis Leighton and Betty Lynne Holley are thenew pastoral couple attheChoctaw church. Number twoisthatourlight shines The future looks bright, and we’re glad the Holleys are here to The Holleys have already becomeatreasured partoftheChoctaw a lighthouse inthecommunity. It expressed thatourchurches be
» I have oftenheard thedesire Choctaw church membersare excited towelcome our Oklahoma News Is Your Light Shining? - - whom wedobusiness. The greater part with whom we associate, and those with home circle, inthechurch, amongthose to workfor Christ.We candothisinthe if itisthere thatourdutylies, inorder even leave thenarrow circle ofthehome, 81. “We neednotgotoheathenlands,or you from Steps beginningonpage toChrist, light bearing?Letmeshare afew lineswith aged when you consideryour experience at have you everbeentemptedtobediscour His spiritworkinginourlives.Iwonder, works” are areflection ofHischaracterand mancominginto theworld.”Our“goodery “was thetruelight, which giveslight toev- Remember also that John tellsus that Jesus glorify notus,butourFather inheaven. through ourgoodworksandismeant to Robin Sagel - - others.” Letyour light shine. of thedisciples ofJesus canbeablessing to remember that,“the humblest andpoorest Jesus.” sitions oflife, wemay walkandworkwith So, in thehumblest duties and lowliest po- upon thestorm-tossed waves ofGalilee. trade aswhen He healed thesick orwalked His mission while workingatHishumble He wasasfaithfully fulfilling unhonored. peasants andlaborers, unrecognized and Lord oflife asHe walked sidebywith Nazareth. Ministeringangles attendedthe in patient toilinthecarpenter’s shopat life onearthwasspent of ourSaviour’s Be encouraged.Read thischapterand John Moyer, president Oklahoma Conference 19 Gloria Opp - - NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
Judy Marquette The international The international Richard Stenbakken, dressed in dressed Stenbakken, Richard his held costume, authentic Bible as he portrayed captive audience of Peter. the character the lovein such varied presented of Jesus And our thanks go es- ways. pecially and to the speakers took timesingers who from to their busy schedules their make presentations Arrow to the Broken church and commu nity. dinner held after the was a meetings grand success as we served and visited with many attend ees. headed back down. was tired, Everyone with a sense of accomplishing but content, effort. a worthy Several members and friends of the Okmulgee church church members and friends of the Okmulgee Several on hill, largest the world’s Hill, up Cavanal hiked Day.” Move “Let’s 25, September - - www.swurecord.org On three evenings of the following week evenings of the following On three indeed we were The second weekend into this went work and planning Much At the top Pastor the top Pastor At Mountain in concert, a featured artist on in concert, a featured Mountain and television. radio the services conducted by Dr. Murrell were has conducted services who in more Tull, by was accompanied He than 55 countries. us with her blessed who Ginger, his wife, in a degree holds Tull Dr. talent. musical (storytelling), which Preaching Narrative unique. made his presentation of re-enactments with first-person blessed and the Peter, Judas, by Rich Centurion, of chaplaincy director Stenbakken, ard for ministries of the General Conference Seventh-Day - His re-enact Adventists. which werements, enhanced by authentic apparel, gave characters living into insight times. Testament in New advertising to billboard from event, - print sign huge promotional a and invitations ed Arrow Expressway on the Broken in front par who thankful for all are We of church. us to see ticipated and for made it possible the members who who the members water was ferrying up and weary hikers and down the hill. Harveya gave Gil thought devotional ate and a prayer. We we had the lunches with us and brought - - - - The theme “Jesus The theme “Jesus »
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Launching the series was Mike Tucker, Tucker, was Mike Launching the series It was a very steep hike! Even the hardi Even a very was It hike! steep kmul ken ro Loves You” was Loves You” message of three the well-known evangelists Ar at the Broken series. revival during a ten-day row church - To for the Faith for speaker/director us with blessed richly who telecast, day first the during love Jesus’ of messages we were evening That Friday weekend. as we listened to enthralled La Jennifer
B Broken Arrow Church Holds Ten-day Revival Ten-day Holds Church Arrow Broken
O Members Hike the World’s Highest Hill Highest the World’s Hike Members day, September 25, several members September day, and met at church Okmulgee of the friends at lot parking the Walmart to Poteau Hill, the of Cavanal drive up to the base highest “world’s feet 1,999 is which hill,” short of being foot (one above the valley bonafide a four the hike and mountain), to the top. least) (at miles it est of us found a challenge. real of us, ranging Most the fif- in age from to eighty, ties and men, young three ages 10 and 11, made it all the and up, way back down, under our own steam. Some hitched a ride part with one way of 20 Oklahoma Conference Southwestern UnionRecord L A LoveStory 16-year-old Kareem wasinvited toaBap- planted. Afew years laterin2003, ued for Kareem, theseedwas interest neverwavered. spite theseissues,his set onJulene, andde- Kareem hadhiseyes that shedidnotknow. his question andsaid day. Shewasstymied by went tochurch onSun asked else herwhy everybody bath holy. He wasbewildered and ments declare thatweshouldkeep theSab- day, andshereplied thatthecommand why she went on Saturday instead of Sun ing raised in a baptist family hequestioned did not attend any events on Saturday. Be- Julene wasaSeventh-day Adventist and hediscoveredcame betteracquainted, that became somewhat friendly. Astheybe- that theywere inthesameclass,andthey into junior high,where Kareem discovered the family joke. Thisinterest continued and friends andsoonthatclaimbecame Julene astheonefor himtoallhisfamily He continued toclaim his friends toher. her. He wouldevensendmessagesthrough he wouldtease,amuse, orwalkwith was theonefor him.Every day inschool, Julene, hemadeuphismindthatJulene kite-making workshop. When Kareem saw Julene Williams metinAprilof1998 ata bean, eleven-year-old Kareem Grant and I wouldlike with you. toshare thisstory friendship todraw thisyoung mantoHim. homa. Godwasable tousethiseventual all theway from theCaribbeantoOkla be alastingoneashefollows hertocollege, tease her. As we will see, this crush was to enamored withher, andthenproceeds to before. Little boymeetslittle girl,becomes tic one,thelikes ofwhich wehave heard is a romanbe won to the Lord. This story andthere are manymystery ways soulscan wonders to behold. This revelation isnot a great wonders,” (Ps. 136:4),God’s ways are awton Although life contin Back ontheislandofNevis intheCarib-
» “To himwho alone doeth Oklahoma News ------tually, hisspiritual life suffered, although out with hisfriends inthe village. Even started drinking occasionally and hanging out thatvoice. Overthenextfew years, he such abigissueandattemptedtodrown haunt him,buthefelt thatitcouldnotbe living hislife. Thisquestion continued to cided toignore theissueandhave fun answer,giving him a satisfactory he de- sion from scripture. Asaresult ofnoone because hedidnotcometothatconclu Kareem wasnotsatisfied withthisanswer one hadachoice inthematter. However, it didnotmatterwhich day iskept andthat him Colossians 2:16,17andexplained that day instead ofSabbath.Thepastorshowed during aBible study why theykept Sun issue andasked oneoftheyouth pastors He stillcontinued toquestion theSunday tist youth campontheislandofSt. Kitts. to Bible studies, andeventually marriage. The two were marriedattheLawton church onAugust 14. Kareem Grant’s andJulene Williams’ childhood friendshipled themto become studentsatthesame college, then that aloving Godwouldburnhim for he tried tocompensatebyattending ever and wondered why someone be- dead andhellfire. He couldnotaccept church every Sunday.church every Thoughhe explanations onthestateof continued togo,hefound the reem questioned thepastor’s worship service tobesome- worship service sanctuary. Moreover, Ka was acceptable within the what unsettling.He ques - shouting, anddancingthat tioned theexcessive music, - - - - - high school. Theydiscussed thestateof three-week crusadeintheirlastyear of Bible teachings. enlighten himabouttheSabbathand other she could to and did studied, everything who would have to change. She explained, wavered inher faith.He wouldbe theone never church just tobeclose toher. She ventist. Yet he continued to attend her grew, andtheybecamecloser. being unequally yoked, their friendship Despite pressure from church family about and gave him Amazing Facts study guides. his interests. Julene continued towitness and HisSabbath.Thisrevelation revived topic wasonGod’s Ten Commandments the of 2006.Thefirstnight heattended, a Pathfinder crusadethe following January also interested inhimandinvited himto the New Year. Unknown tohim,Julene was drinking andbecomeabetterChristianfor December hemadeuphismindtostop quickly claimed herashis.By theendof friend mentioned aninterest inher, he ever, onChristmasEve of2005,when his aged andstoppedhispursuitofher. How - seemed unsuccessful. So hefelt discour doing kindthingsfor her, buthisefforts seriously. He walked herhomeandtried grew andhedecidedtopursuehermore gins toliveagainmoments afterdeath. They starteddatingbytheend ofthe He wasBaptist,andsheanAd During thistime,hisinterest inJulene - - Oklahoma Conference 21 - Trecia Alexander Trecia NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
Kareem’s family opposed his decision to opposed his decision family Kareem’s to the Holy Spirit’s conviction and finally and finally conviction Spirit’s Holy to the was He with God. go all the way decided to - 13, 2010 in the Law November baptized on graduated and Julene Kareem ton church. in the spring of University Cameron from coun pre-marital receiving 2011, and after seling from their pastor, O.J. Jackson, they Jackson, O.J. their pastor, seling from 14, 2011. I was so on August married were of in the planning to be involved thrilled their wedding. but Church, become a part of the Adventist that it was time made up his mind Kareem God was God completely. that he obeyed to intervene so able in that relationship of God. picture gained a true that Kareem - - - www.swurecord.org Members of the Choctaw church had fun playing games, games, had fun playing church Members of the Choctaw lunch and enjoying socializing, races, in sack participating picnic in October. during their church together - - The relationship between Kareem and between Kareem The relationship Robin Sagel Robin a testing ground for Kareem. The convic The Kareem. for ground a testing numerous spurred Spirit Holy the of tion studied the doctrines were and questions to his questions. in answer the Bible from on events social allowed Kareem However, and attendance his dictate to nights Friday group The entire he started to fall back. him and most im to witness to continued Kareem him. Eventually for pray portantly, and became started attending faithfully His atten study. very in Bible involved led in church dance and faithful witness him to serve was capacity God in whatever he started help- specifically, More needed. ing out as a deacon-in-training. and Kareem to grow, continued Julene more their relationship make to wanted was adamant Julene However, permanent. with him if he unite that she could only yielded truth. He in all of God’s believed - - On Sunday, October 16, the Choctaw church church October 16, the Choctaw On Sunday, »
