Contents APRIL 2006 In Every Issue

3 | Editorial

4 | Newsline

6 | Potluck

12 | Church Profile

8 14 | Visitor Blog

News & Features 15 | Healing Ministry

8 | Adventists Under Fire Newsletters What Happens When Adventists are 19 Allegheny East Forced to Choose Faith or Livelihood? 21 Chesapeake Walter Carson 23 Columbia Union College 25 Highland View Academy Many Seventh-day Adventists often find themselves in situations where their jobs are in jeopardy. In the worst-case scenarios, they 27 Mountain View are forced to make a cruel choice—their faith or their livelihood. 29 Mt. Vernon Academy Find out about new legislation that can strengthen current 31 New Jersey protection against workplace discrimination. 33 Ohio 12 | Cherry Hill Church 35 Pennsylvania 37 Potomac 125 Years and Going Strong! 39 Takoma Academy Kimberly Luste Maran

The Cherry Hill Seventh-day 43 | Bulletin Board Adventist Church has been in existence for over a century. 47 | Last Words Read about how this healthy and growing New Jersey Conference congregation serves and ministers to its members and the community. About the Cover: Rather than compromise his faith to work on pornography websites, James Alignay, a computer programmer, quit his job. Recently, his dilemma was shared with members of a United States House of Representatives subcommittee considering changes to existing law. Photo by Richard Herard.

2 | VISITOR Editorial J. NEVILLE HARCOMBE Transformed by Grace

t the age of 18, my father, Douglas Harcombe, gave his heart and life to Jesus Christ. A few months earlier, he and five of his friends had drunken - Aly stumbled into a Seventh-day Adventist tent crusade in Lady Smith, Natal, South Africa. He was the only one of the five who was baptized by evan - gelist A. Raubenheimer. After graduating in ministry from Helderberg College, an Adventist school, he returned to his hometown for a visit. As he knocked on doors and introduced himself as “Pastor Harcombe,” he was greeted by expressions of unbelief. Standing in front of them was a man trans - formed by the power of God’s transforming grace. This miraculous transformation provides a beautiful example of God’s unconditional love for you and me. It illustrates how, when He takes over our hearts, Christ revolutionizes our lives in such amazing fashion that we are never the same again. Indeed my father’s life was never the same; God used Him for many years. He began his work for the church as a publishing director. He was also blessed to serve as a director for several missions in South Africa; a conference president of four conferences in East Africa, Central Africa, and South Africa; and a union president of the South African Union Group ll.

The Grace Equation “Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the son of the Father, in truth and love” (2 John 3). The scriptural idea of grace is love that stoops, pardons, and communicates. The very foundation of the word “grace” is a free, undeserved, unsolicited bestowment of God through His Son to each sinner. Grace envelopes His love for us. “God loves us because He cannot help it; He loves because He is God,” wrote the Scottish scholar and preacher Alexander MacLaren. That love and grace break in mercy. As grace is love that forgives, so mercy is love that pities and helps. God’s grace softens itself into mercy, and His mercy is the outcome of His grace. In our discipling process, we share with oth - ers the power of His grace through our own experience of transformation. In 2 Peter 3:18 we read “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.” These are the last words of an old man written down as a legacy to us. He says that our daily growth can only be a reality by our close association with Douglas Harcombe (pictured with his wife Grace), Jesus. Others then can see the dramatic transfor - transformed by the power of God’s grace at age 18, mation as a witness in our own lives. passed that legacy onto his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. When we allow the Lord to flow to and from our very being and make heaven within our selves, we truly experience and know grace. To be heavenly, to know grace, we have to give up our reins to God. “Being vulnerable to grace can be our undoing. It makes us strangers in our own land,” wrote Leah Goodwin, a seminarian at Harvard Divinity School. “If only we let God make a home in us, if only we let Him radiate His light from the center of our souls, heaven will always prevail.” Thank God for His grace, freely given in mercy and love.

J. Neville Harcombe is executive secretary of the Columbia Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

APRIL 2006 | 3 Newsline LAVERNE HENDERSON

Baltimore Metro believe that Allegheny East is tion of president, executive Initiative Summit only for African-Americans and secretary, and treasurer for the Held at Union Office Chesapeake is only for next quinquennium. Current Caucasians. The reality is that officers are Harold Lee, Neville Nearly 100 attendees, includ - professional and non-profes - Harcombe, and Seth Bardu, ing pastors, conference presi - sional blacks, Anglos, and other respectively. Please refer to the dents, Adventist Community cultures reside in many inner- May special constituency issue Services staff, and key lay lead - city areas. We need to find a of the Visitor for more informa - ers gathered over a two-day way to unite our urban ministry tion. Preceding the Union will period recently at the Columbia efforts. This is a great opportu - be Columbia Union College’s Union Conference headquarters nity to form a bond between constituency session on May for a Baltimore Metropolitan both conferences.” 19, at Sligo church in Takoma Initiative Summit. Vandeman also had com - Park, Md. Constituents will ments: “I found it most encour - hear reports and vote on crucial aging that administrators, pas - college matters. tors, and lay leaders could sit down and dialogue about the Chesapeake Elects collaboration of two conferences New Secretary in reaching the masses in this Last month, the Chesapeake area. It was refreshing to grapple Conference Executive Committee with the reality that our mission Anthony Hackett, a Columbia Union elected Charles Griffin to serve College student and intern with BACS, must include faith-based com - as executive secretary. Griffin, shares his ideas with Monte Sahlin and munity action as well as tradi - trust services summit attendees. tional methods of evangelism. director, The Baltimore Initiative gives us Monte Sahlin, vice president replaces Rob the opportunity to build a cohe - for creative ministries at the Vandeman sive, inclusive, and comprehen - union, chaired the meeting. “It who was sive mission strategy.” was exciting to see the collabo - recently Attendees heard a report from ration on the part of conference elected as Hoy about significant accom - presidents, pastors, and lay lead - conference president. “As we plishments, brainstormed 24 ers,” said Sahlin. “They look to the future, Charles’ recommendations, and expressed real support for the extensive background in church approved a permanent evangel - ministry of Pastor Darriel Hoy work—including pastoral, depart - ism coordinating committee. and Baltimore Adventist mental, and administrative They also voted to support a Community Services (BACS)— areas—will be an invaluable BACS care center, which will our metro mission agency.” asset,” Vandeman says. offer job training and resources With Allegheny East and for local churches, that Hoy Chesapeake conference churches Columbia Union ASI plans to open by June 1. located throughout the five Elects New President counties in the Baltimore area, The Columbia Union chapter conference presidents Charles Union and College to of ASI (Adventist-laymen’s Cheatham and Rob Vandeman Hold Constituency Services and Industries) recently left the meeting optimistic Sessions elected Gayle Clark , president about joining forces to evangel - The Columbia Union and CEO of ize this vast metropolis. Conference will hold its 25th Miracle “Some of our challenges are Constituency Session May 20-21 Meadows learning to collaborate better at the Seventh-day Adventist School as its between regional and local con - World Headquarters in Silver new presi - ferences,” said Cheatham. Spring, Md. Among the main dent. ASI, “Some people still erroneously business items will be the elec - composed of

4 | VISITOR Newsline laypersons involved in profes - Alumnus of the Year by April 30. Those who do so will sions, industry, education, and Oakwood College. Williams will receive a free copy services, exists to facilitate be honored at the Huntsville, of the booklet. “Sharing Christ in the Ala., institution during its 39th To date, church - Marketplace” and support the Homecoming service April 15 es and individuals global mission of the Adventist where an anticipated 8,000 to have purchased Church. “We want to build on 12,000 alumni and friends will more than 95,000 the momentum of the previous gather. “I feel highly honored,” copies in prepara - leadership in making ASI more says Williams. “Oakwood tion for this his - visible and double the current College holds a special place in toric event—with membership,” says Clark. She my heart.” another 15,000 on replaces Denise Thomas-Ellis, back order and of Finelines Services, who Adventists Participate 100,000 being printed. To order, served for the past five years. in National Ten call (800) 765-6955 or visit Commandments Day www.adventistbookcenter.com . —Nicole Batten Allegheny East and A nationwide movement by New Jersey Youth prominent Christian leaders and Win Awards religious broadcasters has led to Two Columbia Union youth the commemoration of the first- were winners of the 2006 North ever Ten Commandments Day From the Pulpit American Division’s Distinguish- May 7. To help Adventists share ed Youth Ministries Award. their unique understanding of Communities are coming Nichelle the Decalogue, Signs of the Times to us because we have Anderson , and Pacific Press have developed combined the Kettering from the a new sharing tract called Taking legacy of innovation and Allegheny a Stand for the Ten Command- technology and the East ments . Written by Mark Finley, Adventist legacy of Conference’s this compelling, eight-page shar - healthcare and mission. Emmanuel- ing piece presents a balanced Brinklow church, was honored call to Christ and His law. for community service and aca - Adventists are intentional demics. Kyle Cox , representing in promoting this issue. the New “Adherence to the principles Jersey articulated in the Ten Conference’s Commandments varies and Rockaway people in general tend to de- church, won emphasize their value,” says … Like salt, our duty is to for academics. Adrian Westney of the Columbia Union’s Office of season, preserve, and Public Affairs and Religious enhance; fulfill our mission Liberty. “But their contribution to reach the people in our Allegheny East to the establishment of a system communities; and then Member Named of justice and the maintenance prepare them for the Oakwood Alumnus of of order cannot, and should not, coming of Christ. the Year be discounted.” —Frank Perez, CEO of DeWitt Williams, Allegheny In order to further highlight Kettering Adventist East Conference member and the fourth commandment, mem - HealthCare speaking at Health Ministries director for bers are asked to “sign” a peti - last month’s executive the Adventist Church in North tion, available at www.hopetv.org committee meeting. America, has been named 2006 or by calling (888) 446-7388, by

APRIL 2006 | 5 Potluck CELESTE RYAN BLYDEN

What’s New Technology > “All we needed was a comput - Churches Broadcast er and high-speed digital video Music > Angela Sermons on the Web camera,” says Hurst who has Brown, “From You” Attention members of been broadcasting Hilltop servic - (Praise and Worship) Columbus’ Hilltop Community es since November. “This is an Angela Bryant-Brown’s warm, church: Did you miss Pastor evangelism opportunity. We are husky vocals confidently wel - Jerome Hurst’s sermon March 4 trying to share Christ with the come listeners into the presence entitled “The Sweetest Word in world, and the web gives us of God with these the Bible?” How about you, access to a larger audience.” lyrics sung over members of Macedonia church Hurst, who’s starting small and an upbeat melody: in Chester, Pa? Did you miss the learning in the process, would “We have come March 11 message by Pastor like to “air” an evangelism series, into this house/to Alex Royes? Well, thanks to Sabbath School, and financial give God the churchpond.com, you and mil - seminars in the future. Learn glory/We have more about churchpond.com and come into this house/to give its many options on the web. God the praise.” According to Note: At press time, another Brown, “You will not experience group of Adventists announced a genuine sense of spiritual ful - the launch of a similar web- fillment until you realize and live based broadcast ministry. Check within God’s will for your life.” out www.praizevision.com. On “From You,” her second album, 11 praise-filled songs lions of web surfers can enjoy WholeHealth worship God for His holiness. these services anytime. Brown is a talented singer, song - So far, three Columbia Union Sleep: It’s Good for writer, and motivational speaker churches (including Mt. Olivet Your Health who serves as the praise and wor - in Camden, N.J.) are using this In recent years research into ship coordinator at Community four-year-old, online ministry sleep and health has increased Praise Center in Alexandria, Va. which aims to help its couple exponentially. Medicine used to To replenish your spirit, go to dozen church subscribers view sleep as merely an annoy - www.sounds4thesoul.com. “spread the message of God’s ance that was not considered —Tanisha Greenidge love through technology.” important. The latest research

Keeping S core

Willie Oliver, director of Family Ministries for the North American Division, recently conducted a study on married Adventist members in the Greater Washington, D.C., area. Of the respondents, 17.7 percent were age 40 and younger; 28.8 percent were 41-50; 26.4 percent were 51-60; and 27 percent were 61 and older. Here’s a partial look at his findings:

84.4 – Percent of respon - 29.5 – Percent who daily 63.3 – Percent who dents married to an Adventist. have Bible study and family attend church weekly with worship. their spouse. 79.1 – Percent who say they keep the Sabbath. 34.5 – Percent who seldom 19.2 – Percent who or never have Bible study or seldom or never attend 77.7 – Percent who pray family worship. church with their spouse. daily outside of meals.

6 | VISITOR What You Bring to the Table shows that deficient or irregular sleep has major physical impact. 5 Minutes With > Reginald Shires The lack of sleep raises stress hor - mones and levels of inflamma - tion; reduces the body’s produc - he Leopard’s Call, An Anglo- When we learned that getting tion of anti-cancer Indian Love Story , is a true nar - tomatoes would be nearly impossi - hormones; and is Trative written by Reginald ble, one of our missionary friends associated with Shires, a lay pastor born in Bangalore showed us how to preserve our increased obesi - and raised in South India, who trav - fruits and vegetables using tin cans. ty, cancer, dia - eled with his young wife Norma to Why should people read the it? betes, and heart an Adventist agricultural school in disease. Sleep loss the grasslands of the Himalayas. This You will learn to appreciate India disrupts hor - book gives readers a spicy look at and its different facets. Although mones that regulate appetite, rural life in India and simmers with my family had very little material leading to unnecessary eating. It rich culture. The amusing stories are wealth, we were very happy. also raises blood pressure, and for refreshing and will make readers some may be a major reason for long to experience their own adven - For more on Shires and his high blood pressure. ture. Shires, a journalist and college adventures in the jungle, the Weevil “Lack of sleep disrupts every teacher, has been published in The bird operation, and other fascinating physiologic function in the New York Times, The Washington Post, anecdotes, visit www.regshires.com. body,” says Eve Van Cauter of Times of India, Amrita Bazar Patrika, You can also read an excerpt from the University of Chicago. “We Indian Farming, and other magazines The Leopard’s Call, An Anglo-Indian have nothing in our biology and journals . His fiction appears in Love Story .—Tanisha Greenidge that allows us to adapt to this Voices on the Verandah, an anthology behavior.” of stories from India, and he is the author of At the Age for Love , a novel Then and now: From the creation of humani - Reginald and Norma ty, when He rested on the sev - on Bangalore during the hectic days Shires in West Bengal, enth-day, God showed us the of World War II. I recently inter - India, 1960; and Beltsville, Md., 2006 importance of rest by example. viewed Shires—a member of the He continued in the New Southern Asian church in Silver Testament by inviting those who Spring, Md.—about this latest book: labor and are heavy laden to find What is this book about? rest in Him. Adventists have known for over a century that It is based on a diary I kept during physical rest and sleep are one of the five years my wife and I worked the basic foundations of health. at the Raymond Memorial Training Yet, we are all too often swept School in Bhutan, India. My wife along with the 24/7 culture of was the school nurse who taught sci - modern America. For example, I ence classes and treated villagers. I know very well an Adventist taught Bible, English classes, and who will often stay up ’til 2 a.m. conducted evangelistic meetings emailing discussion items about in nearby towns. the fine points of Adventist the - What’s a favorite memory ology. Yet he has missed a most of your time in India? important point—rest. What about you; are you get - The Adventist mis - ting enough rest? There’s noth - sionaries there were a ing like a good night’s sleep! dedicated group who —Marc Braman, MD, MPH gave of themselves so willingly.

