Contents Editorial APRIL 2008 LARRY BOGGESS In Every Issue So, You Want to be a Witness?

3 | Editorial he children of God are called to be representatives(Steps to Christ of Christ, showing forth Tthe goodness and mercy of the Lord” , p. 115). What kind of 5 | Newsline Steps towitness Christ would I be if I incorporated these words from the last chapter of into my character and practice? The book tells us that each of us is 8 | Potluck sent “as a letter” to our world where we are to exhibit God’s goodness and mercy. This demonstration is to reflect an accurate picture of Jesus and how He wants us to live, thus showing His service to be attractive. Newsletters Reading this passageall makes me realize how much grace I need every day, and how much grace we need every day. I regularly witness how we as Christians have allowed the 25 Allegheny East not 14 devil to use us to reflect a right picture of God. When we let him, Satan leads us to: 27 Allegheny West I Mistrust God with unbelief and despondency. 29 Chesapeake I News & Features Doubt God’s willingness and power to save us. 31 Columbia Union College I Think God wants to do us harm. 33 Highland View Academy I Murmur against God. Summer Evangelism Guide 35 Mountain View I Keep uppermost in our minds the unkind and unjust acts of others. 37 Mt. Vernon Academy I 10 | Play Ball! Make the Christian life look gloomy, toilsome, and difficult. 39 New Jersey WHAT IF WE … Taashi Rowe 41 Ohio I 43 Pennsylvania What if we didn’t dwell on our mistakes, failures, and Members all over the Columbia Union disappointments, let alone those of others? 45 Potomac I Conference are playing softball, 47 Shenandoah Valley What if we looked upon the bright spots and victories basketball, volleyball, and even Academy that God has given us? bowling so they can share I 48 Takoma Academy What if we made it a rule “never to utter one word of Christ with people in their doubt or discouragement?” communities. Could sports be I a legitimate outreach ministry? 51 | Bulletin Board What if we consistently gave words of hope and holy cheer? I What if we were never gloomy or morose? 14 | Get Out There! 55 | Last Words I Sam Belony What if we cultivated a patient tenderness with the You want to do your part to fulfill faults of others? I the gospel commission and bring On the Web What if we cast all our cares upon Jesus and rested in the people in your community to His presence with a calm, cheerful spirit? Christ, but the question is “How?” Podcasts: April 1: General Manager John Konrad talks If doubting God’s love for us and distrusting His promises grieves away the Holy Spirit, what Our summer evangelism guide Steps to Christ about WGTS’ new chaplaincy would happen if we constantly did the opposite, as further noted in : “Let us look to will give you 25 practical ideas and ministry. April 15: Neville the monumental pillars, reminders of what the Lord has done to comfort us and to save us from the tell you who’s already using them. Harcombe and Celeste Ryan hand of the destroyer. Let us keep fresh in our memory all the tender mercies that God has shown Blyden talk about Missions Start planning now, so you’ll be us—the tears He has wiped away, the pain He has soothed, the wants supplied, the blessings Abroad work in South Africa. ready for summer! bestowed—thus strengthening ourselves for all that is before us” (p. 125). Plus: News, videos, photo blogs, How powerful our witness would be when taking the hand of a friend or making a new one, if we old Visitor issues, and more. had praise to God on our lips and in our heart. Such a testimony will attract our friends and neigh- bors to Jesus. They will see the peace and joy of the obedient life, anchored in serving Christ and com- About the Cover: muning with Him. And no doubt, when you come around to invite them to your evangelism meetings Teddy Allen, who plays softball for Washington, D.C.’s, Capitol and church programs, you’ll have already planted positive seeds for the harvest. Hill Cardinals, was photographed by John C. Middlebrook. Larry Boggess is president of the Mountain View Conference, headquartered in Parkersburg, W.Va.

2 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 3 Newsline CELESTE RYAN BLYDEN

Spring Meeting Highlights thinktank to brainstorm strate- gies for bringing more of the 50 Tithe Up $2 Million million people in this eight-state Education, Columbia Union territory to Christ. Overall, College (CUC), and finances At the end of 2007, total unionwide membership were high on the agenda during union tithe was $113.1 million, a increased to 124,700. last month’s Columbia Union $2 million Educators Approve Conference spring meetings. increase Early Childhood, Conference presidents also dis- over 2006. Distance Education cussed current evangelism initia- SethTreasurer Bardu tives, and many said they are The Columbia Union Board seeking new ways to address says most of of Education voted to pursue a obstacles to growth. The New the money distance education pilot pro- Jersey Conference, for example, is is forwarded gram for K-12 students and engaging its pastors in “40 Days to the teachers and to hire someone of Spiritual Intimacy with Jesus.” General part time to identify and align Allegheny East Conference is Conference, the North American all Early Childhood Education studying the demographics and Division, and back to the local programs in the Columbia needs of its target audiences and conference. The Columbia Union Union territory with church using the findings in church- retains $9.1 million for opera- and government laws, policies, planting efforts. Potomac tions, CUC, retirement, and and accreditation requirements. Conference is focused on creating financial auditing. About 20 per- CUC Board Approves healthy churches. Pennsylvania cent of this also goes back to Strategic Plan and Mountain View conference local conferences. And according leaders are thrilled that so many to Frank Bondurant, vice presi- Just 65 days intoWeymouth his new job, members are getting involved in dent for Ministries Development, CUCSpence, president EdD, evangelism (i.e., giving Bible an additional $200,000 will be gave his first studies). “We recently had more used to seed local conference report to Executive Committee than 300 members—including projects this year. members. He announced four Philadelphia’s Korean church major (pictured)—participate in Baptisms Down actions the Equipping University with our Baptisms fell across the union CUC Board from 5,689 in 2006 to 4,335 in of Trustees 2007 (see graph). Union presi- had taken dent Dave Weigley called for to strength- greater correlation between tithe en the col- reversion to conferences and lege. They evangelism. “When you put approved resources behind the mission, his updated you drive the mission forward,” strategic plan, immediate he said. He plans to set up a implementation of a three- 6,000 5,689 school model, $2.8 million in 4,859 5,000 budget cuts, and affirmation of 4,510 4,335 the school’s location. “We are 4,000 pastors,” reported Pennsylvania staying in Takoma Park, Md., 3,000 president Ray Hartwell. “Our and are committed to revitaliz- goal is to lead churches into mis- 2,000 ing our present campus,” 1,000 sion, raise up lay pastors, and SpenceThe Gateway noted. See the full story equip members to take 0 in newsletter on 2004 2005 2006 2007 Pennsylvania for Christ.” page 31. APRIL 2008 | 5 Newsline Newsline FRANK BONDURANT

News From the Office of method of discovering what agents” in their communities. Philadelphia churches have Led by Chesapeake ACSDR social services are being offered Other presenters included enlisted the help of Bible worker coordinator Kitty Juneau and Ministries Development in a particular geographical area Tamyra Horst, conference com- Lillian Torres, who previously a team of experienced volun- and comparing that with the munication director and a coach worked on Mountain View and teers—Mark Hann, Ann findings of community needs for their Natural Church Potomac conference efforts. Sulkowski, Clayton Flowers, Disaster Response assessments. Local civic organi- Development initiative. She Starting with the Philadelphia and Richard and Connie Leaders Unite, Plan, zations use this information instructed and led the members Boulevard and Lansdale (Pa.) Geer—attendees were taught and Train to determine what kind of in team-building exercises. churches, her plan is to assist how to receive, sort, and programming is needed in a Andy Clark, director of the ACS and train members—a few process donated goods and Adventist Community community. Now Adventist Greater Pittsburgh ministry ini- churches at a time—to follow- manage such an operation. Services Disaster Response churches are using it as well. tiative and a CUC graduate, up on the Bible study interests They also role-played contact (ACSDR) leaders from seven For this study, young people talked about how to gain a bet- received from promotional with donors, disaster survivors, local conferences (below), clad from Allegheny East Conference’s ter understanding of a commu- mailings. public media, and community in their familiar yellow shirts, Beth-el church in Jersey City and nity and its needs from demo- officials. gathered at the Columbia Union the First church of Montclair sur- graphic research, interviews, On-hand and lending addi- Conference headquarters recently conference’s trailers (above) and veyed the community and gath- and mapping. tional expertise for the daylong for an advisory council. explained how they could be ered the raw data. Sobremisana’s Colón closed the weekend training were union ACSDR used for disaster response. report will help Adventist with a planning session. All of coordinator Bob Mitchell; New Each of the participants left churches as they seek to reach the participating leaders, includ- Jersey’s conference director, with a better understanding of and impact their communities. ing those from Allentown church J. Wayne Hancock, and local their roles in disaster response Because of the project, visibility (below), established goals for co-coordinators, Norman Talley and a renewed sense of unity of the Adventist Church has their churches, set deadlines, and of the Tranquility (N.J.) church and commitment to this vital increased, and ACDS is now received homework assign- This is just one component and Cherry Hill’s Claudia ministry. To keep the channels recognized as a partner and ments, which they must have of the conference’s evangelistic Ramirez; and Ohio’s coordina- of communication open, leader in the community. completed by this month’s fol- initiative here, which includes tor, Pastor Roy Nelson. Mitchell and the conference Pennsylvania Trains low-up training session. tentative plans for citywide and Through this event and Potomac Conference Disaster coordinators plan to convene regional evangelistic meetings another recent training session quarterly teleconferences. Members to Lead Response coordinator Bob With Compassion and the planting of a new for 56 volunteers, participants Mitchell, who also serves as Community Mapping church in South Philadelphia. and leaders recognized the Columbia Union coordinator, Project Completed in Eight Pennsylvania Area pastors (above), who importance of having confer- facilitated the meeting. Sung Conference churches and groups recently met with Torres ences and churches work Allegheny East (seated), believe her efforts Kwon, director of Adventist Carl Sobremisana gathered in Harrisburg recently Community Services (ACS) for , project for Social Action Leadership will complement and strength- the North American Division of manager for the Community Training (SALT). Their focus was en their ongoing outreach Seventh-day Adventists (NAD) Youth to equip and prepare members to initiatives. and its Disaster Response arm, Mapping become actively involved in their “This innovative SALT cur- Conferences Team- was also present and shared Project, communities through compas- riculum will help our churches create a positive balance up for Disaster news about NAD’s newly recently sion ministries and make disci- Response Drill revised training curriculum. completed a ples for Christ. between community service and Attendees engaged in lively demograph- The main presenter was evangelistic outreach,” says Chesapeake, New Jersey, discussion about the union’s ic analysis of Gaspar Colón, PhD, professor of Pennsylvania president Ray and Ohio conferences recently together in times of disaster. Disaster Response Action Plan Jersey City and Montclair, N.J. Religion and director of the Hartwell. “It will help our collaborated to host an ACSDR For their exemplary work over and the union coordinator’s job The project was organized by Center for Metropolitan churches to be healthy, grow, training exercise at the Cherry the years, ACSDR has been rec- description. Each conference leaders of the Columbia Union’s Ministry at Columbia Union and benefit their communities.” Hill, N.J. church. More than 30 ognized by FEMA as one of the leader gave a brief report on Newark metro initiative— College (CUC) in Takoma Park, Bible Worker Aids volunteers participated in the top voluntary organizations their disaster preparedness activ- Adventist Community Md. Throughout the weekend, Philadelphia Effort hands-on drill that was active—Joseph in Luste,disaster PhD response. ities. In addition to her report, Development Services (ACDS)— he shared the biblical basis for designed to assimilate the type Kitty Juneau, Chesapeake and funded by NAD ACS. community action and social As part of their 2008 evan- of collection center operation For more news and photos, visit Conference ACSDR coordinator, According to Sobremisana, justice and challenged attendees gelism initiative, the that would be implemented in www.columbiaunion.org. led the group on a tour of her community mapping is a to become “transformation Pennyslvania Conference’s times of disaster.

6 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 7 Potluck BETH MICHAELS What You Bring to the Table

What’s New? play instruments like the man- full of crossword, word search, commitment to Christ can You may be on our time, energy, and dolin, dobro, and fiddle. This fill-in-the-blank, and other upload their music at no charge. experiencing what attention have a negative Music > sophomore release includes two brainteasers and will challenge Listeners can pay to download Edward Hallowell, impact on our well-being Two Boards and cover tunes and 15 original people at all knowledge levels. full albums or individual songs. Harvard psychia- and efforts to live health- Three Nails songs, written primarily by Schoolteachers, Marley also reports that tristCrazyBusy: and author fully. Maybe this is what Blue Morning Mirek and Brian Walker. Sabbath School TheChristianJukebox.com part- ofOverstretched, the angel foresaw when he The group regularly plays leaders, or any- ners with Internet radio sta- told Daniel that in the end “It all started in a little, one- Overbooked, and for church events and commu- one looking for a tions, which interview and fea- of time “many shall run to teacher school,” recalls group About to Snap! nity music fests. “Being a part creative way to ture their artists. For more info, , and fro” (Daniel 12:4). member Mark Mirek. “Two boys of this group is a blessing,” test their Bible email info@thechristianjuke- identifies as Isaiah 46:10 offers the (in grades 7-8) picked up a banjo states 20-year-old Nathan knowledge or box.com or call (877) 253-8986. attention deficit solution for busy Christians and guitar and refused to put Wagoner. “Through all our teach others, trait, or ADT. who want to focus on what’s practice and performing, if just can purchase WholeHealth Manifesting symptoms similar important in life, instead of one person comes to Christ, it both editions at Amazon.com or to attention deficit disorder, merely reacting to demands for [will be] well worth it.” request them through Barnes Busy Running ADT is actually culturally attention: “Be still and know Sample and order their and Noble bookstores. To and Fro induced by our information- that I am God.” Why not inten- CD at www.myspace.com/ Technology > overloaded, multi-tasking, 24/7, tionally create space each day bluemorningband. Online Music Store Are you always racing, yet fast-paced, modern lifestyles. to escape the busyness. This running behind? Feeling over- Like a computer that operates brief, reflective time could them down.” After Books > TheChristian whelmed with the daily vortex somewhat erratically and slow- transform your life from busy adding a few more Sixty-Six Puzzles Jukebox.com Lilly Tryon, MSN, of information that flows from er than usual when several to focused.— musicians, most About the Book of RN, Adventist WholeHealth “With CD purchases decreas- your iPhone, Blackberry, PDA, applications are running simul- from Ohio Sixty-Six, Book 2 Wellness Center ing, and downloads increasing, voicemail, and email? taneously, too many demands Conference’s Piqua Gwen Bradford we felt this was the perfect way church, their “organic” blue- Norwood to help independent artists get grass/gospel band was born. Empty nest syndrome exposure and spread their music ACS of Greater Washington That was six years ago. The On a Mission > drove author Gwen Bradford through the Web,” says Sandra group now has seven members, Norwood of Allegheny East Marley (above, left), vice presi- estled in the pastoral setting of Sligo Avenue, in Takoma Park, Md., Adventist Community Services aged 20 to 58, who sing and Conference’s dent of TheChristianJukebox.com Nof Greater Washington—which opened in 1983—is a bustling center of compassionate activity. Pine Forge and a member of Allegheny East Supported by six area churches and stemming from the long history between Seventh-day Adventists Did You (Pa.) church Conference’s (AEC) Dupont Park and the city, it is considered “the” social services provider for Takoma Park. Know? to create a fun church in Washington, D.C. She Current executive director Ron Wylie (left) and his staff and volunteers open way to learn caught the vision of creator, pres- their doors Monday through Thursday to those in need. Each year they help over Due to increasingly smaller the gospel. ident, and Web designer/pro- 6,500 people with basic services (food and clothing); housing and prescription demand, Postum—the “When my grammer Simone Henry—a assistance; and health education classes in conjunction with neighboring favorite non-caffeinated youngest daughter went to col- member of AEC’s Capitol Hill Washington Adventist Hospital. Community education is another component of

lege,” she explains, “I prayed Y E the center’s ministry. They offer three computer classes and ongoing ESL classes.

beverage of L R

and the answer was ‘Write puz- A They’re also developing nutrition and food preparation classes and others to help many an M K

zles.’” Since then the mother of E the city’s burgeoning immigrant population succeed in their new homeland.

