A QUARTERLY PUBLICATION OF ADVENTIST CHAPLAINCY MINISTRIES

ISSUE 4 2015

CHAPLAINCY: “THE LAST FRONTIER OF MINISTRY BEYOND CHURCH WALLS” PERSPECTIVE By Mario Ceballos, D.Min., BCC Director, Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries– Conference ne of the most to their primary duty of guarding recognized the sacred relics, they also said mass OEnglish for the king on feast days, worked in dictionaries defines conjunction with the royal notaries, the word chaplain as “a priest or and wrote any documents the king other Christian religious leader required of them. In their duties who performs religious services for chaplains thus gradually became a military group (such as the army) more identified with direct service or for a prison, hospital, etc.”1 By to the monarch as advisers in both definition, the chaplain ministers ecclesiastical and secular matters. outside and or beyond the walls of In modern usage the term chaplain is the church and includes clergies of used more for institutions and religions other than Christians. corporate bodies—such as cemeteries, In the 4th century, chaplains prisons, hospitals, schools, colleges, (Latin cappellani) were so called universities, embassies, legations, because they kept St. Martin’s and armed forces.2 famous half cape (cappella, diminutive Today, chaplains are appointed of cappa). This sacred relic gave its by and serve as advisors to the name to the tent, and later to the “principals” of the institution where simple oratory or chapel where it was they work. Increasingly, chaplains preserved. To it were added other are ministers called to serve in what I relics that were guarded by chaplains call the last frontiers of ministries. In appointed by the king, during the most cases those that are cared for by Merovingian and Carolingian periods, the chaplains do not belong to the the and particularly during the reign faith of the chaplains or have no faith of Charlemagne, who appointed at all. Chaplains minister to people in clerical ministers (capellani) who lived the middle of crises and success such within the royal palace. In addition as but no limited to: CONTENTS

2 I Perspective 12 I Dreams, Books, and Ministry 4 I Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries 16 I First Responder to First Responders On the Move 20 I Frontline Ministry in Botswana 8 I Chaplains–Leaning Into the Hard 24 I Unleashing God's Power Places 28 I ACM World

2

The list goes on and on. As pioneers . Facing a terminal illness. and explorers, chaplains in the frontiers of ministry need to be equipped and . The loss of a loved on. ready to minister to the unknown. At . A life changing disease. the same time, they must face the fact that they themselves are human and . The long arm of justice and a long or not exempt of the same conundrums life sentence to atone for the crime than those to whom they minister. committed. It is important to remember that God is always in control and He can . Imprisonment for the first time. be trusted when in trouble. My son’s favorite verse as he was . Freedom from imprisonment to growing up was, “These things I have uncertain and changed world. spoken unto you, that in me ye might . School final exams have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I . Failure in school have overcome the world.”3 For some reason when he was a child, he found . Failure in a relationship refuge in these words and on his own he found them and chose them . Success in school to recite when asked what was his . Stress of combat favorite Bible passage. May you find encouragement and . Moral injury caused by war inspiration in the articles of this issue . Facing ethical and moral dilemmas of The Adventist Chaplain and may God bless your ministry always. . All types of critical incidents and events 1 http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chaplain 2 http://www.britannica.com/topic/chaplain 3 John 16:33 (KJV) . Birth, marriages, and death WHAT'S Please share what is happening with chaplaincy in your part of the world. . Send it to [email protected] . Copy your Union and Division ACM Directors. . Include your email and phone number.

3 ADVENTIST CHAPLAINCY MINISTRIES ONBy Dr.THE Mario E. Ceballos MOVEand Deena Bartel-Wagner

ains and growth are always to expansion to advance the mission of be celebrated. During 2015, telling the story of Jesus to others. this has been a part of the 30th Ganniversary commemoration for ADVENTIST CHAPLAINCY MINISTRIES Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries (ACM). As the outgrowth of a ACM was established to develop taskforce, ACM grew into a full support for Adventist chaplains by department at the General Conference. fostering training and endorsement, During those 30 years, ACM promoting chaplaincy, and attracting responded to the changes and growth individuals to minister as chaplains. in chaplaincy. It played a significant It is now time to look to the future role in raising profile of chaplaincy in and the continued growth of the the Adventist church worldwide. Adventist chaplain corps. The outlook Today, Adventist Chaplaincy is bright for chaplaincy in general, and Ministries is responsible for for Adventist chaplains in particular. chaplaincy, the Adventist Chaplaincy The recognition of chaplaincy Institute, the World Service by the world church is gaining Organization, and Public Campus momentum. Guidelines for Ministries. During the next five years, endorsement are being developed each of these areas will undergo at the division level for chaplains 4 who practice their ministry within to establish a working policy, those territories. Three divisions standard operating procedures, have written and established criteria and endorsement requirements for endorsement. Additionally, that are pertinent to their field. Clinical Pastoral Education centers These working policy and standard have been established for training in operating procedures will help clarify two divisions. The first cohort for a and guide the division and union as Masters in Chaplaincy at Adventist chaplaincy expands in the region. University of Africa was conducted in The endorsement requirements will the fall of 2015. give chaplains the structure they need How will professionalism of in their professional development. Adventist chaplains worldwide These documents will also help to develop? Capacity-building is establish ACM as an integral part of normally defined as a skill and the Adventist church in each region of knowledge which is transferred from a the world. parent organization to the local level. Training and education will play The question of how capacity-building a vital role in the advancement will occur at all levels, including of chaplains. The requirements Division, Unions, Conferences must of educational degrees, pastoral be addressed. experience, and clinical training will Each world division will need strengthen the ministry of chaplains. The organization of graduate level degrees in chaplaincy at Adventist universities will play a critical role in the education of chaplains. Opportunities for chaplains to be educated in their home divisions will expand the prospects of a professionally trained chaplaincy. ADVENTIST CHAPLAINCY INSTITUTE The importance of education and continued training cannot be emphasized too strongly. In response to the needs and requests worldwide, the Adventist Chaplaincy Institute (ACI) has been founded. ACI training programs will be developed in collaboration with a variety of denominational entities, including administration and the education, health, and ministerial departments. This integrated approach will provide an array of educational opportunities to develop specialized ministry for denominational and public and organizations.