PHOTO BY WINETTA L. HODGES

APRIL 2006 | 7 Adventists Walter Carson, Esq. Under Fire

t’s a cruel choice when you’re forced to choose between your faith and your liveli - hood. Yet many Seventh-day Adventists often find themselves in workplace situa - Itions where their jobs are in jeopardy. Usually it’s because their work schedule conflicts with the Sabbath or there is some other work-related situa - tion that violates a faith-based practice or belief. Here are a few examples of members who have been discriminated against by their employers: Paul* responded to a job ad in the Cleveland Plain Dealer for a position as an air traffic con - troller. During the interview process, he was told, “you are the most qualified applicant” and was hired. Prior to beginning work, Paul explained to the employer’s personnel office that he was a Seventh-day KNOW YOUR RIGHTS Adventist and could not work on Sabbath, from Currently both state and federal law protects sundown Friday to sundown Saturday. The Adventists from religious discrimination in the employer said that all employees must be avail - workplace. Looking at available federal remedies, able to work on any of three eight-hour shifts, on the Civil Rights Act requires equal treatment in any given day for any seven-day work schedule. hiring, firing—and other terms and conditions of Paul, the father of two small children, was given a employment—irrespective of a person’s religious choice: his faith or his job. beliefs or practices. An employer must even take Linda* was faced with a similar situation. After steps to reasonably accommodate the religious joining an Adventist church in Pittsburgh, she practices of its workers. Under this law, an became convinced that she could no longer be a employer must provide a reasonable accommoda - member of the labor union at the factory where tion for an employee’s religious needs, unless the she worked. She informed her employer and the accommodation creates an undue hardship in the union representative that, because of her religious conduct of the business. beliefs, she could no longer belong to the union The process of finding a workplace accommo - and objected to paying union dues. The union, cit - dation involves two steps. First, the employee ing the collective bargaining agreement, com - must inform her supervisor, preferably in writing, plained that only union members could work at that she needs a religious accommodation. For a the company and demanded that Linda be fired. Sabbath conflict, this involves a letter explaining The company ignored her request for a religious briefly that you are a member of the Seventh-day accommodation and presented this new Adventist Adventist Church. Indicate that the Church teach - with a choice between her faith and her livelihood. es the seventh-day Sabbath as found in the Ten There are other times when workplace religious Commandments and that you personally embrace discrimination occurs, albeit in subtler, less obvi - these teachings. Explain that this is a holy time to

What happens when Adventists are forced to choose faith or livelihood? How we help and what you can do.

ous ways. James Alignay, a highly qualified com - focus on worshipping God, the Creator and, as a puter programmer worked for a Maryland based, consequence, you are unable to work from sun - web-hosting company that provided services to down Friday until sundown Saturday. Finally, ask various Internet businesses. It was James’ job to for an accommodation because the work schedule maintain each site serviced by the company and conflicts with your Sabbath beliefs. to resolve customer problems and complaints. The second step requires the employer to offer One site in particular bothered James, an obser - a solution that will reasonably accommodate the vant Seventh-day Adventist whose faith informs employee’s religious beliefs and practices and all aspects of his life. It was a pornography site avoid her having to work on the Sabbath. It is this that catered to the prurient interests of its cus - area that has created considerable problems for tomers. As a matter of religious principle, James Adventists. The law allows the employer to inter - refused to service this site and put his job in pose a defense that any accommodation of the jeopardy. He made a choice to follow the dictates employee’s Sabbath needs would cause an “undue of his conscience. hardship” in the workplace. Late last year James’ dilemma was shared with In interpreting this term the courts have said E L members of a United States House of that a seniority provision in a collective bargain - H O P Representatives subcommittee considering

B ing agreement will take precedence over an O R changes to existing law. These changes will lead to

Y employer’s obligation to find a religious accom - B

O better protection from workplace discrimination T modation. Another court has stated that an O H P for Paul, Linda, James, and others. employer need not incur more than “de min -

APRIL 2006 | 9 imus” costs in fulfilling its accommodation obli - which will provide greater protection for gations. While still other courts have allowed the Adventists seeking a workplace religious accom - employer to argue hypothetical hardships without modation. (See sidebar to learn what you can do ever actually attempting an accommodation to to support this effort.) determine whether the hardship claimed is real, If an accommodation is refused, and the or merely imagined. Adventist employee is disciplined, or fired, she can Because of these ambiguities in the current law, file a charge with a local Equal Employment the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This federal gov - has joined with other concerned organizations in ernment agency will conduct its own investigation support of an amendment to the Civil Rights Act, and determine whether the company’s decision

Securing Religious Freedom—What You Can Do

If today is an average day in do so without incurring a significant cost or America, three Seventh-day inconvenience. Adventist Christians will be fired As important as this bill is, it won’t pass with - out your support. Every Seventh-day Adventist in from their jobs for no reason other the Columbia Union needs to raise a voice to than keeping the Sabbath. Congress like our pioneers did in the 1880s. To get That’s over 1,000 a year. And many more will be involved, simply visit www.religiousliberty.info— harassed, demeaned, and demoted by intolerant the webpage of the North American Division-affil - employers who believe their role as boss gives iated North American Religious Liberty them the right to denigrate the religious beliefs Association. And in less than two minutes, you and practices of their employees. can send a letter supporting the Workplace For years we have seen this problem grow. Religious Freedom Act to your two federal sena - Between 1993 and 2003, the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission reports We are not doing the number of religious discrimination claims grew a staggering 82 percent. Today there is hard - the will of God ly a church in America that doesn’t contain some - if we sit quietly one who has experienced Sabbath problems at doing nothing work—and this is particularly true of young Adventists and new converts. Our religious liberty to preserve leaders report that there are two sure results of liberty of conscience. evangelistic campaigns today in America—a new round of baptisms, and a new round of firings. tors and your federal congressperson. Something has to be done and as Ellen White For those who want to do more, organize a visit said, “We are not doing the will of God if we sit by your church family to your representatives’ quietly doing nothing to preserve liberty of con - offices or invite them to church. Your conference science.” Following this instruction, we are dili - and union religious liberty departments will be gently working for the passage of the Workplace delighted to support your efforts. Religious Freedom Act, a moderate piece of bipar - Our representatives are in Congress to represent tisan legislation. It will require employers to us. Now is the time to let them know that we sup - accommodate Sabbathkeeping and other religious port religious liberty and the passage of the practices of their employees, if the employer can Workplace Religious Freedom Act. —James Standish was warranted or if there was an accommodation The Office of General available that would not have caused an undue hardship on the employer’s business. At the end of Counsel is trying to help the investigation, the Commission typically issues a “Right-to-Sue” letter, which gives the employee an these and many other opportunity to pursue the claim in the courts. Available relief from the EEOC, or from litigation, Adventists protect their offers the successful claimant hiring, reinstatement, back pay, future losses, mental anguish, and, in cer - religious freedom: tain circumstances, punitive damages.

HOW WE HELP Carmen Benner , a member of Conferences within the Columbia Union pro - Allegheny East’s Mount Calvary vide information to members facing workplace church in Salem, N.J., worked religious discrimination or seeking accommoda - as a cashier. For her refusal to tion. Also, Adrian Westney, who assists the work on the Sabbaths she was General Counsel’s Office, handles telephone terminated. As her court date inquiries and provides information regarding Civil approaches, Benner hopes for Rights Act requirements. Westney helps draft let - justice and an apology from her ters which clearly articulate the Church’s Sabbath former employer. teaching to employers. He instructs callers in initi - ating a charge of religious discrimination with the Christopher John , a member local EEOC office and disseminates helpful print - of the Medina church in Ohio, ed materials for those wanting to know more worked in a local restaurant as about protecting their workplace rights. This an assistant manager. When information is provided at no cost to the member. asked to work during Sabbath Depending on the circumstances, the Office of hours, he said “No” and was General Counsel can become directly involved on demoted to shift manager and behalf of a member who seeks a workplace reli - transferred to a smaller gious accommodation. Indeed, the Office has filed restaurant. Although John lawsuits in federal courts to protect the legal continues to work for the rights of members who have experienced religious company, he finds his current discrimination. work situation difficult. It is important that Columbia Union members know that state and federal law forbids religious James Homes , a member of discrimination in the workplace and even requires Cape May Court House church employers to accommodate an individual’s reli - in Cape May Court House, N.J., gious beliefs. Further, the union and conference found himself without a job offices provide information to assist members who when his old company was face such religious accommodation problems. bought out. A new company Finally, while current law is not perfect, it does took over and started a re-bid - provide help when a person is faced with that ding process on all employee cruel choice between her faith and her livelihood. jobs. When a senior co-worker won the bid on his position, Walter Carson, Esq., is vice president and general Homes was left with two choic - counsel for the Columbia Union Conference of es: take a job that required Seventh-day Adventists. In that role, he also directs working on the Sabbaths or religious liberty and trust services. Contact him at leave. He chose the latter. (301) 596-0800 or [email protected]. —Tanisha Greenidge

*Not their real names.

APRIL 2006 | 11 Church Profile KIMBERLY LUSTE MARAN

Cherry Hill Church: 125 Years and Going Strong!

he Cherry Hill Seventh-day Adventist Schaal, Cherry Hill’s oldest living, “original” Church had over 100 reasons to give praise members for more than 50 years. The Schaals Twhen the majority of its 180-member con - received a rousing ovation as they were awarded a gregation turned out to celebrate their 125th token of appreciation from the church. anniversary last winter. This healthy and growing Planning began early in 2005 and committee New Jersey Conference church took an entire chairperson Claudia Ramirez spent six painstaking weekend to reflect upon their history, celebrate months researching and writing the church’s history. God’s goodness in the past and present, and look Elder Calvin Lester expressed his gratefulness forward to the future. for God’s blessings throughout the years. “It is my Conference president Leroy Finck, General prayer that I, in some small way, can continue the Conference undersecretary Larry Evans (who legacy of God’s blessings on this church and its served as conference president in the 1980s), and precious jewels—the membership,” he said. former pastor Frank Kean were among those who joined current pastor Mike Gill and congregants. A HISTORY LESSON A Friday evening sunset vespers, special Sabbath Member Althea Panganiban appreciated the School program and worship service, anniversary historical highlights. “It recognized the founding luncheon, afternoon praise concert, supper, and fathers of the church and brought to light the evening social rounded out the festivities. legacy they left behind.” That legacy began when More than 200 guests and members were some Vineland, N.J., Adventists encouraged about inspired by the testimony of Bob and Helen 25 members in the Camden area to form a com - pany. On December 20, 1880, the First Camden Seventh-day Adventist Church was born. Their fledgling evangelistic outreach flourished in the early days through literature distribution efforts. Adventist pioneer Isaac Sanborn was instrumental in further establishing the Camden church. After several moves throughout the city, the church was finally built in the Parkside section of Camden, at the corners of Kenwood and Bradley avenues in 1914. By May 1, 1920, the 92 members were free from debt. By 1960 the church felt growing pains and pur - chased two acres of land at 700 Cooper Landing Road in nearby Cherry Hill, under the direction of Pastor Salvator La Rosa. They sold the Camden property in 1962 and became known as the First Seventh-day Adventist Church on March 15, 1963. Building of the current facility, at the same Bob and Helen Schaal receive an ovation for their location, began in 1966 and was completed in long-time membership and service to the church. May 1967.

12 | VISITOR Church Profile

Left to right: Elder David Waddington, Marge Finck, N.J. conference president LeRoy Finck, Pastor Mike Gill, Eileen Gill, Larry Evans, Frank Kean, Elder Jerry Mosley, and Virginia Mosley at the Sabbath luncheon.

COMMITTED TO COMMUNITY order for us to grow,” says young adult elder J.R. Cherry Hill has never been content to sit back Bonilla. Panganiban agrees: “The support and love and watch the world go by. The congregation is we receive as young people will definitely have a intentional about reaching out to the community. positive impact on what happens in the future of “We have been a small church for decades; we are this church.” now a mid-sized church,” says Pastor Gill. “We Cherry Hill will continue its rich tradition of have to change the way we perform ministry for providing an environment of love, care, and one another and the unchurched.” acceptance while reflecting the character and min - Members started and supported Prescott istry of Jesus to individuals and families within its Adventist School, for grades 4 to 8, from 1978 to community. As Pastor Gill concludes: “Our great - 2000. They also used handbells donated in 1987, est challenge is not simply expanding our existing in memory of teen member Dale Gallagher who church to accommodate the growing congrega - was killed in a traffic accident, to establish youth tion, but expanding our vision.” and adult bell choirs. These groups have per - formed at various venues throughout New Jersey, Kimberly Luste Maran is an assistant editor of the Pennsylvania, and Jamaica. Adventist Review and a member of the Cherry Hill In 2003, the church received a grant from Seventh-day Adventist Church. Campbell Soup Company, headquartered in Camden, for the purchase of a van. Cherry Hill is known countywide for community services activi - ties, clothing distribution, disaster relief efforts, feeding the homeless, and ongoing evangelistic endeavors. Designated members recently received Adventist Community Services Disaster Response training from conference and union personnel and stand poised to respond to a crisis. Cherry Hill is also passionate about ministering to and developing its youth—who serve at almost every level in the church. “Cherry Hill has always shown support for its youth. Leadership under - stands the importance of our involvement and Church members enjoy a special Sabbath luncheon the allowance of generational self-expression in during their 125th anniversary celebration.

APRIL 2006 | 13 Visitor Blog ROB VANDEMAN

Chesapeake Pastors Take Reformation Tour to Germany

Recently, 70 Chesapeake Conference employees and their spouses headed to Germany to embark on a Reformation Tour, following in the footsteps of Martin Luther. We asked president Rob Vandeman to take Visitor readers along by keeping a journal of the experience:

day 1 We arrived in Berlin, Germany, this morn - ing, jet-lagged and hungry. We visited the Charlottenburg Palace, summer house of the The group visited the Wartburg Castle where Martin Luther was hidden as he translated the New Testament into German. Hohenzollerns—the 17th century German ruling family. Then we dragged ourselves around downtown Berlin in the freezing cold until late afternoon when we could check-in to our hotel. After a brief orienta - tion from tour leaders Don (North American Division president) and Marti Schneider, most of us are headed to our rooms to try to sleep and be ready for a full day tomorrow.

day 2 Berlin! What a day of contrasts. We visited the site of Hitler’s bunker, which featured no markers or plaques (a collective attempt to downplay his memory). Then it was on to the Checkpoint Charlie Museum and a vivid lesson in how highly humanity Chesapeake Conference president Rob Vandeman (bottom prizes freedom. One wonders how we can take it for left) stands before the Ishtar Gate from Nebuchadnezzar’s ancient Babylon. As a young captive, Daniel passed through granted. After lunch we made a brief stop at the it 2,600 years ago. national cathedral, the Berliner Dom, followed by a short walk to the Pergamon Museum to see the Ishtar Gate from ancient Babylon. This northern gate to the ancient city includes an inscription mentioning Nebuchadnezzar as King of Babylon. No pastor could walk through that gate without remembering that Daniel, as a young captive, was led through it 2,600 years earlier. The words to that old song “Dare to Be a Daniel” played in my head all after - noon, and before leaving I stood beneath that gate and covenanted to remain faithful to God. Then it was time for the one-hour drive to Wittenberg. The banquet we arranged for the group was a fitting prelude to a very meaningful vespers at which Don Schneider began challenging us by drawing comparison’s between Martin Luther’s ministry and our own. We closed the day with our office staff praying a special Sabbath blessing for each pastor and spouse. I was especially touched when Pastor Tom and Alisha Boggess, Martinsburg (W.Va.) church, North American Division presi - returned to ask God for a special blessing on the Vandemans! dent Don Schneider (role playing Martin Luther) led the tour with his wife Marti. This journal continues in the Chesapeake Challenge newsletter on page 21.