Kareem’s time in church was always was always church time in Kareem’s hoctaw held a fall picnic at a park in nearby Harrah. Many church church at a park in nearby Harrah. Many held a fall picnic out to enjoy one of the last sum came members and friends mery days of the year and to fellowship together. mery and to fellowship of the year days a After of with all the trimmings, a number of sandwiches lunch sat and visited, in the members and friends participated games rousing several walks, and played for sack races, went beau in God’s had fun together out of volleyball. Everybody tiful nature. Choctaw Church Picnic Draws a Crowd Draws Picnic Church Choctaw C lege and came to Lawton, Okla., to attend Okla., Lawton, came to and lege in the fall of 2008. I University Cameron Friday small group them to attend a invited ministrynight I was operating out of dorm housing. They and in off-campus rooms opened the door decided to attend. This their home. church making the Lawton for he would attend and at first a blessing on Sabbaths as well as sporadically church spirit but as God’s meetings, night Friday on him, he started attending regu worked meetings became night The Friday larly. the dead and hellfire and he was happy he was happy and and hellfire the dead - a lov that that his conviction to discover sinners God would not burn ing and kind the most However, was correct. forever commit to fully for him doctrine difficult continued Sabbath truth. Julene to was the church he attended him, and witness to to col They decided to attend occasionally. 22 Southwest Region Conference Southwestern UnionRecord will notdepartfrom it. up children andyouth intheway theyshouldgo,so thatastheygrow they old, making ofastrong leader beginsearly inlife, and the Hebron church istraining in preparation forworship service their future as leaders of the church. The tee, plans and organizes a day where the young people of the church lead the being judgmental andcondemningwhen young people make mistakes. development. He alsoemphasized theimportanceofprevention, ratherthan level, andtoinitiateopportunities andministries for theirChristiangrowth and the church tolove theyouth outofthesymbolic window, tolove themontheir religious experience, Pastor Wade also encouraged the parents and leaders of church not tositinthewindowofcomplacency, boredom, and half-hearted the window”aswritteninbook ofActs.While encouraging theyouth ofthe mon entitled “Bored ofEutychus, who toDeath,”usedthestory was“sitting in spoke ontheimportanceofbeinginvolved inchurch asyoung people. Hisser youth day speaker, Roger R.Wade, Southwest Region youth ministries director, H Youth toGetInvolved Roger Wade Encourages church membersintheirChristiangrowth of whether we are actually helping new low minister, weconsidered thequestion “good”? as itshouldisbecauseourworksare not son that our light is not shining as bright “good works.”Isitpossible thattherea this passage is “light,” which encompasses something totake place. Thesomethingin to meare “letandlight.” optimalwords inthispassage The NKJV). glorify your fatherinheaven” (Matt.5:16, that theymay seeyour goodworksand ers to, “let your light so shine before men, ouston to action. Jesus admonishedHisfollow- Every month, theAYS leader, Gabrielle Birl, along with the youth commit- In arecent conversation withafel My understandingof“let”istoallow Roger R. Wade, conference youth ministries director, was thespeaker onHebron’s Youth Day. ity or, aswedescribeit,from paper to movefrom inspiration toreal , things toaccomplish inlife is T ex Southwest Region News One ofthemostdifficult . » Youth Day attheHebron church wasn’t atallboring!Our Let It Shine - - - how weare tolivewitheachother here andthirdsecond, books ofJohn explain James, firstandsecond Peter, andthefirst, and letting ourlights shine.Thebooks of opportunities to practice living, loving, we must be like, but we don’t offer enough great, theologically soundsermononwhat opportunities for members.We cangivea are needed are fellowship andnurturing given the title of leader. Two things that becausetheyare not lift afingertoserve members sitbackandcriticize andwillnot leaders is sometimes a major effort. Some are unaware ofhowthesearch for willing as achore andaburden. Many members ter year. islooked Christianservice upon year af- same people are chosentoserve major problem inourchurches when the numbers who are notChristians.We seea lieve not. As ministers, we have growing as weaddmemberstothechurch. Ibe- Naomi Harris - truth into my life. alized it,butGodwasusinghimtoshine to shinethrough him.He may nothave re- I giveGodthanksfor allowing God’s light up! Don’t get involved withit!” To thisday, alcohol messupyour life asitmessedmine “Sam,you don’t havesaid, agoodhead, let town drunk.Oneday hestoppedmeand some advice from oneconsidered tobethe letting your light shineiswhen Ireceived disciples, ifyou have love for oneanother.” other. By thisallwillknowthatyou are My have loved you, thatyou alsolove onean give toyou, thatyou love oneanother;asI “A13:34, 35(NKJV), newcommandment I this earth,andweare admonishedinJohn church isasdiverseany organization on on earthasweprepare for heaven. God’s The best example I can remember of Samuel L. Green Samuel L. Naomi Harris - Southwest Region Conference 23 - - Evelyn Edwards Evelyn NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
Youth director Roger Wade with seminar presenter presenter with seminar Wade Roger director Youth Of course, no visit to Lone Star would Lone Star Of course, no visit to F Dorothy Means. Dorothy cious lake; so, on Sunday, Al Booker, Billy Billy Al Booker, so, on Sunday, lake; cious and camp man Stanley, Winston Wright, - skiing les provided Caines ager Maurice sons, boat rides, canoeing, and jet ski rides. marking the end of the Labor Day With as possible in as much we crowded retreat, knowing that Sunday, on that eventful end of would signal the Monday midday and camaraderie, another mix of ministry, to be grateful continue Singles education. come apart opportunity “to this annual for director thank youth We awhile.” and ‘rest’ Vera coordinator and singles’ Wade Roger of the singles for their vision Ragland for Region. Southwest shoes and colorful T-shirts, served chilled T-shirts, colorful shoes and dis- wedges, and of course, watermelon of assorted school tributed backpacks full said it all, smiles The children’s supplies. their new shoes with with some leaving with their new school all left on, while lunch, Camp, Star Lone at Back supplies. tractor- old-fashioned an vespers, supper, and a grounds, the ride around hay drawn out the rounded of other activities myriad activities. day’s trip to the spa without a be complete - - - - - www.swurecord.org Tatiana Stubblefield, Chris Arnold, and Vera Ragland make a presentation to a presentation make Ragland Vera and Chris Arnold, Stubblefield, Tatiana seminar presenters Louise and Al Booker. Al and Louise presenters seminar G As she has done for the past years, Ath past years, the As she has done for Wright, and Jeremy Anderson captivated Anderson captivated and Jeremy Wright, to Rec as “How such topics listeners with ognize Mr. and Mrs. Right,” “Dating Some- “Dating and Mrs. Right,” ognize Mr. Your Keep to “How Children, With one “Pri and Word,” Sensitive to God’s Heart Donna and Dating.” orities…God, Family area at a Houston a dietician Wilson, presentations hospital, used PowerPoint and “The Distortions” “Portion entitled our health brain) for (the Other Stomach” segments. our Sanders organized ens native Frankie supplies school outreach–a community of an afford the children for distribution fol Immediately complex. housing able a the noon service,lowing formed singles apart- Hylands to the West processional with the children, they met There ments. teaching them with them while interacted new athletic passed out crafts, various - - - - Two came from as far as came from Two » . ex T ,
Children receive school supplies during community outreach. during community supplies school receive Children Following registration and supper, it was and supper, registration Following thens
A Singles Converge on Lone Star Camp Star on Lone Converge Singles away as California, while another came another while as California, away on all converging as near as Athens, from 19th annu the singles’ Camp for Lone Star al Labor Day Retreat. The event included included The event Retreat. al Labor Day worship including of activities, days four seminars, communi and praise, enriching fun cuisine, great socializing, ty outreach, 18-year- for and water activities activities, never been married, have and up who olds divorced, widowed,are with chil or single Me, God Has for The theme, “What dren. with its corresponding Me,” Be for Will - reso Me,” for Has a Plan theme song, “God the retreat. nated throughout for Complex Youth Multipurpose off to the - seminars and pro of the first in a series son Jeremy grams in that setting. Native with his Anderson began the proceedings - Beginning at day seminar and rap session. on Sabbath morning and con break morning, Monday through tinuing joined us among daring more the for Torrence Carolyn Rock’s Little For testimony. and walk prayer the singles of the retreat, the duration center youth the to return would of seminars interspersed a series for with praise and worship and spot- and Al Presenters health. on lights Billy Means, Dorothy Louise Booker, G 24 Southwest Region Conference Southwestern UnionRecord B Berean Celebrates Education Day ra “Themost precious thing God area. Rouge, strengthening histies tothe Alice, anativeofBaton married Mary the Berean school, andheeventually Years ago,Green taught in schools. education inSeventh-day Adventist pointers onthevalue ofaChristian its presentation, heshared withus Sabbath message.However, prior to dent Samuel Green presented the years ofmeritorious service.” the words “for more thantwenty accepted herplaque, which included recognition, wasvisibly movedasshe who apparently was surprisedbythe to Christianeducation. Lawrence, garet Lawrence for hercommitment Adventist education advocate Mar recognized former school chairand Berean’s principal,Jerome Pondexter, Shakuntala Ramsarran.She,along with introduced toeducation superintendent tions. Thosewho didnotknowherwere except for therecognitions andpresenta followed format, theusualSabbathservice meeting tofollow. Themorningsession day program with an afternoon town hall ficers’ meeting,butratheraneducation was notaconstituencymeetingoranof- were all inthesameplace. However, this treasurer, andeducation superintendent ing–the conference president, secretary, ings ofanofficers’ orconstituencymeet- aton Newly-elected conference presi R ouge , L , Southwest Region News a . » It hadallthemak - - - - education firstwillmake adifference,” he that. “Prioritizing bymakinganAdventist tunity for ustoexplore ways todoexactly meeting, which wouldprovide anoppor then announcedtheafternoon’s townhall save ourAdventist schools,” saidGreen. He tion, coupled withaheavenly directive, to convinced thatwehave anearthly obliga how sucheventually rescued him.“I am alize thevalue ofaChristianeducation and he addedthatitdidn’t take himlong tore- Drawing onhisown“colorful”cally. past, our responsibility!” Green saidemphati has givenusisourchildren. Children are marry. We learned that, God instructedHosea to ferring totheprostitute us inspiteofoursin–re- and howGodcouldlove three chaptersofHosea congregation tothefirst Love Affair”directed the sage titled “A Mysterious promised. Green’s worshipmes- - - - ers concluded thatthechallenge istokeep Present- health message,”hecontinued. include a pronounced emphasis on our print for our schools. “This blueprint must back tothebiblical blueprint, God’s blue- reminding usthatourschools must get Berean’s pastorRobert Davis continued by course, theansweristosave ourchildren.” God ordained Christian education, andof “We must have anunderstandingastowhy most ofthequestions from theaudience, Terrellence secretary McCoy, who fielded ing toward asolution. According toconfer Christian education’s problems andmov- eral overview, which included identifying gan the afternoon’s proceedings with a gen Academy. Superintendent Ramsarranbe- ing followed the prepared lunch at Berean responded withresounding “amens.” so forgiving,” asthecongregation hesaid, innumerable times.“ThankGodfor being the rebellious Israelites whom He forgave gave againandagain,Godreached outto like Gomer, whom Hosea loved andfor The much-anticipated townhallmeet- the future. fident of His leading in in thepast and is con the way God hasled us Academy isgratefulfor congregations. Berean church’s respective our schools before their Berean school andall Pondexter, elder. Lawrence, elder; Jerome superintendent; Margaret Ramsarran, education Johnson, elder; Shakuntala Davis, pastor; Bernice Wilson, elder; Robert hall meetingattendees. Sam Green addresses town F Top, left: Conference president From left, Charles Evelyn Edwards - - - - Southwest Region Conference 25 - - - - pastor Draggon, R.W. The Metropolitan church in church Metropolitan The its first group inducted Houston in September. of Pathfinders elder, were both present present both were elder, support to their to offer Path first Metropolitan’s finders. Let’s continue to continue finders. Let’s them as they share for pray of Jesus the righteousness commu their with Christ nity. NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