Adventist—is R E

three, who serves as a Sabbath D Thanks to a newly acquired “memo of collaboration” with three local organizations, the center

now officially Y School teacher, assistant treasur- B now provides students with computer and technology train- off the market. O T O

er, deaconess, and Personal H ing after school. This service has already helped the staff

Thankfully, P Columbia Union Ministriesseven leader, has written acquire upgraded computers for their teaching lab and members can such books geared toward church in D.C.—and the two administrative network. still find Roma, people age 8 and up. “By the singers and music lovers In addition to the physical needs he encounters daily, Wylie carob, chicory, and other time Book 7 is published, all of launched their self-funded site in is also concerned about the spiritual needs of his clients. “Our coffee alternatives at your the doctrines of the Seventh- October 2006. It currently gets purpose is to lead people to a personal relationship with the local Adventist Book Center. day Adventist Church will be 120,000 hits per month. Lord that can provide them with peace and hope in spite of in puzzle form,” she states. Approved artists of any despairing circumstances,” he says. To that end,.—Frank he plans Bondurant to The 145-page book is chock genre who demonstrate a true offer “crisis ministry” training for lay pastors

8 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 9 For Ward, basketball is also a way of giving While he can’t say for sure that anyone has something back. “Some don’t see basketball as a joined this Chesapeake Conference church from ministry,” he says. “But everybody has a differ- playing on the team, he believes the bond that ent [spiritual] gift, a different way to minister.” team sports create affords each coach “a phenome- His cousin, Marlyn Banks, 27, joined Emmanuel nal [opportunity] to reach a kid’s heart for God.” owe Taashi R in August 2004. Banks said basketball alone did He also points out that the kids are learning phys- not bring him into the Adventist Church. But ical and mental skills and how to react to situa- because he had to attend services to stay on the tions in a Christ-like way. N Basketball Scores 10 Baptisms N ast October Corinne Rawling, and When team, he heard a message that was pivotal in When asked if he sees the league as a ministry, several other members of the Potomac the Emmanuel and Maranatha churches in solidifying his decision. “It was one of those ser- Davidson responds, “When you start from a place Conference’s Radford (Va.) Seventh-day Cincinnati, Ohio, joined the Allegheny West mons where I felt like the pastor was talking to of prayer, how can it not be?” Adventist Church, joined a local Christian Conference’s basketball league three years ago, me,” Banks recalls. He also felt welcomed and volleyball league. They lost every game they no one could have comfortable attending church with his basketball Lplayed. But for the 48-year-old Rawling, and her predicted that 10 friends and knew he could share questions and teammates, playing the sport wasn’t about winning players would join concerns with the pastor. and losing in the traditional sense. It was a way to the Adventist Church. N Every Kid Ought to Play Baseball N interact with people whom they normally wouldn’t. Gary Ward Jr., 29, Rawling says playing sports allows friendships admits that when he Every summer, for the past seven years, more to form in a natural way that doesn’t happen when talked to his pastor than 200 kids—ages 5 to 15—get to play baseball you walk up to strangers and hand them tracts. about starting a team, in an atmosphere of prayer through the “You can’t reach people as deeply without friend- he just wanted to play Spencerville church’s league in Silver Spring, ship,” she explains. “When someone has an issue, a game he loved. Md. “From day one, parents, coaches, and mem- they are more likely to come to you, and then you Lloydston Burton, bers are given slips of paper listing the players’ may have an opportunity to witness.” who pastors both names so they can pray for them,” says Kevin Davidson, senior division commissioner of the churches, opened up N Softball, Barbeques, and Bible Spencerville Adventist Baseball League the team to communi- Studies N ty residents with the (www.leaguelineup.com/sabl). “It’s easier to say, ‘Come play ball understanding that They accept every child who wants to play with us!’ than to invite people to church,” says they would not swear, baseball, whether they attend Adventist, other Michael McDaniel, 47, who has coached and do drugs or alcohol, and that all team members Christian, or public schools. “This is about inclu- played for Washington, D.C.’s Capitol Hill Cubs, would attend church on the Sabbaths there was sion not separation,” Davidson says. “Every kid a game. Once he had the green light, Ward invit- ought to be playing baseball, and they should be ed his friends and cousins to join the “Saints.” playing in a Christian league.” “After attending services, they were able to see what our church was all about,” Ward recalls. “They saw that it’s not just a one day thing; mem- bers call during the week to see how you’re doing.” Rawling isn’t the only Adventist who sees sports Ward, who saw young men leave the church as more than just a way to get exercise. Members because they felt limited by it, sees basketball as a all over the Columbia Union Conference are play- way to prevent that. “If you go to a public school, ing softball, basketball, volleyball, and even bowl- basketball games are on Friday [nights] so ing so they can share Christ with people in their Adventists can’t join the team,” he says. “If you communities. Some have also started sports leagues take something away from someone, you have to that engage multiple churches in seasonal games. replace it. You can’t say no to everything.and We have While it may not always be written in their bylaws, to show that you can believe in God have fun; these churches see sports as a legitimate ministry. you don’t have to sacrifice one for the other.”

10 | VISITOR Athletics, and Cardinals softball teams for 14 years. But win or lose, this Allegheny East Conference church—part of the Metropolitan Area Adventist Softball Association that includes nine churches—always has a barbeque after the game. McDaniel, who recently became the league’s commissioner, believes this environment makes it easy for members to get to know people outside of the church and vice versa. In addition to the picnics, the league allows five nonmembers out of 25 people to join each team. There is no intense recruiting, but players often invite family, friends, and co-workers to participate or watch the game. As the relationships grow, they offer Bible studies and invite nonmembers to Thomas, the team’s coach, says that even church. As a result, McDaniel knows of several though the league asks people who play to players who have joined Washington-area churches. attend church twice a month, their main goal is “What you don’t want is a team with eight or to have fun—not push anyone to join. nine [people] who just want to play softball and Although they only started playing again in have no interest in God,” he notes. “This is not January, he has already seen its potential as a about winning some athleticalso scholarship. But it is ministry. League tournaments used to be played about having fun and about witnessing.” on Friday evenings, so his team was prepared to forfeit those games. But organizers informed him N Standing Up for Our Faith N that they changed the tournaments to Tuesdays Jeff Thomas, a fifty-something elder at the and Thursdays so Adventists can play. “It is Parkersburg (W.Va.) church, remembered how wonderful when we can witness like that, when much fun the church had when they played vol- people can see what we are doing, see us stand- leyball years ago. So when members talked ing up for our faith,” Thomas says. about rejoining the local Christian league, he It’s also wonderful to see Adventists getting out looked forward to playing again. into the community to play ball and share our faith! Taashi Rowe writes from Takoma Park, Md.

We have to show that you can believe in God and have fun; you do not have to sacrifice one for the other. —Gary Ward Jr. Get Out There! 1. Host a car show. take a break, go out for a “We wanted to become their jobs and neighbor- That’s one way to get peo- meal, or run errands. better acquainted with our hoods. As a result, they’re ple to locate the Adventist community and get back enjoying a “steady stream church. New Jersey’s ...... in touch with members of baptisms.” Meadow View Junior who had strayed,” says Academy in Chesterfield is 4. Minister to military Pastor Ron Edmonds...... getting ready for its eighth families. Some soldiers The event produced sev- annual antique car show, are on their second and eral new attendees. 8. Start a book club. flea market, and fundraiser third deployments to Iraq. Why should Oprah have that attracts hundreds ...... all the fun? Invite friends, annually. Mt. Holly pastor family, neighbors, and co- Bob Hoyt shows off his 6. Organize an workers to participate and 1950 Studebaker and extreme makeover. choose books that make enjoys meeting members No need to call Ty for thought-provoking dis- of the community. Pennington. Once you’ve cussions. The Women’s identified a home, park, Ministries Book Club from ...... or other community Potomac’s Sligo Compiled by No doubt their families eyesore, fix it up. church in Takoma Celeste Ryan Blyden, 2. Adopt a police could use a listening ear Get permission from Park, Md., is cur- Mike Stevenson, officer or fireman. or helping hand. To help authorities, partner with rently reading A Sam Belony, their children have a good area organizations, Commonwealth Sherry English, and Some churches Kris Stevenson adopt high- holiday, WGTS, the radio recruit volunteers, and of Thieves. ways. But if station of Columbia Union ask local businesses you want College in Takoma Park, to donate goods and to know Md., held a gift card drive services. When it’s the people that yielded $28,800. finished, hold a Ways in your community-wide neighbor- ...... dedication and to Bring hood, why celebration for You want to do your part to fulfill the gospel commission not visit them, 5. Plan a block everyone and bring the people in your community to Christ, but the Christ pray for them, and honor party. Be sure to get involved. question is “How?” them. Until recently permission from authori- to Your Potomac’s Takoma Park ties and support from ...... As Ellen White counseled in Christ’s Object Lessons, “We (Md.) church pastor, Dan neighbors. Chesapeake’s are not to wait for souls to come to us; we must seek them Community Pabon, served as chaplain Hagerstown (Md.) church 7. Change your out where they are” (p. 229). So this summer, before you of the local police force shared health tips, veggie mindset. If you want put up the tents, rent the halls, print the brochures, or This where he spent time lis- dogs, and music at last to reach the community, knock on doors, get out there and mingle as one who tening, praying with offi- year’s “Fun in the Sun” make sure your church desires the good of your community. Summer cers, and counseling them event, which drew 100 is community-minded. during difficult times. visitors. Allegheny East’s That’s what David L. King, 2We hope this six-page guide—filled with practical (AEC) Garden of Prayer Sr., pastor of AEC’s First ideas, innovative ideas, and even some new twists ...... congregation in Baltimore church of Paterson, N.J., on old ideas—will help you get started: 5 had a fish fry, music, emphasizes. “I redefined 3. Give a caregiver games, and a flea market. ‘community’ and told a day off. In every com- members that the com- munity, people care for munity is where they elderly parents, disabled are—on the bus, at children, or others in need work, where they shop,” of constant support. This he says. With this new can be a lonely, draining understanding, mem- responsibility where even bers found it easier to the thought of complain- witness. Soon visitors ing would cause undue started coming from feelings of guilt. Find them and offer to stay with their loved one so they can

APRIL 2008 | 15 9. Take summer camp beyond our borders. While summer camps across the Columbia Union serve hundreds of Adventist youth (contact your conference youth depart- 12. Go green. We know Jesus ment for 2008 schedules), two conferences is coming soon, but while He tarries, have taken outreach to new heights: do what you can to care for the environment. Make sure your church, Mentoring Prisoners’ Kids - Thanks to school, and community recycles, and host Edith Tucker, president of Allegheny East a free workshop with expert speakers Conference’s Prison Ministries Federation, and community leaders. 60 to 70 children of incarcerated parents get to attend Camp Daniel L. Davis in Pine Forge, Pa. “While it’s easy to minister to those without problems, I knew these ‘at risk’ children would truly benefit from a camp 13. Invite your musical performances, cul- 16. Be like Rocky experience,” she says. While they enjoy a community to tural events, and to display Twyman. Unless week outdoors, their surrogates— potluck. Hold it in the the work of local artists. tragedy affects our grandparents or other rela- church or in the park after members, most of us are tives—get a break. church. Add music, stir in a ...... content to watch the news When the kids return children’s story, and share and pray from afar. Not home, these caregivers report improved behavior at home and school. As a practical tips like the eight 15. Join the club. Rocky Twyman. This result of the 3-year-old program, there have been several baptisms. principles of health (i.e., Or start one like Russell resourceful member of water, air, rest), and you’ll and Marquita Allegheny East’s New Life need hope. Because of his Helping Single Moms - When Ohio Conference youth director Mike have a great recipe to whet Thomas of church in Gaithersburg, collaborative approach Stevenson heard about the Indiana Conference’s program for single their appetite for VBS. Allegheny Md., seeks out those and deft public relations mothers and their children, he decided to try it. At a cost of $50 per West’s who are hurting and skills, many Adventist mother and $25 per child—often paid by local churches—they get to ...... Southeast works to bring healing. churches have been fea- spend a week at Camp Mohaven in Danville, Ohio, relaxing and rejuve- church in Over the years, he has tured in the public media. nating their bodies, minds, and souls. While the youth participate in Cub 14. Be the center Cleveland. organized prayer vigils for or Junior camp activities, their mothers attend seminars on a range of of your community. Their Umoja families affected by crime; subjects, from managing finances to running a household. Last year, 11 That’s what Ohio’s Village marriage bone marrow drives for moms and their children attended.—Sherry English church did when they club provides people he’d never opened Agora, a used a safe place for couples met; and concerts in bookstore in a business to talk about issues, hospitals, prisons, storefront in downtown discuss books, and grow and other places Mason. After hours it’s their unions. Now, who in where people used for community meet- your community wouldn’t ings, workshops, literary benefit from such a posi- readings, film screenings, tive small group ministry?