14 | VISITOR Healing Minis try A NEWSLETTER ABOUT ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE IN THE COLUMBIA UNION

Adventist HealthCare: A True Ministry of Healing

William G. “Bill” Robertson

The Savior in His miracles revealed the power that is continually at work in man’s behalf, to sustain and to heal him. … God is working, day by day, hour by hour, moment by moment, to keep us alive, to build up and restore us. … All life-giving power is from Him. When one recovers from disease, it is God who restores him. —The Ministry of Healing, p. 112

There is a special reason why this article begins We have endeavored to respond to the moving of with a quote from The Ministry of Healing . God’s Spirit ever since. Adventist HealthCare (AHC) has a special claim The clarity of those inspired words still chal - on this Ellen White book. When we were first get - lenge, guide, and encourage us. Today, our mis - ting started—more than 100 years ago—and sion at AHC is succinctly stated in four words: fundraising had begun for a sanitarium to serve “The Ministry of Healing.” While the money from Washington, D.C., communities, White designat - the sale of the book helped establish that first ed a portion of the proceeds from the sale of The hospital, the continuing vision of service to Ministry of Healing to the completion of that first mankind through medical and health ministry building. Her example encouraged others to sup - still invigorates and motivates our work each day. port this project, and the Sanitarium welcomed its As a faith-based healthcare organization, we are first patients in June 1907. passionate and single-hearted about our mission of Actually, Mrs. White had heartily thrown her “delivering excellent healthcare through a ministry support behind the establishment of what is now of physical, mental, and spiritual healing.” These Adventist HealthCare from the moment church are not just words on a page, they represent a liv - leadership traveled from Battle Creek, Mich., to ing, vibrant mission and calling. They give life to Washington, D.C., in search of a new location for the vision of being “a world class healthcare organ - the denominational headquarters, a publishing ization focused on meeting the needs of our com - house, sanitarium, and college. In fact, she wrote, munities and recognized as the provider of choice.” “The Lord has opened this matter to me decided - ly. The publishing work that has been carried on Core Values in Battle Creek should for the present be carried These words matter deeply to me, and to all on near Washington. If after a time the Lord says, who lead Adventist HealthCare. We love this mis - Move away from Washington, we are to move. We sion, we think about it all the time and talk about are pilgrims and strangers in this earth, seeking a it often. Our commitment to this mission and better country, even a heavenly. When the Lord vision translates into five specific processes that tells us to move, we are to obey, however incon - we call “Core Values.” These values provide the venient and inconsistent such a command may fuel and focus for the work done in all of our seem to us to be” (Ellen White Letter, 140, 1903). facilities and institutions. The shared vision of the

WWW . ADVENTISTHEALTHCARE . COM ■ WWW . KMCNETWORK . ORG

APRIL 2006 | 15 Healing Ministry

leadership and administrative team, they are the The second critical success factor is Workplace guiding principles for everything we plan, give Satisfaction . We believe that each employee, physi - our hearts to, and do. cian, volunteer, and partner can share in the joy of Every AHC employee is aware of the impor - service and healing. That means that employees tance of these five values. They are: 1. Respect— and leadership are always growing in their capacity recognizing the infinite worth of each individ- to serve. It means that everything we do nurtures ual and caring for each as a whole person; an affirming environment and that we are mindful 2. Integrity —being above reproach in everything of God-inspired opportunities to innovate and dis - we do; 3. Service —providing compassionate and cover new and better ways to serve. attentive care in a manner that inspires confi - The third critical success factor is Superior Safety dence; 4. Excellence —providing world-class clinical and Clinical Outcomes. This is the very heart of our outcomes in an environment that is safe for both relationship with patients. We will constantly nur - patients and caregivers; and 5. Stewardship —taking ture a culture of patient safety and constantly personal responsibility for the efficient and effec - address quality care. By linking clinical quality tive accomplishment of our mission. with research and employee education, Adventist Respect, Integrity, Service, Excellence, and HealthCare institutions will be known as places Stewardship form the acronym “RISES.” And all where the ministry of healing means the safest across the organization, our employees can tell you and most effective care. what the values are and, more importantly, what The fourth critical success factor is Financial they mean to their daily work. They are the start - Success . There are so many unmet needs in the ing point, the means, and the destination. They communities we serve. By investing in facilities, represent the building blocks of work and success. services, and people, our ministry and care will be These five core values constantly call attention enhanced. Our mission demands careful steward - to our mission; raising questions about decisions, ship of resources. We must be as serious and choices, partners, workplace policies, code of con - intentional about financial operations and duct, and professional behavior. They provide a endeavors as any other aspect of ministry. framework for thinking about resources, and a The fifth critical success factor is Growth . We benchmark for measuring effectiveness and suc - believe that God has called us to an ever growing cess. I can honestly say that every meeting I and expanding realm of service. Each day offers attend or chair somehow relates to the values new and surprising ways in which the ministry of expressed in our “RISES” equation of core values. healing may touch lives and communities. We Discussing and adhering to these core values is believe that it is God’s plan for AHC to nurture critically important to our employees, organiza - and grow its capacity to care and heal. This means tion, and those we serve. being mindful of relationships with customers, being willing to invest in facilities and services, Critical Success Factors and being actively involved in representing com - We have also identified six “Critical Success munity healthcare interests in public policy Factors” that help organize and evaluate our work. forums. Then God will bless our efforts to grow We believe that the faithful pursuit of these fac - and develop an ever-widening sphere for our min - tors—within the framework of the core values— istry of healing. provides the means to achieve our mission as a The final critical success factor is to Be Valued as “ministry of healing.” a Faith-based Organization . To understand the scope The first critical success factor is Patient of what this means, let’s look at the meanings of Satisfaction . In partnership with God, our calling is the word “hospital.” Hospital is derived from the to provide the most extraordinary healthcare expe - old Latin word “hospes,” which became known as rience to everyone we serve. Our ministry must set both “hospitalis” (hospitable) and “hospitale” the standard for service and, as modeled by Jesus (large house or inn). The English word “hospital” Himself, be rooted in meeting the needs of people was first recorded in 1300. “Hospes” also gave life right where they are. When successful, every to several other words in everyday speech such as patient encounter becomes a ministry of healing. “hotel,” “hospice,” and “hospitality.”

16 | VISITOR

Healing Ministry

The Hospitable Host ees of various faiths praying and reading scriptures Two of the earliest ancient Latin meanings of together; many have indicated that they want to “hospes” are particularly interesting to those who be “the hands and feet” of Divine compassion. work in faith-based healthcare. The first, and pri - This is a critical fulfillment of our mission and role mary, is “host.” We are indeed “hosts” in our hos - as “host” because God is revealed through our pitals. We host patients, their families, visitors, employees, practices, and policies. staff, physicians, vendors, and the community. Not only do we expect that God might be seen “Hospes” could also mean “guest.” So in addition through our lives and work, we have the expecta - to the action of the host, there’s the recognition tion that we will see God in our patients and of the guest and the interaction between the host guests. Just as we are the hands and feet of Divine and the guest. Each person who comes through compassion, those we serve also represent the our doors (or interacts with us in any way) hands and feet of the Divine. Perhaps an even expects a certain level of “hospitality” which is greater picture of Providence can be seen in the guaranteed by our role as host. Much of AHC’s patients and guests at our hospitals. We see God’s mission and vision statement, and core values, are presence in the nursery, in rehab, in the courage anchored in being a good host to our guests. of those fighting cancer, even in the suffering and Being a faith-based host amplifies the meaning tears that often accompany disease or loss. even further. It means that the hospitality—care, I believe that every person deserves faith-based service, or ministry—received acknowledges a healthcare because our mission includes both Divine presence. It suggests that any transaction physical and spiritual healing. For me, it is one of or encounter with an Adventist HealthCare the most exciting and rewarding aspects and a employee may include a revelation of the Sacred principle reason that I love working in faith-based or Holy. healthcare. It is truly a ministry of healing. I have often heard employees say, “God blessed us” and “Our prayers were answered.” I have For a complete listing of heard physicians say that they are motivated to Adventist healthcare locations, use their “God-given talents,” and that they “place visit www.columbiaunion.org/healingministry.html their hands in God’s hands.” I have seen employ -

18 | VISITOR APRIL 2006

AEC Women Gather to Pray

nder the direction of Minnie McNeil, director of UWomen’s Ministries for Allegheny East Conference (AEC), women’s ministries leaders throughout the con - ference have determined to spend more time in prayer with God and praying for each other. Recently, they spent the day talking to the Lord during International Women’s Day of Prayer. The Women’s Ministries Department at the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists created this day in 1990 to focus on Adventist women across the globe. Each year a special theme is chosen to promote unity, fellowship, and empathy among the thousands of women who participate. “Women set this day aside all over the world to pray Faye Gregory (third from left) led out in early morning walks at for each other,” said Margaret Grant, the Baltimore area the prayer conference. women’s ministries leader. “The purpose of women’s min - istries is to reach out to one another in love, harmony, and to support other women with their needs.” During this special day of prayer, churches were encouraged to designate time within their church service to pray or have prayer breakfasts and luncheons. At the Southwest Philadelphia church, speaker Ella Parks gave lis - teners five points to remember for effective prayer. In fall 2005, AEC held a three-day prayer conference at the Marriott Hotel in Hunts Valley, Md. Women from California, Alabama, and North Carolina gathered to hear the theme “Prayer: Heart to Heart,” plainly discussed by guest speakers. Charles L. Cheatham, president of the AEC, provided a male perspective on prayer and its glory. Dorothy Means, a licensed, clinical social worker and coordinator for women’s ministries in Southern California Conference, also shared a message. Augusta Y. Olaore, a native of the Yoruba tribe in Nigeria, West Africa, delivered a memorable message. “All of our speakers were such a blessing,” said McNeil. “I enjoyed myself from the time I checked in until the time I checked out,” said Mary Flowers, a retired literature evangelist. This was her first time attending a women’s retreat and the conference affected her deeply. She continues, “I left with a determination to live a life that others may see Christ through me and to really work to hasten Christ’s coming.” Prayer conference attendees went to seminars about prayer and there was also a hands-on workshop that introduced women to the power of a prayer shawl. “The prayer shawl is meant to remind people of God’s love and faithful presence in our everyday life,” said Barbara Harris, workshop leader and member of the Walnut Street Community church in Pottstown, Pa. Prayer shawls are usually knitted and prayed over before giving to a sick, grieving, or burdened individual. Harris taught 80 women how to use this shawl to pray during her two workshops. She feels this ministry can be used to serve the community. “The prayer conference was very powerful and inspiring; it was a very memorable occasion for me,” said Cheryl Thorpe, Virginia area leader. “The whole attitude of the women there was very spirit-filled.” For infor - Sunday’s speaker, Augusta Olaore, enjoys mation on a women’s prayer conference in your area or to attend the next Sabbath worship. AEC women’s prayer retreat in 2007, call McNeil at (610) 326-4610. —Tanisha Greenidge

APRIL 2006 | 19 Pine Forge Seniors Minister in Puerto Rico ine Forge Academy’s (PFA) class of 2006 left cold Ptemperatures behind as they boarded a plane bound for San Juan, Puerto Rico, during a recent class trip. Their mission was to assist with repairs at Campamento Adventista Elias Burgos, a campground in Ciales, Puerto Rico. Students painted bungalows and used their newly acquired masonry skills to build bleachers and a retaining wall. After their hard work was completed, the students spent Sabbath visiting Antillean Adventist University in Mayagüez, where they were greeted with warm smiles and a meal. During afternoon service, PFA choir mem - Pastor Ron Edmonds shares a word during morning worship. bers performed a few selections. The second half of the trip was spent at a luxurious hotel in the nearby city of Dorado. Activities included snorkeling in the Atlantic Ocean, kayaking, horseback riding, swimming, and enjoying the warm breeze on the beach. The trip was arranged through the We Care program at Andrews University.

Hard work is made fun when teamwork and friends are involved.

PFA choir members share a few selections with students at Antillean Adventist University.

Students receive guidance as they work on the retaining wall.

Allegheny East Conference PO Box 266, Pine Forge, PA 19548 ■ Phone: (610) 326-4610 www.myalleghenyeast.com ■ President, Charles L. Cheatham Communication Director, Robert Booker Pine Forge Academy (800) 390-9529 ■ www.pineforgeacademy.org Two Pine Forge Academy students kayak during their senior e-mail: [email protected] class trip. Headmaster, Cynthia Poole-Gibson

20 | VISITOR APRIL 2006 Our Accent as a Caring Community

ithout genuine love, the church is just a club—a religious club—but just a club. Love is the dynamic that Wtransforms the church from a social club into an instrument to be used by God. There is no answer to Christian love that “seeks not its own.” And there is no foe that can defeat it. It does not expect to receive for what it gives. It is not sentiment. It is unconditional, universal, and personal. I believe it will be through a demon - stration of sacrificial love—a love like Christ’s love—that many people in these last days will be won to Him. How meaningful and helpful the church can be when it seeks to understand. It then becomes a haven where erring, fallen, failing persons can find the courage and strength to begin again. In the presence of the understand - ing Christ, Mary Magdalene found power to be free again; Zaccheus was made pure and honest; Peter became a rock of devoted leadership; and the Samaritan woman became a missionary. They were all changed because Christ’s love for them understood their need. Do Chesapeake churches possess the same compassion as Christ? Are we known for healing the wounded or holding them at arms length? What happens when a fellow member has a moral failure? Do we wash our hands of them or do we—aware that we too could fail—seek to restore them in a spirit of compassion. The church has been called the “company of the forgiven” and it must forgive. People must sense compassionate understanding within the church in order to find power to reshape their lives. Pagans taunted the early church because of its clientele, but the church gloried in its membership. And it was the transformation of their lives that provided the finest validation of the power of Christ to redeem. This is the key to effective evangelism. No reliance on gimmicks. No resorting to pressure. But a profound love of people, born out of a knowledge of their needs. Nothing is so winsome as Christian love. When the church is true to its nature and when we seek people in this spirit of love, great numbers will be won to Christ. Barriers will be broken down, misunderstandings Rob Vandeman will be canceled, and unity will be secured. How caring is your accent? President

Chesapeake Pastors Take Reformation Tour to Germany S M

This article chronicles the recent trip by Chesapeake Conference pastors to I S E

Germany. It is continued from page 14 of the Visitor : K I M Y B

We spent today (Sabbath) in Wittenberg. We held a worship service in O day 3 T O H

the church where Luther was pastor. We sang “A Mighty Fortress” in the place P where it was first sung 500 years ago. This church was the pulpit of the Reformation. And again we were called to re-consecrate ourselves to ministry and the preaching of the Word. It was on the doors of the castle church that Luther nailed his 95 theses that started the Reformation in motion. Inside were the vaults where he and his good friend Philipp Melanchton are buried. A visit to the Luther museum rounded out a very informative and inspirational Sabbath. This evening, we returned to the Potato House where there are more than 180 items on the menu—all potato dishes. No wonder Don thinks this is the world’s best restaurant! day 4 Today we traveled to Brehna to visit the church where Luther’s wife Katie von Bora was raised by the nuns of the convent. We worshiped with the small Lutheran congregation that meets there. Then it was on to Eisleben, Luther’s birth - NAD president Don Schneider place, to see the house where he was born, the church where he preached his last leads the group in a worship four sermons, and the house where he died. We resonated with the story that a experience in Martin Luther’s young female pastor and one of her youth group members shared about ministry Wittenberg church.