5 ACI will oversee collaborative element of Adventist Chaplaincy denominational training programs Ministries (ACM). The WSO, (at for chaplaincy, assist Seventh-day the global and Division levels1), and Adventists seeking to enter the the National Service Organization chaplaincies, and help chaplains attain (at the Union and Conference, the highest professional standards. ACI and local levels2), are tasked to seeks to inspire and develop called, support Adventists who serve their competent, and caring chaplains who governments. These organizations fulfill use their skills to perform or provide a a fundamental mission of the church– compassionate and holistic ministry of to ensure pastoral care and religious grace, hope, and healing to all those in support is available for Adventists their circles of influence. serving their nations, in military and ACI operations will be overseen defence forces, law enforcement, and by Darold Bigger, Vice President other government agencies. of Academic Operations, Johnny Among other functions, the WSO/ Ramirez-Johnson, Vice President NSO,3 of Clinical Operations and Basharat 1 Develops programs that support Masih, Director of Clinical Seventh-day Adventists serving their Operations. Mario Ceballos will serve nations and public institutions. as President. The purpose of ACI is to provide 2 Develops and implements programs board certification and continuing that will assist Adventists in making education opportunities to chaplains. informed decisions based on biblical During 2016, ACI will begin to accept and ethical principles about issues applications for board certification around public service and their for endorsed Adventist chaplains. freedom to exercise their religion. Continuing education courses will be offered in collaboration with the 3 Seeks to assist Seventh-day Adventist Learning Community. Adventist members with problems More information about ACI will be of conscience and accommodation featured in upcoming issues of The of religious practice by working Adventist Chaplain. in cooperation with church departments, offices, and services, WORLD SERVICE ORGANIZATION such as Religious Liberty, Youth, and the Office of General Counsel. Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries was birthed because of the work of 4 Develops and maintains effective the National Service Organization working relationships with civilian (NSO) from the 1940s through the government officials concerning early 1970s. A changing world and Adventists in civil, public, and the need to prepare people for service uniformed services. in many capacities is leading to the revitalization of the World Service 5 Obtains official government Organization (WSO) and the National recognition for alternate and/or Service Organization. exception to military service for The World Service Organization Adventist members in countries (WSO) and the National Service with mandatory military service. Organization (NSO) are an integral Programs that have served and

6 are serving these purposes are the non-Adventist campuses leave the Medical Cadet Corps (MCC), Youth church during their university career. Emergency Services (YES) and PCM and ACM will work together to others that prepare church members provide training for campus leaders for alternative/humanitarian service and guidance for conferences, unions, in lieu of military combat roles. and divisions as they reach out to Adventist youth who are on these 6 Promotes and supports Division campuses through the assignment efforts to organize religious retreats of chaplains and development of for Adventists serving in uniform resources specifically for public and all other government/public- campus ministry. related service.

1 General Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church 7 Publishes the official denominational Working Policy. 2011-2012, pg. 243. magazine for Adventists serving 2 The World Service Organization serves at a world their nations. Prepares and level (General Conference and currently in 13 Divisions circulates current information and worldwide). The National Service Organizations serves at a publications concerning public/ national level (Union and Conferences). government service. 3 General Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church Working Policy. 2011-2012, pg. 244. 8 Maintains a database of all Seventh-day Adventist members in government service, including military, law enforcement services, parliaments, correctional institutions, etc. 9 Recognizes the service of Adventist veterans/retirees from government service and engages their experience in assisting the church and the WSO in its work of informing church members about civil service. PUBLIC CAMPUS MINISTRIES In a recent action by world church leadership, the office of Public Campus Ministries (PCM) has been placed under the umbrella of Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries. The role of PCM is to assist leaders on non-Adventist college and university campuses to minister to both Adventist and non-Adventist students. Jiwan Moon is the Associate Director for Public Campus Ministries. Ninety-five percent of the estimated 1.4 million Adventist students on

7 Chaplains Leaning Into the Hard ByPlaces Deena Bartel-Wagner

he whirring blades of the daily routine–a military chaplain in chopper open the familiar Afghanistan, a corrections chaplain, Tscene as a helicopter lands a health care chaplain, and a law somewhere in Korea. Father Mulcahy, enforcement chaplain. Doblmeier the chaplain in the television series also explores some less well-known M*A*S*H, journals that he is waiting chaplaincies–a workplace chaplain at for anyone to show of up his 10:00 Tyson Foods and a NASCAR chaplain interfaith service. He hasn’t given and a former actor turned chaplain up hope. It’s only 11:30. Mulcahy’s who provides support to those who greater concern is expressed in his worked in the entertainment field battlefield reflection, ‘I do give rites and now reside in the Los Angeles- to the dying, but if only I could do based Motion Picture and Television something for the living.” Fund retirement community. The Today the battle field can be anywhere chaplains of the United States people face danger, darkness, or despair. Congress, including Seventh-day Or where people simply seek a spiritual Adventist Chaplain , are voice in a time of need.–Chaplains, a film also highlighted. by Martin Doblmeier In his latest documentary, award- winning film maker Martin Doblmeier enters into the world of chaplains and shadows them as they minister in different settings with compassion and a sense of purpose. Doblmeier chose the subject because he was impressed that many people don’t understand the role of the chaplain and the impact it has upon society. Chaplains is a two-hour expedition that follows chaplains through their

8 During the 18 months of production, Doblmeier witnessed how chaplains Journey by films Photos live out their sense of faith and purpose through their ministry to others.