10. Sponsor a away over 250 toys. With because their location “back to school” these and other caring ini- has a good viewing giveaway. Some fami- tiatives, it’s no wonder spot. Upon arrival, they lies really can’t afford they had more than 50 were surprised to see 17. Embark on a homeland mission all the supplies kids baptisms last year. the parking lot filling up trip. It’s less expensive, helps raise awareness of need for school. with community residents! your church, and lets your community know you That’s why ...... “I think they were surprised care. Pastor Mike Fortune and Ohio’s First church AEC’s Trinity to see us too,” laughs Temple 11. Pray for opportu- Radford member and con- of Toledo remodeled a “pocket park” across the members nities to witness. ference communication street from the local women’s shelter. Not only did in Newark, That’s what Potomac’s director Don Wood. Not opened the door to addi- the mayor lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony, their N.J., created “Knowledge Radford church did last passing up an opportunity tional community out- efforts garnered great media coverage. in a Bag.” Last fall they year, and they were not to serve, the small congre- reach,” Wood says. Later distributed 300 bags of disappointed. After a gation scrambled to make that month, they kicked off school supplies to children church picnic July 4, a few a few light snacks to an eight-week health series in their community. Then members returned to share. “It was a very spon- and several residents at Christmas they gave watch the local fireworks taneous thing, but it attended.

16 | VISITOR 22. Teach life skills. Wouldn’t it be great if there were a curriculum to teach 18. Map your success. AEC’s Beth-el church in Jersey City and youth the skills necessary to succeed in life? First church of Montclair recently partnered with Adventist Community Paula Olivier (pictured, center), assistant Development Services to make a “map” of their community. Rather than pastor of AEC’s Church of the Oranges in plotting roads, this map enables churches to identify needs and tailor church Orange, N.J., believed there should be, and programs to meet those needs. “[One of] the greatest needs of the Seventh- proceeded to create one. day Adventist Church in reaching the community is to realize that sometimes She got the idea during her senior year in what we offer is not necessarily what the community needs,” says Montclair pastor college, but it was seven years before she Moses Eli. From their assessments, his church quickly discovered that it is ill launched the LifeSkills Academy with 12 equipped to meet the needs of its expanding Latino population. As a result, participants—six church members and six they’re developing an English as a Second Language course. community youth—who were instructed in Another challenge revealed in their findings is that five areas: basic auto care, job readiness, pornography and alcohol addictions are taking a financial literacy, income tax preparation, heavy toll on the families and churches in and teen health. the area. Future plans include seminars The response was overwhelming. to teach people how to contain those Community leaders, including the mayor, addictions.—Sam Belony were thrilled and lent their support. A local newspaper and a television station covered the story. Churches—Adventist and other denominations (one in South Africa!)—and even the local high school, expressed interest in implementing similar programs. One year wiser, Pastor Olivier is working with community leaders and organizations to launch this summer’s program. It will last six weeks (instead of three), accommodate 15 students, and involve a more comprehensive curriculum with education on drug prevention, sexually trans- 23. Produce a mitted diseases, and housing. Students will also be required concert in the park. to volunteer at local businesses for 20 hours where they’ll Church wouldn’t be the same 19. Go like Chesapeake’s popular youth website— be evaluated for professionalism and ethical conduct. without our musicians. Share to the fair. Westminster (Md.) www.pcjovenes.com In addition to the one for youth, Olivier plans Holiday parades, Timberwolves. Create a —and a social networking to develop similar adult programs. And, to further their talents with your community county fairs, and message float like mem- page on Facebook. In expand this outreach program, the church has founded by organizing a free concert or Little League are bers of Potomac’s addition, Mountain View’s the Community Family Enrichment Services Center. summer series at the park or summer’s community Staunton (Va.) church. Hannah Hendron, 11, Through it, they aim to improve health and wellness in local mall. The Medford, Ore., fixtures. Have your Sponsor an exhibit at the created a blog called and beyond their city.—Sam Belony church is known for their Pathfinders march in the fair like Chesapeake’s GEMS (Girls Embracing annual “Jesus in the Memorial Day parade Frederick (Md.) church. Moral Standards). Not to Park” concert. be outdone, her brother pastor Lonnie Wibberding ...... Benjamin, 9, created BIG (above) sets up a sign and (Boys Instigating Good). offers free counseling 20. Go surfing. Both promote spiritual (really!). The pastor of six 24. Go to jail. Many churches visit Over 70 percent of values to their peers. churches and mission nursing homes on Sabbath afternoon. Americans (208 million) Visit www.gemsclub. plants was intent on mak- But Diane Medley Smith, community are on the Internet and wordpress.com and ing friends in a county outreach coordinator for AEC’s North many use it to seek www.bigclub.word- where there’s Philadelphia church, regularly takes spiritual enrichment. To press.com. not one 30-35 members to the local youth connect with Latinos, Adventist correctional facility. They sing, mime, Potomac’s PC Jovenes ...... church. In share poetry, and do skits, all to share ministry hosts a very time he met positive messages and influence their 21. Chill at your the owner, incarcerated peers to make the right choices. local coffee who also shop. If you want to runs a com- ...... be where the people puter shop are, you’ll no doubt upstairs, and 25. Knock, Knock: If nothing else find them chillin’ at they decided works, knock on the doors of your neighbors, your local java joint this to start a befriend them, and trust that God will summer. That’s where youth ministry use you to minister to their needs in central Pennsylvania together. His time and His way. APRIL 2008 | 21 22 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 23 APRIL 2008

Church of the Oranges Serves Area Homeless S

s a result of members’ sincere desire to get out of the pews and posi- E V A

tively affect their community, the Church of the Oranges in Orange, N.J., E

A R recently got involved in a string of neighborhood activities. One such activity G E N

came as a result of a new relationship the church developed with the assis- Y A tant director of the city’s Community Services. He contacted them when it W Y B

came time for the city’s Project Homeless Connect (PHC). S O T

PHC is a one-day, one-stop event where O H various community organizations come together P to assist the homeless. The services included legal advice; clothing donation; and information on health, housing, and public benefits. The event was held on a Tuesday in a local skating rink. More than 60 community organizations participated and served more than 500 homeless men, women, and children. The church’s Health Ministries department distributed pamphlets on addiction, substance abuse, and parenting. Through members’ in-kind and cash donations, the church was also able to distribute 360 toiletry bags. “Having accomplished a successful collaboration with the city, the city is tak- ing a more active role in helping us with our own community initiatives,” stated Church of the Oranges members assistant pastor Paula Olivier. “On April 30, the church is sponsoring a prostate Ann Sanderson; Carlene Pennicook, screening. The city has volunteered to help us recruit and publicize it through Health Ministries leader; and Keith flyer distribution and free advertising on the cable television station.” She added, Morris distribute health and other “This initial experience has opened the door for further partnerships that will help helpful materials to area homeless. to maximize our efforts to impact the community for Christ.”

Virginia Ministerium Hosts First Elders Banquet he pastors of efforts and support of our local church elders,” said Tthe Virginia Pastor Gary Banks, Virginia area leader. Banks further Ministerium hosted defined the threefold purpose of the event: “We also their first local elders wanted to strengthen the bonds between pastors and banquet at a confer- their elder teams, and to encourage all of our local elders ence center in down- to attend the training provided by the Allegheny East town Portsmouth. Conference S N

More than 100 local (AEC) during its N E

elders and their annual elders M Y R

Female elders from the Virginia spouses, from each retreat.” He R A Ministerium share a light moment. L

of the ministerium’s added, “The Y B

15 churches, attend- pastor and elder S O T

ed along with each church pastor and their spouse. are a team that O H Michael W. Dyson, a district pastor in Suffolk can do a mighty P and Franklin, Va., coordinated the evening. Adventist work when Chaplain Raynard Allen, stationed in Norfolk, was the under the guest speaker. Recording artist Kimberly Palmer direction of the More than 100 elders and their spouses presented the evening’s special music. Holy Spirit.” from the Virginia Ministeriuim registered to “We wanted this occasion to celebrate the ministry —Michael Dyson attend their first local elders banquet.

24 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 25 Baltimore Junior Academy Opens New Gymnasium S

onorable guests, church mem- Later attendees made their way to A M

bers, students, parents, and the gymnasium for the ribbon-cutting O APRIL 2008 H H T

friends gathered recently to cele- ceremony. The Liberty Heights D R A

brate the grand opening of church Pathfinder Drum Corps H

C Rock of Faith Initiates Super Bowl Outreach I

Baltimore Junior Academy’s (BJA) (below) started the celebration by R Y new gymnasium. The day started posting the colors. BJA’s upper and B hile all of America’s football fans wondered if the Patriots could cap off a perfect season with a victory in S O

with an open house where principal lower division choir provided special T Super Bowl XLII, the members of the Rock of Faith church in Pittsburgh used the occasion as an opportunity

O W H

Dorine E. Robinson, school board music. Special recognition was given P for fun, fellowship, and—most of all—evangelism. Members invited family and friends to join them for a Super chair Kenneth Jones, BJA national to those who have played a special Bowl party hosted by Eileen Moran. They gathered for food; games; the “big game,” of course; and an added sur- alumni president LaShawn Williams, part in the construction of the new prise. The evening was filled with excitement as guests won gifts and and area home and school leader gym, including C.D. Jenkins, building The new Baltimore Junior Academy gym- prizes by answering football trivia and guessing the game score before the Veronica Williams all provided spe- committee chair and pastor of the nasium was named in honor of Pastor end of each quarter. cial remarks. city’s Sharon church. BJA is also the C.D. Jenkins, who spent countless hours Then, as millions of Americans turned their attention to the halftime show, helping to make it a reality. current home to the Garden of Rock of Faith members held their own halftime show. Pastor Christopher Prayer congregation. Thompson gave “commercials” on upcoming church events and delivered a Honorable guests included relationships and partnerships.” stirring message to invite the visitors to dedicate their lives to Christ. Councilwoman Sharon Middleton Students are excited about their “The party was a great opportunity for us to strengthen relationships (6th District) who said, “Baltimore new 74-ft. long gym. “I can’t wait among ourselves and build awareness about what we have to offer our Junior Academy has always been a for a basketball team,” said sev- community,” said Pastor Thompson. “Most of all, it affords us the chance well respected neighborhood enth-grader Kevin Cooper. The to extend the invitation to discipleship to those who may never have that Rock of Faith members Eileen Moran, school. The opening of this new building project was an effort Super Bowl party planner; Allison Wiles, chance in a church setting.” organized by AEC’s six Baltimore- gym is also another way this edu- a party prizewinner; and Melissa Dean, “It felt like one big family coming together,” commented Allison Wiles, one cational institution can continue to area churches.—Tiffany Sewell and church treasurer, proudly display which of the party coordinators. “I believe that the hearts of those in attendance build and strengthen community Veronica Williams team won their support. were really touched. To God be the glory for the great things He has done.” NEWS Mt. Sinai Concludes 5-Year Campaign Officer Highlighted in Township Newsletter Dale Wright Member Serves Swaziland Children Members of the Mt. Sinai congregation in Trenton, Pastor Danny Davis (below), the conference’s hioma Patterson, a member of the Dale Wright clothing N.J., spent a good part of the past five years actively Trust Ministries officer and retired Youth Ministries direc- Memorial church in Germantown, Ohio, recently clinics, phar- witnessing to their neighbors and growing their mem- tor, was recently profiled in the C joined 16 other volunteers from around the United macies, and bership. By dividing the church into groups, they spent Douglass Township (Pa.) newsletter, States, New Zealand, and Australia to make a differ- children’s weeks at a time distributing religious tracts after an area that includes Pine Forge. ence in Swaziland, Africa. The trip was through Seeds programs. church services. During their five-year campaign, they Selected for his long-time support Of Hope Outreach (SOHO), a volunteer driven ministry At one clinic distributed more of various city organizations and that seeks to alleviate pain and hunger in the lives of alone, they than 77,500 efforts, Davis’ efforts with the Pine orphans, vulnerable children, and elderly through pro- were able to tracts. With the Forge Historical Society have been grams that address their physical, emotional, and serve more help of confer- very appreciated. spiritual needs. than 1,400 ence Bible work- “Pastor Davis’ history seemed to Patterson people. ers, they fol- demonstrate what the Seventh-day Adventist communi- and the volun- Swaziland currently has the highest HIV/AIDS rate lowed up with ty is all about: work, good health practices, reverence, teers collected in the world today. “We wanted to have a lasting affect their neighbors and service to others,” commented newsletter editor enough clothing, on the children’s lives,” said Patterson. The way and generated Sandra Lloyd on why they profiled Davis. “With the shoes, blankets, SOHO addressed this issue was to build “Welcome 800 Bible study Adventist community being at least one very important books, and other Places,” which are scheduled for completion this interests. “There were so many, we had to stop,” area of the township that demonstrates harmony … I essential items month. These welcoming structures will provide resi- recalled Pastor Paul Turner. have found that readers who regularly drive through the to fill two 40 ft. dents with a place to find counseling, food, formal and To wrap up their outreach efforts, conference evan- area are interested in the new buildings, such as the by 20 ft. ship- HIV/AIDS education, as well as spiritual renewal. gelist Conklin B. Gentry (above) recently led a five- Jessie Wagner Elementary School [an Adventist institu- ping containers. “The things I will always remember are the smiles, week evangelistic effort in the church’s neighborhood. tion] we featured in an earlier issue, and the yearly sum- Each day for two songs, and children, who—in the eyes of the world— As a result, more than 78 attendees were baptized, re- mer [camp meeting].”—Beth Michaels Chioma Patterson, a member of the weeks, they are in the most pitiful conditions,” added Patterson. baptized, or professed their faith. The church plans to Dale Wright Memorial congregation in traveled to small “But their condition does not stop their joy.” For hold another campaign this summer to bring more Allegheny East Conference Germantown, Ohio, helps a little boy tie PO Box 266, Pine Forge, PA 19548 I Phone: (610) 326-4610 his new shoes, a gift through the Seeds villages to set more information about SOHO, visit www.seed- interests to Christ.—Beth Michaels www.myalleghenyeast.com I President, Charles L. Cheatham Of Hope Outreach organization. up medical and sofhopeoutreach.com. Communication Director, Robert Booker I Editor, Beth Michaels