APRIL 2006 | 21 Chesapeake Pastors Take Reformation Tour to Germany (cont. from page 21)

in a post-modern world. After another lengthy bus drive, we arrived in Erfurt to visit the Augustinian monastery where Luther became a monk. Back on the bus we are headed for Eisenach and a good night’s sleep.

day 5 Eisenach is home to the Wartburg Castle. It was built in the 11th cen - tury and inhabited for a few hundred years before being abandoned. It was here that Luther lived in disguise following the Diet at Worms. Kidnapped by friends in order to save his life and then secreted away to this largely forgotten castle, Luther translated the New Testament into German in just three months. It seemed like hallowed ground. God had prepared this hiding place for Luther, to preserve his life and to allow his work of translating the Scripture to move forward. A brief visit to the home of J. S. Bach was concluded with a concert of his music performed on various period instruments. Another bus ride took us to Rothenburg ob der Tauber—an ancient, walled city dating from the 12th century—where our weary group walked the streets and visited the quaint shops to hunt for souvenirs. Back on the bus, we headed for Bavaria and a night in Fussen near the border with Austria. Martin Luther nailed 95 theses to the doors of the Wittenberg Castle church (original doors destroyed in a fire). S M I S E K I day 6 Finished with the Luther sites, we spent the M Y

B morning at the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle (inspira - S

O tional source of Walt Disney’s Magic Kingdom) built by T O H

P King Ludwig II in the late 19th century. From there we drove to Dachau, the quiet little artist community that has become a tragic symbol of Nazi atrocities. It was a somber conclusion to our trip. It reminded us of the depths to which mankind can sink when not informed, confronted, and guided by the gospel. Before we left that spot we rededicated ourselves to continuing the Reformation; to keeping God’s Word central in our lives and ministries; to not only preaching about faith but to Chesapeake’s ladies pose in front of the Brehna church on Katie living faithfully; and to being courageous in both our von Bora’s 507th birthday. defense and proclamation of the gospel.

postscript I had to apologize to the group. In all the organizational and promotional materials related to the trip I had referenced it as a Reformation Tour. That best fit the policy description in our employee hand - book. But I was wrong. Much more than a tour, it was a week of spiritual emphasis. It was a camp meeting for our pastors. Many thanks to the Schneiders for making it such a deeply-moving religious experience . —Rob Vandeman

Members of the group were treated to a mini-concert of The Challenge is published in the Visitor by the Chesapeake Conference ■ 6600 Martin Road, Columbia, MD 21044 J. S. Bach’s music on period instruments while touring his Phone: (410) 995-1910 ■ President and Editor, Rob Vandeman home in Eisenach. Editorial Assistant, Barbara-Lee Boyd

22 | VISITOR APRIL 2006

CUC Introduces School of Graduate and Professional Studies olumbia Union College (CUC) is excited to introduce the School of Graduate and CProfessional Studies. The new school combines different elements from the Adult Evening, MBA, Online, and External Degree programs under one umbrella. As a result, the new school will offer better opportunities and services for busy professionals. “More than 20 years ago, Columbia Union College was the first school in the state of Maryland to offer accelerated learning programs for working adults wishing to complete a college degree,” said Robert Young, PhD, and vice president for academic administration. As the School of Graduate and Professional Studies continues to organize, the day-to-day routine of current students will not be interrupted. Students in the new school will march with traditional students during commencement exercises. A new marketing strategy aimed at current and prospective non-traditional stu - dents will spread the word about these new programs, list the benefits, and famil - iarize people with the new name. According to Young, “This reorganization will allow the School of Graduate and Professional Studies to deliver greater flexibility The new School of Graduate and and efficiency to meet the academic and administrative needs of these important Professional Studies is located in student populations.”— PR and Marketing staff CUC’s Administration Building.

Two Students Chosen for U.S. Model House of Representatives

ybee Wall and Henry Johnson were chosen from recommended them. TCUC to participate in the United States Model “This program offers me the opportunity House of Representatives in Washington, D.C. The to have practical experience that, as a five-day simulation will take place April 17-21 and give Political Studies/Pre-law major, I could these two Political Studies majors, and other students never get in the classroom,” said Wall, a Henry representing the 440 congressional districts around the sophomore. “I also wanted to rise above Johnson country, an opportunity to experience the inner work - the apathy toward politics that many of my ings of Congress. peers have.” During the inaugural program, students will write Each student to attend this educational bills, vote on their peers’ proposals, and engage in event will act as a seated member of the debates and hearings in actual committee rooms of the House. For example, Wall will represent Tybee House on Capitol Hill. They will also attend special CUC alumni Roscoe Bartlett, a Seventh-day Wall activities and events in the city hosted by the Adventist congressman from the 6th District Republican National Committee, the Democratic of Maryland. Johnson, will serve as National Committee, and other prominent organizations. Representative John Barrow from Georgia’s 12th “I know this is going to be an exciting experi - Congressional District. ence,” says Johnson, a freshman. He believes the “This program is very exciting, especially since this exposure gained from this program will aid his future is its inaugural year. I believe it could open doors to political plans. important job opportunities in the future,” said Wall. Joan Francis, PhD, chair of CUC’s Department of “After the program I hope to have a clearer picture of History and Political Studies, thought these students whether I really want to go into politics and how I can deserved to participate in the program and highly make a difference in the world.”

APRIL 2006 | 23 Mock Trial Team Celebrates Win and TV Interview

UC’s mock trial team recently celebrated their seventh victory in eight Cyears at the University of Dayton in Ohio. Fresh from their win, the group traveled to the historic Riverside County Courthouse in Southern California to take on the University of Redlands team. Although CUC tech - nically lost the match, they won the verdict. Mock trial is an academic tournament open to students interested in law, political studies, or debate. When students step into a mock court - room to defend a case or stand as witnesses, judges critique them on the content of their arguments, delivery, and presentation. At CUC’s recent match, several team members took home individual honors. “Our team this year has been solid,” said Estevanny Jimenez, team captain. “Our three witnesses participated last year and made our group Left to right: Coach Joseph stronger because of their experience.” Wright, Tyson Shaw, Andrew Ritland, Daniel Mackay, Tyson Shaw, a junior political studies and religion major, along with Estevanny Jimenez, Ellie Barker, Andrew Ritland, a junior political studies and history major, won best wit - Jasmine Johnson, and director ness at the event. Roy Branson. While in California, the CUC students visited several Adventist acade - mies and spoke to more than 900 students about the college’s pre-law and mock trial programs. Academies visited include La Sierra, Loma Linda, San Gabriel, and Mesa Grande. Shaw and Ritland were interviewed for the “Faith and Action” TV program on the Loma Linda Broadcasting Network, a global satellite channel. To see the program, visit www.sdalaw.org/inter - CALENDAR view.asp. Jimenez feels that her team can handle challenging matches, “This year we have a better understanding of the law and the legal system and we’re April more experienced,” she said. Later this year, CUC will compete in exhibition 1 Student Association Trip, matches against the University of Central Florida in Orlando and the National Cherry University of Maryland. The college is a part of the American Mock Trial Blossom Festival Association, but due to Sabbath observances they do not compete in offi - cial tournaments. Historically, CUC’s team has defeated former national 2 Student Association, champions, UCLA, Maryland, and others. CUC is the only Adventist college Year-end Cookout with a mock trial team, and currently has 60 students majoring in pre-law. 5 Awards Convocation The six members of this year’s mock trial team are: Ellie Barker, a sopho - more; Estevanny Jimenez, a senior; Jasmine Johnson, a senior; Daniel 7-9 Alumni Weekend Mackay, a junior; Andrew Ritland, a junior; and Tyson Shaw, a junior. The team is coached by two Adventist attorneys—defense attorney Steven 9 Open House Brennwald, a senior partner at Brennwald and Robertson; and prosecuting Tastes of Takoma attorney Joseph Wright, assistant state’s attorney in Prince George’s County. Roy Branson, director of the Center for Law and Public Policy, founded 12 Student Recognition CUC’s Mock Trial team six years ago. For more information about the team Convocation or the center, email [email protected].— PR staff 15 Student Association Trip, Brookside Gardens Graduation Weekend, April 28-30 CUC Choice Awards The class of 2006 will receive their degrees during commence - 24-26 Final Exams ment exercises April 28-30. Delivering the baccalaureate address is Tina Bjarekull, president of the Maryland Independent College 28-30 Graduation Weekend and University Association. Bjarekull is a prominent leader in higher education. Gateway is published in the Visitor by the Columbia Union College CUC Constituency Session, May 19 7600 Flower Ave., Takoma Park, MD 20912 The Quinquenial business meeting of the CUC constituency will Phone: (800) 835-4212 ■ www.cuc.edu meet Friday, May 19. Visit www.cuc.edu for details. Randal Wisbey, President ■ PR Director, Scott Steward

24 | VISITOR APRIL 2006

www.highlandviewacademy.com

HVA Recognized by Alumni Awards Foundation

ighland View Academy (HVA) recently received second place in the Academy Award of Excellence program. HThe Academy Award of Excellence is a program sponsored by the Alumni Awards Foundation (AAF), an organization comprised of dedicated alumni from Adventist schools across the North American Division (NAD). To be considered for the Academy Award of Excellence, a school must submit a lengthy application that includes items such as: the school’s current accreditation report, data showing student performance on standard - ized tests, and descriptions of creative and innovative programs the school has instituted. Schools submit appli - cations to their union office of education where selections are narrowed to one school per union. These applica - tions are then sent to the NAD Office of Education and the AAF. Applications are again narrowed to the top five schools and these schools receive a site visit by committee members representing the AAF. Based on campus visitations, the AAF choos - es the top three schools to attend their annual conven - tion. The convention this year was held in Scottsdale, Ariz. A group of four students and four faculty members from HVA attended the AAF convention where they pre - sented a short program for vespers on Friday night, and during the awards ban - quet on Saturday evening. Andrew Correces, one of HVA’s student representa - tives, said “I was really impressed to be in discus - sions with those in key edu - cational leadership posi - tions and hear them talk Left to right: Students Marlo Kudjordji and Andrew Correces; Bible teacher Stephen Herr; student about their dreams and Dean Boyer; principal Randy Nomura; student Amanda Corea; vice principal Sheri Tydings, and visions for the future of English teacher Jennifer Payne represented Highland View Academy at the Alumni Awards Adventist education.” Foundation convention in Scottsdale, Ariz. Marlo Kudjordji, an HVA senior, gave her personal testimony during the convention. She talked about how coming to HVA changed her direction in life, and thanked those attending the convention for their continued support of Adventist education. “I was amazed to learn there are so many people who give so much to Adventist schools,” said Kudjordji. HVA principal Randy Nomura was very thankful to receive the award. “Highland View Academy has been so blessed. It was such a wonderful opportunity to have HVA recognized for excellence by a nation-wide organiza - tion,” he says of the experience. “I would also like all Chesapeake constituents to know they can be very proud of the Christ-like character HVA students reflect. They have shown this over and over—not just at special events such as this, but wherever they go.” Final awards were announced at the conclusion of the awards banquet. Highland View Academy placed sec - ond and received a gift of $20,000. Placing first was Upper Columbia Academy, located in Spokane, Wash., while Highland Academy, located in Portland, Tenn., took third. HVA also received the Academy Award of Excellence in 2000, making it the first school to be recognized twice .—Sheri Tydings

APRIL 2006 | 25 HVA Hosts Language School

hirty students from Seoul City; Tampa, Fla.; and Washington, TSahmyook Middle School in D.C. According to many students, South Korea, recently arrived at however, the most authentic HVA for three weeks of English lan - American cultural experience was guage education, American culture the night they spent as guests at Visiting Korean students tour New York City. appreciation, and sightseeing. This the homes of several local families. trip introduced the students to “My favorite memory is when I went principal Randy Nomura also award - HVA’s English as a Second to ‘Teacher Beth’s’ house,” says ed academic scholarships to several Language (ESL) program and stu - Han Kun Hee, who chose the of the hardest-working or most- dent life. “Basically, we started the American name Rooney. “I talked improved students, and invited program as a way of cultural with Americans every day,” said them all to return to HVA to contin - exchange,” says vice principal student Cho Seul Ki (Risa). “It was ue their English education. “This Sheri Tydings. “It provides opportu - helpful to hear English spoken education system makes us learn nity for the Korean students to every day.” fast,” said eighth-grader Moon Kyu come to the U.S., but also lets Sara-May Colón, one of the Bum (David), who received one of American students experience ESL teachers and HVA’s assistant the scholarships. “Of course study - Korean culture.” girls’ dean, loved the experience: ing is hard, but I want to try In class, the students practiced “Teaching wasn’t as hard as I American-style studying. I will study English conversation and built their thought it would be,” she said. hard and I will come back.” vocabulary by reading children’s “The kids were great and they The students thoroughly enjoyed books, acting out skits, making loved to tease me.” their trip and both the Koreans and pizza, and playing games. The cur - The Korean students prepared a Americans appreciated the opportu - riculum also included a trip to the closing program for the HVA stu - nity to learn from each other. “I will Washington County Library. dents, faculty, and board members. remember HVA school and stu - When not in class, the group They shared many aspects of dents,” said student Yoon Yeo Song traveled to different American cul - Korean culture through music, skits, (Tom). “The students are kind and tural hotspots, including New York and food. At this program HVA smart; I love them.” —Felicia Ford

CALENDAR Alumni Weekend April Program Scheduled 10 Open House, for prospective students and family, 7-9 p.m. erry Thomas, communication director for the Speaker: Maryland JSouthwestern Union Conference (headquartered Congressman Roscoe in Burleson, Texas), will be the speaker for HVA’s Bartlett Alumni Weekend May 5-7. Thomas, or “P.T.” (as 14 Gospel Choir Concert, many alumni know him), taught Bible and was pas - 7:30 p.m., HVA Church tor of the HVA church from 1984-1990. He was known for his ability to 23 Awards Reception, 4:30 p.m. relate to students in a practical way. Since leaving HVA, Thomas has continued to minister in a variety of ways. Perhaps his name is most May recognized as the author of the Detective Zack series and The Messiah , 5 Alumni Golf Tournament a contemporary adaptation of The Desire of Ages . The schedule follows, 5-7 Alumni Weekend but for more information, visit www.highlandviewacademy.com, or 12 Covenant Presentation, contact Sheri Tydings at (301) 739-8480 or [email protected]. 7:30 p.m. 13 Music Department’s Friday, May 5 8 a.m. Golf Tournament Spring Concert 7:30 p.m. Vespers 26-27 Graduation Weekend Sabbath, May 6 10 a.m. Sabbath School 11 a.m. Worship Service Highlander is published in the Visitor by the Highland View Academy 12:45 p.m. Honor Class Pictures 10100 Academy Drive, Hagerstown, 8:30 p.m. Alumni Basketball Game MD 21740 ■ Phone: (301) 739-8480 Sunday, May 7 Noon Alumni Soccer Game Fax: (301) 733-4770 ■ Editor, Sheri Tydings www.highlandviewacademy.com

26 | VISITOR APRIL 2006

Getting Out of the Rut

irst, “Adventists in a Rut?” (see Feb. ’06 Visitor ) asked if we have lost our spiritual zeal, sense of urgency, and Fbecome calloused to His Spirit. Next, “Reasons for the Rut” (see Mar. ’06 Visitor ) included: (a) clinging to cher - ished sin, (b) lack of true conversion, and, (c) missed moments with Jesus. If we don’t get out of this rut, even the blood of Jesus can’t save us. “For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins , but a certain fearful looking for of judgment. ... ” (Heb. 10:26, 27, emphasis added). Yes, we members of His remnant church can easily meander aimlessly down that broad way leading to destruction. How can we get out of the rut of meaningless mediocrity? 1. Wake Up - “ ... Knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed” (Rom. 13:11, emphasis added). If Jesus were to come tonight, would you be ready to meet Him? Let’s wake up to our true spiritual condition. 2. Stand Up - “Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth , and having on the breastplate of right - eousness” (Eph. 6:14, emphasis added). To sing, “Oh, How I Love Jesus,” while living in sin, is mockery! “If a man love me, he will keep my words. … ” (John 14:23). We need not only confession , but repentance ; not only revival , but reformation . But Christ is the One who empowers us “ … to will and to do of His good pleasure” (Phil. 2:13). It’s futile to concentrate on overcoming sin; we must concentrate on Jesus who is “ … able to keep you from falling” (Jude 1:24). 3. Stir Up - “When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, ... I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee ... ” (2 Tim. 1:5,6, emphasis added). It’s time to restore that first love for Jesus and grow in faith. How? Do the first works, and the first love will be revived (see Rev. 2:4,5). Let’s get back to earnest Bible study and prayer to restore that fervent faith and love. 4. Speak Up - “ ... We henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, ... but speaking the truth in love , may grow up into Him in all things ... ” (Eph. 4:14,15, emphasis added). We simply cannot get out of that spiritual rut and grow in Him without sharing His love and truth with others. Only by caring and sharing are we growing and glowing! For true Adventist believers, sharing His “present truth” is not our option, it’s our passion! So, fellow believers, let’s get out of that ruinous rut and get rid of a lackluster life of Kingsley Whitsett Laodicean lethargy. Lord, “stir up” our faith and love, that we might truly become Your disciples! President

Health and Temperance Sponsors Walking Challenge

rom the beginning of 2006, the Mountain View members to keep a record of miles walked so we can FConference Health and Temperance Department compute the total figure at camp meeting,” says Dan has been challenging all members to walk 100 miles in Morikone, Health and Temperance director. A sponsor the 100 days prior to camp meeting. Health research has pledged a gift of $1,000 to the health work in indicates that exercise is a key factor in the mainte - Mountain View if a goal of 100,000 recorded miles is nance of optimum weight, good circulation, emotional achieved. This goal can be met if 1,000 participants health, and resistance to disease. “We encourage walk 100 miles in the designated period.