Please pray for us as we continue to as we continue us for pray Please Rolando Baysa, pastor, and Ely Lagazo, Ely and pastor, Baysa, Rolando - recog were Brackens, the particular, in ily money, of time, their donation nized for maintain and fixing in energy and effort, when example, ing the house of God. For the mortgage balance was $5,000.00 the amount. donated the entire Brackens Tex. God in Amarillo, work for also present for our mortgage burning. our mortgage burning. for also present honored, but one fam were Several people since He finally helped us organize our first us organize our helped finally since He come a dream This is of Pathfinders! group Maria says true! This is just the beginning!” counselor. a Pathfinder Paguinto, - www.swurecord.org The music was excellent, the food was the food was excellent, The music len Green, city commissioner, also joined city commissioner, Green, len us on the Sabbath morning, to represent former Wright, Billy Amarillo. of City was Region, the Southwest of president North American Division, Youth and Youth Division, American North was the director, Ministries Adult Young Sabbath morning. His for speaker keynote or the to the left look was, “Don’t message to you God said for what just follow right, do.” very El in Zion. good, and it was a high day tan’s Pathfinder director, inducted the first inducted director, Pathfinder tan’s The church Pathfinders. of eight group teary-eyedmembers were as they wit- calls “This really event. nessed this joyous give glory the Lord, to We a celebration! for - - September 17, 2011 September - Bless of Mount The » » . . ex ex T T Inducted at Metropolitan SDA church SDA at Metropolitan Inducted , ,
illo
On this occasion there were several were there On this occasion ouston mar Rommell Abris Rommell
From left, Elder Johnson, first elder; Norman Stiggers, Stiggers, Norman first elder; Johnson, Elder left, From city Green, Ellen pastor; Draggon, Rodney pastor; former James Roberts, treasurer; Johnson, Barbara commissioner; Adult Youth/Young NAD Black, James pastor; former Ministries director. Mount of Blessings Burns Mortgage Burns of Blessings Mount ings church, in a historical event, recently recently event, in a historical ings church, burned its mortgage. This was done while the church and renovating remodeling the from money any without borrowing volun Members or the conference. union teered their time and funds in an effort to their time and funds in an effort teered house. of the Lord’s care take of Mount the following and is debt-free Blessings tells us that we are counsel, which biblical every but to love to owe no man anything man. - Stig Norman guests and pastors. Pastor “Have the topic, on night Friday spoke gers Pass.” to It Bring Will He and God in Faith at the Sunday- spoke Roberts James Pastor the fact emphasized morning brunch. He we and army in the soldiers that we are be organized,must disciplined, and filled Black, James Pastor Spirit. with the Holy A H
- at the Metro occasion marks a memorable afternoon On this Sabbath church. politan Pathfinder Area Cities Capitol Lori Guidry, Metropoli Baysa, with Jennye director, First Pathfinders First 26 Texas Conference Southwestern UnionRecord Be Successful inChangingTimes,” God came. Duringasermonentitled “How to decision, butitwasastruggle. family? He knewhemust make adifficult bathkeeper, howwouldhesupporthis andnowthathewasaSab- Sabbath work, His lucrative jobintheoilfields required time!), Cody was facedwithachallenge. ed tobebaptized(Kim,for first thevery church. But when thetwo ofthemdecid what theywere looking for intheKerrville to search for achurch home,theyfound wife toseekarelationship withGodand especially, notimefor church. little time for home life and his family, and San Antonio. However, the daily drive left tained workintheoilfields southwest of and theirthree children, where heob- he relocated toKerville withhiswife, Kim, away from thechurch. Someyears later at theageof16,buteventually strayed in theAdventist Church, andwasbaptized he grew upinArlington.Cody wasraised Goss loved being in Kerrville, even though K Moved byFaith mon onthemount. AndI’ve cometothe challenge found inChrist’s profound ser ness oflight, andletting ourlight shine—a by enthusiastic andbright-eyed children. house,carried there street, pastevery ery making itsway slowly butsurely downev- but theimagehasstayed withme.Light, since forgotten thereason for theevent, singingaswewent. I’vethe neighborhood, ourselves andourlittle lights throughout weparaded hadarrived, Once everyone smallpaperlanterns. the street carrying errville kids wouldgatherintheparkacross Then oneSabbathmorningthe answer When circumstances led Cody andhis I’ve given a lot of thought to this busi Fall season,alltheneighborhood Germany. Sometimeduringthe
» ries takes place inHamburg, From Codyearly childhood, Texas News One ofmy earliest memo- Let Your Light Shine - - - one who facessimilar circumstances learn work conflicts, andlike Cody, may each all who wrestle with Sabbath bringshopeto The Gossstory trust Godandisbeingblessed. Herville. steppedoutinfaithto pest control businessinKer and he’s neverlooked back. conviction thathismindwasset God” movedhimwithsuch the Sabbath.Hearing “trust vide for hisfamily inorder keep job andgointo businesstopro- er—he hadtoleave hisoilfield God. Cody had alot toconsid assurance thathecouldtrust moment Cody receivedvery the Cody neededtohear. At that he said. That was exactly what butstepoutinfaith,” couraged, be dis- ficulties arise. “Don’t faith inGodwhen Sabbathdif- encouraged hislistenerstohave Jeys, son bythenameof Frank to Cody. The speaker, a layper seemed tobespeakingdirectly can have itsmaximum effect. as possible tothedarkest places where it the light willhave itsmaximum effect. made ofcouchcushions. Theyknowwhere it. A closet. Beneath a heavy blanket. A fort run tothedarkest cornerofthehousewith a new source of light, they immediately do withthislight. Assoonastheydiscover has caught my attention iswhat ourboys any othertoyoractivity. Ofcourse,what flashlight; alight-emitting objecttrumps sticks, tolaserpointers, toDad’s forehead light. From blinking toothbrushes,toglow absolutelyold, love anything thatemits children. conclusion thatwecanlearn alot from Today, Cody Gosshashisown What a concept! Light taken as quickly Our twoboys,currently 6and3years - - - He decidedto trust Godandnow owns asuccessful business. work challenges, heworried aboutbeingable to supporthisfamily. When Cody Goss joinedtheAdventist Church andfaced Sabbath to trust God, nomatter what. to trustGod, flashlight. consider thefirstthing achilddoeswith our light? Give itsomethought andthen the question ofallus:where doweshine there, where itcanshinethebrightest. the light rarely shinesinthedarkest places; light amongstourselves. But somehow, light, we debate the light, we share the grasp. We guard thelight, weexplore the manyderstand, ofusseemingly failto We canlearn alot from achild. It’s achallenging concept,which begs However, what children intuitively un Costin Jordache, assistant to the president for communication Betty Blair
- Texas Conference 27 - - - Lois SernsLois Edward Sepulveda Edward Michelle Battistone Michelle NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
The praise band leads out in music and worship. leads band praise The Come by OACS the next time you are in are the next time you by OACS Come Carlos Craig, Raul Aguilar, Mimi Sa Raul Aguilar, Craig, Carlos maniego, and maniego, Battistone, prin Michelle cipal, joined together to cut the ribbon open the new and improved to officially We Christian School. Adventist The Oaks from both the officials to have blessed were Confer and Texas Union Southwestern and families had parents ence join us. We and join in the celebration of our students in the churches than 10 pastors from more joined us, as well. area Houston and see a modern miracle! Houston sanctuary. But we have much more than more much we have But sanctuary. that God’s the assurance have that–we is on OACS. blessing G the Explosion attendees. The next date for hope you We 7-9 p.m. is December 2, from can join us sometime! - - - - www.swurecord.org Luke Spady and Juliana Vieira perform perform Vieira and Juliana Spady Luke ementary, middle, and high and middle, ementary, gymnasium, a facilities, school administrative playground, and the parking, paved offices, purchased, construction was purchased, construction completed, and everything than 4 months. moved in less el renovated now have We Associate superintendent Raul Aguilar Aguilar Raul superintendent Associate principal, Battistone, and Michelle of OACS. the ribbon cutting await F like, “The music dramas at Fri “The music like, me make Explosion day Night was hilari speaker “The cry,” - is so awe ous!” and “The music by spoken just a few some,” are a powerful skit. a powerful In May, staff members at OACS were not were OACS staff members at In May, sure where the trailers would be moved. As the trailers where sure us in trailers want it turns out, God didn’t a campus with all and provided longer any we need,the facilities a sanctu including was could! The property all because He ary, Edward Sepulveda Edward - - - Friday Night Night Friday - In August, more than 225 peo- more In August, »
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e We are excited about our about excited are We Phrases