26 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 27 West Virginia District Pastor Attends World Conference

ason Ridley (below), pastor organized by the Youth Ministries APRIL 2008 Jof the Charleston/Huntington, department of the world church. W.Va., district, recently represent- Ridley was one of more than A Pattern for Prayer ed his conference and local dis- 1,500 delegates from 75 countries trict at the World Conference on to attend the conference, held in ne of the great challenges of prayer is that it can so easily become self-centered and self-seeking. We can be Youth and Community Service, Taipei, Taiwan. “It was a great Oso busy thinking of what we want that we have no time to think of what God wants for us. We can be so con- experience for me to be able to cerned about our own desires that we never think of God’s will. And, we can be so busy talking to God that we work and worship with my broth- never give God the chance to talk to us. ers and sisters in Christ from all Taiwan Adventist College students got It is precisely this kind of situation that the Lord’s prayer (Matt. 6:9-13) commands us and helps us to avoid. It over the world,” says Pastor a special treat when guest speaker begins by putting God at the center. All other things take their proper place when God is given his proper place. Ridley. “It showed me how heaven Jason Ridley, pastor of the Charleston/ So this great pattern of prayer begins with the memory of God’s majesty and purpose and the is going to be, when we all get Huntington, W.Va., district blessed them acceptance of His will. there together.” during several chapel services. The second part of the prayer contains three short petitions that take life—past, present, and While in the country, Ridley also future—and lays it before God. With an amazing economy of words, these brief petitions take the got the opportunity to visit Taiwan time with students, visiting their whole of life to the whole of God. When we come to God in an attitude of trusting surrender, as in Adventist College located in classrooms, and spoke several the opening phrases of the prayer, the asking—from the last part of the prayer—becomes the nat- Taichung. There he got to spend times for their chapel services. ural way of including God in the details of our lives. This is precisely why the pattern of Rob Vandeman this great prayer must be the pattern of every prayer. President Ramah Junior Academy Dedicates Marshall Library

ajuan Marshall (below) was to prepare her students for this sweet sister. I’ll meet you in the Youth Leaders Enrichment Day Keeps Growing Lborn to teach, and ministered world as well as the world to morning.—Celeste Giles Kids (VBS), Youth for 24 years to children in her come. She spent countless hours he annual Youth Leaders Enrichment Day, spon- Ministries, Pathfinder classroom at Ramah Junior devising new methods to reach her Tsored and organized by the conference Youth Basic Staff Training, students for God. She aspired to Ministries department, set another attendance record Teen Leader in place each of her children’s hands as more than 120 youth leaders recently took advan- Training, Master into the hand of the Almighty. Calendar tage of this unique training opportunity. Enrichment Guide, Pathfinder Because of Marshall’s diligence at Day is designed to equip youth leaders with the proper April Leadership Award, RJA, she was often referred to as leadership resources and tools to enable them to run 4-6 Multicultural Ministries and Conservation Martha, Lazarus’ busy sister. effective ministry programs in their home churches. Institute, Cincinnati Masters (Honors). Teacher Celeste Giles, a co-worker Held at the Baltimore White Marsh church in 6 Community Service Experienced youth and friend for 17 years—and Bible Maryland, attendees were able to participate in three Federation, Lynchburg, Va. ministry leaders counterpart, Mary—often cau- hourlong sessions in one of eight different tracks of 12-13 Women’s Ministries 3-in-1 and pastors taught tioned her to slow down. study. The tracks included Adventurer Club, Kingdom Conference, Huntington, W.Va. the tracks. Marshall’s diligence was offi- 17-19 Youth Congress, The worship cially noted twice. The Columbia Akron, Ohio service featured music provided by Ascend, the Academy (RJA). She was also a Union Conference presented her 27 NO/PA Community Service Hagerstown (Md.) church praise team. Jonathon Tejal loving and faithful mother to two with the Zapara Award for Federation, Erie (above), Pathfinder director for the worldwide Adventist sons, Bryan and Byran Marshall, Educational Excellence. The world Church, presented an inspirational message on being and leaves them, a loving mother, honored her in the list of “Who’s May the hands of Christ in the world today. Following the and a host of family and friends to Who of American Teachers.” 4 Cotillion/Beautillion, worship experience, attendees were treated to a fel- mourn. It was for her commitment Marshall also excelled as an RJA Columbus, Ohio lowship luncheon organized by the host church and to RJA that the school recently principal. Under her direction, stu- June served by their Pathfinder Club members. renamed its library in her memory. dents participated in feeding the 8 North Ohio District Enrichment Day is part of an annual training pack- Marshall often referred to her homeless and providing clothing Leadership Training age that includes the Youth Leaders Convention, a real boss as Jesus, and was deter- to more than 300 homeless. 25-29 Camp Meeting, Thornville weekend event held each September at the Mt. Aetna mined to be accountable to Him. Even in the midst of her illness, Camp and Retreat Center near Hagerstown. Together She took Ellen G. White’s state- Marshall’s heart was with her Catch the Vision is published in the Visitor these two events give local youth leaders a great ment about every teacher being students, and she longed to return by the Allegheny West Conference opportunity to expand their horizons, sharpen their held accountable for time “used to teach for the 2007-08 school 1339 East Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43205 Phone: (614) 252-5271 More than 120 Chesapeake leaders enjoyed gaining greater knowl- skills, and share their experiences. Is it any wonder and misused” literally. With the year. God, however, had a differ- President, James L. Lewis edge of their ministries during Youth Leaders Enrichment Day. these gatherings keep growing? help of the Lord, Marshall tried to ent plan, calling her to rest until Editor, Bryant Taylor I www.awcsda.com utilize each minute, in every class, His second coming. Goodnight,

28 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 29 APRIL 2008

New Hope Shares Its Strength to Benefit Mozambique

s part of the mission focus of the New Hope church last September, Ain Fulton, Md., a team of volunteers was organized where he learned recently to respond to critical needs in both their local that Maranatha community and around the world. The church volun- was also plan- teers are known as the SOS team, an acronym for ning to drill 1,001 President Pushes New Initiates to Shape Future Sharing Our Strength. Since their establishment in 2006, water wells— SOS team members have twice visited the Gulf Coast one next to each fter just 64 days on the job, new Columbia Union operate in the red. This budget allows for improved to assist with the ongoing saga left in the wake of church they ACollege (CUC) president Weymouth Spence, EdD, cash flow during the summer and for necessary infra- Hurricane build. Wooster’s participated in his first meeting with the Board of structure improvements such as repairs and upgrades Katrina. They interest was In addition to the pipes, volunteers Trustees, and won overwhelming approval on four in the residence halls,” he added. have also piqued because and New Hope church members helped major initiatives that will shape CUC’s future. “I do not believe we can cut our way to success, so responded gen- his father ran a collect and donate 4,000 bars of soap “First and we will also develop new initiatives; but we had to make erously to the water well drilling and other necessities for fellow believers foremost, we this budget work for the greater long-range good of the needs of an business in in Mozambique. wanted all of our college,” Spence explained. “The budget includes some orphanage in Southern constituents to cuts in staff and underperforming programs, but also Haiti by funding Maryland. He offered to help in any way he could. know we are allows hiring for new programs that meet market an addition that Within two months, MVI had set up a meeting with staying in demands.”—Scott Steward now houses Wooster and his father to talk about the water project. Takoma Park more than 50 That meeting resulted in a plan that cut the cost of the and are commit- children. Since the first of the year, two teams have well and drilling materials in half by accessing supplies ted to revitalizing spent time assisting with the work at the orphanage. from his father’s local contacts and shipping them our present cam- Music Groups Perform Team leader Dave Wooster reported that momentum from Maryland. pus,” stated at Carnegie Hall was building for a trip overseas when team member Materials to build Spence. “The Monty Jacobs, who also serves on the Maranatha 120 wells were board has recon- UC’s Columbia Collegiate Chorale and Pro Volunteers International (MVI) board, shared the needs of purchased and firmed this, and CMusica recently performed in a concert present- the Adventist church in Mozambique. With more than shipped to the we are on the ed by MidAmerica Productions at Carnegie Hall in 200,000 members in an incredibly poor country, and with church, where same page. Now New York City. CUC’s performance groups joined relatively few church buildings, there is a desperate need more than 80 it’s time for all of with several school chorus groups from around the to build houses of worship. Maranatha stepped up to the volunteers our constituents United States to perform with the New England challenge and has committed to build 1,001 churches showed up to Weymouth Spence, CUC president, to join us and Symphonic Ensemble, the resident orchestra for the and several schools. The New Hope SOS team has load the 2,000 addresses CUC trustees about four put away, once production company. “This was a great experience, planned a trip this coming summer to help build a pieces (nearly six initiatives that will help secure the and for all, the and something you don’t get an opportunity to do school near Maputo, the country’s capital. More than 40 miles worth) of pipe into two 40 ft. shipping containers. school’s future success. idea of moving every day,” said Trisha Davidian, a junior Music people have already signed up. The ripple effect of the SOS team’s focus has been or closing CUC.” major. Members of CUC’s music groups perform at Jacobs invited Wooster to MVI’s annual convention astounding. Once all of the drilling supplies were loaded, The board also approved a revised strategic plan, Carnegie Hall and at other venues as a part of their there was plenty of room in each container. A distress now known simply as “The Plan.” It outlines growth training in music performance.—PR Staff call was sent out to New Hope members and friends for in academic and spiritual programs, improvements in donations of toiletries and school supplies. They received facilities and operations, and commitments to excel- 4,000 bars of soap plus additional toiletries. Members of lence and accountability. “It’s now time to complete the Williamsport (Md.) church, as well as students and its implementation, but with a few revisions,” said leadership from the Beltsville (Md.) school; Mt. Aetna Spence of the plan, which was first adopted in 2004. Elementary school and Highland View Academy, both Spence and the board also agreed to implement near Hagerstown, Md.; and the conference responded to what has been called the three-school model. the urgent appeal. In all more than 90 desks, 10 black- Starting in the 2008-09 school year, CUC will be boards, 160 folding chairs, and miscellaneous school and organized into a School of Graduate and Professional medical supplies were also included in the shipment. Studies, a School of Health Professions and Everyone who lent a hand, including Pastor David Wellness, and a School of Arts and Social Sciences. Newman (above), felt it was a nice touch to help their The board also adopted Spence’s carefully balanced sister churches in Mozambique. 2008-09 budget, which projects no increase in tuition and a flat enrollment. As a matter of fact, it will be about $750,000 less than the current 2007-08 budget, More than 80 SOS (Sharing Our Hope) volunteers from the New The Challenge is published in the Visitor by the Chesapeake Conference I 6600 Martin Road, Columbia, MD 21044 and includes aggressive-but-realistic goals for fundrais- Members of the Columbia Collegiate Chorale and Pro Musica Hope church in Fulton, Md., showed up to help load 2,000 Phone: (410) 995-1910 I President & Editor, Rob Vandeman gather outside Carnegie Hall before their recent performance. pieces of pipe for drilling water wells in Mozambique. ing. “The budget must be balanced; a culture of excel- lence demands it,” announced Spence. “We will not

30 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 31 APRIL 2008 NEWS Columbia Union Designates Division. To download the applica- CUC Sabbath tion, visit www.cuc.edu or call www.highlandviewacademy.com The Columbia Union (800) 835-4212.—PR Staff Conference has designated May Why I Do This Work 31 as CUC Sabbath. The special Religion Department Hosts day will allow time for congrega- Keough Lectures hile writing this, Highland View Academy (HVA) is in the midst of Student Week of Prayer. It started on tions to dedicate a portion of their The Department of Religion will WMonday, and I’ll have to say that particular Monday was one of the worse beginnings to a week I’ve had for Sabbath School or divine services host the G. Arthur Keough Lectures some time. By the time the service started midmorning, I was ready to call it a week and go home! to learn about exciting news, suc- on Friday, April 11, at 6:30 p.m. and When the students started song service, however, my shoulders began to relax and my breathing slowed. cess stories, and future plans of Sabbath, April 12, at 3:30 p.m. in By the third song, I had forgotten the troubles of the day and was experiencing a real sense of the college. CUC will provide the H.M.S. Richards Hall chapel. peace. The students sounded wonderful, for any day, but especially for a Monday morning! The speakers, musicians, and printed Professors M. Imad Damaj, PhD, student speaker gave a wonderful talk, filled with passion and enthusiasm. material for as many congregations and Jack Spiro, DHL, EdD, will pres- About 30 minutes later, by the conclusion of the service, I was a different person. By the time I as possible. A special offering also ent two discussions under the using the euphonium, a baritone- left, my spirit was lifted and my heart was light. Though I still had some burdens on my heart and will be taken. For more informa- theme “Understanding Other Faiths sounding brass instrument. some unpleasant tasks for the week, I felt so encouraged. Once again, I realized what an impact tion, contact the CUC Marketing Among Monotheistic Religions” dur- “To be able to join other musi- Adventist education has on our young people. Once again, I renewed my will to forge ahead. Sheri Tydings and Communications office at ing this free, two-day lectureship. cians with high skill levels and cre- Once again, I was reminded why I do this work. Principal [email protected] or (800) 835-4212. For details visit www.cuc.edu or call ate beautiful music was an enjoy- (301) 891-4125. able aspect of CUC Band Fest,” Summer Teaching Institute said Dan Wagner, a student at Blue Conference Youth Gather to Worship Helps Union Teachers Band Festival Draws Academy Mountain Academy in Hamburg, Pa. early 70 youth from across the Chesapeake “The weekend was a blessing,” said Brad Durby, CUC’s Summer Teaching Performers For more information about Conference recently gathered to learn and wor- HVA chaplain and one of the event coordinators. Institute, hosted by the Department Columbia Union College’s CUC’s music programs or sched- N ship. The youth retreat theme and programming was “To see so many of Education, will take place June Concert Winds, under the direction uled performances, contact the designed to challenge youth to let God “Fill the Void” youth being led 16 to August 8. The 2008 summer of music professor Bruce Wilson, Department of Music at (301) 891- in their lives that social culture entices them to fill with and inspired was sessions are organized into four recently hosted the biennial Band 4025.—Brittani Bissell and PR Staff sections to provide convenient Festival. Band Fest, as it is com- so many other wonderful. I can’t scheduling for traditional education monly known, is an honors program things. The thank Pastor that allows students from Adventist weekend event Litchfield and majors, teachers seeking certifica- CALENDAR tion, and continuing education academies around the United States was a joint effort the Chesapeake credits for certified teachers. The to perform at the collegiate level. of HVA and the Conference pas- program includes post-baccalaure- Hours of practice, meeting new April conference tors and youth ate 500-level courses and two people, and sightseeing added tex- 5 CUC Choice Awards Youth Ministries leaders enough technology seminars focused on ture and harmony to the week. The 6 Service Day department. for making this Students from across the Chesapeake digital photography and movie music performed at Band Fest is 9 Awards Convocation Guest speaker such a great Conference experienced spiritual nurturing making. The institute meets composed of difficult pieces that 11-13 Alumni Weekend One Accord, HVA’s praise band, provided LaClaire Litchfield experience.” during breakout sessions. requirements for certification with many of the students are expected 11,12 Keough Lectures music for the youth retreat. the Maryland State Department of to play “on the spot.” 13 Tastes of Takoma Education and the North American “It’s definitely a fun challenge Acro-Airs Home Show (right), Collegedale (Tenn.) Alumni Weekend because we are able to play harder 14 Psi Chi Induction Ceremony Academy chaplain, encour- Please plan to join us for Alumni Weekend, May 2-4. music than we do in our academy 18 Spring Concert— aged attendees to look at their The fun-filled schedule includes: band,” said Noelle Reid, a student Black Student Union relationship with Christ in a at Takoma Academy in Takoma Gospel Choir different way. His practical Friday: The annual golf tournament will start at 8 a.m., Park, Md. examples, insightful look into and vespers at 7:30 p.m. at the Highland View church. This year attendees were hon- May Scripture, and sincere passion Sabbath: Fellowship and Sabbath School will start ored to have guest conductor 2-4 Commencement Weekend for the spiritual welfare of at 9:30 a.m. in the Administration Building. The Stephen Bulla (above), chief 31 CUC Sabbath youth were an inspiration to everyone. divine service will be at 11 a.m. at the Highland View arranger to “The President’s Own” Conference pastors provided spiritual nurturing dur- church. The alumni basketball game will finish the United States Marine Band and ing breakout sessions on Sabbath. Pastor Vladimir day at 9 p.m. in the gymnasium. The Gateway is published in the Visitor Corea of the Highland View church led a seminar titled Marine Chamber Orchestra. Bulla Sunday: The weekend comes to a close following by the Columbia Union College “Hope for a Generation in Crisis.” Youth pastor Keith Education professor Jeannette Rogers also brought a commissioned piece 7600 Flower Ave., Takoma Park, MD 20912 the alumni soccer game at 11 a.m. Phone: (800) 835-4212 I www.cuc.edu Acker, of the West Wilmington (Del.) church, led a dis- Dulan, PhD, will help teach courses for titled “Commitment” that he Weymouth Spence, EdD, President I cussion titled “Shh, God,” and Highland View church Plan now to attend. For more information, visit CUC’s upcoming Summer Teaching arranged. Wilson was given a Exec. Dir. of Marketing and Comm., Scott Institute. chance to play a solo for the piece Steward I Editor, Tanisha Greenidge youth leader Anthony Hackett spoke under the theme www.highlandviewacademy.com. “God is FUNny.”