APRIL 2006 | 27 Thrift Stores Serve as Embassies of Heaven

ustomers who shop at the the growing volume of business COceana Better Living Center and would provide church members with Thrift Store in Oceana, W.Va., and its Sabbath-free employment and a sister operation at the Rita Mall in ministry that augments contact with Lyburn, often exclaim, “I’d rather local residents. shop here than at any name brand Workers at the two centers give store!” Why? The merchandise dis - free literature to every customer, played is clean, well organized, of many of whom are drawn to a dis - good quality, and reasonably priced. play rack with special editions of The service is always friendly and The Desire of Ages and The Great Samantha Roberts checks out a customer the atmosphere Christian because Controversy priced to cover costs. at the Oceana Better Living Center operat - these Better Living Centers were not Customers are willing to pay for ed by the Logan and Williamson churches. established merely to sell tangible these books, with Bible Answers goods, but to serve as embassies of and Bible Readings for the Home heaven. Christ is seen here in the being the most popular. 3ABN ly; a ministry of prayer and informal helpers. Pastor Dan Morikone and Television, aired during store hours, counsel to those who desire it; the his wife Valerie did not foresee that attracts visitors who come primarily extensive sharing of books and to hear the programs. One shopper Bible studies; and a host of other asked where she could get the pro - caring services have given these gramming on her television at two Better Living centers in home. A food pantry in the Oceana Wyoming and Logan counties an store, serves people in special honored name. In September, David need and works in amicable rela - Morgan, a pastor-evangelist in the tions with the Red Cross. Huntington-Charleston district, will Food baskets given out during conduct meetings in a spacious A customer peruses Christian literature holidays; free clothing donated to a room at the Rita Mall close to its prominently displayed at the thrift store. local church aiding a stricken fami - Better Living Center.

Logan and Williamson Churches Mountain View Welcome New Bible Worker EVENTS

anelle Morikone, daughter of needs and inter - JPastor Dan Morikone and his est. Soon most wife Valerie, has found herself of her time was April quickly absorbed in her assignment taken up with 3 Executive Committee, as a Bible instructor for the Logan giving Bible stud - 10 a.m. and Williamson churches. After ies in people’s 23 Pastors Workshop, graduating from college in 2001, homes, lending Charleston Janelle worked as a dental assis - out videos by Board of Education, tant in Arkansas for three years. Doug Batchelor, Janelle Morikone 30 Desiring a more extensive ministry, or dropping off serves as a Bible 10 a.m. she volunteered at an orphanage in Bible lessons. instructor in the Guatemala for five months. “Then She also works Williamson and the Lord guided me to attend two days a week Logan areas of May Amazing Facts College of at the Rita Mall West Virginia. 2 Departmental Council, Evangelism to prepare for soul-win - Better Living 10 a.m. ning work as a Bible instructor,” Center near Lyburn , W.Va., and is Janelle says. “Soon after graduat - following up with some of the many ing in December 2005, I was called Mountain Viewpoint is published in the Bible studies generated at a recent Visitor by the Mountain View Conference to my father’s district in West Logan-Williamson Youth Rally, 1400 Liberty Street, Parkersburg, Virginia. What a thrill!” spearheaded by Mountain View WV 26101 ■ Phone: (304) 422-4581 President, Kingsley Whitsett Janelle started by conducting Conference’s youth director Editor, Brian Jones ■ www.mtviewconf.org surveys to assess community Abelardo Rivas.

28 | VISITOR SpiriMOUNT VERNON ACADEMYT APRIL 2006

Merit Scholarship Program a Growing Success

t the beginning of the 2004-05 school year, Mount Vernon Academy (MVA) introduced the Amerit scholarship program. This program is designed to give new students, who have scored in the 80th percentile or above on their standardized tests, the opportunity to receive up to $5,000 in scholarships based on their scores. Three students initially benefited from this scholarship in its first year. Seventeen students received this merit scholarship for the 2005-06 school year. Mount Vernon Academy continues to be committed to providing quality Adventist education for its students. If you are a highly motivated, academic student and desire a quality Adventist David Daniels education, then the merit scholarship program is for you. Contact us at (740) 397-5411. Principal

NEWS

Scholars Program Challenges Students The Scholars program at MVA is designed to chal - lenge the academically motivated student in a rigorous course of studies. The opportunities within this pro - gram are three-fold and include the Honors Diplomas and the college credit classes. New Emphasis Diploma programs in science and religious studies will be offered in the fall of 2006. Experiential learning is the key element as students gain knowledge and skills that can be applied to new situa - tions. Qualified applicants will collaborate with teachers to structure an individualized, learning experience where she or he will learn to solve prob - lems, assume responsibility for learning, and become self-moti - Nicole Conn ’08, Vanity Cole ’08, and Liz Erskine ’08 vated. Honors and exploration classes, participation in summer acquiring and using information, applying a variety of projects, and the choice of a technologies, and demonstrating honesty, responsibili - variety of classes that fit their ty, and integrity. Linda Taber, Registrar interests will help students per - 3. Career Planning— Career planning and job shad - sonalize their programs. owing are developed in conjunction with teachers and The Emphasis Diploma program highlights four dis - a personal mentor to support realistic post high school tinct areas: plans. 1. Individualization of Program— A strong academ - 4. Mentor Selection— Community resources are ic foundation includes high-skill instruction, interactive important for enriching the learning experience for all seminars, guest lectures, field labs, and experiential students. Students admitted to the emphasis diploma opportunities. Selected mini-courses allow for individu - program will select a community mentor who will serve alized programs and encourage academic exploration. a critical role in assisting the student as they apply 2. Development of Workplace Skills— Skills need - knowledge to real world application. ed for success in the workplace will be taught and The program culminates in student presentations modeled throughout the program for student mastery. covering the entire learning experience. Through these These skills include creative thinking, problem solving, programs, MVA continues to prepare students for post interacting well with others, managing resources, high school interests and goals.

APRIL 2006 | 29 SpiriT Peruvian Churches Restored, MVA Students Renewed

Twenty-eight MVA students and staff recently traveled to southern Peru to complete work on some Adventist churches. The Lord blessed their efforts and many prayers were answered. Here are five student testimonies about the experience:

raveling to a developing country out of a huge crowd of people, God sent that woman Ton a mission trip was an unpar - with my passport to find me. There was a one-in-a-mil - alleled experience. It is such a lion chance that it could have occurred, but because blessing to help those less fortunate we asked, God made it happen. than yourself. It truly opened my —Kylie Wilson, Class of 2008 eyes to how privileged I really am. It hat had the biggest impact on was a real growing experience— Wme wasn’t the work, but [our both with God and friends. The peo - evening visits] to the market. It was ple there were thankful for what little they had. I hope I amazing to walk down the streets get the chance to work for God in a foreign country and be among the people. It was again. —Josh Harsany, Class of 2006 like something you would see on the fter many hours of traveling on news, except I was actually there. In Abusses and planes, we worked the U.S., we are blessed with mate - hard cleaning, sanding, and painting rial things and financial security, but we are stressed two churches. I grew a lot spiritually out. The Peruvian people have found real happiness on this trip and learned to rely on while living in poverty and having very little. When I prayer. It was a blessing to visit a for - decided to go on the trip, I wanted to go so I could eign country, interact with the peo - minister to others, but I came back with a gift more ple, and try to win souls for Christ. valuable than I gave. —Daniel Dettwiler, Class of 2007 —Heather Minger, Class of 2007 his mission trip taught me to be Tvery grateful for what I have, because while most of the people in Peru have very little, they are happy. calendar It was a very good trip, the food of was delicious, and I’m looking for - events ward [to going again] . —Manny Reaves, Class of 2006 he most touching experience I April Thad in Peru occurred on our way 19 Spring Week of Prayer home. As we prepared to board our flight, I noticed something terrible! 23 Junior/Senior Banquet My passport was gone! I searched 28-30 Alumni Weekend my luggage frantically. When I didn’t find it, I began to cry. Everyone in my group helped me search. Then May Chaplain Tim Soper grabbed my elbow. “Let’s pray,” he 1 Junior New England English/History Tour suggested. He began to talk to God on my behalf, ask - 3-7 Home Leave ing for guidance in finding my passport. Not a minute after we finished praying, a lady came up to me. She 18-24 Senior Class Trip held up a blue booklet and said kindly in Spanish, 26-28 Graduation “Here is your passport.” As she told me to wipe my eyes, I smiled gratefully, thanked her, and took my passport. I turned to show my group, and when I looked back, she was gone. It is so amazing to me that Spirit is published in the Visitor by Mount Vernon Academy 525 Wooster Road, Mount Vernon, OH 43050 ■ Phone: (740) 397-5411 ■ Principal, David Daniels ■ www.mvacademy.org

30 | VISITOR APRIL 2006

Mt. Holly Church Hosts Successful Seminars

creation vs. evolution seminar, conducted by Pastor Bob Hoyt and Horace ADelisser at the Willingboro, N.J., Kennedy Center, drew 130 people in three nights. The entire Mt. Holly church and many members of Hoyt’s Browns Mills church attended this seminar. According to plan, the seminar ended on Friday night and a new Revelation Seminar started five days later at the Mt. Holly church. A good number of the creation seminar guests attended the Revelation Seminar opening night, in spite of the efforts of two people who loudly proclaimed their belief in evolution. As the seminar progressed, a woman named Marie, who is severely crippled, attended every night of both seminars and even climbed the stairs to the fellow - Andrew, grandson of Sam Baith, ship room for dinners and added features. Today, she continues to faithfully attend came forward for baptism after nearly every program at the church. attending the creation seminar. One couple, Carl and Ann Sargent, had been married for 20 years, but divorced for another 20 years. Ann had become acquainted with Mari Lou Zollins, who briefly studied with her. She was so excited about her newfound interest that she contacted Carl. After a short while, they were married again, but on the condition that they find a church that taught “the truth.” Zollins invited them to the creation seminar. At the close of the seminar, Carl approached Pastor Hoyt and declared he had found the truth and was ready for baptism. He and Ann were baptized at the end of the seminar, along with three others. Five years ago on his deathbed, Sam Baith, a long-time elder at Mt. Holly, asked Pastor Hoyt to visit his daughters, no longer in the church. Hoyt looked up Baith’s daughter Lillian, and after a thrilling experience studying with her and her boyfriend Larry, married and baptized them. Lillian’s son, Andrew, watched these events carefully, and now with a solid family background, came forth for baptism at the end of the creation seminar. Many tears were shed in gladness thinking of their friend Sam Baith and the joy he will experience when he wakes up and sees his family entering the gates of the heavenly city. Pastor Bob Hoyt (center) Currently, there are nine more people who are ready for baptism. Thanks to the prepares to baptize Carl and faithful support of both the Mt. Holly and Browns Mills churches who made this Ann Sargent. double effort a tremendous success. —Bob Hoyt

Woodbury Church Buys Property, Spruces Up Facility

he Woodbury Seventh-day Adventist church has had kindergarten, and primary departments. Ta busy year. They bought the property next to the The Woodbury church has also been active in its church to enlarge their parking lot—a much-needed varied programs. They hosted a series by Doug endeavor. Warren Durham, head elder, spearheaded this Batchelor, another by Shawn Boonstra, and a third project and took care of the myriad of details including entitled “You Can Survive” by Jerry Franklin. They blueprints, permits, and the difficult job of excavation brought in noted violinist Jaime Jorge and pianist, with proper underground drainage. Following the final Calvin Taylor. The church has also enjoyed presenta - paving and adding of the white lines came the land - tions by the children’s choir, led by Marla May; the bell scaping, beautifully accomplished by Joan Bailey. For choir, led by Timothy Chew; and the adult choir, led by that special touch, fencing was added along with flow - Joshua Rivera. Virginia Orden, MD, held a health semi - erpots and benches. Durham’s hard work and dedica - nar on caring for the temple of the Holy Spirit. To top it tion has led to ample parking space for members and all off, Caesar Sprianu has joined Woodbury as the guests. After this came new carpet for the cradle roll, new pastor.

APRIL 2006 | 31 Conference Retreat Center Open

ranquil Valley Retreat Center, better known as TVRC, sits on an inspir - Ting, quiet and peaceful property owned and operated by the New Jersey Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. This magnificent 363 acres of land is located in the Tranquility Valley on the Northwest corner of the state of New Jersey, off interstate 80, via Exit 19 and heading north toward the town of Andover on route 517. It is a special place where the courteous personnel and staff will always make you and your family feel welcome and at ease. It is the place where the aroma and taste of healthy, vegetarian meals will attract you to return over and over again. It is the place where you can enjoy hiking and camping. Above all, it’s a piece of heaven on earth—chosen by God—in which His people can have a daily encounter with Him, take time to hear His voice, and enjoy His powerful blessings. Established in July 2005, TVRC opened its doors to all the Adventist constituent churches and members within the New Jersey Conference to support a wide variety of church events (i.e. elder’s training, a lay evangel -

April 2 ABC Open 4 Pastors Meeting Camp Meeting Planning 6 Principals Council 8 Children’s Ministry Convention 9 Pathfinder Community Director Ramon Merle (far left) and the staff at Tranquil Valley Retreat Center are happy Service to host members for retreats, camp meetings, and other events. 11 Ad Com istic school, marriage retreats, and men’s and women’s retreats). It also 12 Directors Advisory supports Adventurers, Pathfinders, Master Guides, and other youth depart - 13 Heritage House Board ment camp activities, as well as the conference’s annual camp meeting in 14-16 Pastors/Elders Retreat, the summer. TVRC The staff wants to make a difference through TVRC because God’s 28-May 1 Hispanic Women’s Word says, “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not Retreat, TVRC unto men; knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ” (Col. 3:23, 24). Our time, talents, May and treasures can go a long way when used for the Lord. Offerings, dona - 19-21 Health Retreat, TVRC tions, and volunteers are a major driving force in the success of TVRC. Do you want to make a difference? If so, please write to TVRC at: Tranquil Valley Retreat Center, P.O. Box 520, Tranquility, N.J. 07879, or New Jersey News is published in the call (908) 852-0300. You may also contact the director Ramon Merle at Visitor by the New Jersey Conference 2160 Brunswick Ave., Trenton NJ 08648 (908) 447-6197. He is very excited about the future of TVRC and welcomes Phone: (609) 392-7131 ■ President, LeRoy your help in making this facility a success. Finck ■ Editor, Aura Garcia ■ www.njcsda.org

32 | VISITOR APRIL 2006

Centerville Program Pays Tribute To Spring Valley Academy his year’s Education Sabbath took on a whole new meaning for me. The Centerville (Ohio) Church sponsored a Ttribute to Spring Valley Academy (SVA) and the history of the school’s dedicated founders. Our kindergarten bell choir; a trio featuring junior Tim Kim, senior Joshua Wheeker, and school receptionist Tammy Erickson; and principal Brad Durby shared special music. Diane Bartram, parent of a middle school stu - dent, and junior Meggie Bean gave testimonies about how Spring Valley Academy, Christian education, and the Seventh-day Adventist Church have impacted their lives. Vernon Luther, his daughter Diane Doucette (a member of the first graduating class—1970), and vice principal Karen Caviness shared stories of the “early days” and many other inspiring and humorous memories. It was very moving to hear about the faith and dedication the school’s founders exhibited. Attendees were also treated to a slide show accompanied by a song written by singer Ray Boltz entitled “Thank You for Giving to the Lord.” This music blended with photos from the early days of SVA to the present. When it was finished, there wasn’t a dry eye in the church! Pastor Winston Baldwin closed the service by explaining that being a Christian is a gamble. “You have to be willing to step out in faith and let God do the rest,” he concluded. —Brad Durby

Spring Valley Dedicates the Class of 2006

ecently 27 SVA seniors (some pictured), joined by reminisced Rtheir families and friends, filled the Centerville about the church to pay homage to the school they’ve called class’ per - home for, in some cases, many years. sonality and The evening began with each class member walking history, into the sanctuary as his or her personal tribute was making read aloud. In these dedications the seniors reflected most of the on time spent at SVA, gave heartfelt thanks to teachers students who helped them with their education, recognized laugh, a few friends who have encouraged them, and acknowledged of them turn parents whose hard work make it all possible. red, and all of them reflect on the experiences that David Smith (pictured), president have enriched their lives. At the program’s close, class of Union College in Lincoln, Neb., sponsors Tom Dunham and John Kihlstrom presented gave an inspirational message chal - each class member with a beautifully engraved Bible, a lenging the students to use their gift from the school. skills and education for God’s glory, Students, parents, and faculty alike enjoyed the so that when they meet again, they evening. For the can humbly share how they’ve seniors, it was a helped further the kingdom of God. chance to thank Then, surrounded by parents and the school that teachers, the seniors were dedicat - has guided them ed through prayer to the Lord, asking Him for guidance and to march in as they complete their high school education and move the first of many on to the next phase of their lives. The prayers brought ceremonies leading tears to most mothers’ eyes, and many students toward June’s Left to right: Chelsea Mohler, Kimberly returned to the stage moist-eyed as it hit them that only commencement. Geach and Shastin Purvis look on as a few months remain for the Class of 2006 at SVA. —Allison Wiser, Travis Smith’s (standing) senior dedica - The school guidance counselor, Ralph Schnell, Class of 2006 tion essay is read.