Since 1983 when Doblmeier founded Journey films, he has made more than 30 movies about faith. “I’m always looking for ways to portray the various forms of faith “Chaplains live out their lives being lived out in the lives of others,” with a sense of faith and purpose,” says Doblmeier. “I have a number of says Doblmeier.” friends who are chaplains. This is a He also came to appreciate what unique form of ministry and I wanted a challenging environment many others to be more informed about it.” chaplains work in. They face life and During the 18 months of death, encounter people who may production, Doblmeier witnessed how feel hopeless, frightened, or angry, chaplains live out their sense of faith and perform in stressful situations and purpose through their ministry where their sense of calm brings to others. The film portrays how peace. As one chaplain in the film chaplains are called to be faith friendly states, they “lean into the hard to who they encounter, without compromising their own beliefs. As he coordinated the filming, Doblmeier chose to feature a wide variety of faith traditions–Buddhist, Muslim, Catholic, Jewish rabbi and Protestant. “We had many chaplains who were interested in participating in the film,” says Doblmeier. “There were times that the institutions where they worked were a little more hesitant. Administrators were concerned with privacy issues, security, and the institution’s accountability.”

9 One of Doblmeier’s expectations was to engage the viewer to appreciate and value the ministry of chaplains. places” in people’s lives. Institutions where chaplains work must live within established budgets. Those budgets are often driven by numbers and results. “Economic stability for the chaplaincy department can create a lot of insecurity,” observes Doblmeier. “Many of the benefits that the largest chaplaincy program in the a chaplain provide to an institution corporate world. There are more than aren’t quantifiable.” 120 full and part-time staff chaplains.” As a filmmaker, one must keep One of Doblmeier’s expectations perspective to honestly portray was to engage the viewer to the subject matter. In spite of this, appreciate and value the ministry the topic can affect and impact in of chaplains. From private to public unexpected ways. “I was impressed screenings, the film has been well with how chaplains often have received. “After the screening, I will faster short term relationships with have people say to me, ‘I had no people,” says Doblmeier. He was also idea what chaplains did.’ ‘I had no particularly moved by the chaplaincy idea where chaplains worked,’” says program at Tyson Foods. “Chaplaincy Doblmeier The breadth of chaplaincy seems to run counter to corporate is pleasing to people.” idealism, but here is a CEO who has Doblmeier and Journey Films brings more than 30 years of experience in specialty film-making in religion, faith, and spirituality. His films have aired on PBS, ABC, NBC, and the BBC on broadcast outlets around the world. Journey Films have been translated into more than a dozen languages. If his name sounds familiar, it might be because of his trilogy of films on Seventh-day Adventists. These were The Adventists, The Adventists 2, and The Blueprint–The Story of Adventist Education.

10 11 DREAMS, BOOKS, AND MINISTRY

hakespeare asked, “What’s in daily basis,” recalls Lungile. “I finally a name?” Often, people may realized that I had a spiritual emptiness. Snot know the meaning of their Nightly, as I slept I began to dream names. Lungile Sitsha is very aware that I was preaching to people.” of his. “My parents were devout The emptiness continued for Adventists,” says Lungile. “When I several months before Lungile decided was born and given my name, it came to quit his job. “I wanted to attend with the significant meaning of ‘God’s camp meetings, participate in youth righteous vessel.’” work, give Bible studies, and preach in A childhood of church and school evangelistic meetings,” says Lungile. activities filled Lungile’s daily life. “By “It was something that I knew I had to the time I was ready for college, I made do, but couldn’t explain it to others.” the decision to enter the engineering Promises of an increased salary field,” says Lungile. “After college, I at work couldn’t entice Lungile to became a boilermaker.” change his mind. “My boss told me Work should have been fulfilling, he would increase my salary,” says but a vacuum existed in Lungile’s life. Lungile. “He didn’t understand when Dissatisfaction seemed to permeate I told him that money wasn’t the his work and life as he labored six problem.” Although Lungile left his days a week. “I felt such a void on a work, the preaching dreams continued

12 DREAMS, BOOKS, AND MINISTRYBy Lungile Sithsa, as told to Deena Bartel-Wagner

on a regular basis. What do these mean? wondered Lungile To pay the bills, but have the flexibility to participate in spiritual activities, Lungile decided to open his own business. All was going well until one when a guest pastor was at church. “During the sermon the speaker pointed out at me and asked, ‘What are you doing for the Lord? I want to pray for you.’” Following the church service, Lungile met with the pastor, he was told, “Come to see me on Monday.” Lungile kept the appointment and arrived at the specified location with questions of why the pastor wanted to see him. “When I met with the pastor, he handed me a briefcase,” says Lungile. “I’ll never forget his words to me. ‘I believe you will be effective in the Lord’s vineyard. This week I want you to sell books along with me. The second week you will go alone.’” Without question, Lungile accepted the invitation. He was able to secure orders for books and was encouraged. He couldn’t have predicted the disappointment he “I finally realized that I had a spiritual emptiness. Nightly, as I slept I began to dream that I was preaching to people.”