h The OACS Modern Miracle Modern The OACS T tions among tions the youth. North Dallas Adventist Academy Adventist Dallas North Explosion on Fri year school 4-5 times during the Dal at North 7-9 p.m. evenings, from day people The young Academy. las Adventist the leading are age) college through (teens in which in this program, participants a praise volves band, music dramas and skits, as well as a speaker has a who lasting effect on the minds and hearts of those who - attend. Re freshments servedare - after the pro - gram to pro mote connec Friday Night Explosion at Explosion Night Friday ple joined together to celebrate the first day the first day joined together to celebrate ple Christian Adventist Oaks The at school of was about celebration The (OACS). School us that God has blessed miracles the many of time. with over such a short period 28 Texas Conference Southwestern UnionRecord Honiara,” he said. “We praiseGodfor the Honiara,” hesaid. “We Holy Spirit isdoingsomethingunusual in Wilson wasimpressed bytheresults. “The Islands’ history. largest-ever Adventist baptisminSolomon run intheSouthPacific Division andthe successful Adventist evangelismseries ever It wasthesecond-most tor, John Carter. cific city of Honiara by a former Texas pas- gelistic series. people came to the last night of the evan of 524people. Andanincredible 32,000 mer Texas pastorresulted inthebaptism 524 BaptizedintheSolomon Islands General Conference president Ted N.C. The meetings were held in the South Pa An evangelistic campaignled byafor Texas News - - - taken thecityofHoniara of bystorm. One the finalmeeting,saying theprogram had Carter explain theMarkofBeast. population were atthismeetingtohear That meant almostone-third ofthecity’s day night’s finalmeeting(September18). kept climbing.It peaked at32,000Sun with12,000present, butattendance 2011 for today’s many problems.” sages focusing on the Bible and its answers many are beingdrawn tothepeculiarmes- Pastor John Carter.ara by It’s obvious that evangelistic meetingsbeingheldinHoni large andenthusiastic attendanceatthe The nation’s PrimeMinisterspoke at The program beganonSeptember9, - - baptism. audience ofabout10,000justbefore the joy of joining the Adventist Church to an Peter Aboufagave atestimony aboutthe nomination intheSolomon Islands.Pastor president ofthethird-largest Christiande - those baptizedonSabbathwasthe(former) baptism inSolomon Islands history. that resulted in524 baptisms, thelargest Adventist held anevangelistic series intheSolomon Islands John Carter, former pastor intheTexas Conference, Phil Ward Texas Conference 29 - Jeanne Sadau NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
The comments of members and guests of members and The comments ing hand to the community. ing hand to that the the Holy of feelings were alike encour and we were was present Spirit aged to be harvesters that lay in the fields our focus to keep us, as well as all around on Jesus. - - www.swurecord.org Members gather for the first church service in their new building. their new in service the first church for Members gather of with a message the congregation addresses Gary Blanchard Pastor of worship a place offers building church Bowie constructed newly The G F H hope and love. with modern amenities. Our pastor, Gary Blanchard, presented a Gary presented Blanchard, Our pastor, ward, roses were given to several people given to several people were roses ward, the building of in paramount were who Dorothy including facility, the church in were who Williamson, and Quentin in building the original Bowie strumental church. our message of Jesus’ to spread challenge a help- and offer love ings to God for blessing our church family family church our blessing for ings to God After imagined. could have than we more - The Bowie church recently recently church The Bowie »
wie Our Sabbath service thanksgiv- included o
B Bowie Church Opens New Building New Opens Church Bowie dedicated their new church facility with a facility new church their dedicated special Sabbath service, the entire inviting with God has blessed community. Bowie is a tes- church and the miracles, so many to accomplish. is able He to what timony to the sacri of the property the gift From ficial giving by its members, to generous giving by its members, to generous ficial seen have the community—we gifts from at everyanswers to prayer turn. 30 Texico Conference Southwestern UnionRecord cover the dark areas where there is no Ad Texico Conference, themainobjectiveisto the church’s pastor, andsupportedbythe arillo Spanish district, withmy guidanceas panic, wassurprisedwithGod’s blessings. people and approximately 75 percent His- arillo, withapopulation ofaround 2,000 situated about100miles southwest ofAm of alittle townnamedOlton, Tex. Olton, through thestreets, businesses, and homes day Adventists? Thisquestion sounds leaders rejected Himbecausetheythought the beautifulwords oftruth,buttheJewish come revolutionary. Jesus came teaching revealed byGodinthebeginninghadbe- religious worldthatthetruthasitwas thethinkingof devil hadsoperverted beliefs, teachings,andlifestyle. ers shook theworldtheylivedinwiththeir Christ andahandfulofdedicated follow - lion people around theworldtoday. Jesus that isingrainedintheheartsofoverabil the day and established areligious faith sacramentalism andmoraldarknessof dedicated menoverturnedthereligious the world.Jesus of Nazareth andafew face oftheeasternhemisphere andlater, ligious revolution thatwastochangethe former carpenter and12menstartedare- style. in withtheirbeliefs, teachings,andlife- revolutionaries shook theworldtheylived western hemisphere today. Castro andhis to theUnited States andstillaforce inthe nist dictatorship that isathornintheflesh upaCommu Batista intwoyears and set overthrew thegovernment ofFulgencio A Who Are theSeventh-day Adventists? mar Fidel Castro andafew dedicated men As partofaproject developed bytheAm When Jesus came to thisearth,the Two thousand years agoalittle-known illo the faceofwesternhemisphere. revolution thatwastochange , and 82menstartedapolitical T known former law student ex Texico News In December1956 alittle- . » People WhoMake aDifference Whoare theSeventh------these places. tostopthetruthofgospelin trying and challenging theenemy, who has been prayer, planning, and great determination, and thelife,” 12:6) (John through much ing topresent Jesus as“the way, thetruth objective. Since then,wehave beenwork handle area tofindaway toaccomplish this ence asked metomovetheTexas Pan large Hispanic populations. ventist presence, andtargetingareas with the worldupsidedowninashortperiod of vance andquickly! Jesus’ disciples turned a difference. TheworkofGod must ad Bible. We are theonly oneswho canmake tures oreventheorder ofthebooks ofthe know thefoundational truthsoftheScrip- appreciation for truth.People today donot of falseteachingtodestroy thedesire and has becomerevolutionary. that thetruthasitwasfrom thebeginning the thinking of the religious world today, “revolutionary.” Thedevilhassoperverted our lifestyle, and our doctrine have become prophets, theapostles andJesus, Himself. taught from thebeginningbyMoses, the one, but simply the revelation from God as not new, ourdoctrinetoday isnotanew the prophets. Just asJesus’ teachingwas corporated into thewritingsofMoses and God as taught from the beginning and in as new. Rather, itwastherevelation from whom present truthwillmake adifference. by sharing end-time truth with those for must belike Jesus andmake adifference religious leaders? Generally not.We, too, tic endeavors—the the rich, theeducated, Today, who do wereach inour evangelis- woman ofSamaria—the commonpeople. reached outtofishermen,publicans, the Jesus turnedaway from thePharisees and themselves toowisetoneedinstruction. Meet Pablo andErnesto, twomen who About four years agotheTexico Confer In Luke 5:39,Jesus points outthepower Like Jesus and Hisapostles, ourteaching, The Pharisees described Jesus’ teaching - - - - - night,” towhich Ireplied, “There isnobet - day withthehealth fairandthecrusadesat ment. Now weare able tohelpduringthe allowed thistohappenattheright mo - me, “Pastor wedon’t have ajob, but God thing horrible. But asoneofthemtold did happen.Human logic sees thisassome- cause oftheSabbath,which, unfortunately, they were indangeroflosing theirjobsbe- willing topay theprice, for theyknewthat Spirit. Men takinghold ofChrist’s hand, men touchedbythepowerofHoly were rescued from thehandsofenemy; coming. Let’s make adifference! 2012is our worldupsidedownfor Jesus. and turnourcities, ourconference, and May God help us to be like those apostles with God’s people today isrevolutionary! dom, weare makingadifference. To stand claim theGoodNews ofHiscomingking- come. Filled with God’s spirit,ready topro- truth ofthegospelandsoon,Jesus will beginning toshake thisplanet withthe are now, bythepowerofHoly Spirit, ference becauseyou madeadifference. We Jesus Christ.Theyare now makingadif- message and becoming revolutionaries for lions alloverthisworldare acceptingthis of ourchurch outreach ministries, mil ence inourworld. with Him.You andIare makingadiffer acknowledge wewant acloser relationship timeweopenHisWordnances; every we acknowledge God’s Lordship overourfi time wereturn titheandgiveofferings we knowledge God’s powerinourlives;every ing ourMaker; timewepray weac every church onSabbathwetestifytoGodbe- ing adifference. timewecometo Every will soondoitagain.You andIare mak time. (SeeActs17:6.) Through our faithful financial support Prophecy predicts thatGod’s people Dr. Stevens, JamesL. president - - - - - Texico Conference 31 - - More than $80,000 was More The Lord Jesus is looking is looking Jesus The Lord invested in the health fairs. in the health invested - Ernes Pablo, like people for to, and the team that forms and this district, itself from to be- fair team the health come His hands, His feet, His ears, and His mouth to the last message to this take to that is about generation disappear. A new group of believers was was of believers group A new as a result Tex., in Olton, established the Amarillo from teams by of efforts church. Spanish pastor José Manuel Rodriguez, NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
Jesus, “the Way, the Truth, and the Life,” and the Life,” the Truth, Way, “the Jesus, impressive. We have a unique and wonder and a unique have We impressive. services, medical counsel medicine, Free ful message! Nevertheless, it will not make it will not make Nevertheless, ful message! combine it with if we do not a difference love. of the action in law ask us about His eternal will not only if we attended will also ask our lives, but He in the life Himself presented He Him when the the homeless, the thirsty, of the hungry, sick, and the prisoner. offered pairs of shoes were ing, and many to this, In addition to the community. crusade focusing was a week-long there CDs, literature, free offering on the family, and love. of friendship and lots Bibles, impressed, homes that homes were Many electedthe through to see Jesus able were this time. chosen by God for people people, how can we fail if we apply Remember, admonished to do? we are what Catch the is coming!) Maranatha! (The Lord vision! - - - www.swurecord.org - - - But the challenge continues. We still We continues. the challenge But Adventists? Seventh-day the are Who I’m very God and to the ones grateful to I’m es was great and the end results speak for speak for and the end results es was great themselves! many and towns, cities, of plenty have the from rescued that need to be families God this vision, Within of the enemy. claws encouraging each one of His continues not on to understand that we are children is much and there a vacation, this earth for it before that needs to be redeemed ground gets destroyed. writ- been have articles and books Many ten about our doctrines, and indeed the package of truth that God has given us is randomly shot and killed in Juarez, Mex Juarez, in killed and shot randomly us to for something hard This was ico. gave but God Pablo, for especially handle, prom and as we claimed His us strength baptizing on with boldness, ises, we went by event we finished the Then 10 people. col that were burning witchcraft books baptized. were those who from lected in consecration willing to enter that were inme with this inter esting ad and venture even though the enemy nohit hard, one backed out. The co- ofoperation the church - - - - - A health fair in Olton, Tex., brought many people from the community. from people many brought Tex., in Olton, fair A health Before we started each crusade, we di we started each crusade, we Before unit broke the air conditioner In Olton, Tex., In Hereford, the beginning of the crusade inAt Pablo was baptized days before the cru the before days baptized was Pablo sades and Ernesto the same day that all thisthat day same the Ernesto and sades that group became part of a started. They a half weeks. We and three for was with me were sweated together, together, prayed seeing God’s and enjoyed up late together, experienced We us! hand move around beau but the most together, miracles many embraced how people tiful of all was to see power how Satan’s the gospel message