32 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 33 School Celebrates Cultural Diversity

he concept of an HVA and U.S. Virgin Islands. Students TInternational Fair originated kicked off the evening event with a APRIL 2008 more than 10 years ago as a way parade of flags and then a welcome for international students—primarily spoken in their native tongues. Members Lead the Charge for Jesus from Argentina—to acknowledge The event is a wonderful way for the successful completion of the students to take pride in their her- any years ago, Ellen White repeatedly called for a shared evangelistic ministry in which church members and English as a Second Language itage and share things about their Mministers would unite in their endeavors: “The ministers and the church members are to unite as one person in program. Since that time it has country with others. “The amount of laboring for the up building and prosperity of the church ... All should be laborers together with God, and then the minister can feel that he has helpers in whom it is safe to trust. The minister can hasten this desirable end by show- grown into an event designed to work the students and parents put Parent Glen Milam (right) coached stu- celebrate the rich diversity of the into this event is amazing,” said dents (left to right) Kari Petrelis, Victoria ing that he has confidence in the workers by setting them to work” (Review & Herald, July 9, 1885). school’s student body. Debra West, dean of girls and event and Vivian Dye, Andrew Fishell, and Sidney The call for ministry partnership of lay members and pastors has been sounding throughout Mountain View. coordinator. “It’s really cool to learn Milam to represent Indonesia where he Church members have joined voices with their pastors in the launch of 50 lay-led evangelistic about different cultures,” responded once served as a student missionary. meetings scheduled for 2008, with the surrounding help of the church’s additional ministries: junior Chris Malcolm. Throughout the Sabbath School, visitation, community and health services, etc. Some plant, some water, and evening, comments overheard from some reap, but God gives the increase (I Cor. 3:6-9). This plan has stepped off the pages of the crowd included, “Oh, you have to Hagerstown (Md.) resident and theory and onto the stage of action, with conversions and revivals following. I invite you, by your try this, it’s delicious,” or “I’m so full!” previous fair attendee. “The food, prayers and financial support, to join us in this united venture to proclaim the message of a soon “This was the best international culture, and fellowship were enjoyed coming Savior, and the power of His saving grace. What a joy and honor to be laborers Larry Boggess fair yet!” said Jeanne Ramos, a by everyone,” relayed Duane Harris, together with Him! Don’t deny yourself the privilege of participation. President father of HVA freshman Josh Harris. Brian Calhoun, parent of sophomore Jennifer Calhoun, added, “It was a Member Highlights: Unique Ministries for Christ Students Sebi Nestares, Dan Fonseca, wonderful opportunity to sample food and Paola Fonseca (in striped shirts), from so many diverse countries!” James LeVos, Medicine Man - This beloved physi- been promoting Ellen White’s classic Steps to Christ. along with family members, serve cian has served Ritchie and Doddridge counties, West Ridpath, a member of the Buckhannon (W.Va.) church, Argentinian treats during the fair. CALENDAR Virginia, since 1979, in family practice dared readers to be inspired by White’s insight, and at two clinics and as medical director directed them to the website www.stepstochrist.us, The gymnasium was recently April at a nursing and rehabilitation center where visitors can down- transformed again as students and in Harrisville. Valued highly for his load, read, or listen to the their families created booths to 11 Third Annual Gospel skills and compassion, Dr. LeVos (left) book. Of her regular col- showcase native food, music, and Festival, 7:30 p.m., Highland also makes house calls, a rarity these umn, Ridpath states, dress, as well as facts about their View Church (HVC) days. In the interest of meeting the “Two of the papers were country of origin. This year 19 20 Olympic Day health needs of the community, he elected to start a reluctant to pick up my countries were represented: 23-27 Home Leave new service. Through Appalachian Wellness, LeVos ‘Chat’ but finally did and Argentina, Brazil, England, HVA students Lauren (left) and Awmi gives free health consultations in homes three days a continue publishing it.” Germany, Guam, India, Indonesia, (far right) Kawlni, and friends, proudly May week. He is pursuing this new dimension of healthcare She adds, “God has been Jamaica, Japan, Kenya, Korea, the display traditional clothing from their 2-4 Alumni Weekend in addition to performing part-time service at the clinics good to bring positive Spencer (W.Va.) church mem- home country of India. Philippines, Peru, Puerto Rico, 4 Awards Reception, and rehabilitation center. He voluntarily went on half- comments from many … ber Chris Hasse (right) shares Russia, Sweden, Trinidad and 6 p.m., Gym pay in order to make his services more accessible to a humbling fact that her faith through a column in Tobago (below), the United States, 9 Covenant Drama the indigent. However, the medical boards under which brings praises to God.” Two-Lane Livin’ edited by award-winning journalist Lisa Presentation, 7:30 p.m., HVC he serves have chosen to retain him on full salary, Hasse is a poetess, Hayes-Minney (left), the founder. 10 Music Department knowing that LeVos’s altruistic service dovetails with religious writer, literature Spring Concert the overall intention of what his colleagues are seeking evangelist, Bible instruc- 23 Consecration/Parent Tribute, to offer in Appalachia, the best and most readily acces- tor, organic gardener, and member of the Spencer 7:30 p.m., HVC sible healthcare for all, regardless of income, mobility, (W.Va.) church. She writes a regular column titled 24 Baccalaureate, 11 a.m., HVC or other delimiting factors. “Things New and Old” for the monthly, year-old publi- 25 Commencement cation Two-Lane Livin’. Dedicated to presenting issues 10 a.m., Gym Pat Ridpath and Chris Hasse, relevant to central West Virginians, 12,000 copies are Religious Journalists – Ridpath printed each month, plus an online version. “Chris’ Highlander is published in the Visitor (right) is known for effortlessly sharing writing is intense, passionate, and creative,” says Brian by the Highland View Academy biblical truths with thousands of read- Jones, conference communication director. “Her pri- 10100 Academy Drive, Hagerstown, mary emphasis is on the love of God and His power to MD 21740 I Phone: (301) 739-8480 ers in central West Virginia. The “Pat’s Fax: (301) 733-4770 I Editor, Sheri Tydings Chat” columnist has also recently save, in the context of the great controversy theme.” Freshman Do Young An dons native www.highlandviewacademy.com Korean clothing.

34 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 35 Unique Ministries, Cont’d. study of Steps to Christ. The youth Sunday school class is going through this book each week and intensively Frank Mott, Evangelistic Barber - From the discussing its content. This summer the youth intend to MOUNT VERNON ACADEMYT give all parents who send their children to VBS a free Spiri moment Mott (below) opens his barbershop each morn- APRIL 2008 ing until closing time, “Bible copy of Steps to Christ. class” is in open session. Over the years, the Lord has Logan Members, Reaching Out - Members of the Discovering the Joy of Sharing Christ taught Mott, a member of the Logan (W.Va.) church wanted to accomplish more out- or several years, Mount Vernon Academy (MVA) has promoted its goal of helping students discover Christ and Weirton (W.Va.) church, to reach. A discussion of the ministries already in place themselves. We want to create an environment where students are able to enjoy the ultimate reward of discov- skillfully sow seeds that rap- revealed that a growing number of families came regu- F ering what a difference it makes to have Christ as their personal Savior. idly germinate into open dis- larly to the monthly food pantry. “I wish we could do Our students have found that as they grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ, another great cussions with his customers something more spiritual for them,” said one member. reward is to share that discovery with others. With this in mind, the faculty, staff, and students are on life’s most vital issues. On the next committed to restructuring our program for the 2008-09 school year to allow for additional, monthly “I go to Frank’s barbershop Monday morning, opportunities of such discoveries—the joy of selfless service and the ministry it provides. because he tells you about every automobile Our desire as an institution is to impact our community for Christ. MVA is excited about the God and knows what and that arrived at the 2008-09 school year and the new opportunities it will present for displaying Christ’s love through Whom he’s talking about,” church was both words and actions. We solicit your support and prayers as we continue our journey of said one regular customer. greeted, shown David Daniels discovering how sharing the love of Christ will impact those around us. Principal “Besides giving me good hair- to a parking cuts, he teaches me truths I have never heard before!” space, and Mott’s customers often engage him in discussions everyone inside about the teachings of the Bible, especially drawing invited into the him out on doctrinal and prophetic issues. Over the sanctuary to sit Logan (W.Va.) church member Brenda Student Gains Blessings From Puerto Rican Mission comfortably out Wright fills bags of food from the pantry. years, Mott has distributed hundreds of resources to wenty-seven seniors and sponsors spent eight The rest of the interested customers, many of whom are eager to dis- of the cold. When an informal service started, several participated in the Tdays in Puerto Rico for their senior class/mission week was filled cuss what they have read. trip. Class member Kylie Wilson (left) reflects on her with various “Among those who want to discuss the Bible with singing and made prayer requests. With each passing month, feedback becomes more personal and spiritual. experience: excursions, me are ministers, Sunday School teachers, Masons, When we arrived in the which included skeptics, and the list goes on,” explains Mott. “In gener- Another idea came about when a member surprising- ly asked, “Pastor, don’t you think we should have a capital city of San Juan, we snorkeling, al, what amazes them the most is the tremendous dif- were directed onto an old kayaking the ference between fundamental Scripture truth we look at prison ministry?” Pastor Linden St. Clair admits he had been thinking about the same thing, and had even gone school bus and shuttled to Bioluminescent and the teachings of their church or belief system. Many the Pedro Lopez Ramos Bay in Vieques, of them request literature on the subjects we have dis- to the regional jail to see about it, but nothing had come of it. About a month later, “As I listened to the messages Seventh-day Adventist and visiting Old cussed.” He adds, “Many come back and tell me they Camp in El Yunque National San Juan. agree with what they have read, yet the majority are still on the church answering machine,” reports St. Clair, “I heard, ‘This is chaplain Goodman at the penitentiary. We Forest, approximately 40 It was great held down by family ties and tradition. But I keep sow- minutes away. Night had fun working with ing seeds; it is the Lord who gives the increase.” are interested in you coming to hold services here.’” Recently four members of the Logan church held fallen by the time we my classmates, MVA seniors cool off after a morning of their first Sabbath service at the penitentiary, with arrived in the little valley where the camp was situated. and we felt good hard work. Nelson Mathers, “Johny Appleseed” - For the For three days, we to be helping past several years, Mathers (right), a about 15 inmates attending. They plan to return on the second Sabbath of each month. painted buildings and the camp. The retired denominational schoolteacher, doors at the camp during experience deeply touched me emotionally, physical- has faithfully distributed Adventist lit- the first half of the day. ly, and spiritually. The power of God to transform erature throughout the town of Sometimes, after we and renew us through small experiences linked with Elizabeth, W.Va., seat of Wirt County. Mountain View painted, a morning rain big miracles is one that should never be underesti- He does this at his own expense on a EVENTS would come and wash all mated. The Lord always provides a blessing to those relatively limited income. Everyone in our work away and we who do His work, and we certainly felt blessed! town recognizes Mathers as the “Johnny Appleseed” of April would have to start again We had a lot of fun on our class trip, yes, but Christian literature, dedicated to sowing seeds of truth 6 Education Fair & Music Festival, Summersville after it dried! more importantly, we grew together in the love and daily, and for this service the community respects him 13 Board of Education During two of the knowledge of our Savior, Jesus Christ. I hope that He highly. Everyone is aware of his Mathers’ Christian May afternoons, we traveled will always help me to give Him praise for the beauti- Lending Library, and quite a few utilize it. to a nearby beach after ful things He has done, is doing, and is still yet to do. Recognizing the value of his services, the local public 2-4 Singles Retreat, Valley Vista our morning’s work. We Class members Matt Brown and There is no doubt in my mind what an awesome library has donated many books to him, and occasional played in the waves, future He has planned for every single one of us; and support comes from people sympathetic to his cause. Mountain Viewpoint is published in the Visitor by the Mountain Jessica Schneider paint a door- I basked in the sun, and way of an Adventist camp in not a day goes by when I am not more excited about Among the fruits of Marthers’ labor is the local View Conference 1400 Liberty Street, Parkersburg, WV 26101 I Phone: (304) 422-4581 I President, Larry Boggess bonded with each other. Puerto Rico. my future with Him. Nazarene church’s congregation-wide acceptance and Editor, Brian Jones I www.mtviewconf.org