13 would experience during the delivery directed her to call and order books week when he returned with books from me.” Once Lungile pledged in hand. “Customers canceled every himself to working as a literature single order when I attempted to make evangelist, the preaching dreams came the deliveries,” says Lungile. to an end. “I believe these were God’s Confused and discouraged, Lungile prompting me to enter the ministry,” challenged God. “This is the way says Lungile. you have called me,” Lungile prayed. During the next three years, “This isn’t working. I’ll try again Lungile spent working as a tomorrow. If it doesn’t work, I’ll quit!” credentialed Literature Evangelist. The next morning Lungile received A promotion to Assistant Publishing a call. “Hello, I want to buy some Director came next. With a desire to presents for eight branches of my continue his education, Lungile saved business,” the caller told Lungile. everything he could for tuition. “What would you recommend?” In 2006, tragedy struck and “That week we had just received Lungile lost all of his savings. “A a shipment of books from Stansboro fatal automobile accident nearly took Press,” recalls Lungile. “I told the my wife from me,” recalls Lungile. caller about a set of books that was “Although badly injured, my wife was available. The response was I want a set lucky not to be among the dead. After of those for each of my employees.” being hospitalized for six months, she Lungile couldn’t believe his ears. spent an additional four months on The total amount of the order was crutches.” Everything that Lungile Z$145,000. He was even more had saved for school went to pay for shocked when the caller said, “I will hospital and medical bills. deposit that money today. Where Undeterred, Lungile registered would you like it sent?” at and attended “When I placed the order at the his first semester. “I didn’t enroll for book center, no one believed my story. the second semester,” says Lungile. I had never met that woman before,” “Instead, I went to Namibia and sold says Lungile. “Only God could have books to raise funds. God blessed, and

14 Lungile spent holidays and school breaks selling books and earning his fees.

I earned enough to pay for my next program has had a lot of impact,” says two semesters of classes.” Lungile. “We’ve trained students, This pattern continued, with Lungile teachers, parents, chairpersons of the spending holidays and school breaks PTA and STC committees for our selling books and earning his fees. schools, as well as students from sister Three years later, Lungile schools in the area.” graduated and entered the ministry. “I The training has helped the was assigned to work as an intern in students become more involved the largest church in Bulawayo,” says in on-campus leadership through Lungile. “This pastoral experience worship and church activities. Student was important to me and what would leaders work as a team with the be my next assignment.” chaplain to engage the student body in At the completion of his internship, spiritual activities. Lungile was assigned as the chaplain “Every week, our students distribute for the Bulawayo Adventist High lessons and food to School. Working with students was neighboring villages,” says Lungile. exciting and rewarding for Lungile. “Students use their pocket money to “We instituted many programs for the buy the food. Sometimes they purchase students. One of the largest groups as much as 60 kilograms of sugar, 60 was a Voice of Prophecy study group kilograms of rice, 60 kilograms of other with 350 students actively studying foodstuffs to share with others.” their Bibles." Ministry to the students brings In 2013, Lungile was asked to joy, but it also highlights concerns transfer to his current chaplaincy for their chaplain. “In many ways the position at Solusi Adventist High church has not yet realized that the School (SAHS). “I care for the spiritual future rests with our students who needs of approximately 700 students are in high school and college,” says and 50-60 faculty and staff members Lungile. “Many of our students face and their families,” says Lungile. social challenges that can lead them One of the first things Lungile away from a relationship with Christ. did upon his arrival was to form a They struggle with bullying, divorced Spiritual Master Plan for the school. parents, drugs, homosexuality, and “We want to be intentional in both other issues. If we don’t attend to in-reach and outreach as we seek to these problems, the students will have fulfill the school’s mission statement,” no hope.” says Lungile. “We are preparing Preaching dreams, God-given each student holistically (physically, books sales, and the persistence mentally, spiritually, and socially) for of raising tuition in spite of service in this world and for better overwhelming obstacles molded a service in the world to come.” pastor and chaplain for his ministry. The in-reach program is the For Chaplain Lungile Sitsha, utilization of the In Discipleship dedicating his ministry to helping program. “The school’s In Discipleship students is a dream of a lifetime.

15 First Responder to First Responders By Tuwan Ussery, as told to Deena Bartel-Wagner

says Tuwan. “She would take me to church and I would be exposed to the teachings of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. When I returned home, my spiritual training didn’t exist. Neither of my parents attended church.” The summer that Tuwan was 12, he attended his first evangelistic meeting. “I was convicted and baptized,” says Tuwan. This decision began to make other changes in his life. “I remember asking my mother why we watched television on Sabbath.” An innocent question from a son unning away from God’s stirred a mother’s heart. She began calling never gives peace to to take Tuwan to a local Adventist one’s soul. You only have to church. “It didn’t last,” says Tuwan. Rread of Jonah, Paul, and others who “We didn’t know anyone there and have resisted, but eventually surrender the members didn’t go out of their to the Divine plan for their lives. way to befriend us. It’s easy to lose As a youth, Tuwan Ussery didn’t interest when you are greeted with know much about spiritual matters. that kind of reception.” “I would visit my grandmother every God didn’t leave things there. summer in Birmingham, Alabama,” “When I turned 15, my mother heard