and that he was unable point to the weakened to God. belonged on to what to hold to the and went groups into vided ourselves from and pray, to town the of corners four for God asked we hearts our of depths the the victory over that town. startto going were we that day same the the crusade and we had to find other the of cooling ways a whole for place God gave week. But us the victory and is a group now there - meeting every Tues at and Saturday day we findthe park until we a building where meetings.can hold pendingBaptisms are here. transformer the light and we had no broke minutes electricity started we before us told company baptizing. The electric service the that they would have on back different tried hours. We in one to three to get enough able only things, but were truck to turn the com a pickup power from decided to on. We puter and the projector baptism after the sermon so that the have we could turn off the computer and the bulbs. When and use two light projector the baptisms, the arrived for the moment to en able came back on and we were light a total), as well as share joy the baptisms (9 meal together. was brother Pablo’s N.Mex., Tucumcari, ter schooling than the one you’re attending the one you’re than ter schooling it.” of advantage so take now, 32 Texico Conference Close to God and One Another Close toGodandOneAnother WeekendSurvival Draws Students Southwestern UnionRecord fire. Themenu included vegetable stew, make ourownmeals from scratch overthe did stayresources, dry. everyone We hadto but despite the limited was certainly atask, 12 sheetofblack plastic, andsixnails.That 30 feet oftwine,a10by ever wood we could find, own shelters out of what- We alsohadtobuildour and preparing fire pits. digginglatrines, wood, included cuttingupfire- on settingupcamp. This loaded andgottowork mez Mountains, weun Upon arrivingintheJe- survival-filled weekend. Friday morningfor a our gearandloaded up experience. We packed leged” withthisgrand the senior classwas,shallwesay, “privi trip.on aSenior Survival Againthisyear, year thesenior classgoes dition thatevery C Arkusinski set upashelter. orrales G Jacob Patterson andRichard , N.M ex Texico News . » It seemstobeatra - survival weekend. learned valuable skills duringtheir Top: Sandia View Academy seniors - - included rappellingdowna100-foot cliff, so wefared pretty well.Otheractivities corn onthecob, hotdogs,andpancakes, biscuits, fried potatoes, baked potatoes, a “broken” arm,Iwas“blind”, andJustin Ivettehad tobecarried everywhere, had especially when Arisbe was“comatose” and Now theorienteering bitwasinteresting, bathing inhotsprings,andorienteering. G Arisbe Jacquez repells down a100-foot cliff. that wewere reading about. class andcloser toGodwiththerevelations wasn’t just geared for teaching us seniors deed. “couldn’t” talk.Thesewere goodtimes,in But thatweekend upinthewoods Senior atSandia Michael Gibson,Senior View became closer asa and talking,we worships, singing, Through regular turn ofChrist. times andthere- talk abouttheend which Controversy, ters of the lastfour chap- we read through time wewere there, Throughout the skills. tual survival learned somespiri the woods.We also in how tosurvive The Great Academy - - Texico Conference 33 - Kelsey Workman Kelsey NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
The Great American Duck Race is always is always Duck Race American The Great » . ex www.swurecord.org , N.M , The Deming church operated a booth during the festivi the during booth a operated church Deming The eming held in Deming during the fourth weekend in August. Live in August. weekend held in Deming during the fourth raced on both wet and dryducks are are tracks, and there a parade, tortilla tosses, and a mud duck costume contests, bogg. ties, staffed by a rotating group of dedicated church members. church of dedicated rotating group by a staffed ties, thirteen duck racers stopped by the booth and One hundred picture Green and a Nathan Bible a large family for registered in interest Thirteen also expressed “The Invitation.” entitled at the to be presented Recoveryour next Depression Seminar, with, and meeting, praying was fun 2012. It in January church in this the community from to people handing out literature sharing our faith with while blessed were unique setting. We all walks of life. from people D The Great DuckAmerican Race The Deming church members gave out free literature at literature out free members gave Deming church The Duck Race. American Great their booth at The - - - Susan Zimmermann, principal Students and teachers at Lubbock Junior at Lubbock and teachers Students Day.” Move “Let’s in participate Academy On September 25, several church mem 25, several church On September » . ex T ,
Most importantly, we are strengtheningimportantly, Most and our muscles Chil Together “Walk say, of the hymn as the words Just
ubbock LJA Students Support “Let’s Move Day” Move “Let’s Support Students LJA bers, Lubbock Junior Academy students, and teachers walked walked and teachers students, Academy Junior bers, Lubbock fortunate were Day.” We Move in support of “Let’s two miles has become a weekly walk. Walking morning to a cool to have our neighbor getting to know are We at LJA. event Friday streets. the residential to navigate hood and learning need expensive we don’t is fun and that that exercise learning healthy. to help us stay equipment walk with we can finally walking until to keep we plan dren,” in Heaven. our Lord L 34 Southwestern Adventist University Southwestern UnionRecord er encouraged Sheena’s moth instant. Later, her prayer in an answered halfof friends. Godhad place tostay with some fered her a ride as well as a her friend camebackandof- from hermother. andassurance peace ofmind, the university, afree place tostay, prayed for four things:afree rideto she hadbeenpraying for? Unsure, she ing toSouthwestern.” Was thisthechange Sheena andtold herdirectly, “You’re com cruitment teamthatyear. He cameupto had somethingtoshare.” different than what Iexpected.They really providing really goodmusic, andtheywere remembers Sheena.“I thought theywere church oneSabbath.“Theywere intense,” ment teamtounexpectedly visitSheena’s western Adventist University’s recruit- ways that Icouldhave neverimagined.” since thenGodhasbeenblessing mein in my life thatIcouldn’t ignore, andever His hands.“I asked Godtomake achange Sheena decidedtoputherfuture backin college instead. Sheenaenrolledstarted, inacommunity na. With only two days left until school God callingmetobethere,” explains Shee- my goals,but I prayed and I just didn’t feel I went tothatschool Iwouldaccomplish know ifitwouldmake mehappy. Iknewif would bewell-off andcontent, butIdidn’t her life. the feeling thatthiswasnotGod’s plan for her newcollege career, shecouldn’t shake she prepared towalkoutthedoorstart even paidfor mostofherfirstsemester. As Sheenahad Acceptance letter inhand, and applied to the university of her choice. was chosen.Shehadresearched, planned, A NewPath God Will Provide Minutes after that prayer, One ofSheena’s friends wasonthere- Surprising circumstances led South Unsure where Godwasnowleading her, “I knew that if I followed that path I Sheena Arocho hadaplan. Her major University News - her to attend Southwestern Adventist University. university, butchanged hercourse whenGodcalled Sheena Arocho hadplans to attend another - - a plan, He willprovide.” ly what I will doorwhere Iwillgo.Godhas self. Now I’m OK withnotknowingexact- I need to leannot my on God, - ignore it. God iscallingmetodosomething,Ican’t periences,” sheexplains. “I realized thatif talking tooneofmy teachersaboutmy ex after IhadcometoSouthwestern, was and setheronafulfillingcareer path. God hadcompletely provided for herneeds a jobandnewmajorshefell inlove with. with only herclothes, Sheenasoonfound puzzle fell together. Arrivingoncampus to Southwestern, where more pieces ofthe calling herthere. SoSheenamadeherway her togoSouthwestern ifshefelt God God ismy mission. It influenced meto Vega. “I decidedthattellingpeople about all nations asatestimony.” gospel oftheKingdomshallbepreached to found inMatthew24:14,proclaims “This a certainversestruckchord. Theverse, As hebegantostudy theBible more aswell, church thathehadn’t experienced before. dor, Samuel hadopportunities toattend found dreams areality. he hadnoideahowtomake thesenew- ofsalvation. Buting himtoshare thestory tist university. He knewthat God was call knew thathewanted toattendanAdven A ClearPath “The turningpoint inmy career choice, “I took thisversepersonally,” explains After movingtotheU.S. from ElSalva Samuel Vega didnothave aplan. He change thecourseofmy life, T and gave methedesire wo Paths toAdventistU to make adifference - - - - for you.” God hasprovided for me,He willprovide my testimony athousand times,becauseif me into who I am becoming. I will share ences were faith-testing, buttheymolded slowly spreads across hisface.“My experi I’m finally goingtoschool here.’” Asmile thought, ‘I madeit.ThankGodI into my throat. Ijust wanted tocry, andI I first saw the university, aknot came brary, books inhislap, hereflects, “When major atSouthwestern. Sitting intheli scholarships. staff members helpedhimfindadditional money shehadbeensaving. Southwestern scholarship. Samuel’s mothergave himthe he wonanadditional $1,000persemester ing a$750scholarship. Duringcollege days, talent show, winningfirst place and receiv- Samuel entered aSouthwestern-sponsored trust. prayed somemore. Now itwastimeto So Samuel prayed. Andkept working.And college. Yet heknewGodhadcalled him. hard, but it wouldn’t be enough to pay for Adventist education? Samuel was working that Godwascallinghimtotheministry. while sharingChristconvinced Samuel evangelist. Theblessings heexperienced school, Samuel startedajobasliterature in people’s lives.”Thesummerafterhigh Southwestern Adventist University. providing thefinancial resources for him to attend God answered Samuel Vega’s prayers by Samuel is now afreshman theology The first answer to prayer came when But how would he be able to afford an niversity Education Makala Coleman - - North American Division 35 - Mark Bond, editor Mark NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
http://bit.ly/ To view a video about view a video about To Sue Patzer had the privilege of preaching of preaching had the privilege Patzer Sue in Bula school and So this new church the Patzer Memorial, Memorial, the Patzer visit patzermemorial . or scan code to the right.the QR members at that church actually attended attended actually that church members at that preached Patzer when the meetings years ago. 13 series first evangelistic With at the new facility. series a ShareHim many emotions, and of memories the flood to as so brave could be she how Sue asked had husband her in the same area preach Sue this, To earlier. years so many preached in the come to find peace have “I replies, said to 50. He in Genesis of Joseph words evil against me; meant ‘You his brothers, Satan that say I good.’ for it meant God but it but God meant death as evil, Jere’s meant the need never felt good. I would have for was still alive. if Jere to get up and preach to carry now God is using me But the torch passed on. Each time I get up to that Jere be- devil, the beating I’m like speak,feel I than the greater is much plan cause God’s evil Satan had in mind.” Satan’s of how God can take a reminder evil and bring about something for plans very good. wayo stands as a memorial to a man who stands as a memorial to a man who wayo and as of evangelism, his fear overcame - - - www.swurecord.org On Sabbath, October 22, the ribbon was Additional funds flowed in from ASI, in from funds flowed Additional nally envisioned, but with God, envisioned, nally all things possible.” are welcomed members were cut, and church that home home—a church new their into of the of. Many would be proud Patzer nizations, as well as many conferences and conferences as well as many nizations, American the North across from unions “The project says, Duane McKey Division. had origi larger than anyone was much ed a much-prayed-for piece of land for a of land for piece ed a much-prayed-for just a few in Bulawayo, and a school church had preached Jere the place from minutes years earlier.” of meetings 13 that first series and other orga Hour, Maranatha, Quiet build a church. We thought that perhaps that perhaps thought We build a church. - some Church a One-Day we could build provid God But America. South in where - - A special One- »