36 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 37 SpiriT Mission Team Builds “Dream” Church in Belize

er name was Aunt Tillo. She had been in the little Working early APRIL 2008 Hfishing village of Placencia in Belize as long as in the morning anyone could remember. In fact, she was responsible and late in the for delivering evening to avoid The First Pillar: A Movement of Prayer most of the peo- the intense tropi- believe in the power of prayer. When connected with heaven, we find peace, wisdom, and strength that other- ple in the village cal heat, the wise—as human beings—we wouldn’t experience. I have received a call from God and the constituents of New in her role as MVA team was I Jersey to lead the church in this state. I consider it a great responsibility and an undeserved honor. I know that I local midwife. able to complete need His help; I absolutely depend on Him for everything. I also feel that, in some manner, I depend on each one of She had become the floor, walls, you. I need you to pray for me. The mission of the church must be accomplished, but the task is bigger than us. a Seventh-day and “hurricane My first responsibility as your president and pastor begins at 5:30 a.m. every day, when I pray for each Adventist at a ring” of the New Jersey pastor, teacher, elder, or leader and for my prayer partners. If you want to be on my prayer list, fairly early age church in five Juniors Bruce Cuevas and Jackie Ruiz lay email me at [email protected] with your request. This is only for prayer. If you wish your prayer to and over the days, leaving block for one of the church walls. be included on the conference prayer circle through our website at www.njcsda.org, you need years taught the only the roof to to authorize me to do so. children of the village about Jesus. In time, a number be completed. Since the teens and their supervisors Jesus is coming soon! I believe that it is not with an army, nor by force, but with God’s Spirit of these children joined God’s church. accomplished the work quickly, the group was also (Zech. 4:6). We need to build a prayer movement—as it was in the times of the apostles—that Located on a remote peninsula on the coast, able to visit the local Mayan ruins of Xunantunich and leads us to a great spiritual revival. “And when they had prayed, the place where they were Placencia started to attract attention as a tourist desti- Altun Ha and do some snorkeling in the warm ocean. assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke nation because of its white, sandy beaches and won- “It was fulfilling,” said the word of God with boldness” (Acts 4:31, NKJV). We need a prayer movement like noth- José Cortés derful marine life. The little Adventist church grew as junior Katie Roddy (left), “to ing ever seen in our conference. Prayer is the first pillar of our ministry. President well thanks to Aunt Tillo’s efforts. The members met in build a church that can help a little wooden shack (above) situated on part of her fulfill God’s work and property. It was her dream to see a solid church build- someone’s dream at the ing constructed, one that would withstand the frequent same time.” The partici- Robbinsville Community Experiences Power of Prayer hurricanes and would be a more inviting structure. A pants came home with a he Robbinsville Community church in Trenton knew several spots on Pastor Randall’s liver, but all of the few groups had promised to come, but each time the renewed sense of purpose that their pastor, Art Randall, was being treated for results were negative. Later his doctor inserted a stint plans failed. and a greater appreciation T a blood clot in his leg that was creating jaundice, but in his common bile duct. This would open the blocked This story was told to the Mount Vernon Academy for how God works through when the local elders and about 25 members arrived at duct and relieve the jaundice. During the procedure, mission team on their first Friday evening in the coun- others.—Tim Soper his home on a Wednesday evening for an anointing the doctor expected to find the cancerous mass try. Twenty-four students and sponsors had the privi- service, he relayed worse news. A CT scan the previ- obstructing the duct, but instead discovered it was lege of fulfilling Aunt Tillo’s wishes. She had recently ous Friday revealed a mass on his pancreas with possi- only a gallstone. As a result, the next scheduled treat- donated her land—a very high value in the now- ble spreading to his liver. They anointed the pastor, ment—a biopsy of the pancreas and the cancerous tis- burgeoning tourist town—to the church. Although Aunt calendar together with his wife, at 8:30 that evening. sue—were cancelled and an MRI of the affected area Tillo died only months before the MVA group arrived, of For the next month and a half, the local elders asked scheduled. Randall had the MRI five days later. she was able to know for certain that “her church” events the church to pray at 8:30 every evening for their pastor The next evening conference administrators came to would finally be built. and his family. The conference administration and staff his house and anointed Pastor Randall yet again. When April also held him up in prayer each morning. News of Randall’s wife, Beth, finally got hold of the doctor the 19 Acronics Homeshow Pastor Randall’s cancer spread, and soon family and next week, they got the miraculous news: The MRI 20 Junior/Senior Banquet friends across the United States were also praying. showed no mass on his pancreas. The cancer was gone! 25-27 Alumni Weekend Randall was anointed again two days later. “Somewhere between the CT scan and the MRI, God 27 Alumni Golf Tournament Soon thereafter, the doctor performed a biopsy of took care of the problem,” said Pastor Randall. “I believe 27-May 2 Junior Boston Trip that God has healed me and still has work for me to do.” 30-May 4 Home Leave When the Robbinsville congregation got news of his healing, excitement rippled through the pews. “See May what God can do for us when we unite in prayer,” 7 SA Picnic & Elections church elder Harry Walker testified. 11 Spring Concert God demonstrated that He wants to bestow His 20-21 Final Exams healing power on us: not just on one man, but on the 23-25 Graduation Weekend entire church, the community, the nation, and the 25 Commencement world.—Sandra Covell Dombrowski

Spirit is published in the Visitor by Mount Vernon Academy The Robbinsville congregation pulled together in prayer and saw The MVA Belize mission team proudly displays their completed 525 Wooster Road, Mount Vernon, OH 43050 I Phone: the power of the Lord at work in their pastor, Art Randall. work on Aunt Tillo’s church in Placencia. (740) 397-5411 I Principal, David Daniels I www.mvacademy.org

38 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 39 NEWS First Filipino Celebrates Ministry groups who meet the first Debt Freedom and third Sabbath of each month Cherry Hill Hosts Tri- During a special church service from 4:30 to 7 p.m. for study and APRIL 2008 Conference Disaster Training recently, members of the First fellowship. Visitors are welcome to New Jersey and Chesapeake Filipino church in Plainfield learn about the Hebraic roots of our conferences recently conducted a rejoiced—with jubilant cheers—as Adventist faith while learning to Ministry University Provides Hope, Renewal, joint ACS/Disaster Response the mortgage papers for their first share it with Jewish neighbors. (ACS/DR) training exercise for 34 building were burned in a ceremo- Some upcoming special events Practical Ideas pre-trained and volunteer partici- nial act. Paying their debt within include a Passover Seder on April pants from their territories, along one year of ownership, they praised 19. Reserve a spot to enjoy Pass- hio Ministry University recently brought together Seventh-day Adventist Church. The Nelsons are in pri- with the Ohio Conference. Hosted God for the special blessing. over teachings, food, customs, and Onearly 200 lay leaders and pastors from across the vate practice as career and life coaches in San by the Cherry Hill church, the exer- “I can now retire,” said outgoing fellowship. Another event is Festival conference. They heard presentations by Stuart Tyner Francisco. They also lead a ministry called Second cise taught volunteers (below) how pastor Rudney Bartolome, bringing (below) on spiritual growth through grace-oriented Wind, which connects young, urban professionals in a to set up and conduct a “hands-on” to mind those trying 18 years as he churches, by very secular city. Sahlin is the conference’s director of drill for a Collection Center led the church in massive fundrais- Greg and Shasta research and special projects. Operation. These operations occur ing so they could have a church of Nelson (right) on Many of the participants were especially impressed upon request by federal, state, or their own. “It’s a dream come true, sharing Christ by Tyner’s presentations and ordered supplies of his other agencies as a result of natural and to God be the glory!” he with secular peo- new book from Pacific Press, Searching for the God or manmade disasters. exclaimed. He leaves both of his ple, and by Grace, to use in small groups and midweek meetings. Chesapeake’s Disaster Response churches, First Filipino and Jersey Monte Sahlin on “Our goals were to help our local church leaders know director Kitty Juneau led the training City Heights English, debt-free. church growth. how to develop a truly spiritual environment in their session with assistance from church They also congregations, and to encourage our churches to enjoyed fellow- move into members. Other participants were The Lake Nelson church’s Jewish Ministry ship and discus- more effective Roy Nelson, Ohio’s Disaster group enjoys reaching out to their Jewish Response coordinator, and Wayne neighbors. sion groups at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Dublin, a ministry in the Hancock, EdD, New Jersey’s direc- northwest suburb of Columbus. community,” tor of Education, Community “I was really blessed and have renewed hope that I reflected Services, and Disaster Response. of the Nations on May 4, a popular want to share,” wrote one participant. “The practical conference The joint exercise was intended Lake Nelson school fundraiser. The testimonies were excellent,” wrote another attendee. president to model actual operations and Lake Nelson church will be hosting “It was a very stimulating weekend for working to save Raj Attiken. issues during a crisis that could be a table for attendees to enjoy tasty souls.” A third person wrote, “It has challenged me to “Clearly, we encountered by both management Israeli food and meet the ministry evaluate myself. How can I be more grace-oriented? made signifi- and volunteers alike. Sample donat- As conference treasurer Jim Greene lights members. For more details, or to How does God want to grow me so I can be more cant progress the mortgage papers of the First Filipino ed goods were brought in, sorted, RSVP for the seder, contact Elayna effective for Him?” on both of church, (left to right) former conference and boxed in accordance with Moffit at (732) 742-7292 or Tyner is currently pastor for Family Ministries at the these.” president LeRoy Finck, outgoing pastor La Sierra University church in Riverside, Calif. He has When all of established rules. Other scenarios Rudney Bartolome, and church treasurer Christine Oliva at (848) 203-5679. written a number of books and helped develop many of the comments were played out as well through Tina Pastores watch with delight. simulated contact with donors, dis- Photo by Merari Doyle the Sabbath School materials published by the on the feedback sheets were reviewed, not a single aster victims, the media, and local individual was entirely negative about the event. About building officials. A previous session 7 percent of the respondents wrote positive feelings as well as pointing out weaknesses. Four out of five (80 was held at the Cherry Hill church in Conference administrators joined April November 2007 where 56 attendees in the celebration. In his message, percent) were entirely positive in their evaluation. Nine 4-6 English Elder’s Retreat were indoctrinated into the ACS/DR president José Cortés stressed the out of 10 selected the most positive response to the Tranquil Valley Retreat program, which also qualified atten- five pillars that must hold the First question, “To what extent did we achieve the goals of Center (TVRC) dees to serve as general volun- Filipino church: it needs to be the this event?” 11-13 Hispanic Women’s Retreat teers.—Joseph Luste, PhD house of prayer, Bible study, evan- “As local leaders follow through on ideas from this Cape May gelism, stewardship, and families. event, we are available to help,” said Sahlin. “We are 18-20 Hispanic Elder’s Retreat During the afternoon program, visi- already working with a number of these churches to TVRC tors from Hungarian, Indonesian, help them study community needs and think about 26 “Go Wide!” Southern NJ Korean, and other neighboring what God wants them to do to have a significant impact Youth Rally, Vineland churches joined them for a con- where they are.” He added, “A strong, Christ-centered cert.—Manny Mullaneda spirituality is essential to the success of these efforts.” New Jersey News is published in the Plans are being developed for next year’s Ohio Visitor by the New Jersey Conference Ministry University. Participants are welcome to send Lake Nelson, New Brunswick 2160 Brunswick Ave., Trenton NJ 08648 Phone: (609) 392-7131 I President, José suggestions for topics or speakers by writing to Sahlin at Host Jewish Outreach Ohio Ministry University attendees enjoyed opportunities to Cortés I Editor, Laffit Cortés [email protected] or calling the conference office. The Lake Nelson and New www.njcsda.org interact and dialogue. Brunswick churches have Jewish

40 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 41 Worthington Member’s Call to Ministry Affirmed APRIL 2008 astor Carmen Seibold’s call to the gospel ministry was recently recog- Pnized, affirmed, and celebrated at a special service performed at the Worthington church. The service of consecration included a homily present- ed by Fritz Guy, PhD, research professor of Philosophical Theology at La Sierra University (Calif.), a long-time friend of Seibold and her pastor hus- God Still Does the Impossible band, Loren. In his presentation, Guy highlighted the important, and often uring 2007 six youth groups from across Pennsylvania did what many skeptics viewed as impossible. The youth, unique, role that women played in the life and ministry of Jesus, as evi- aged 8 to 19, from the Hampden Heights, Spanish II, Maranatha, Lehigh Valley Spanish, Meridian Road, and denced in the Gospel narratives, and in the mission of the first century D Reading Spanish churches held evangelistic series in their communities. They preached sermons accompanied by Christian church. He drew attention to some compelling biblical evidence for PowerPoint presentations. Many wondered if they could take on such a task with so little experience. The truth was the validation of the ministry of women in our time. that they could not do it alone, but accompanied by the power of the Holy Spirit, the impossible took place. These Seibold has been involved in leadership and ministry in the Seventh-day young vessels of the Lord spoke with conviction and power. Claiming the promises of God, they went forward in faith. Adventist Church for many years. She holds a Master of Divinity and is I must admit that when I was their age, I would not have been willing to be involved in some- currently serving as a hospice chaplain. Marwood Hallett, the conference’s Clergy thing like this. It seems to me that this generation is different, more willing and more gifted. God’s The act of consecration, through prayer and the laying on of hands, was Care/Leadership Development director, prophetic word spoken through the prophet Joel appears to be coming true. In Joel 2, God particularly moving as Worthington’s ordained elders surrounded Siebold. The welcomes Carmen Seibold (seated) to the promised that He would “pour out His Spirit on all flesh” before the second coming, which would conference leadership and several members of the congregation participated gospel ministry while Worthington church result in “your sons and daughters” prophesying. I believe this is happening and that Jesus is in various aspects of the program. pastors and elders show their support. coming soon. It is His Spirit that enabled the six youth groups to boldly preach God’s Word. Not only did their messages change the hearts of those listening, but also changed their Kris Eckenroth own hearts; solidifying in their hearts and minds both the truth and reality of God’s Word. Youth/Young Adult Women’s Ministries Leaders Earn Certification At each location, the “impossible” happened and souls were won for God’s kingdom. Ministries Director

arly on a recent Sunday morning, at about 4:30 The Women’s Ministries department at the Adventist Ea.m., a tour bus filled with 40 women left Cleveland. World Headquarters provided certification criteria, cur- Reading Spanish Teens Preach, 16 Peers Respond The destination was the Concourse Hotel and riculum, and materials, and each participant received a Convention Center in Columbus, where an all-day signed certificate upon completion. ix youth from the Reading Spanish church recently affirming, and Women’s Ministries Leadership Certification Training This training event was the second annual collabo- Sheld a weeklong evangelistic series proclaiming even helping in event was taking place. The Cleveland ladies joined ration with Allegheny West Conference (AWC) Women’s “Jesus Loves Jeans” to their neighborhood peers. With the kitchen with other women from all over the state of Ohio, a total of Ministries. Last year AWC sponsored the event and the help of youth leaders Barbara and Paco Vasquez, food and drinks. 120 eager Women’s Ministries leaders. invited the Ohio Conference women to participate. This the Adventist youth spoke to kids from all sorts of back- Lopez said he Leadership courses at the event were intensive, and year the roles were reversed, with Ohio Conference grounds. Some already knew Christ. Some just needed was amazed at offered certification on four levels. Many courses had serving as sponsor. The sponsorship baton will be a little faith and how God worked general application, so that leadership skills can be passed back to AWC for the 2009 training event. hope. Others, who on the hearts of applied beyond ministry to women, such as in the —Lucy Cisneros knew little about attendees as workplace. Topics ranged from “How to Make a Public Jesus, got to see they responded Presentation” to “How to Reclaim Inactive Members.” Him through to the nightly Pastor Juan Lopez prays with the Calendar of Events young preachers appeals given by speakers and attendees. the youth. “They April Erica Montano (15), Antonio were not famous evangelists or giving charismatic 18-20 Hispanic Women’s Retreat Fuenmayor (14), appeals, yet the power of God worked on hearts, and Mohican Resort & Conference Center Jean Carlos (19), many people responded,” he recalled. May Samuel Mendez “After this, we’re 2-4 Pathfinder Fair, Mount Vernon Academy (MVA) Reading Spanish youth member Erica (16), Andrissa not going to be afraid 10 Great Controversy 150th Commemoration, Montano speaks to her peers during the Lorenzo (16), to do anything for Kettering Church “Jesus Loves Jeans” evangelistic series. and Diana God,” exclaimed Henrriquez (15). Fuenmayor (left). The June Sixteen teens came forward for baptism and youth will get their 7 Hispanic Camp Meeting, MVA chose to give their hearts to Christ during the series. chance to do His bid- 8-14 English Camp Meeting, MVA It was also a life-changing experience for the coordi- ding again this sum- nators, giving them the satisfaction of leading others mer in response to an invitation to hold the Mission Ohio is published in the Visitor by the Ohio to Christ and showing them God’s love. Conference I P. O. Box 1230, Mount Vernon, Ohio 43050 Pastor Juan Lopez and his congregation all helped series in New England. Women’s Ministries Leadership Certification Training attendees Phone: (740) 397-4665 I President, Raj Attiken to make “Jesus Loves Jeans” a reality—praying, —Jalanee Torres enjoyed excellent presenters and a rewarding learning experience. Editor, Nancy Barnett I www.ohioadventist.org