16 about a church plant. She decided “I would become to attend the services and my father went with us,” says Tuwan. “During engaged in theological that first day, he repented and gave discussions and Bible his heart to the Lord.” As committed Christian parents, Tuwan’s parents studies. I even sat in enrolled him at Mt. Pisgah Academy on Bible classes that in Candler, North Carolina. It was here that he remembers first being I wasn’t registered to drawn to the idea of pastoral ministry. attend. I simply enjoyed “I felt the desire, but I shrugged it off,” admits Tuwan. “I graduated the discussions. It was from academy and returned home to then that I could no work, instead of going to college. I had thought about the ministry, but had longer deny my calling been discouraged by an adult friend to ministry.” who had not had a positive experience.” When he finally enrolled at Oakwood University, Tuwan chose to in social work. “I still felt the have a sense humor,” says Tuwan. “I Holy Spirit directing my heart,” says was asked to be the head elder at our Tuwan. “I would become engaged local church. It was there I learned in theological discussions and Bible about the methods of how the church studies. I even sat in on Bible classes operates and how to be effective in that I wasn’t registered to attend. I servant leadership.” simply enjoyed the discussions. It was was the next then that I could no longer deny my stop for graduate study. Following calling to ministry.” graduation from the seminary, Tuwan After graduation from Oakwood worked as both a hospital and law University with a degree in social enforcement chaplain. work, Tuwan began his career. He Today, he serves as the lead still wasn’t ready to let go. “God must chaplain for the Chattanooga Police

17 past 10 years,” says Tuwan. “Our When the chaplaincy police officers responded and were program was faced with some of the worst carnage they had ever seen. It is difficult initiated many of when anyone dies. When children the officers didn’t are involved, it seems to affect people more deeply. Two children died in understand the role a vehicle fire that was a part of this of the chaplain. As accident. The chaplains were crucial to the police officers debriefing and friendships have been self-care after the incident. Just as the community had begun built and relationships to cope with the tragedy and move strengthened, officers forward another tragedy was waiting in the wings. The morning of July and chaplains work 16 began much like any other work seamlessly together. day for this southern city of nearly 174,000 people. The morning calm was shattered when a gunman opened fire on a Marine Recruiting Substation and then moved on to a Navy Reserve Department (CPD) in Chattanooga, Center where he shot and killed four Tennessee. “Law enforcement Marines. A fifth victim died of his chaplains are the first responders to wounds one day later. the police officers who are the first “Our department coordinated with responders to the community,” says the Navy chaplain to provide a joint Tuwan. “We assist officers during response,” says Tuwan. “This event ride-alongs and are often called upon affected the entire community. All to meet the spiritual or emotional of the training and experience of the needs of victims. Our primary duty is CPD chaplains kicked in. We assisted to our officers and their families.” the police department as they took Tuwan and his staff of nine eye witness statements. Some of chaplains were tested to their our chaplains were assigned to limits during several tragic events circulate though the group of that occurred in the Chattanooga witnesses to offer solace and community. A summer evening pray with them if requested. in June was marred by a crash on Others were assigned to the Interstate 75 that runs through hospital where one of the Chattanooga. A semi-truck was unable wounded police officers was to stop and plowed in to cars that taken. We had chaplains who were stopped in a construction zone. debriefed the responding Eighteen people were involved in the officers using critical incident wreck, with six people killed. stress management techniques Tuwan and his fellow chaplains as the post-crisis follow-up.” responded along with fellow law As prayer vigils sprung up around enforcement personnel. “This was the community, chaplains a horrific incident and the highest attended those to fatality crash in Chattanooga in the lend a listening

18 ear, say a pray, comfort citizens, and the Citizen’s Police Academy.” This be present if they were needed in is a nine-week Law Enforcement other ways. Education program that gives citizens These two situations demonstrate an accurate picture of police work the gains that have been made between and the criminal justice system. the chaplains and the police officers. Participants meet one evening weekly When the chaplaincy program was for interactive programs and shared initiated many of the officers didn’t dialogue. This community building understand the role of the chaplain. activity opens dialogue between As friendships have been built and citizens and law enforcement. relationships strengthened, officers and “With the breakdown of families chaplains work seamlessly together. in our present society and the The chaplain training is ongoing. unwillingness for some to accept “We require our chaplains to attend responsibility for their choice, the the International Conference of Chattanooga police officers do an Police Chaplains annual training,” exceptional job addressing the social says Tuwan. “Our team is diverse in its faith traditions, with Jewish, ills that plague our community,” says Catholic, Islamic, and Protestant Tuwan. “The Chattanooga police faiths represented. All are ordained chaplains are here to understand the ministers who are active in a local demands on the officers, how their job congregation and have experience in affects them and to provide support assisting people in crisis.” and counsel.” The CPD chaplain corps is not Although he doesn’t pastor in a an entity unto itself. “We coordinate parish setting, Tuwan Ussery fulfills and converse with the Department his call to ministry in an environment of Social Services, the Family Justice that is fluid and unpredictable. He Center, the American Red Cross, and wouldn’t have it any other way, other area agencies,” says Tuwan. because he knows that this ministry is “Additionally, we participate in right where God wants him to be.