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away Sue Patzer and her son, Troy, welcome guests guests welcome Troy, and her son, Patzer Sue Patzer touches on the put the finishing Workmen
Patzer passed away in November of in November away passed Patzer Jere “After relates, wife, Jere’s Patzer, Sue Patzer was a gifted church administra was a gifted church Patzer ul E G to the new Patzer Memorial Church in Bulawayo, in Bulawayo, Memorial Church Patzer the new to Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe. in Bulawayo, Memorial Church given me many talents, but evangelism talents, given me many ago, with 13 years one of them.” But isn’t and colleague, of his friend the prodding a to preach he consented Duane McKey, people Fifty-thousand in Bulawayo. series than the meetings and more came out for the of result a as baptized were thousand a Patzer was so moved at that event. efforts that he committed to by the experience efforts evangelistic in yearly participating the world. around In lieu with cancer. battle 2008 after a long requested donations family the of flowers, But Church. One-Day small help build a to God had bigger plans. to died, about where we started thinking cated in the city of Bulawayo in Zimbabwe, in Zimbabwe, city of Bulawayo cated in the Patzer, Jere of honor in built was It Africa. Pacific of the North president the former ago. years three passed away who Union, an himself but he never considered tor, has often quipped, “God evangelist. He Day Church complex was recently dedi recently was complex Church Day B Patzer Memorial Church Dedicated Church Memorial Patzer NAD News NAD 36 Southwestern Union Southwestern UnionRecord Southwestern Union News Southwestern Union 37 - - - - Barbie Simons Barbie clinics. He raised schol He clinics. of hundreds arships for the village at students that, believed He school. ofgiven the opportunity these young education, would change people astheir lives as well their village and coun
Several churches have been have Several churches Dr. Bendall tells stories about the scars about the scars stories tells Bendall Dr. in a children the young on his arm to in Tanzania. village small - peo of these young Some try. university completing are ple giveto planning are and studies and com back to their church of the help as a result munities they received. have people numerous built, NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
Sam Woods served the Adventist Church for for Church the Adventist served Woods Sam at the 15 years the past including 33 years, on his death before Union, Southwestern 8. October the Texas Conference. He also served He Conference. the Texas director processing data as years ten for joining before Conference the Texas for as data in 1997 Union the Southwestern associate manager and even processing was He director. as ITS associate tually member of the Southwestern a beloved missed by all and is sorely family Union him. knew and loved who been baptized, and many students have students been baptized, and many of the because been educated in Tanzania began there. and work Richard dedication humbly lived by the motto “To Richard serving lived his life serve live.” He is to truly passed Richard his Master. and shining for Tex., Worth, 31, 2011 in Fort on August away the to shine around continues but his light world. 1928-2011 www.swurecord.org Richard Bendall oods 1945-2011 Sam W During the last years of his life he took his life of During the last years Approaching retirement, in retirement, Approaching career.” His passion for helping others and helping for His passion career.” immersed him in mission people young the world, conducting traveled work. He He seminars and clinics. mission medical organization, mission a non-profit founded - tire Services, and worked Health World countries. in many lessly village in to a small groups numerous serveto Africa, - lo of needs the Tanzania, medical/vision/dental through cal people ers. He also managed the Youth the Youth also managed ers. He a hotline young Line, Action with help call for could people or other needs. educational began his “second Richard 1992, ------
- then moved to the Southwest Richard Dr. Richard Bendall was raised on a farm Bendall was raised Richard Dr. challenges, many faced he Although
Sam Woods, information technology technology information Sam Woods, the Southwestern joining Before Sam Woods, Beloved Friend and Coworker, Dies and Coworker, Friend Beloved Sam Woods, couraged others to do the same. and served in 1968 throughout ern Union territorythe union of youth in the roles edi director, education principal, director, Two and vice-president. tor of the Record at Camp York director positions, favorite and principal of Ozark Adventist town Bay him to incorporate his allowed Academy, oth help to desire and people young of love cation. While attending While cation. he be- academy boarding his to pay came unable of and in danger tuition home, the trea being sent the him into called surer him informed and office - that someone had anony in paid his bill mously full. This was an example to help other to Richard overcome people young en He education. and obtain an challenges
in rural Virginia with his parents and 12 sib- 12 and with his parents Virginia rural in a part were work and challenges lings. Hard had a age he an early from but of his life, man. to servedesire God and his fellow his - persisted and be Richard his objectives wouldlieved be fulfilled. provided God him for the opportunities a Christian edu to secure His Light Still Shines Still Light His
associate director for the Southwestern Southwestern the for director associate October 8, night, Saturday died Union, during a rain storm. He in a car accident the for and had worked old was 66 years including 33 years, for Church Adventist at the Southwestern the past 15 years Union. served as an evangelist for Woods Union, sing- as a conference Union; the Central Confer Colorado the ing evangelist for an pastor in Nebraska; ence; an assistant Conference; Michigan the in evangelist for treasurer and a pastor and assistant Southwestern Union News Union Southwestern Southwestern Union News Union Southwestern Etcetera... Classified Ads Employment shoot and record on loca- www.andrews.edu/HR/ tion as a single-person crew. emp_jobs_faculty.cgi. Real Estate/Housing Nursing Executives com- Frequent travel. Bilingual mitted to Mission. Adven- preferred. For complete job Andrews University Summit Ridge Retirement tist Health System (AHS) is description and application, Student Life Division is Center, 15 miles east of seeking seasoned nursing e-mail: [email protected]. seeking an outstanding in- Oklahoma City, needs you. executives and directors dividual to be the Assistant/ A new retirement home can who have a passion for Walla Walla University Associate Dean. Opportunity be built for you, or there mission and a commitment seeks applicants for full-time includes directing major are several existing homes, to clinical leadership and faculty positions in Busi- student events, providing duplexes, apartments, and excellence. If you are inter- ness, English, and History; support for student body mobile homes available. A ested in exploring opportu- and contract faculty in many organizations and shaping church is on campus and nities within one of the 43 areas. For more information the culture of the campus. new friends await you. Call Hospitals within AHS, please and application process, Minimum of five years Bill, 405.454.6538, for a free e-mail your CV to susan. please visit http://jobs.wal- experience in higher educa- tour. [email protected]. lawalla.edu. All positions will tion and a Masters degree is remain open until filled. required. For more informa- Near new Lake Whitney Bilingual Bible Work- tion and to apply please Ranch. Beautiful 1-acre er. The Lamar Colorado Andrews University is visit: http://www.andrews. wooded home sites avail- SDA church is interested in accepting applications for edu/HR/emp_jobs_salaried. able. Ten-minute drive from hiring a Bible Worker who is two Assistant or Associate cgi . new Lake Whitney Ranch; ½ fluent in Spanish and familiar Professors in Biology. Op- mile from Uncle Gus’ Marina. with Mexican culture. The portunity includes teaching Biology professor sought Paved roads. Water available. population of Lamar is about graduate and undergraduate by Union College, Lincoln, Restricted lots. From $9,000. 35% Hispanic, many of courses as well as advising NE. Ph.D. preferred; strong Call 254.622.2902. whom understand very little students and research. PhD commitment to integrating English. For information, is required. Please visit this Adventist faith, teaching and For Sale: 20 acre +/- contact Pastor Dale Fuhr- website for more informa- scholarship essential. Several farm, 10 miles from VGA. meister, dales4jesus@yahoo. tion and to apply: http:// specialties acceptable. Sub- Nice 18X76 Mobile home, com, or 719.314.7665. double metal roof, carport, 2 covered porches, sepa- Union College in Lincoln, rate garage & shop; storage Nebraska, is receiving ap- Don’t dismiss a difficult student... building; city water, hook- plications for filling the office Send him to us! ups for 5-RVs or mobile of President. Qualifications homes. Priced right for quick required include an earned sale below appraisal. (2008 doctoral degree in a recog- tax appraisal: $212,000.00). nized academic discipline. Make offer. 870.334.2632. Significant leadership exper- We can turn your ience in academic circles Jefferson TX—House for is greatly desired, and a son around! sale. Walking distance to Jef- demonstrated collaborative ferson Academy. Brick with leadership style will also be fenced yard. Owner financ- expected. Applicants should ing available. 903.930.9992. submit a detailed resume to Thomas Lemon, President, Country living in quiet Mid-America Union Confer- Advent Home serves 12-18 year old boys, neighborhood half hour ence of Seventh-day Adven- East of Houston, Tex- tists, P. O. Box 6128, Lincoln, grades 6-12, who are ADHD, at-risk, as-$191,900-2004 custom- NE 68506. failing or dropping out. built home on .7 acre, 2,500 sq ft, recently painted. 4 It Is Written Television bedrooms, study, 2.5 cul- (Simi Valley, California) www.schoolforADHD.org tured marble baths, formal seeks associate producer www.adventhome.org or 423.336.5052 dining room, garage, and for production of English porches. Eat-in kitchen has and Spanish broadcast view and includes huge programs. Requirements: Accredited by: island and two dishwasher Broadcast level production drawers. Call 903.849.4749. experience, extensive video Established in 1985 camera experience, ability to
38 Southwestern Union Record Little green trees
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Tune My Heart NAD Day of Prayer • January 7, 2012 Plan now for a special, life-changing day of prayer for your church Options: Begin on Friday evening, January 6 Add the valuable discipline of some form of fasting For the last 16 years Seventh-day Adventist churches across North America have joined hearts on the first Sabbath of each new year—praying for our countries, our communities, our churches, and our own needy hearts. Join with your family across the Division at this crucial time in our history. Let’s lay plans for a weekend of united and powerful prayer. For more information and resoures go to www.nadprayerministries.org.