42 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 43 Children, Teens, Families Invited to Camp

ack your suitcase and get ready for fun and growing closer to God! With five

Pweeks of summer camp at Laurel Lake Camp in Rossiter, there is something APRIL 2008 for everyone. Children aged 7-10 are invited to Adventure Camp, June 22-29. They can enjoy swimming in the clear-blue waters of the pool, exploring in the Nature Center, riding horses or taking a pony ride, creating a craft masterpiece, jumping NBC Affiliate Features Rocky Mount Lifestyle Center on the Aqua Jump, and much more. Bring the whole crew—mom, dad, children, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and he news health team of an NBC affiliate in Roanoke, Va., recently ran a cousins—to Family Camp, June 29-July 6, and enjoy all that summer camp has to Tspecial report on the Rocky Mount Lifestyle Center and two participants offer. Junior Camp and Tween Camp are both designed for ages 10-12. The weeks of its recent Coronary Health Improvement Project (CHIP) session. The of July 6-13 and July 13-20 will feature archery, scouting out camp on the back of report, presented by WSLS 10 news anchor Karen McNew, aired on the a horse, splashing through the Water Olympics at the pool, exploring the trails on a channel’s Friday evening news. John Kelly (right), health center director, pro- mountain bike, or nailing a cartwheel in gymnastics. vided expert commentary. Teens, aged 13-17, are invited to experience adventure, friendship, and God Soon after the report, the center held a graduation for the class at the (always in all ways), July 20-27. The week will include jet skiing and water skiing, Rocky Mount church. “We had 18 graduates with an average weight loss of horseback riding, crafts, and more. Some special highlights will include a memorable teen event. Whether you’re eight pounds in four weeks, as well as clinically significant drops in most surrounded with new or old friends, a week at camp will be an unforgettable mix of activities, friendships, and risk factors measured,” Kelly noted. “God is good.” Of the 50 attendees, God’s love. For more information or to register, visit www.laurellakecamp.com. Kelly reported that at least 35 were not affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. “They were singing our praises for the wonderful lifestyle changes they made,” recalled Kelly. “We are also having full attendance at the weekly follow-up meetings on Tuesday nights.” Youth Ministries Teaches “Jesus 360°” ore than 380 teenagers obstacle course, sledding, a three- Conference Charts New Course in Ministry Mrecently participated in the on-three basketball tournament, an first spiritual retreat hosted by the improv comedy team, and a show n an interview with conference president Bill Miller, growing churches and to provide tools and resources Pennsylvania Conference Youth by BMA’s Aerial Aires gymnastics Icommunication director Don Wood learns more about for churches that are dying or stagnate. Ministries department in quite a few team. It was a wonderful weekend the Growing Healthy Churches Initiative (GHCI) that is years. The event was held at Laurel that proved to be life changing for changing the landscape of ministry in Potomac: Wood: What is a healthy church? Lake Camp in Rossiter, Pa. many.—Kris Eckenroth Miller: A healthy church is one that is characterized by, Jennifer Miller, a teacher at the Wood: What is the Growing Healthy Churches but not limited to, the following: Lehigh Valley school in Whitehall, Initiative about? 1. Church leadership and parishioners who seek to first brought up the idea to revital- Miller: GHCI came as a result of an assessment about grow spiritually and to be a positive spiritual influence. ize the event last summer. Plans the condition of our congregations. As we looked at 2. A membership that experiences numeric growth and were soon made and a theme cho- to attend, but God thought bigger. April raw data on Potomac, we gleaned that 23 percent of can reproduce (plant a new church). sen: “Jesus 360°.” Through the our churches are healthy or have sustained growth over 3. A membership that is community-focused, More than 90 additional young 4-6 Community-based theme, leaders hoped to challenge five years; 28 percent are dying or have more than a 3 discipleship-trained, and active. people were turned away due to Ministries, Harrisburg teens to involve Jesus in every percent average loss per year over 15 years; 44 per- 4. Members have a clear direction in terms of limited space at the camp. 11-13 Young Adult Camp Meeting area and direction of their lives. cent have plateaued; and 5 percent have not existed mission/vision and values: know where and why they Youth Ministries partnered with Team Retreat, Laurel Once registration was opened, long enough to have solid figures. We intend to assist are going, and have a pretty good idea how they are the conference’s Education depart- Lake Camp groups from all across the state going to get there—faith. ment as well as the chaplain’s 12 Children’s Ministries started registering. The conference 5. Members actively proclaim the three angels’ mes- office of Blue Mountain Academy Workshop, Williamsport was hoping for at least a hundred sages, both locally and globally. (BMA) in Hamburg, Pa., to make 25-26 Blue Mountain Academy the retreat a success. As a result, (BMA) Alumni Weekend Wood: How do those characteristics translate teens from elementary schools, jun- 25-27 Adventurers Retreat ior academies, BMA, and local into action? church youth groups were involved. May Miller: We have prayed, studied, counseled, and read Four BMA teens were selected to 4 Pathfinder Fair, BMA about this. It is the desire of the administration that, in the be the weekend speakers: Justin 4-5 BMA Academy Days next five years, 50 percent of our churches will be active- McAuliffe, Amanda Gomez, David ly participating in discipleship, and that 50 percent of our Krajewski, and Myer Rutlidge. A Pennsylvania Pen is published in the churches will show annual growth of 7 percent. If this team directed by BMA student Visitor by the Pennsylvania Conference starts to happen, it will be evident that God’s people are Emily Ferguson led worship in 720 Museum Road, Reading, PA 19611 Phone: (610) 374-8331, ext. 210 allowing His Spirit to do big stuff through them. It is time Youth from the Kingston church were music. The weekend included President, Ray Hartwell I Editor, Tamyra that we get on with His mission, not ours. blessed by their experiences at the worship, the Compass Café, an Horst I www.paconference.org “Jesus 360°” retreat.

44 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 45 SHENANDOAH VALLEY ACADEMY

Presenters, Sanctuary Replica Sets Up Camp Meeting HAPPENINGS APRIL 2008 www.shenandoahvalleyacademy.org ark Finley (right), vice president of the Adventist Church’s Center for Global Evangelism; MBarry Black, U.S. Senate Chaplain (below); and Dick Duerksen of Maranatha Volunteers International are three of the presenters lined up for Potomac Conference Camp Meeting, June 17-21. The renowned Wedgewood Trio will also make an appearance. New Principal Elected “Work is underway and we’re excited,” states Glen Altermatt, camp meeting coordinator. “This year’s theme is ‘Behold the Lamb,’ and pencer Hannah recently accepted the ues to grow and improve in all areas. SVA’s current conference leaders want the membership to do just that.” He adds Sinvitation of the SVA Board of Trustees principal, Dale Twomley, PhD, was elected to serve as that the goal is to go beyond holding meetings. They want to schedule to be the academy’s new principal, start- the school’s president and business manager. Twomley activities with a solid purpose. ing in the 2008-09 school year. Hannah will work closely with Hannah in the overall direction of To complement powerful preaching, there will be a showcase of the exciting Messiah’s has 20 years of administrative experience SVA and give special focus on the institution’s financial Mansion, a life-size replica of the Mosaic sanctuary that God instructed Moses to build in in Seventh-day Adventist boarding development, including new industries. the wilderness. Everything is to scale and will transport viewers back to Israel’s biblical days. Through guided schools and is currently the principal of Blue Mountain In announcing the administrative changes for next tours, people will be able to see the plan of salvation “come to life” with the visual aid of sanctuary furniture. Academy (BMA) in Hamburg, Pa. Hannah and his wife, school year, Bill Miller, SVA’s chairman of the Board of Friday evening and Sabbath services will be accessible to anyone through satellite telecasts. Make plans to Eva, have a daughter attending college and a grown Trustees, said, “SVA is very fortunate to have Mr. participate in a powerful spiritual experience. For schedules and important information, visit son. They will relocate to New Market, Va., this summer. Hannah join the SVA team. By all measures, BMA has www.pcsda.org/pc_campmeeting/campmeeting.asp. As principal, Hannah will work closely with the been one of the most successful Adventist boarding teachers, staff, and students in all areas of operations academies for years.” He added, “This reassignment of to meet the school’s seven objectives. With his special responsibilities will allow both of these proven leaders skills of developing strong relationships with these to focus on specific areas while working together on NEWS groups, Hannah will provide leadership as SVA contin- our administrative team.” Culpepper Spanish Earns Company Status dedicated to learning and execut- Thirty-four members strong, the Culpepper Spanish ing my job duties to the best of company celebrated with tears of joy as conference pres- my ability,” explains Christ. “I Renovated Boys’ Dorm Unveiled ident Bill Miller want to adopt and promote our shared hearty mission with all of the employees henandoah Valley The SVA Board of congratulations and constituents I contact. SAcademy (SVA) Trustees renamed the for their new Personally, I’ll contribute by mak- male students recently dormitory Phanstiel company status. ing the goals, mission, leaders, became the school’s Hall in recognition of The contagiously and workers of the Potomac Conference a matter of “men of ‘Stiel” when the extraordinary joyous members constant prayer, and by joining the disciple-making they moved into their financial gifts and are already plan- process with my local church,” she adds. new dormitory, support of Howard ning to be organ- Crystal Knittel – The conference’s new Commun- Phanstiel Hall. After and Louise (Hart, ’76) ized into a full ication assistant grew up in Chattanooga, Tenn., and Phanstiel. At a time church before year’s end. This will serve as the launching moved to California 20 years ago. She most recently when the boys’ dorm had become nearly point for their evangelistic thrust in worked for the San Joaquin Community Hospital/ On opening day, dean Gerry Senior Keith Timms finds a resting the area. The congregation’s out- Adventist Health in Bakersfield, Davis distributed homemade unusable, the spot in the dorm’s new parlor. reach is modeled after the dynam- Calif., as the gift shop assistant. cookies. Phanstiels donated $1 ic “house church” movement pio- She and husband, Jeff, recently million to jump-start the renovation last summer. This neered by José Esposito, Potomac moved back East in August 2007, gift was in addition to $800,000 the couple recently Spanish Ministries coordinator. settling in Penn Laird, Va. Jeff is seven months of com- donated to finish Local pastor Jimmy Munoz (right) now the safety manager for Wal- plete remodeling, at a the remodeling of is proud to be part of such a Mart’s Transportation Fleet out of cost of $2.7 million, the the girls’ dormito- healthy, growing church. Mt. Crawford. The Knittels have new boys’ dormitory is ry, Hadley Hall. a dream come true. Everyone at SVA two children: Andrew (20), a sophomore at Southern Sophomore Justin Montanara is very grateful New Team Members Join Conference Staff Adventist University (Tenn.); and Rachel (18), a senior at immediately puts the new desk in Virtually everything is Lynette Christ – The conference’s new Human Shenandoah Valley Academy in New Market, Va. “I hope his reconstructed dorm room to new except for the walls for their support Resources assistant has lived in Maryland from the age to contribute to the conference’s mission by supporting good use. and roof. There are new and gifts. of 5. Before coming to Potomac, she served the God’s work here, and by the way I conduct myself in all built-in closets and Chesapeake Conference in the Trust Services depart- aspects of my life,” Knittel notes. dressers, new desks ment. She and her husband of less than two years, and beds, new bathrooms and laundry facilities, and Happenings is published in the Visitor by Shenandoah Valley David, attended the Westminster (Md.) church. Potomac People is published in the Visitor by the Potomac each floor has its own kitchenette and study room. Academy I 234 West Lee Highway, New Market, VA 22844 Conference I 606 Greenville Ave., Staunton, VA 24401 There is also a new lobby on the third floor, and the Phone: (540) 740-3161 I Principal, Dale Twomley, PhD “As an employee, I want to contribute to the mission Phone: (540) 886-0771 I www.pcsda.org I President, Bill E-mail: [email protected] of growing healthy, disciple-making churches by being Miller I Communication Director, Don Wood entrance lobby had a makeover. www.shenandoahvalleycademy.org

46 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 47 8 0 0 2 L I R P A

We Are Staying Put

he first time I really came in contact with the students of Takoma Academy (TA)—since I never had the privi- Tlege of attending—was around 1980. A recent graduate of Oakwood College (Ala.), I was a new Potomac pas- tor. The school called and asked me to speak for Week of Prayer. I was blessed by the experience, sharing with the students my relationship with Christ. Later, while serving as the Takoma Park (Md.) church youth pastor, I got a call to teach at TA. I readily agreed. After teaching one class in 1985, I was asked to join the staff the following year. Twenty-two years later, I remain at TA because of my love for the stu- dents. The faces of our students have changed a lot during that time. They come from Manassas, Va.; Gaithersburg and Columbia, Md.; Northeast Washington, D.C.; and many locations in between. Public transportation is vital to our constituents. Following lengthy discussions about relocating, the TA Board of Trustees has voted to keep us in Takoma Park. I truly believe this is where God wants us. The area continues to grow and we have a mission here. We still have an influx of students coming from area Adventist ele- mentary schools like Beltsville, G.E. Peters, John Nevins Andrews, and Takoma Academy students, joined by guidance Sligo. Not too far are Olney Prep and Vienna. counselor Kris Flo (back), distribute information We now need to continue focusing on our mission and vision: to about pedestrian safety to area residents. The provide a spiritual atmosphere for growing young adults, sharing the project was a partnership between the school, love of Jesus Christ with each pupil. We must also continue to area police, and other community participants. improve our academic program so that our graduates remain competitive in the community and are pre- pared for higher education. Finally, we must continue being a school that serves our commu- nity, showing—by example—the love of God. Steps are now being taken to point out the needs and costs for improving our facility. Potomac Conference is committed to TA, and we look forward to building partnerships with other communities to assist us with these needs. Continue to pray for our mission, and C. Dunbar Henri that we will remain faithful until the Lord returns. Principal