APRIL 2006 | 33 1,000 Attend Kettering Church Screening of C.S. Lewis Movie

ast fall, in preparation for the December film release, event and provide breakfast. Lthe Kettering church’s youth ministry team decided Our youth leaders met with the pastoral staff and to look deeply into the C. S. Lewis book The Lion, The decided that the event should be open to the entire Witch and The Wardrobe , and the impact it was having church and community, focusing on the great opportu - on pop culture. Seeing how Lewis made such strong nity to share the discussion and rich image of Christ portrayals between Christ and the character of Aslan, that Lewis had created. Some members felt it was a we found many topics that could be used to teach, stretch from their personal walk but liked the impact it challenge, and connect with today’s youth. We even seemed to be making on the community. Theater staff built a wardrobe over the youth room door and many of heard about our growing plans and began shifting the trees described in the book. things around so we could use two sites. Despite all As they studied, the students were challenged with the talk and support from the Kettering community, we how to enter their “wardrobe” and have “an encounter wondered how many people would really attend. with Aslan.” They began to invite friends, and soon Whatever apprehension we felt disappeared when students were coming from hours away. In addition, the lines started to form. The very first person was a many began to ask if we could go and see the movie member of our church, a retired employee from together and discuss it at the end. We decided that if Kettering Medical Center, who brought his 12-year-old the students were going to see the movie, then having neighbor who had never been to church. People kept the opportunity to discuss it with them would be an coming and when it became evident that we were excellent chance to show another view of Christ that going to exceed our allotted spaces, the theater staff could only come though the shared experience. provided even more room. When the movie started, we When we called the theater to book a private learned that 1,000 people had come out for this church viewing, we were told they could arrange for a morning event. Over 113 of them never had a connection with screening that would seat 200 people. When we told our church before. Afterwards, many people visited and students they could invite friends and parents, their asked for information about this church that puts excitement grew, and soon people all over the commu - together such events for the community. nity were talking about it. One student made a list and We started planning the event with 40 young people invited over 75 of his friends who had never been to in mind. That we would fill three theaters and enjoy our church. It was not long before Richard Hass, fellowship, outreach, and friendship evangelism—all president of Kettering Medical Center—Sycamore, rolled into one—was more than we would have ever heard about our idea and decided to help sponsor the asked. —Brendon Prutzman

Youth Leadership Summit Planned

he second annual leadership training event emanating from Blue Mountain Academy Tunder the direction of Pastors Sergio Manente (left) and David Ferguson (right) will take place May 19 and 20 on the campus of Mount Vernon Academy in Ohio. Training young people to realize their God-given potential for ministry wherever they are is core to the pas - sion behind this year’s event entitled “The Resistance.” High school and collegiate students who wish to attend will be led to maximize their giftedness and creativity in discipleship. “This generation is waiting to be called upon,” says Ohio Conference Youth director Mike Stevenson, who will be hosting the event. The weekend will include intense worship, fun community, tightly-woven themes, engaging artists and presenters, and compelling teaching. All of this is intended to help today’s youth become the leaders God envisions them to be and True Wind is the ministry created to help prepare them. To learn more about True Wind, visit www.resistance.truewind.org. To Mission Ohio is published in the Visitor by the Ohio Conference ■ P. O. Box 1230, Mount Vernon, Ohio 43050 register for the Youth Leadership Phone: (740) 397-4665 ■ President, Raj Attiken Summit, call (610) 562-6933. Editor, Bette Toscano ■ www.ohioadventist.org

34 | VISITOR APRIL 2006

How Important is 75 Percent?

e have historically focused evangelism on adults. Sermons preached and presentations made have been Waimed at winning those 30 and above to discipleship. Programs for children are usually planned to make it convenient for parents to attend the adult meetings. However, research shows that 82 percent of those who call themselves Christians declare that they made their decision to follow Christ before they were 20. Further study proves that 75 percent of all Christians made their decision before they were 14. George Barna, a Christian researcher, found that the moral foundations of the average American are in place by the age of nine. He says that the spiritual and theological foundations of the typical American are set by the time they reach age 13. The cost of Adventist education is often the argu - ment churches use to not support it. Yet it is one of the best ways we have to show our children how to be part of God’s last-day movement. Educating our youth for eternity must not be peripher - al, but primary. “Our efforts to teach and nurture children are an investment in the Vaughn Jennings future—theirs and ours” ( Transforming Children into Spiritual Champions , p. 47). Vice President for Education

NEWS

Adventist WholeHealth Welcomes New Doctor Plan Now to Attend Camp Meeting Timothy Arnott, MD (pictured), Make plans now to bring your family to has joined the staff of Adventist Pennsylvania Camp Meeting, June 9-17, on the cam - WholeHealth Lifestyle Medicine pus of Blue Mountain Center, located at 1025 Academy. The week Berkshire Boulevard, Suite 700, will feature inspiring in Wyomissing, Pa., near speakers including Reading. Dr. Arnott is a lifestyle Walter L. Pearson, medicine specialist and author of Jr., Ben Maxson, the booklet Dr. Arnott’s 24 Gary Gibbs, Michael Realistic Ways to Improve Your Hasel, Bill Knott, Health. He is board certified in Shirley Grear, Peggy family practice. Arnott complet - and Roger Dudley, ed his residency training at Hinsdale Hospital in Illinois, and Mary Maxson. and received his Doctor of Medicine degree at Loma There will be activi - Linda School of Medicine, in California. He and his wife ties and events for Sylvia, and daughters Jena, Hana, and Heidi, have the children through - moved to the Reading area from Oklahoma where he out the week, as well most recently served at the Lifestyle Center of America. as meetings for the Adventist WholeHealth is committed to helping peo - youth and young ple make “lifestyle changes for lifelong health.” They adults. Highlights of Conference churches can order recognize that most people know what they need to do the week include discounted tickets to Sunday to live healthier lives. Yet, while making lifestyle Family Worship and night’s Michael Card concert changes sounds simple, it can be one of the hardest the Sunday night through April 15. things to do. As a result, they offer therapeutic lifestyle community concert coaching, massage, nutrition services, and a range of with Christian recording artist, Michael Card. Download classes. For more information about the center, or to housing applications at the News and Events page on schedule an appointment, call (610) 685-9900. www.paconference.org.

APRIL 2006 | 35 Lancaster School Raises Monies for Katrina Victim

hen students in grades 5 through 9 at the Lancaster (Pa.) Seventh- Wday Adventist School heard that a widowed grandmother in Mississippi lost everything in Hurricane Katrina, they wanted to help. The group designed and organized a yard sale, which was held at the Family Life Center in a local Brethren-in-Christ Church, with all the students from the school participating. The day before the sale, an Amish man, who saw the ad in the local newspaper, donated two handmade nightstands from his wood shop. Another donor paid for them to be shipped to Mississippi. After unloading the four pick-up trucks and two trailers, filled with items Students of the Lancaster Seventh-day donated by members of the Lancaster church, students gathered in a cir - Adventist School, pictured with principal cle and prayed that God would send the right people and that they would Ann Trout (right) and teacher assistant Stacy Messina (left), recently raised over “make a lot of money.” $1,000 for a grandmother in Mississippi As customers arrived, they were given a flyer telling the story of the who lost everything in Hurricane Katrina. grandmother, who had no idea of the efforts on her behalf. Items for the sale were sold by donation. The group also sold a lot of baked goods. At the end of the day, students counted their earnings and found that they were $17 short of $1,000. They then began emptying their own pock - ets, sometimes giving as much as $10, to put toward the total. In the end, their grand total was $1,035.20. Students and parents headed home tired, happy, and aware that God had truly blessed their efforts. —Ann Trout

April 1 Pathfinder Union Level Gettysburg Students are Champions Bible Achieve, Harrisburg 7-8 Young Adult Retreat, avid Karpalla (pictured), a Patriot News Spelling Bee. He and Laurel Lake Camp Dfourth-grade student at the classmates Kaitlind Hartman, Gettysburg (Pa.) Seventh-day Christopher Kiessling, Thomas 21-23 Adventist Community Adventist Marcellino, and Johannes Stahl, Services Disaster School, won were named champions of the Response Training, the school- grade-level challenge of the Hagerstown level competi - Reader’s Digest National Word Adventurer Family Retreat, tion of the Power Challenge, at which students Laurel Lake Camp National answered oral and written ques - 22 Living the Mission, Geographic tions challenging their vocabulary Williamsport Bee, at which skills. —Susan Karpalla Pathfinder Division Level students Bible Achieve answered oral 28-30 Alumni Weekend, questions on Blue Mountain geography. The Bee is sponsored Academy, Hamburg by the National Geographic Society and JP Morgan Chase & Co. The school winners, including Karpalla, June have now taken a written test. Up 9-17 Camp Meeting, to 100 top scorers in each state will Blue Mountain be eligible to compete in their state Academy, Hamburg Bee. The National Geographic Bee national championship will be held in Washington, D.C., with top scor - Classmates Arik White and Kaitlind Pennsylvania Pen is published in the ers from each state participating. Hartman (back row); and Christopher Visitor by the Pennsylvania Conference Eighth-grade student, Arik 720 Museum Road, Reading, PA 19611 Kiessling, Johannes Stahl, and Thomas Phone: (610) 374-8331, ext. 210 White, earned the title “Word Marcellino (front, left to right) were named President, Ray Hartwell ■ Editor, Tamyra Spelling Bee Champion,” and is the champions of the Reader’s Digest Horst ■ www.paconference.org school’s representative to the National Word Power Challenge.

36 | VISITOR APRIL 2006 Of Memories and Meaning

aking memories is an important aspect of childhood. It’s the foundation upon which we build relationships, Munderstand the world, and most importantly, a primary factor upon which we base our spiritual journey. The biblical book of Ecclesiastes encourages us to remember our Creator in the days of our youth. In order to remem - ber something, we first have to experience it. And though you’ve heard me say this before, I’ll say it again: “Youth Ministries is in the business of helping young people generate memories.” We do this in our Pathfinder program and when youth come to Bible Camp or experience a mission trip. Summer Camp is another opportunity to offer children the chance to make memories. Where better to create memories than during a week in God’s creation at Camp Blue Ridge. After over 49 years, Camp Blue Ridge continues to be the perfect place for families and children to come and generate lasting memories. With a top-notch staff committed to excellence in Christian recreation, and over 550 acres to roam, I guarantee you and your child will have an expe - Denton Grady rience with both creation and the Creator. I invite you to take the opportunity this sum - Director of Youth, mer to give your children a memorable experience by sending them to Camp Blue Ridge. Pathfinder, and Summer They’ll generate memories for a lifetime. Camp Ministries

NEWS

New Activities Slated for 2006 Summer Camp 2006 Summer Camp—Time to Register The 2006 Summer Camp program features two new It’s time to register for the 2006 Summer Camp at exciting activities. First among them is the acquisition Camp Blue Ridge, located in Montebello, Va. Dates, of our new Yamaha Raptor 50 All Terrain Vehicles (ATV). ages, and rates are as follows (Potomac Conference These four-wheeled motorbikes are equipped with constituents receive a $25 discount): easy, push-button Adventure Camp Ages 7-9 $235 July 2-9 electric starters and Family Camp $575 July 2-9 automatic transmis - Junior I Ages 10-12 $235 July 9-16 sions. The motorbikes Junior II (Supersized) Ages 10-12 $235 July 16-23 are specially designed Teen Outpost Ages 13-16 $275 July 23-30 for adventuresome rid - ers ages 6 to 12. The To register, go to www.cbrsda.com. For more informa - ATVs are also outfitted tion, call (540) 886-0771, ext. 233, or email Denny with safety features Grady at [email protected]. including auto shutoff and throttle governors. Tappahannock Junior Academy Secondly, but Students Volunteer equally important, is The ninth and tenth graders at New Yamaha Raptor 50 ATVs for the addition of our Tappahannock Junior Academy summer camp are specially “Supersized” activity have been volunteering their time designed for adventuresome riders classes during the weekly at the local Adventist ages 6 to 12. week of Junior II. Community Services Center. During this week of Students help pack boxes of food camp, selected activity favorites such as rappelling, for distribution, sort donated cloth - horsemanship, swimming, scrap booking, and lapidary ing, and perform light custodial Students prepare to will occupy two activity periods (three hours) in the duties. “The students have been a pack boxes of food for afternoons. This is a wonderful opportunity for junior tremendous help to the center,” distribution at the campers hoping to further develop skills in their says director Tove Oster. Adventist Community favorite activities. —Marina Coleman Services Center.