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Ask God to take away any mediocrity and to take you to a deeper level of faith and blessing. You’ll be challenged and equipped to go deeper in His will. Go to www.plusline.org/events.php to register or call 1-800-SDAPLUS (732-7587). Ask if you qualify for a partial or full scholarship.
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Revolution on Our Knees NAD Prayer Summit • January 12-15, 2012 • Beautiful Innisbrook, Florida
Ask God to take away any mediocrity and to take you to a deeper level of faith and blessing. You’ll be challenged and equipped to go deeper in His will. Go to www.plusline.org/events.php to register or call 1-800-SDAPLUS (732-7587). Ask if you qualify for a partial or full scholarship.
Speakers: Prayer and worship leaders:
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www.swurecord.org | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 41 Etcetera...
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42 Southwestern Union Record Need Security? it’s not far away.
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• Arkansas Lousiana Conference, Ken Simpson • Southwest Region Conference, Nancy Jones 318-631-6240 214-943-4491 • Oklahoma Conference, Vialo Weis • Texas Conference, Lynette Ecord 405-721-6110 800-847-2792 www. texasconferencelegacy.org • Texico Conference, Sean Robinson 800-759-7851 Etcetera... Obituaries Robert Sorbert of Houston, BROOKS, Rosemary Proctor, honorable discharge. He was Tex.; 23 grandchildren; and born May 27, 1931, and died preceded in death by his par- BEARDEN, Floyd Wayne, born four great-grandchildren. August 10, 2011 in Houston, ents and two sisters. Survivors: November 27, 1945 in Bastrop, Tex. She was a member of son, Daniel Dyment of Fayette- La., and died August 25, 2011 BLACKWELL, Fred, born the North Houston church. ville, Ark.; and brother, William in Siloam Springs, Ark. He October 23, 1914 in Oil City, Survivors: daughter, Elizabeth Dyment of Massachusetts. was a member of the Siloam La., and died June 23, 2011 in Keener of Houston; son, John Springs church. Floyd was in Marshall, Tex. He was a mem- Paul Brooks of Port Orford, GWINN, Junior Earl, born the U.S. Air Force from 1963 to ber of the Longview church. Ore.; brother, Paul Proctor of March 14, 1926 in Virdin, 1980 and served in the Viet- Survivors: sons and daughters- Hillsboro, Tex.; sister, Bettye Ill., and died May 10, 2011 nam War. He later worked as in-law, Douglas Wayne and Long of Houston. in Batesville, Arka. He was a mechanic. He was preceded Gail Blackwell, Dwight Lane a member of the Batesville in death by his brother, Blaise and Wanda Blackwell; daugh- BUCHANAN, George Felix, church, where he served as Winn; and daughter, Jodie Roy. ter and son-in-law, Karan Sr., born April 26, 1932 in Gar- deacon, elder, head elder, and Survivors: wife, Marian Allen Gayle and Jerry Fugler; seven den City, Mo., and died August Sabbath School teacher. He Bearden; sons and daughter- grandchildren; and five great- 20, 2011 in Weslaco, Tex. He served in the U.S. Navy during in-law, James Bearden of grandchildren. was a member of the North WWII for two years and later Springfield, Mo., John and Little Rock church. Survivors: became a literature evangelist. Shonda Bearden of Siloam BLOUNT, Betty Chandler, wife, Joyce Buchanan; and He also worked as a machine Springs; daughter, Julie Shap- born May 2, 1939 in Denham son, George Buchanan, Jr., of repairman at several factories. iro of Siloam Springs; five step- Springs, La., and died Sep- Jacksonville, Ark. Survivors: wife, Doris Gwinn; sons and daughters-in-law, tember 27, 2011 in Prairieville, daughter, Diana Heck; sons, Stanley and Jan Allen of Jay, La. She was a member of the CABANSAG, Dr. John Cata- Daniel Gwinn of Colorado Okla., L. Thomas and Dorothy Gonzales church. Survivors: bay, born January 6, 1928 in Springs, Colo., David Gwinn of Allen of Harrison, Arkla., Jeffery son, Mike Blount; daughter, the Philippines, and died Sep- Desha, Arka.; 8 grandchildren; Allen of Rogers, Arkla., Randall Pamela Melker Glenmeyer; tember 30, 2011 in Burleson, and 11 great-grandchildren. and Pam Allen of Rocky Face, brother, Sonny Chandler; four Tex. He was a member of the Ga., Jack and Rhonda Allen of grandchildren and seven great- Keene church. Survivors: wife, HENSLEY, Mary Ellen, born Ashville, N.C.; stepdaughter grandchildren. Dr. Remy Cabansag; sons and October 8, 1911 and died Sep- and son-in-law, Carrie and daughters-in-law, Dr. Roger tember 28, 2011 in Granbury, and Yvonne Cabansag, and TX. She was a member of
traveling where James and Sharaya Cabansag. the Granbury church. She is missionaries cannot go survived by a grandson, Victor COLEGROVE, Nolan Gene, Hensley. born February 2, 1932, and died October 11, 2011 in Tyler, MARTIN, Rosella Cotrell, The gospel on-air Tex. He was a member of born September 18, 1924 in the Mineola church, where Cedaredge, Colo., and died he served as a deacon and January 16, 2011 in Keene, and now online later, as head deacon. He was Tex. She was a very active in a tile setter by trade. He was her community and the Keene preceded in death by his wife, church, where she was a long- Looking for peace and Lois Colegrove. Survivors: time member. She was preced- hope? Subscribe to sons and daughter-in-law, ed in death by her husbands, podcasts in 80+ languages. Frank and DeAnn Colegrove Herschel O. Cottrell, and Don of Tyler, Eddie Colegrove of B. Martin; and two broth- Instantly access and Grand Saline, Tex.; daughter ers, Floyd and Bill Hamilton. listen to programs from around the world. and son-in-law, Kay and John Survivors: son, Rick Cottrell; Swindell of Grand Saline; five daughters, Sharon Hazelbaker Download and print a grandchildren and four great- and Sandra Opeka; stepchil- “neighbor invitation” for a grandchildren. dren, David Martin, Gerald Mar- friend in their language. tin, Marsha Bloom and Nancy DYMENT, Gerald Edward, Rockwell; brothers, Ed, Pat www.awr.org born February 29, 1923 in and Dale Marah; sister, Helen Cleveland, Ohio, and died Sep- Kungel; 12 grandchildren; and tember 20, 2011 in Springdale, 15 great-grandchildren. Ark. He was a member of the Huntsville church. As a young MCNITT, Larry, born April
12501 Old COlumbia Pike · Silver SPring, md 20904 man, Jerry enlisted in the U.S. 11, 1941, and died May 17, 800-337-4297 @awrweb facebook.com/awrweb Navy, and later received an 2011 in Harrah, Okla. He was
44 Southwestern Union Record a member of Summit Ridge grandchildren and five great- photography. Survivors: wife, Force from 1954 to 1958 and church. Larry earned a Ph.D. grandchildren. Mildred; daughters and son- later served as a corrections in Statistics and taught at the in-law, Jayma Shepherd, Jane officer for the Orange County University of Maryland, An- NOONER, Veda, born August and Bill Turner; son, Stanley Prison System in Orlando, Fla., drews University, and College 8, 1926 in Norphlet, Ark., and Scott Shepherd; three grand- until his retirement. Survivors: of Charleston. He and his wife, died August 16, 2011 in Glen- children; and five great-grand- Kathleen Wainwright; son and Margaret retired in North Caro- wood, Ark. She was a member children. daughter-in-law, Larry and lina and later moved to Sum- of the Bonnerdale church, Terri Wainwright of Glenwood mit Ridge. They attended the which she joined in 1940. She SINGLETON, Willie Mae Springs, Colo.; two grandchil- Midwest City church and were worked as a nurse in Gen- Griffin, born March 1, 1922 dren; and one great-grand- very faithful, making a huge try, Arka., and in the nursing in Groveton, Tex., and died child. contribution to that church. homes she and her husband September 10, 2011 in Arling- Survivors: wife, Margaret, of owned in Maryland and Dela- ton, Tex. She was a very active WILEY, Weselene Lu El- Harrah. ware. She blessed many lives member of the Shreveport len, born October 19, 1943 in with her music and hospitality South church. She became a Enid, Okla., and died August MOODY, Betty Bidwell Kin- talents. Survivors: husband of registered nurse in 1943 and 28, 2011 in De Soto, Tex. She man Divnick, born May 31, 60 years, Dennis Nooner; sons, later retired from Shreveport’s was a member of the Dallas 1927 in Wentworth, S.Dak., and Darrell Nooner of Los Angeles, LSU Medical Center in 1982. City Temple church. Weselene died July 9, 2011 in Salt Lake Ca., Dennis “Denny” Nooner, Willie Mae was preceded in graduated with a bachelor’s City, Utah. She was a member Jr., of Winston Salem, N.C.; sis- death by her parents; and degree in music from Phil- of the Ozark church. Survivors: ter, Evea Bainum of Glenwood; husband of 57 years, Monroe lips University in Enid and a daughters, Carol Allison of and two grandchildren. Singleton. Survivors: daugh- masters degree from the Uni- Salt Lake City, Colleen Wolf of ter and son-in-law, Charlotte versity of Texas-Arlington. She Tea, S.Dak., Connie Spiva of OLA, Benjamin Oluwafemi, and Roger Slagle; son and taught school at the Chicago Arkoma, Okla.; son, Wayne Kin- born May 6, 1994, and died daughter-in-law, Philip and Shiloh Adventist Academy and man of Roseburg, Oreg.; sister, August 12, 2011 in Houston, Donna Singleton; brothers and City Temple Junior Adventist Donna Rae Quinnam of Silver Tex. He was a member of the sister-in-law, Herman