19 FRONTLINE MINISTRY IN BOTSWANA By Lesenamore Thulaganyo Mokgwane, as told to Deena Bartel-Wagner 20 He understood that the soldiers under his care would be his congregation, just as the congregations he ministered to in the local church.

esenamore Thulaganyo to complete the interview. “I’d heard Mokgwane never dreamed that I should expect to spend about Lhe’d make a ministry career 20-25 minutes with the committee,” change after 20+ years of literature says Mokgwane. “Imagine my surprise evangelism, pastoral ministry, and when the questions continued for one administrative work. A conversation and a half hours!” with a fellow student during graduate Finally, the committee whittled school courses reignited his interest the group of candidates down to in becoming a military chaplain in the three. Suddenly, two dropped out Botswana Defence Force. and Mokgwane was the only one “I’d applied to become a military left. They had one last question for chaplain in 1997, but my application Mokgwane. What would he do about was rejected because of my age. I gave Sabbath, if he were needed. “I had up that dream and continued with my just one answer,” says Mokgwane. “I church ministry,” says Mokgwane. would be there if I was needed for an “During a conversation with my emergency.” He understood that the graduate school friend I learned that soldiers under his care would be his civilians could enter the chaplaincy congregation, just as the congregations and the age factor wasn’t an issue.” he ministered to in the local church. Mokgwane met all of the Today, he serves as a civilian chaplain requirements and applied. Three weeks in the Botswana Defence Forces and later he was called in for an interview. holds the rank of senior chaplain, I learned that another Adventist pastor which is equivalent to Major. had also applied. The military would “At the beginning of my chaplaincy only accept one of us, so I volunteered career, I was assured that I would to withdraw my application,” says not be sent into operational areas,” Mokgwane. Instead, he was encouraged says Mokgwane. “Instead, I have FRONTLINE MINISTRY IN BOTSWANA By Lesenamore Thulaganyo Mokgwane, as told to Deena Bartel-Wagner 21 been sent and gone where I was workers, psychologists, and counselors needed most. This could be in anti- to provide support to soldiers who are poaching operations, working with in crisis.” police on crime control, and other As chaplain, Mokgwane will work situations. The BDF also engages one-on-one with a soldier who in peace-keeping missions and have is in acute need, but he will refer participated in Somalia, Rwanda, maintenance cases to social workers on Mozambique, and Lesotho. staff. This frees up his time to care for The major component of his work more people who are under his care. is to provide counseling, both in “I have 7,000 soldiers and groups and to individuals. “There is a their families who look to me for great need for family life training and spiritual guidance,” says Mokgwane. helping families to be successful and “Sometimes it can be overwhelming. healthy,” says Mokgwane. I don’t always feel like I have had During his time with the military adequate training and that frustrates families, Mokgwane has witnessed me at times.” the isolation that children often One of the methods that experience. “My experience as a youth Mokgwane uses to reach many of the director has helped me to know how families is to provide a type of Bible to reach out to youth who may be school for children up to age 12. at high risk,” says Mokgwane. He They are invited to participate in the believes mentoring is an effective way activities and learn more about Jesus. to guide them. “I help the teens find “This program is done in consultation opportunities to do job shadowing and with the local Adventist conference receive career counseling. This gives children’s ministry department,” says them a hope for a future.” Mokgwane. “It couldn’t happen if I Suicide prevention is another facet didn’t have a superb support staff to of Mokgwane’s ministry. “The suicide assist me in this outreach.” Supplies rate is increasing,” says Mokgwane. are limited and this often means “The chaplain works with social creative planning must fill the gap

Mokgwane and his sons.

22 “Many couldn’t believe that I would voluntarily leave my church work to join the military as a chaplain. Some even asked me if I had done something to be released from my church positions.”

when there aren’t enough materials knew God had led me to be in that for the children’s programming. place at that moment.” Another role that Mokgwane fills One of the greatest hindrances is that of advisor to the commandant. Mokgwane faces is the lack of a chapel “When we are faced with difficult for services. “Currently, we don’t choices, the commandant wants my have a chapel where we can meet reflection on what is the right thing on a regular basis,” says Mokgwane. to do,” says Mokgwane. “He may ask “This impacts our programming and me if I believe an operation is morally spiritual activities. We often find right. It is a solemn moment to give ourselves moving from room to room, that kind of advice.” which doesn’t provide the stability that Chaplains don’t typically live we need for a congregation.” within the perimeter of the camp, Mokgwane knows that his time but Mokgwane is a rare case. He is as a military chaplain is limited. provided a house in addition to his Mandatory retirement is at age 60, but salary. Being near to the soldiers his commanders have indicated that he contributes to accessibility by the soldiers when they need to talk could extend his time. As Mokgwane with the chaplain. This has been an reflects on his role as a pastor and as important factor in overcoming the a chaplain, he has a burden for the soldiers’ skepticism. “Initially, when church to see the opportunity that is I joined the BDF, soldiers questioned available right now. “I want my church whether I was genuine,” says to take advantage of what they could Mokgwane. “Many couldn’t believe do and be,” says Mokgwane. “There is that I would voluntarily leave my an open door right now for Adventists church work to join the military as a to be a part of this kind of ministry. chaplain. Some even asked me if I had We need to look to the future of done something to be released from the mission in the church and not my church positions. I happily told overlook those who serve in uniform them that I was with them because I for their country and fellow citizens.”

23 Unleashing GOD’S POWER! By Jackie Ordelheide Smith, Communications Manager, General Conference Ministerial Department

small church in a farming town than doubled! Their dying school had been without a pastor for became their next united prayer Amore than six months. It had object. God soon had doubled its been decreasing in size for years, so enrollment plus the members were God led the head elder to unite with now seeing personal answers to prayer church members several times a week and were filled with rejoicing! in prayer. They prayed, and prayed, Imagine, millions of Seventh-day and kept praying for people to come Adventists around the world, all to their church. People did start praying together in one accord for coming, and members continued to the same thing! What would happen? pray until their attendance had more If millions unitedly persevered in