APRIL 2006 | 37 Teen Prayer Conference Held at SVA pproximately 75 young people attended the Teen APrayer Conference recently held at SVA. A joint effort of Potomac Conference Youth Ministries director Denny Grady, SVA Campus Ministries director Tim Harley, and Richmond Academy Bible teacher Bob Van Ornam, the event brought SVA students together with youth groups from six churches throughout Potomac Conference. Youth were trained to be small group leaders, with the objective to lead their peers in small group Bible study. Young people from six churches and SVA participated in the After dividing into five groups, prayer conference partici - Teen Prayer Conference. pants conducted worship services for five area churches. On Sabbath afternoon, the students visited nearby neighborhoods conducting a survey that included an invitation to enroll in the Discover Bible School. Although some responded warmly, others responded with rejection. Regardless of the reaction, the students who participated felt blessed by the experience. “It was very uplifting to feel [like we] made a differ - ence,” said participant Dara Lawson. David Ramsdell called the experience “uplifting and encouraging.” —Jeanie Allen

Alexandria Spanish Celebrates Grand Opening he Alexandria Spanish church recently celebrated Tits grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by 370 people. Seventeen years ago, the Alexandria Spanish church was organized. In 2002, the congregation finally secured a building. The excite - ment, however, was short lived. Building code upgrades were needed before they could meet in their newly purchased facility. During the renovation, the group rented facilities at a middle school and had to implement frequent back-up plans when school functions took place on Sabbath. The church was fortunate to have the expertise of Alberto del Castillo, an engineer and member of the Fredericksburg Spanish church, who devised a plan to Potomac Conference Treasurer Kurt Allen (center) cuts the help them meet the building code. ribbon as Manuel Castellon, first elder, and José Esposito, The final occupancy permit was granted December Hispanic Ministries evangelist assist. 27, 2005, and ribbon-cutting ceremonies were held January 14, to commemorate this special occasion. Special guests and speakers included Ruben Ramos, José Esposito, Roger Weiss, and Kurt Allen. A quartet from El Salvador, Pure Worship, provided inspiring music. This day was long awaited and represented a lot of time and hard work. Congratulations to the mem - bers for a job well done! —Jeanie Allen

Potomac People is published in the Visitor by the Potomac Conference ■ 606 Greenville Ave., Staunton, VA 24401 Many people were present for Alexandria Spanish church’s Phone: (540) 886-0771 ■ www.pcsda.org ■ President, Dave grand opening celebration. Weigley ■ Editor, Garrett Caldwell ■ Comm. Asst., Jeanie Allen

38 | VISITOR 6 0 0 2

L I R P A

Could God Use a Sinner to Share His Word?

ecently, I drove to Atlanta for my last “hurrah” concert with the former Aeolians of Oakwood College. Many of the R“old-timers” wanted to be directed by my aunt, Alma Blackmon, one more time. This was to be her last concert. But a few weeks beforehand, there was a CNN story about the minister of the church—the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit—where we were to perform this last concert. There had been examples of impropriety involving the minister and several female members. Someone from the Aeolians asked whether we should still hold the concert at that church. My immediate reaction was “Let he who is without sin, cast the first stone.” Is it positive that this happened? Of course not! However, I was looking forward to ministering on behalf of Christ in this church because I know God had a plan for us there. I had worshipped there twice before and was spiritually filled with the ministry of the service. Could God use a “sin - ner” to share His Word? All I know is that God has used me. And if He can use me, then who am I to question the ministry of the pastor in that church? Is there forgiveness when the person is sincere? Absolutely! Praise the Lord that He uses sinners instead of rocks to share His message to the C. Dunbar Henri world. Are you willing to be used? He is desirous of using you. Principal

NEWS

Sam Holston to Leave Sam Holston (pictured), our maintenance/facilities manager who has been around for many years, is leaving the area. What a blessing it has been to have him here at Takoma Academy (TA). He has always been will - ing to go above what is required of him and out of his way to do what is necessary.

Students and Teachers Educate Leaders About Dyslexia Recently, Karohn Young, TA’s learning specialist, invited 15 students and several teachers (see picture) to participate in her presentation to the Columbia what it is like, as high schoolers, to deal with dyslexia Union Curriculum Committee. The entire day was in the classroom. Students included Benjamin and focused on the subject of dyslexia. Several teachers, Michael Aning-Acheampong, Shade Harris, Michael including music teacher Tim Vandeman and art teacher McDowell, Roxana Segovia, Lauren Simms, Michael Marquita Halstead, presented how they dealt with Freels, Asia Tyler, Okinda Ragwar, Mikhail Modeste, dyslexia as they were growing up. Denise Barclay, TA’s Jonathon Corrodus, Daniel Garcia, Jaleesa Akins, guidance counselor, spent time talking about behav - Robert Johnson, and Gene Johnson. I was so proud of ioral issues that arise from learning disabilities. Then what Young provided and am so happy that she is a the 15 student presenters spent over an hour sharing part of Takoma Academy. —Dunbar Henri

APRIL 2006 | 39 National Honor Society Inducts New Members

A recently inducted 17 new Peeler shared several names Tmembers into the National and asked if anyone knew who Honor Society. The speaker for the they were, and of course, no one evening was E. Dean Peeler, PhD, did. Then he shared several slo - senior pastor of Dupont Park gans from well-known advertise - church in Washington, D.C. It was ments. Everybody immediately exciting to have his daughter named the products. Then he stat - Nicole—a member of the National ed that the people he mentioned Honor Society—introduce him. were the advertising companies that worked on those advertise - Takoma Academy’s National Honor ments. His illustration was that Society recently celebrated the induction people may not remember the of 17 new members. name, but they will remember the impact a person has on others. He accepts nominations for the encouraged the inductees to repre - National Honor Society are: sent Christ foremost while acquir - DeWayne Boyer, chair; Erica ing knowledge. He also challenged Chavez; Virginia Mathis; Michele DeWayne Boyer (left) NHS committee them to “always lift up Christ first Beach-Izzo; and Danny Yirenkyi. chair and TA religion teacher, welcomes and other things will fall into place.” The advisors are Lou Anne Wood guest speaker Emil Dean Peeler. The faculty committee that and Tom Ballard.

TA Welcomes Vicki Yohe in Free Community Concert

pril 29 will be a very special Aside from Uganda, East Africa. A night for TA and the communi - her many This special concert will bring an ty. Several Seventh-day Adventist services, Yohe end to what’s expected to be a churches in the area are partnering is now making wonderful day. TA will lead the first with TA to invite Vicki Yohe for a time for mis - and second services for the free community concert. sion work in Takoma Park church, where they Yohe was born into a minister’s her ministry. will provide music (choir and band) family, where she wrote and sang her Every year, and the spoken word. The concert first song at the age of 5. At the Vicki Yohe will be in she spends with Vicki Yohe will follow at 7 p.m. concert at 7 p.m. young age of 17, she entered several weeks What a fitting conclusion to a glori - in the J. P. Laurence Jackson College of Ministries. After Auditorium (TA gym - ministering in ous day of witnessing for Jesus two years, at the age of 19, Yohe nasium). various parts Christ in our community. accepted a music director’s position of Africa, The concert is free, however, near Baton Rouge, La., and it was Europe, and Asia. More importantly, tickets (available at the Potomac during that time that she recorded Vicke Yohe Ministries is making Adventist Book Center and Takoma her first project entitled “Vicke Yohe.” plans to open an orphanage in Academy) are required.

Student Honored by North American Division

ichelle Anderson (class of 2006) was recently honored by the North NAmerican Division Youth Ministries Department with a Distinguished Youth Service Award. Anderson, who was nominated for her outstanding community service for the church, traveled to Jacksonville, Fla., to TA Today is published in the Visitor by Takoma Academy ■ 8120 Carroll receive the award at the YPAC Ave., Takoma Park, MD 20912 ■ Phone: Leadership Convention. (301) 434-4700 ■ Principal, C. Dunbar Congratulations Nichelle! Henri ■ www.ta.edu

40 | VISITOR APRIL 2006 | 41 42 | VISITOR Bulletin Board

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APRIL 2006 | 43 Bulletin Board

BECKER SUBARU PHYLLIS NEWMAN SELLS ACTIVE ADULTS OVER 55 has special pricing for members LA SIERRA UNIVERSITY MARYLAND REAL ESTATE Florida Living Retirement on new Subaru vehicles and seeks qualified candidates for the for both buyers and sellers. Call Community near Orlando. Garden used cars. Choose from 300 position of Director of the (800) 586-4669 Re/Max Realty court rental room with bath, new Subarus or 150 used cars. Women’s Resource Center (WRC). Center, Inc. See our Web site at: walk-in closet, private patio Drop shipment available on The Director is responsible for www.homesdatabase.com/ entrance. $966 monthly includes ordered new cars anywhere in overseeing all operations of the realestate. This site gives you vegetarian meals, utilities, cable, the United States. Call Becker WRC. Experience in leadership MLS access by state, county, zip 3ABN, Safe-TV, maintenance, Subaru (800) 671-3636. Ask for and work related to empowering code, price range, bedrooms/ grounds care. 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Contact your expectations. or buyer reports at For more information Adventist-Realtor.com, a nationwide contact: network of Seventh-day Adventist Call for all your www.carrenoconnection.com Brad Hoffman realtors. Our joy is helping church real estate needs. Administrative Director members and employees with the (301) 384-8700 (office) Mel: (301) 237-1650 of Human Resources relocation process. Call (888) 582- (443) 745-4017 (cell) Lisa: (410) 905-8282 (913) 676-2020 2888 (nationwide toll-free) and ask for Office: (800) 757-6199 Linda Dayen ([email protected]). E-mail: Resumes may be Are you an agent or broker? Ask dolly.record@ [email protected] faxed to: (913) 676-2019 about being included in our network. longandfoster.com Se habla Español

44 | VISITOR Bulletin Board

MOVING? SINGLES Special Adventist rates and guar - Introducing Adventists discreetly antees! Air Van northAmerican is and confidentially since 1987. Apr. 14 Apr. 21 Apr. 28 May 5 May 12 a nationwide mover. Whether We are dedicated to helping you’re moving a few items or a singles meet in a comfortable/ Baltimore 6:43 6:50 6:57 7:04 7:10 truckload, don’t move before call - secure online environment. ing Air Van. It will assure peace of Enjoy chat, message boards, Cincinnati 7:14 7:21 7:28 7:35 7:42 mind and a cost-effective move. photos, profiles, uplifting Please call (800) 525-1177 to articles, much more. We have speak with a representative. a personal community for Cleveland 7:06 7:13 7:21 7:29 7:36 creating relationships from MARYLAND ADVENTIST DENTIST companionship to friendship, Columbus 7:09 7:16 7:24 7:31 7:37 David Lee, D.D.S., PA, has a com - romance to marriage. prehensive dental office in Silver DiscoverChristianSingles.com. Jersey City 6:35 6:42 6:49 6:57 7:04 Spring and in Ellicott City, Md. He is excellent with children and adults, MOVE Norfolk 6:39 6:45 6:51 6:57 7:03 and is highly trained in Cosmetic with an award-winning agency. Dentistry and Implants. For Apex Moving & Storage partners appointments call: Silver Spring with the General Conference to Parkersburg 7:03 7:09 7:16 7:23 7:30 (301) 649-5001; Ellicott City provide quality moves at a dis - (410) 461-6655. Mention this ad and counted rate. Call us for your Philadelphia 6:38 6:45 6:52 6:59 7:06 receive 10% discount on all services relocation needs. Adventist (excludes third party payers). beliefs uncompromised. Call Pittsburgh 6:58 7:05 7:12 7:20 7:27 Our office is a participating provider Marcy Danté at (800) 766-1902 with Adventist Risk Management. for a free estimate. Visit us at Reading 6:42 6:49 6:56 7:03 7:10 www.apexmoving.com/adventist/. FIRST EVER CHIP RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM CHRISTIANSINGLESDATING.COM Richmond 6:44 6:51 6:57 7:03 7:10 Want to get your health back? Free 14-day trial! Join thousands Experience the life-changing and thousands of active Adventist Roanoke 6:54 7:00 7:07 7:13 7:19 Coronary Health Improvement singles online. Free chat, search, Project as never before by attend - detailed profiles, and match Toledo 7:14 7:21 7:29 7:37 7:44 ing the first residential CHIP pro - notifications! Date chat, two-way gram, at the beautiful Lifestyle compatibility match, 10 photos, Trenton 6:37 6:44 6:51 6:58 7:05 Center of America, August 13-31. and confidential online mail. Participants will enjoy in-depth Witnessing opportunities to the Wash., D.C . 6:44 6:51 6:58 7:04 7:11 medical, nutritional, fitness world through articles, friend - consultation, and treatment with ships, chat, and forums. Since one-on-one coaching with Dr. 1993. Adventist owners. Hans Diehl, all in a tranquil world- Thousands of successful matches. class environment. Only 30 spaces Top ranked. SUNSET CALENDAR are available. Call today for free PLANNING AN EVANGELISTIC information at (800) 213-8955. SERIES OR HEALTH SEMINAR? TRAVEL/VACATION held May 20-21, 2006, in the audi - FOOT AND ANKLE Have questions? Need affordable, torium of the General Conference MEDICAL OFFICE. professionally prepared handbills, CAPE COD VACATION. of Seventh-day Adventists, located Premier Podiatry Services is eager brochures, signs, banners and An Adventist family will rent weekly, at 12501 Old Columbia Pike, to help you get "back on your mailing services? Call Daphne or biweekly, etc., their lovely, fairly Silver Spring, Md. new, spacious, and semi-contem - feet." Dr. Rhonda Nelson, an Ray, free at (800) 274-0016 or The first meeting will convene at porary vacation home on beautiful Adventist podiatrist seeks to pro - visit www.handbills.org. 7:30 p.m., Saturday, May 20. The Cape Cod, Mass. Three bedrooms, vide you with exceptional podiatric You deserve the best with second meeting will begin Sunday, one and one-half baths, Jacuzzi care while relieving your foot and confidence and peace of mind. May 21, at 9 a.m. ankle discomfort. Flexible office Your friends at Hamblin’s HOPE tub, washer/dryer, cable TV, dish - hours are available. Office loca - deliver-on time! washer, microwave, and a great This 25th meeting of the tion: Largo, Md.; (301) 773-1199. room with a cathedral beam ceiling constituency will be held for the SINGLE AND OVER 50? and skylights, an outdoor shower, purposes of receiving reports ARE YOU A CHRISTIAN The only interracial group exclu - a huge deck, and fenced-in back for the five-year period ending WHO’S BEING PRICED OUT sively for all singles over 50. yard with a small swing set and a December 31, 2005; the election OF HEALTH INSURANCE? Stay home and meet new friends sandbox on one-half acre, just 900 of officers and an executive Cut your healthcare expenses in in USA with a Pen Pal monthly feet from a great beach. committee for the ensuing term; half. Join 55,000 plus Christians newsletter of members and Call (301) 596-9311. and transaction of such other who share one another’s medical album. for information, send business as may properly come RV S! Adventist owned and operated bills. Choose any doctor, any self-addressed, stamped before the delegates. hospital, anywhere in the world. envelope to ASO50 and RV dealership has been helping Check out this nonprofit program. EBONY CHOICE SINGLES Adventists for over 30 years. Huge Harold L. Lee, President For a free guidelines booklet, OVER 50 , 2427 Nonpareil, inventory. Courtesy airport pickup J. Neville Harcombe, Secretary call (888) 346-7895 or visit Sutherlin, OR 97479. and on-site hookups. Satisfied www.healthcaregodsway.com. Adventist customer list available. DEPRESSION—THE WAY OUT Call toll-free (888) 933-9300. COLUMBIA UNION LIVE! Isn’t it time to stop your Lee’s RV City, Oklahoma City. CONFERENCE ASSOCIATION depression and regain your life Visit our Website www.leesrv.com MEETING again? Join Neil Nedley, MD, and or email [email protected]. Successful Computer the renowned Lifestyle Center of Notice is hereby given that Dating America team for the third annual a regular meeting of the Columbia Exclusively for Adventists Nedley Depression Recovery LEGAL NOTICES Union Conference Association Since 1974 Program June 25-July 13. Receive of Seventh-day Adventists, a COLUMBIA UNION personal care from Dr. Nedley and corporation, will be held Sunday, ADVENTIST CONTACT CONFERENCE CONSTITUENCY experience—first hand—lasting May 21, 2006, in connection MEETING P.O. Box 5419 depression recovery. with the 25th constituency Takoma Park, MD 20913 Only 30 spaces are available. Notice is hereby given that the meeting of the Columbia Union Call for free information at Conference, located at (301) 589-4440 25th regular constituency meeting (800) 213-8955 or visit of the Columbia Union Conference 12501 Old Columbia Pike, www.depressionthewayout.org. of Seventh-day Adventists will be Silver Spring, Md.