and Jan- Academy. During her life she Spring, Md.; 16 grandchildren; Houston International church. ice Griffin, Charles Mac Griffin; served as supervisor at the De- and two great-grandchildren. Survivors: parents, Elder and sister, Mary Ann Hatfield; two partment of Human Services, Dr. (Mrs.) Bamidele Ola of grandchildren; and two great- and also worked for Dallas MORRIS, David Gambrell, Houston; brother, Caleb Ola; grandchildren. Metrocare, and operated her born October 7, 1928 in Vian, and sisters, Mary and Elizabeth. own business. She loved mu- Okla., and died September WAINWRIGHT, Jerry, born sic, speaking, mentoring youth, 4, 2011 in Muskogee, Okla. SCOUDEN, Rosie Mae, born June 13, 1934 in Tulsa, Okla., empowering seniors, grant He was a veteran and served May 23, 1922 in Chester, Ark., and died July 12, 2011 in Sa- writing, program design and during the Korean War. As and died August 31, 2011 in lem, Ark. He was a member of training, and HIV/AIDS educa- a teacher he spent over 40 Fort Smith, Ark. She was a the Mammoth Spring church, tion and treatment. Survivors: years teaching in schools in member of the Ozark church. where he served as head sister, Kathleen Wiley. Oklahoma, Nebraska, New Survivors: daughters, Judy deacon. He was in the U.S. Air Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, and Hottabaugh of Mulberry, Ark., Idaho—20 of which were in Lavonna Allen of Alma, Ark.; Adventist schools. He was sons, Donnie Scouden of Sabbath Sunset Calendar a member of the Muskogee Roland, Okla., J. L. Scouden Dec 2 Dec 9 Dec 16 Dec 23 Dec 30 Jan 6 church. He was preceded in of Alma, Ronnie Scouden Abilene, TX 5:33 5:34 5:35 5:38 5:43 5:47 death by two brothers, James of Alma, Van L. Scouden Albuquerque, NM 4:55 4:55 4:56 4:59 5:04 5:08 and Joe Morris. Survivors: wife, of Mountainburg, Arka.; 17 Amarillo, TX 5:35 5:35 5:37 5:40 5:44 5:49 Mary Morris of Muskogee; grandchildren; 26 great-grand- Brownsville, TX 5:38 5:39 5:41 5:44 5:49 5:53 Dallas, TX 5:21 5:21 5:23 5:26 5:30 5:35 sisters, Lu Boggs of Muskogee, children; eight great-great- El Paso, TX 5:02 5:02 5:04 5:07 5:11 5:16 Ruth Young of Phoenix, Ariz., grandchildren. Fort Worth/Keene, TX 5:23 5:23 5:25 5:28 5:32 5:37 Monta Ann Drew of Salisaw, Gallup, NM 5:02 5:02 5:04 5:07 5:11 5:16 Okla., Ada June Leaf and her SHEPHERD, Ralph S., born Galveston/Houston, TX 5:22 5:22 5:24 5:27 5:31 5:36 husband Cleo of Vian, Okla.; November 18, 1923 in Mason Gentry, AR 5:03 5:03 5:04 5:07 5:11 5:17 brother, Wilson Taylor Morris City, Iowa, and died Septem- Little Rock, AR 4:58 4:58 4:59 5:02 5:07 5:12 of Boise, Ida.; daughters, Char- ber 14, 2011. He started out Muskogee, OK 5:08 5:08 5:10 5:12 5:17 5:22 la Jean Morris of Muskogee, at his father’s paint shop in New Orleans, LA 5:00 5:01 5:02 5:05 5:10 5:14 Kathy Weigand of Pleasant Hill, Iowa and continued to be a Oklahoma City, OK 5:17 5:17 5:19 5:22 5:26 5:31 Roswell, NM 4:50 4:50 4:52 4:55 4:59 5:04 Mo., Patty Schwach of Tulsa, paint representative his entire San Antonio, TX 5:35 5:35 5:37 5:40 5:44 5:49 Okla., and Debbie Childress life. He enjoyed canoeing, Shreveport, LA 5:10 5:10 5:11 5:14 5:19 5:23 of Owasso, Okla.; son, David archery, bicycling, target Tulsa, OK 5:10 5:10 5:11 5:14 5:18 5:23 L. Morris of Dallas, Tex.; 10 shooting, gun collecting, and
www.swurecord.org | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 45 A monthly column for youth by youth by Kaili Kimbrow Me, Preach in Zambia?
When the idea of a mission trip came up, I was all for it. Going to Zambia sounded like fun! But then Mom asked if I wanted to preach a whole series of sermons myself, I agreed, but wasn’t too sure about it. I had never done anything that big. Mom volunteered to be the support person at my site and to preach whenever I needed her to. I agreed, planning for her to preach at least half the sermons. About five months before our trip, I started practicing the sermons. There were a total of 17, covering topics such as end-time prophecies, the Sabbath, the state of the dead, health, heaven, and many others.
The evening we arrived in Livingstone, Zambia, we met the That evening as I arrived at my site, I had a joyful feeling. I elders and translator for our site, the Fallsview church. They were was excited, knowing that God would use me to share His love. Be- very friendly and anxious for the meetings to begin. But I wasn’t fore the sermon, I greeted the people who came. Each one seemed so sure. Preaching? To more than 200 people? As I prepared for eager to be there and ready to learn. After the meeting, we walked the first sermon, I became afraid. Why had I agreed to preach? But back to our hotel with kids who were still singing and talking. I then I thought of all the people there who didn’t know God; those was so thankful to have such a great opportunity. As the meetings who were starving for the truth. Would they not know, just be- continued, it was amazing to hear stories of people who quit their cause the speaker was too scared to preach? I asked God to take job to keep the Sabbath, or those who gave their lives to Christ and my fear away. I asked Him to use me, and to bring people to Him are now sharing Jesus with others. Seeing their enthusiasm made through these sermons. me even more excited. During the meetings, there were many amazing answers to prayer. It was incredible to experience it all up close, and not just read it from a mission report. When practicing to make the first call, I was quite hesitant. Then it became real. I realized that this call could be the turning point in someone’s life. That’s the whole reason I came to Africa! On the last Sab- bath, there was a large baptism. It was very exciting to see 23 people from my site committing their lives to Christ. There are even more who are preparing for baptism. All I can say is, “Thank you, God, for using me to share.” The experience has made me more enthusiastic and determined to do this again. I especially look forward to seeing these wonderful new friends from Zambia in heaven someday soon.
G Seventeen-year-old Kaili Kimbrow, a first-time preacher, deliv- ered 17 sermons during a ShareHim crusade in Livingstone, Zambia.
E Kaili Kimbrow (right) made lots of new friends in Livingstone, Zambia and impacted many lives, as well.
46 Southwestern Union Record For the Record » By Mark Bond » communication director, southwestern Union Good, Better, Best When I was young, I dreamed of being a world traveler. While in col- dom. As I’ve traveled around the South- western Union over the past three years, lege, I signed on to play the triangle with my university orchestra, which took me to I’ve discovered I’m in good company. Church members in this union seem to Hong Kong and the Philippines. That was the extent of my globetrotting until a few have a firm grasp of what is good, better, years ago when I visited Thailand. Next came China and Nepal. Last month I spent and best, and we have our collective eyes on what is best. three weeks in Zambia and Zimbabwe, Africa. That’s why I find it particularly hard to announce that I’ve accepted a call Each time, I’ve experienced the usual there, though they inquired often about to work in communication and fam- spectrum of emotions upon returning to how things are in America. ily ministries with the Rocky Mountain my homeland—thankfulness for the com- “Fine,” I told them, not bothering to Conference in Denver, Colo. I’m especially forts of home and appreciation for clean try to explain why living in a land where looking forward to getting involved in water and uninterrupted electricity, ex- you can sit in your easy chair all evening family ministry, but that doesn’t make it cept during the occasional thunderstorm. doing nothing more than pushing the but- any easier to leave. But each time I travel, the world shrinks, tons on your remote isn’t actually a better In Zimbabwe, I learned many words and I have a greater sense that people are existence than what they already have. and phrases in Ndebele, one of the local the same everywhere, even though their Because “better” is complicated and languages. But the one word I refused to circumstances are very different. And sometimes controversial. As I see it, “Bet- learn was “goodbye.” Instead, I left my I’m not entirely sure all my blessings are, ter the little that the righteous have than new friends with the words for which the well…blessings. the wealth of many wicked” (Psalm 37:15), Mizpah gate at Southwestern Adventist In fact, I’m quite sure that some of and “Better is one day in your courts than University was named. And I leave you them are distractions. Like mosquitoes a thousand elsewhere” (Psalm 84:10), and with them now: “May the Lord watch buzzing in your face when you’re sitting “Better a small serving of vegetables with between me and thee, while we are absent on a porch swing on an otherwise perfect love than a fattened calf with hatred” one from another.” evening. (Proverbs 15:17). I had fewer distractions in Africa. I The Bible has a lot to say about what was there on a mission, and my purpose is good, what is better, and what is best. was clear. Comforts were few but ad- The older I get and the more I travel, the equate. People seemed generally happier more I’m inclined to agree with its wis-
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