24 prayers, much like the disciples did in God has promised to the upper room just before Pentecost and thoughout the book of Acts, what pour out His Spirit upon could God do! God has promised to pour out us, if we just ask, and press His Spirit upon us, if we just ask, and press together as a people in one together as a people in accord in prayer. You can be part of a similar dynamic, worldwide prayer one accord in prayer. movement with that same purpose! United in Prayer, as this Revival and the unity of the members and their Reformation initiative is called, is a love for God and for one another (9 global church community of Seventh- Manuscript Release 303.3)–MR No. day Adventist members praying 748 "The Power of United Prayer." together. “We want to encourage A young woman’s husband left her members to join together in prayer,” for another woman. Her father kept says Jerry Page, General Conference persistently asking everyone to pray for Ministerial Association Secretary, the husband–his­ son-in-law–to come “whether through your own personal back to the wife and family. The father time with God, personal prayer would meet in various prayer groups groups, or in a broader sense as a and would have them pray. The wife church through prayer phone lines, and children kept uniting in prayer for 777 on the hour, texting groups, their father to return. For seven years or any other way that God leads.” they persevered in prayer. Then one Participants of United in Prayer will happy day the husband returned home, also share and receive testimonies, and the marriage was restored! prayer requests, practical helps, and “The purpose of united prayer inspirational messages. is to pray together for what is on In Matthew 18:19 and 20, God God’s heart for this lost world,” says invites us to come together and ask Janet Page, General Conference great things of Him: “. . . If two of you Prayer Coordinator. “It brings us shall agree on earth as touching any into unity, unleashes His power, and thing that they shall ask, it shall be energizes our own spiritual life. I love done for them of my Father, which is it! Praying together with others has in heaven. For where two or three are totally changed my life!” gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (KJV). BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS Prayer and Bible study go hand-in- WHY PRAY UNITEDLY? hand to bring revival. One can hardly Ellen White tells us that, “The have a strong prayer life without promise [in Matthew] is made on also going deeper into God’s Word. condition that the united prayers of The companion to the United in the church are offered, and in answer Prayer global prayer initiative is the to these prayers there may be expected global study program called Believe a power greater than that which comes His Prophets. Believe His Prophets, in answer to private prayer. The the sequel to Revived by His Word, power given will be proportionate to is a five-year program of reading

25 through the entire Bible, a chapter a God has promised to day, with an accompanying blog, and interactive comments. It also includes pour out His Spirit upon weekly readings from seven Ellen G. White books, including , us, if we just ask, and press Christ’s Object Lessons, Patriarchs and Prophets, Prophets and Kings, The Desire together as a people in of Ages, the Acts of the Apostles, and The Great Controversy. one accord in prayer. “God’s Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path,” says taken from the counsel in 2 Chron- Derek Morris, editor of Ministry icles 20:20, which says, “Believe in magazine and coordinator of the Lord your God, and you will be the program. “So our goal is to established; believe his prophets, and encourage church members to you will succeed” (ESV). spend time with God in prayer and "Thousands have been blessed reading the Bible every day.” by God as a result of Revived by His “I used to be violent and always Word,” Morris concludes, “and we aggressive,” writes one participant, “but believe thousands more will gain an because of God’s Word and His life, even deeper understanding of God’s I’m now peaceful, loving, and kind.” will or their lives through Believe “My workmates are seeing changes His Prophets.” in my habits,” writes another. “I used To be part of these two worldwide to swear a lot at work, but now these movements and receive the daily habits are dying out. Thanks, Revived chapter and regular prayer mailings, by His Word!” go to RevivalandReformation.org. Shah writes, “I am no longer This article originally appeared in Elder’s Digest, complaining about leaders in my local October/December 2015. Jackie Ordelheide Smith church, but I pray for them!” was the Ministerial communication manager at the The name Believe His Prophets was General Conference World Headquarters.

26 GUIDANCE for the JOURNEY HOME

Take your connection with God to a higher level!

Believe His Prophets, a sequel to Revived by His Word, is a five- year journey through the Bible and selected writings of Ellen White, which includes daily Bible readings, daily interactive blogs, and weekly selections from the Spirit of Prophecy.

United in Prayer is a dynamic worldwide movement to pray with others. Receive weekly inspirational prayer messages, ideas, testimonies, and requests from the world church, and share praise reports and prayer requests through WePray.mobi, an online prayer community.

Sign up for both Believe His Prophets and United in Prayer at www.RevivalandReformation.org.

GLOBAL STUDY PROGRAM GLOBAL PRAYER CIRCLE

Every day in God’s Word Every day in Prayer and the Spirit of Prophecy with God’s People

27 www.RevivalandReformation.org ADVENTIST CHAPLAINCY MINISTRIES WORLDWIDE

EAST CENTRAL AFRICA DIVISION

ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY OF AFRICA, NAIROBI, KENYA The first cohort of the Master degree in Chaplaincy met at Adventist University of Africa in Nairobi, Kenya–with Mario E Ceballos. This is a joint effort between the General Conference Education Department, the East-Central Africa Division, the Adventist University of Africa and Adventist Chaplaincy Institute. Director, ACM–GC, was the instructor. During the following The first two weeks of the two weeks, the students will study intensive covered the “Introduction “Formation of Chaplaincy” under to Chaplaincy. Dr. Mario Ceballos, the tutelage of Dr. Basharat Masih, Director, Adventist Chaplaincy Institute, Clinical Operations. Each of the three Divisions in Africa (ECD, SID, and WAD) are represented by students in this class. The participants are (standing L to R) Davie Kanjadza (Malawi), Stephen Letta (Tanzania), Dan Abuya (Kenya), MattEmang’s OwnLover Ramasankate (Botswana), Mario E Ceballos (General Conference), Mthokozisi Dube (Zimbabwe), Wlifred Mafwimbo (Tanzania), Nkae Rene (Cameroun), Okindo (Kenya). Kneeling (L to R) Charles Magutu

28 (Kenya), Joel Musaasizi (Uganda), about the stand they must take to Sikhumbuzo Dube (Zimbabwe). represent Christ to others in all aspects of their lives. , The students are currently KAMPALA, UGANDA attending various public universities in the greater Nairobi area. The Adventist campus chaplains for the region were instrumental in organizing the event.