APRIL 2006 | 45 Bulletin Board

The purposes of this meeting EASTERN SHORE JUNIOR are to elect a board of trustees ACADEMY (ESJA) CELEBRATION for the ensuing five-year period V•ÁÜ~dÁÏÍFÁRÝUØÁ©}˘˘Á@b˘b*¸~ˆbÁKÍ and to transact such other busi - db~¸¢Ác\Á~@~ãb¦}@Áb¤@b˘˘b•@bH ness as may properly come Ø˘:¦•}FÁ\¸}b•ã¢FÁ~•ãÁ\~@:˘ˆdÁ~¸bÁ}•,}ˆ - before the delegates. bãÁ\c¸Á~Á¢ˇb@}~˘ÁÝ~**~ˆ{Á\}˘˘bãÁ©}ˆ{ ©c¸¢{}ˇFÁ˘:•@{FÁ~•ãÁ~Á¢ˇb@}~˘Á~\ˆb¸ - Delegates to the 25th con - •cc•Á¸b¦b¦*¸~•@bÁˇ¸c|¸~¦HÁSc¸ stituency meeting of the ¦c¸bÁ}•\c¸¦~ˆ}c•FÁ@c•ˆ~@ˆÁÊJÎÍË Columbia Union Conference JÌMGÌÏMMÁc¸Áˇ¸}•}@}ˇ~˘Òb¢[~Hc¸|H of Seventh-day Adventists are likewise delegates to the association meeting. OBITUARIES Harold L. Lee, President Walter E. Carson, Secretary EDWARDS, LaVerne Belva., ©~¢Á*c¸•ÁØ:|:¢ˆÁÏŁFÁÎNÏNFÁ}•Á݈H COLUMBIA UNION Ûc:}¢FÁÜcHFÁ~•ãÁã}bãÁÙc,b¦*b¸ÁÎNF COLLEGE INCORPORATED ÏÍÍKFÁ~ˆÁa~]bÁSc¸b¢ˆÁZ•},b¸¢}ˆd CONSTITUENCY Übã}@~˘ÁPb•ˆb¸IÙc¸ˆ{ÁP~¸c˘}•~ Õ~ˇˆ}¢ˆÁTc¢ˇ}ˆ~˘HÁÝ{bÁ©c¸]bãÁ~¢Á~ Notice is hereby given to all Û}ˆb¸~ˆ:¸bÁR,~•|b˘}¢ˆÁ}•Áˆ{bÁWcˆc¦~@ whom it may concern that a Pc•\b¸b•@bÁ~•ãÁ©~¢Á\c¸¦b¸˘dÁ~ constituency meeting of ¦b¦*b¸Ác\Áˆ{bÁÙc¸\c˘]ÁØã,b•ˆ}¢ˆ Columbia Union College, P{:¸@{Á~•ãÁ˘~ˆb¸Á~Á¦b¦*b¸Ác\Áˆ{b Incorporated, a corporation Š~˘~¤ÁØã,b•ˆ}¢ˆÁP{:¸@{HÁÝ{bÁ©~¢ organized and existing under ˆ{bÁ©}ãc©Ác\Áˆ{bÁ˘~ˆbÁÕHaH and by the virtue of the laws Rã©~¸ã¢FÁU¸HFÁ~•ãÁ}¢Á¢:¸,},bãÁ*dÁc•b of the state of Maryland, will ¢}¢ˆb¸Á~•ãÁ*¸cˆ{b¸Á}•G˘~©FÁÚ~Yb•b be held on Friday, May 19, Ü@P:˘˘bdGSc¸ˆbÁ~•ãÁŠb•bOÁˆ{¸bb 2006, at 1 p.m. in the Sligo ã~:|{ˆb¸¢Á~•ãÁˆ©cÁ¢c•¢Á}•G˘~©F Seventh-day Adventist Church Qc••~Á~•ãÁQb••}¢ÁW~ˆˆc•FÁÜ~¸@}~ in Takoma Park, Maryland. Rã©~¸ã¢FÁ~•ãÁÕ¸b•ã~Á~•ãÁÛ~¸¸d The purposes of this meeting T}˘¦~•ãc˘~¸OÁ¢b,b•Á|¸~•ã@{}˘ã¸b•F are to elect a board of trustees, ~•ãÁ\},bÁ|¸b~ˆG|¸~•ã@{}˘ã¸b•H hear reports of officers, and REEDER, Marvin Howard, ©~¢ transact other business that may *c¸•ÁÝbˇˆb¦*b¸ÁÏÌFÁÎNÎMFÁ}• be necessary or proper to come Õc:˘ãb¸FÁPc˘cHFÁ~•ãÁã}bãÁU~•:~¸d before the constituency. ÏMFÁÏÍÍLFÁ~ˆÁˆ{bÁÜb¦c¸}~˘ÁÜbã}@~˘ Pb•ˆb¸Á}•ÁP{~ˆˆ~•cc|~FÁŸb••H Randal R. Wisbey, President Ü~¸,}•Á*b|~•Áãb•c¦}•~ˆ}c•~˘Á©c¸] }•ÁÎNJÌÁ~ˆÁˆ{bÁPc˘c¸~ãc ANNOUNCEMENTS Pc•\b¸b•@bHÁTbÁˆ{b•Á¦c,bãÁˆcÁˆ{b ab¢ˆÁWb••¢d˘,~•}~Á~•ãÁab¢ˆ MONTICELLO SINGLES DAY Ž}¸|}•}~Á@c•\b¸b•@b¢Á~¢Áˇ:*˘}¢{}•| The Monticello Seventh-day ¢b@¸bˆ~¸dHÁÞ•ÁÎNJNÁ{bÁ©~¢Á@~˘˘bãÁˆc Adventist Church invites ©~¸G¸~,~|bãÁU~ˇ~•HÁa{}˘bÁˆ{b¸bÁ{b Adventist singles for a day of {~•ã˘bãÁˇ:*˘}¢{}•|Á©c¸]Á~•ãÁ¸~}¢bã spiritual renewal, April 15. \:•ã¢ÁˆcÁ¸b*:}˘ãÁˆ{bÁŸc]dc The program begins at Ý~•}ˆ~¸}:¦Á~•ãÁTc¢ˇ}ˆ~˘HÁYbˆ:¸•}•| 9:30 a.m. at 26 Liberty Street, ˆcÁˆ{bÁ݈~ˆb¢Á}•ÁÎNKKFÁ{bÁ©c¸]bãÁ\c¸ Monticello, N.Y. Bring a friend Coronary Health ˆ{bÁV{}cÁPc•\b¸b•@bÁ~¢ and meet new people. Pc¦¦:•}@~ˆ}c•¢Á~•ãÁYb˘}|}c:¢ Improvement Project For more information, please call Û}*b¸ˆdÁÝb@¸bˆ~¸dHÁÞ•ÁÎNLÏFÁ©{}˘bÁ~ˆ Guy Bush at (570) 224-4883. ˆ{bÁÝ~•ÁS¸~•@}¢@cÁŠb•b¸~˘ Leadership Training EASTER MUSICAL Pc•\b¸b•@bÁÝb¢¢}c•FÁÜ~¸,}•Á©~¢ Workshop The Takoma Park Seventh-day ~¢]bãÁˆcÁ[c}•Áˆ{bÁPc¦¦:•}@~ˆ}c• Adventist Church Concert Series is Qbˇ~¸ˆ¦b•ˆÁ~¢Á~¢¢c@}~ˆbÁ¢b@¸bˆ~¸dH presenting The Borrowed Tomb , a TbÁ¢b¸,bãÁ}•Áˆ{}¢Á@~ˇ~@}ˆdÁ\c¸ÁÏÎ Includes instruction in must-see Easter Cantata created db~¸¢Á~•ãÁ©~¢Á~˘¢cÁˆ{bÁ\}¸¢ˆÁã}¸b@ˆc¸ vegetarian culinary arts and by Steve Moore and David c\Áˆ{bÁ•b©˘dÁc¸|~•}†bãÁÙc¸ˆ{ prepares church teams for Clydesdale. Under the direction of ئb¸}@~•ÁQ},}¢}c•FÁ*b\c¸bÁ}ˆÁ*b@~¦b a video-based ministry Beatriz Taylor, it will feature the ~Á¢bˇ~¸~ˆbÁb•ˆ}ˆdÁ\¸c¦Áˆ{bÁŠb•b¸~˘ that is making friends for Voices of Praise Choir accompa - Pc•\b¸b•@bHÁTbÁ¸bˆ}¸bãÁ}•ÁU~•:~¸d the church and changing lives nied by brass and strings. This ÎNMJHÁSc˘˘c©}•|Á¸bˆ}¸b¦b•ˆFÁˆ{b for time and for eternity. event will held April 15 at 3:30 p.m. Pc˘:¦*}~ÁZ•}c•ÁPc•\b¸b•@bÁ~¢]bã at the church, located in Old Towne Ü~¸,}•ÁˆcÁ@cc¸ã}•~ˆbÁˆ{bÁØã,b•ˆ}¢ˆ May 16-19 Takoma Park, 6951 Carroll Avenue, P{:¸@{Á{}|{©~dÁ¢}|•Á*:¢}•b¢¢H ATLANTIC UNION COLLEGE Takoma Park, Md. The church is Ÿ{b•Áˆ{bÁŠb•b¸~˘ÁPc•\b¸b•@bÁ accessible via Metro’s Red Line. b•˘}¢ˆbãÁ{}¦ÁˆcÁãcÁˆ{}¢Á©c¸]Á\c¸Áˆ{b Parking is available at the Church Ùc¸ˆ{Áئb¸}@~•ÁQ},}¢}c•HÁSc¸ÁÏÏ For more information, Center across the street. A free-will db~¸¢ÁÜ~¸,}•Á˘bˆˆb¸bãÁ~•ãÁ¢{}ˇˇbã registration & free DVD offering will be taken. @{:¸@{Á¢}|•¢Á~˘˘Ác,b¸Áˆ{bÁZ•}ˆbã Please e-mail: ݈~ˆb¢HÁTbÁ}¢Á¢:¸,},bãÁ*dÁ{}¢Á©}\b [email protected] Ûb~{ÁQ~ˇ{b•bÁYbbãb¸OÁˆ©cÁ¢c•¢ or ~•ãÁˆ©cÁã~:|{ˆb¸¢Á}•G˘~©FÁYc•Á~•ã phone toll-free read news U:ãdFÁ~•ãÁŸbãÁ~•ãÁÚ~ˆ{˘bb•OÁˆ{¸bb (866) 732-2447 anytime! |¸~•ã@{}˘ã¸b•FÁR˘}†~*bˆ{FÁQ~,}ãFÁ~•ã Uc•~ˆ{~•OÁc•bÁ|¸b~ˆG|¸~•ã@{}˘ãF www.columbiaunion.org Ý:¦¦b¸ÁP{~•ˆb˘˘bOÁ~•ãÁc•bÁ www.adventistchip.org *¸cˆ{b¸FÁQb˘c¢ÁV¸,}˘˘bÁYbbãb¸HÁ

46 | VISITOR Last Words MONTE SAHLIN

Celeste Ryan Blyden ■ Editor LaVerne Henderson ■ Associate Editor for News & Features Growing at a Snail’s Pace Kelly Butler Coe ■ Art Director & Designer Tami Pohle ■ Designer Sandra Jones ■ Copy Editor & Bulletin Board Editor he latest report of the executive secretary

Monte Sahlin ■ Publisher of the Columbia Union Conference PUBLISHING BOARD : Harold L. Lee (chair), Celeste Ryan (secretary), T indicates that membership of the Raj Attiken, Seth Bardu, Charles Cheatham, LeRoy Finck, J. Neville Harcombe, Ray Hartwell, James L. Lewis, Monte Sahlin , Seventh-day Adventist Church in our eight- Rob Vandeman, Dave Weigley, Kingsley Whitsett state territory grew from 107,841 on January 1, MISSION STATEMENT The Visitor provides news and information, resources for effective 2001, to 120,455 on December 31, 2005. ministry, and insight on issues with a spiritual focus to help people That is a net increase of 12,614 members. celebrate God's transforming grace in preparation for His return. The rate of growth is 11.7 percent. COLUMBIA UNION CONFERENCE OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS Growth rate is a measure of “speed” or momentum, and at 2.3 5427 Twin Knolls Road, Columbia, MD 21045 (301) 596-0800 or (888) 4-VISITOR percent per year, we are really just a little ahead of the stall point. http://www.columbiaunion.org In other words, if this were an airplane taking off, you would be Free to Columbia Union members. All others—$15 per year. wishing that the pilot would step on the gas! COLUMBIA UNION CONFERENCE Harold L. Lee President A general study of the growth rate of congregations (both J. Neville Harcombe Executive Secretary Seth Bardu Treasurer Adventist and others) and denominations shows that at a rate of Hamlet Canosa Vice President/Education 1.5 percent per year, growth is not replacing dropouts. There is a Walter Carson Vice President/General Counsel Monte Sahlin Vice President/Creative Ministries difference between the reported dropout rate (through letters, etc.) Celeste Ryan Blyden Asst. to the President/Communication Harold Greene Information Technology and the actual dropout rate (reflected in attendance). Curtis Boore Plant Services Walter Carson Trust Services/PARL We are uncomfortably close to that point where the statistics Peggy Lee Revolving Fund Carol Wright Undertreasurer still look good, but the actual numbers of participating people in

CONFERENCES the pews is in decline. In reality, this is already true in some of ALLEGHENY EAST: Charles L. Cheatham, President; Robert Booker, our local churches, while others have very healthy growth rates. Visitor Correspondent; P.O. Box 266, Pine Forge, PA 19548. Tel. (610) 326-4610 ■ www.myalleghenyeast.com Most of the growing congregations are immigrant churches— ALLEGHENY WEST: James L. Lewis, President; Robert C. Lewis, Hispanic, Caribbean, Korean, Haitian, etc. This sector accounts Visitor Correspondent; 1339 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43205. Tel. (614) 252-5271 ■ www.awconf.org for most of our baptisms, although much of this growth is in CHESAPEAKE: Rob Vandeman, President and Visitor Correspondent; 6600 Martin Rd., Columbia, MD 21044. reality due to migration into the United States from countries Tel. (410) 995-1910 where the Adventist Church has a relatively much larger pres - MOUNTAIN VIEW: Kingsley Whitsett, President; Brian Jones, Visitor Correspondent; 1400 Liberty St., Parkersburg, WV 26101. ence than it does here. Tel. (304) 422-4581 ■ www.mtviewconf.org Of the baptisms in the Adventist Church in North America NEW JERSEY: LeRoy Finck, President; Aura Garcia, Visitor Correspondent; 2160 Brunswick Ave., Trenton, NJ 08648. overall, a little more than half are immigrants, a fifth are chil - ■ Tel. (609) 392-7131 www.njcsda.org dren in church families, and another fifth are former members OHIO: Raj Attiken, President; Bette Toscano, Visitor Correspondent; P.O. Box 1230, Mount Vernon, OH 43050. returning to the church. No more than one in 10 are native- Tel. (740) 397-4665 ■ www.ohioadventist.org PENNSYLVANIA: Ray Hartwell, President; Tamyra Horst, Visitor born, adult converts without an Adventist background. Correspondent; 720 Museum Rd., Reading, PA 19611. Tel. (610) 374-8331 ■ www.paconference.org POTOMAC: Dave Weigley, President; Garrett Caldwell, Visitor What Does This Mean? Correspondent; 606 Greenville Avenue, Staunton, VA 24401. Tel. (540) 886-0771 ■ www.pcsda.org We have to find new and more effective ways to reach beyond

COLLEGES the sectors where we are already doing well at conveying the COLUMBIA UNION COLLEGE: Randal Wisbey, President; Adventist message. We have to experiment until we find what Scott Steward, Visitor Correspondent; 7600 Flower Ave., Takoma Park, MD 20912. Tel. (301) 891-4000 ■ www.cuc.edu works with untouched segments of the population. KETTERING COLLEGE OF MEDICAL ARTS: Charles Scriven, We also need to reconfigure most of our local churches in a President; 3737 Southern Blvd., Kettering, OH 45429. Tel. (937) 395-8601 ■ www.kcma.edu direction that is more “missional.” That means mission-driven HEALTHCARE SYSTEMS rather than catering to the likes and dislikes of the members. We ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE: William G. “Bill” Robertson, President are called to be a missionary people and our congregations are to & CEO; Ray Tetz, Visitor Correspondent; 1801 Research Blvd., Suite 400, Rockville, MD 20850. Tel. (301) 315-3030 be missionary agencies, not cocoons for the saints. www.adventisthealthcare.com KETTERING ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE: Frank Perez, President & CEO; Kenneth Chaij, Visitor Correspondent; 3965 Southern Monte Sahlin, vice president for Creative Ministries, would appreciate Blvd., Kettering, OH 45429. Tel. (937) 395-8167 www.kmcnetwork.org your observations about church growth. Share at (800) 438-9600 or Published by the Columbia Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Printed at the Review & Herald Publishing Association. [email protected]. Volume 111 ■ Issue 4

APRIL 2006 | 47