Dr. Mario Ceballos, Director, ACM– General Conference with the Adventist Accrediting Association visit to Bugema Adventist University with Chaplains Jimmy Emwaku, Florence Bagonza, the dean of the NORTH AMERICAN School of Theology and Religious Studies Professor Gebre Worancha DIVISION Ph,D. Dr.Ceballos also met with Professor Opuda-Asibo, Executive CANADA Director, Uganda National Council Dr. Paul Anderson, Director, for Higher Education. ACM–North American Division and Dr. Washington Johnson, KENYATTA UNIVERISITY, Assistant Director, ACM–North NAIROBI, KENYA American Division, recently met with pastors and chaplains in the Ontario Conference. Topics of discussion included the general requirements for chaplaincy endorsement and the role of a chaplain versus the role of a pastor. Chaplains shared their personal experiences.

More than 5,000 Adventist students converged on the campus of Kenyatta University for Sabbath worship services with Dr. Mario Ceballos, Director, ACM–General Conference. Dr. Ceballos spoke to the students

29 Dr. Mansfield Edwards, President, category entries in all film and video Ontario Conference and an endorsed competitions. Less than 12 percent law enforcement chaplain extended of submitted entries placed for an invitation for an annual meeting to WorldFest Remi awards. be held. Elder Mark Johnson, President, SOUTH AMERICAN Seventh-day Adventist Church DIVISION in Canada, and his fellow officers expressed their support for Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries and the chaplains who serve in Canada.

COLORADO

During a recent visit to Peruvian Union Adventist University, Dr. Mario Ceballos, ACM Director– GC and the university’s chaplains spoke to more than 1,000 students about marriage and choosing a life partner. Peruvian Union Adventist University is one of the largest Adventist universities, with over The 2014–2015 Houston 13,000 students enrolled. International Film Festival has awarded a Silver Remi and Bronze Remi Award to Dr. Richard Stenbakken, former ACM Director. Stenbakken received the Silver Remi in the category of Television and Cable Awards, TV Series- Documentary for his portrayal of “Chaplains of the Dorchester.” The Bronze Remi in the category of Television and Cable Production Awards, Historical Programming for his portrayal of “In Flanders Fields.” Both are from his DVD series “Soldiers of Destiny” There were more than 4,300 Executive Editor: Layout and Design: Mario E. Ceballos Emily Harding D.Min., BCC HardingDesign Editor: Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries Deena Bartel-Wagner Mario Ceballos, Director/Endorser [email protected]

THE ADVENTIST CHAPLAIN is a quarterly publication of Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries (ACM), the ecclesiastical endorsing agency of the Seventh-day Adventist® Church. This journal is distributed worldwide to chaplains, church leaders, institutions, and others involved in chaplaincies. To be added to our mailing list, please visit our website at AdventistChaplains.org, or email [email protected]. Comments and/or articles will be considered for publication. Contact the editor at [email protected]. org. Include your full name, complete mailing address, telephone, e-mail address, and current digital photos with all submissions. Items submitted by mail will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped return envelope. CONTACT US: Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries, Headquarters, 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904, U.S.A. Phone: 301-680-6780; fax: 301-680-6783; e-mail [email protected]; Website: AdventistChaplains.org. Unless otherwise credited, all photos © BigStock 2015. Texts credited to NIV are from the Holy Bible, New International Version. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers. Adventist® and Seventh-day Adventist® are the registered trademarks of the General Conference Corporation of Seventh-day Adventists®.

CORRESPONDENTS East-Central Africa Division (ECD) South Pacific Division (SPD) Magulilo Mwakalonge, ACM Director Trafford Fischer, ACM Director [email protected] [email protected]

Euro-Asia Division (ESD) Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division (SID) Oleg Goncharov, ACM Director Busi Khumalo, ACM Director [email protected] [email protected] | Skype: handybusi

Inter-European Division (EUD) Southern Asia Division (SUD) Marius Munteanu, ACM Director To be determined [email protected] Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) Inter-American Division (IAD) Houtman E. Sinaga, ACM Director Hiram Ruiz, ACM Director [email protected] [email protected] Trans-European Division (TED) North American Division (NAD) Patrick Johnson, ACM Director Paul S. Anderson, ACM Director [email protected] [email protected] West-Central Africa Division (WAD) Northern Asia-Pacific Division (NSD) N. John Enang, ACM Director Lisa Clouzet, ACM Director [email protected] or [email protected] [email protected]

VICE ORG hapla ER AN C i S IZ t n D A is c L T t y R IO n M O N e W South American Division (SAD) v i d n

i

A s

t

r

i

e Bruno Raso, s ACM Director O F S T S S EV TI EN EN [email protected] TH-DAY ADV

31

PAID

Nonprofit

U.S. Postage

Organization

Suburban, MD

Permit No. 6439 – Hal Borland experience can instill in us. on, with all the wisdom that nor a beginning but going Year’s end is neither an ® IST DVEN T A THE CHAPLAIN

inistr M ies cy in a l

p

a

h

C

t

s

i General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists 12501 Old Columbia Pike Silver Spring, MD 20904-6600 t

n

e v d A