Alumni Weekend Planned

akoma Academy always looks forward to inviting its The basketball competition between alumni and Talumni “back home.” Alumni Weekend will start on current students will be revitalized during Saturday’s Friday morning, April 25, at 8 a.m. with the annual golf Game Night at 7 p.m.—fun for the whole family. The tournament, started by alumni Dawn (’79) and Bob (’78) weekend will conclude at a banquet on Sunday, 3 p.m. Borchers. This year the tournament will be held at the This year’s honor classes are 1948, ’58, ’68, ’78, ’83, Northwest Park Golf Course in Silver Spring, Md. ’88, and ’98. Friday programs start at 7:30 p.m. with TA’s Performing Arts groups along with guest performer Dick Calendar Stenbakken, EdD, retired director of Chaplaincy Ministries for the April worldwide Adventist Church. Mar. 31-11 Pennies for Patients Campaign Stenbakken will perform again 11 Amazing Race for the Sabbath School program. 16 Open House, 6-8 p.m. Former TA principal Richard 25-27 Alumni Weekend Osborn (left), current president of Pacific Union College, will be the TA Today is published in the Visitor by Takoma Academy 8120 Carroll Ave., Takoma Park, MD 20912 I Phone: divine hour speaker. (301) 434-4700 I Principal, C. Dunbar Henri I www.ta.edu

48 | VISITOR Bulletin Board

COLUMBUS, NEBRASKA, CROSSROADS ADVENTIST Advertising Guidelines and Rates OB/GYN PHYSICIAN NEEDED: SCHOOL The Columbia Union Visitor accepts classified advertising as a service to Solo OB/GYN physician in is a Christian elementary Pre-K its members. Announcements for Adventist church-sponsored events, Columbus, Neb., is seeking a to 8th-grade school in Ellicott legal notices, and obituaries will be printed without charge on a space- committed and compassionate City, Md., providing quality available basis. The Columbia Union Visitor editors reserve the right to partner to join rapidly expanding education. We promote character refuse or discontinue advertisements at any time and may edit classified practice. Please submit CVs and/or building through a biblically cen- ads to comply with editorial policies. The Visitor also does not guarantee questions to [email protected]. tered curriculum, competence the integrity of any product or service advertised. 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School UNIVERSITY OPPORTUNITIES over 200,000 Adventist titles. and church with attendance of seeks two instructors for full- IN NORTH GEORGIA Includes 25 acres, office/ware- 90-100, established in mid- time positions in the School of house buildings, two homes, 1960s, and share a campus near Journalism and Communication. and garden/ orchard. Visit the milewide Rappahannock River. Course subjects may include Gordon Hospital www.star-of-the-north.com or The area is a natural habitat for speech, public relations, media is seeking board certified contact Matt, (303) 810-2145. establishing a back-to-nature production, photography, and physicians with 5+ years living environment. It is a nice new media. Candidates should JEWISH OUTREACH BOOKS: experience practicing place to raise children or retire have demonstrated success in Jewish Heritage (22 Bible studies, with good community values. college teaching, and/or profes- classical IM medicine. 29 testimonies, 25 Jewish topics Employment opportunities range sional work experience, with a such as the Ultimate Passover, over a 50-mile radius. Real estate strong commitment to Seventh- prayer shawls, mezuzahs, etc., all New Hospitalist program and personal property taxes tend day Adventist education. A in one 368-page book), Reaching starting summer 2008: to be less than the median of master's degree in the field is and Winning Your Jewish Friends, Virginia and much lower than required, and a doctorate is 65-bed facility, 8 ICU beds Steps to Shalom (Steps to Christ the D.C. area, Fredericksburg, preferred. Send CV to Dr. Greg for Jewish people). (800) 328-0525; 79 physicians on active staff, Richmond, or Virginia Beach. Rumsey, [email protected], www.Adventsource.org. avg census 20-22 patients. Community resources include School of Journalism and a hospital staffed by local and Communication, P.O. Box 370, regional specialists. Many Collegedale, TN 37315. Employment with FREE MISSION independent and assisted living starting salary: 205K. AVIATION STORIES!! facilities and nursing homes exist. ADVENTIST RISK Bonuses, benefits, etc. (Adventist administrator at the MANAGEMENT, INC., Contact: one in town). Exciting opportuni- a General Conference institution, Adventist World Aviation ties to participate in established Is looking for an Administrative Outstanding Adventist for a free community service outreach, Assistant to the President. elementary and high school quarterly newsletter. Prison and Health Ministries, Bachelor degree in Office within community. healthfood store, and Florida Management preferred. At Southern Adventist University Write: citrus program. A local AM radio least five years of successful station features Life Talk Network. administrative assistant experience within 45 minutes. Adventist World Aviation Purchase or rental housing and required. Good working knowledge Box 251 acreage for building abounds. of Microsoft Word and CPS Berrien Springs, MI 49103 To learn more contact: Call (804) 443-4731 or write: certificate preferred. Please Tappahannock Adventist Church, contact: Dorothy Redmon, HR Email: P.O. Box 1105, Tappahannock, Director, dredmon@adventistrisk. [email protected] [email protected] VA 22560, or email org, 12501 Old Columbia Pike, (800) 264-8642 [email protected]. Come visit Silver Spring, MD 20904; Seventh- Register online: www.gordonhospital.com us and see our area. day Adventist employer. www.flyawa.org

APRIL 2008 | 51 Bulletin Board Bulletin Board

SPEAK FOR SUCCESS. 50 PRISTINE ACRES WWW.CHRISTIANHOME MARYLAND ADVENTIST RVS! For the savvy professional, nestled inside the Cherokee FINDERS.COM DENTIST: Successful Computer Dating RVs! Adventist-owned and Apr 11 Apr 18 Apr 25 May 2 May 9 talk is not cheap. AccentMarq National Forest in beautiful eastern (formerly Adventist-Realtor.com) David Lee, DDS, FAGD, has Exclusively for Adventists -operated RV dealership has been Communication offers training Tennessee. Large creek, cleared is a nationwide real estate practices located in Silver Spring Since 1974 helping Adventists for over 30 years. in speech improvement, accent land, and mixed forest. Fronts on referral service, assisting church and Ellicott City, Md. He is exten- Huge inventory. Courtesy airport Baltimore 7:41 7:48 7:54 8:01 8:08 modification, and grammar for good road with utilities on site. 50 members and employees in the sively trained in implant, cosmetic, ADVENTIST CONTACT pickup and on-site hookups. the workplace. Contact miles to Collegedale. 60 miles to process of buying or sellinghomes. TMD/TMJ, sedation, and laser Satisfied Adventist customer list Cincinnati 8:12 8:19 8:26 8:33 8:39 P.O. Box 5419 Dr. Marquita Rand at (410) 730- Great Smoky Mountains National We have a network of nearly 300 dentistry. Dr. Lee is an associate available. Call toll-free: (888) 1731. Late afternoon and early Park. Near scenic rivers, lakes, Seventh-day Adventist realtors— fellow with the American Takoma Park, MD 20913 933-9300. Lee's RV City, Cleveland 8:03 8:11 8:18 8:26 8:33 evening hours in the Baltimore/ trails. Ideal retreat, country living, ready to serve you. Call Linda Academy of Implant Dentistry, (301) 589-4440 Oklahoma City. Visit our website Columbia area; small group retirement. (301) 854-0849 or Dayen at (888) 582-2888, or go to as well as many other certifica- at www.leesrv.com or email: Columbus 8:07 8:14 8:21 8:28 8:35 sessions available. Mention this [email protected]. www.ChristianHomeFinders.com. tions. For appointments call: [email protected]. WWW.CHRISTIANSINGLES ad for a 5% discount on select More realtors are welcome! (410) 461-6655 in Ellicott City or OZARK LIVING PLUS INCOME DATING.COM Jersey City 7:32 7:39 7:47 7:54 8:01 services through June 30. (301) 649-5001 for Silver Spring. ANNOUNCEMENTS NEAR ADVENTIST ACADEMY: FOR SALE: BEAUTIFUL Free 14-day trial! Join thousands Mention this ad and receive EVANGELISM Beautiful bed and breakfast—six RANCH HOME and thousands of active Adventist Norfolk 7:37 7:43 7:49 7:55 8:01 10% discount on all services "YE OLDE" CEDAR LAKE THROUGH TECHNOLOGY: guest rooms—each with private with 3,275 sq. ft. on wooded singles online. Free chat, search, (excluding third-party payers). ACADEMY REUNION Spread the message of God's bath and other amenities. acre two miles from Southern detailed profiles, and match Parkersburg 8:00 8:07 8:14 8:21 8:28 Our office is a participating will take place June 12-15 for love via the World Wide Web. Separate owner living quarters. Adventist University. Well- notifications! Date chat, two-way provider with Adventist Risk alumni and schoolmates of Join churches from around the Also health- food store, bakery, maintained with mature compatibility match, 10 photos, Philadelphia 7:36 7:43 7:50 7:57 8:04 Management. We welcome 1958 and earlier, at Great Lakes globe. Experience PondTV grocery, convenience store, gas landscaping. Great room with and confidential online mail. new patients. Adventist Academy (GLAA), Media, video-on-demand, and station. Includes 3-BR home, plus cathedral ceiling and fireplace, Witnessing opportunities to the formerly CLA. Honor classes: Pittsburgh 7:55 8:03 8:10 8:17 8:24 podcasting. Try our video/audio two rentals. Tall Star Realty, Inc., open kitchen, dining room, three MOVING? world through articles, friendships, 1928,1938,1948, 1958. For streaming services for free. Gentry, Ark., (479) 736-4686. bedrooms, plus library and sun- Special Adventist rates and chat, and forums. Since 1993. further information, contact Reading 7:39 7:46 7:53 8:01 8:08 30-day free trial. For more room—3.5 baths. Oversized guarantees! Air Van Adventist owners. Thousands of SABBATICAL-SUITES. the GLAA Alumni Office at information, contact garage with workshop. Adjoining NorthAmerican is a nationwide successful matches. Top ranked. Completely furnished turn-key (989) 427-5181 or visit Richmond 7:42 7:48 7:55 8:01 8:07 [email protected] or visit rental-ready efficiency apartment mover. Whether you're moving apartment in quiet New England www.GLAA.net. www.churchpond.com/service. with private entrance and garage. a few items or a truckload, don't home on peaceful farm in Maine. TRAVEL/VACATION Roanoke 7:52 7:58 8:04 8:11 8:17 Pool, spa, shed. $297,500. (423) move before calling Air Van. It ASAM CHESAPEAKE PLANNING AN EVANGELISTIC Short walk to the sea. Peaceful SINGLES CAMPOUT 396-2717. See http://members. will assure peace of mind and a CAPE COD VACATION: SERIES OR HEALTH SEMINAR? solitude for time to commune with will be held on May 2-4 at Toledo 8:11 8:19 8:26 8:34 8:41 cox.net/danakers1. cost-effective move. Please call An Adventist family will rent Have questions? Need afford- God, nature, and your own soul. Big Meadow Campground in (800) 525-1177 to speak with weekly, biweekly, etc., their able, professionally prepared Available for a few days to a few MAKING LIFESTYLE PLANS? Shenandoah National Park. All Trenton 7:34 7:41 7:49 7:56 8:03 a representative. lovely, fairly new, spacious, and handbills, brochures, signs, months. Call (207) 729-3115 for Talk to God who led us to this are welcome. Tent or hotel semi-contemporary vacation banners, and mailing services? brochure and rates. West Virginia farm. Now Adventist ELTERNHAUS: accommodations available; Wash., D.C. 7:42 7:49 7:55 8:02 8:09 Call customer service toll-free church and several Adventist Adventist care for Adventist home in beautiful Cape Cod, LAND FOR SALE NEAR meals provided. For more at (800) 274-0016 or visit families are here. Aging causes seniors. Our rolling hills are Mass. 3BR, 1.5BA, Jacuzzi tub, SUMMERSVILLE LAKE AND information and fees, contact www.handbills.org. You deserve us to sell approximately 120 acres, greening with spring rains. Time washer/dryer, cable TV, dish- SUMMERSVILLE, W.VA.— Carolyn Huffstickler (540) 373- the best with confidence and farm buildings, stream, large his- to continue the best of Christian washer, microwave, and a great 46 acres wooded and open— 4642 or email connerbaretta@ peace of mind. Your friends at toric (1884) house, free gas, good care to our residents: country room with a cathedral beam with nice views. Near an Adventist hotmail.com. Deadline: April 21; Hamblin's HOPE deliver on time! well, 5/6BR, and 2BA. Just off U.S. living, personal care, help with ceiling and skylights, an outdoor church school and Adventist www.asamchesapeake.com. SUNSET CALENDAR Route 50 (4-lane highway). Active medications, transport to the shower, a huge deck, and hospital. Contact Gary Mattingly REAL ESTATE church, Pathfinders, hopeful to best of physicians, supervision fenced-in backyard with a small at (304) 438-6084 or reopen school; two physicians and assessment by our RNs, swing set and a sandbox, on (304) 438-8253. $95,000. Chesapeake (seeking another for nearby clinics). tasty vegetarian food, and good one-half acre—just 900 ft. Maryland Men of Faith from a great beach. Call Adventist Single Adult Quiet, country living in dark coun- fellowship. Call Diane at Ministries Retreat ties. God needs you! Asking (410) 707-7071. (301) 596-9311. Presented by PHYLLIS NEWMAN April 25-27 THE CARRENO $395,000 or best offer. Phone: VACATION ON Personal Ministries Realtor, GRI, CRS (304) 659-2212 or (352) 728-5643. ARE YOU MOVING SOON? CONNECTION KAUAI, HAWAII— Mt. Aetna Camp Atholton and Baltimore First Before you rent a U-Haul and Real Estate Team SOUTHERN COUNTRY LIVING "The Garden Island.” Kahili Hagerstown, Md. Seventh-day Adventist (800) 586 4669 do it yourself, check our price at Johnston Estates—92 acres to Mountain Park is a scenic churches and save yourself the hassle. [email protected] develop—130-plus lots and homes mountain getaway located at GUEST SPEAKERS: Your Best Resource for Plan ahead now and reserve a for sale. Lots priced at $45,000+, the base of Kahili Ridge. Just Upcoming Events: Real Estate Information time slot. Fast, direct, and www.MDsmartbuy.com homes at $175,000+. Spec. and minutes from popular Kauai Gaspar and May-Ellen Colón economical. Contact Gary Erhard, owner homes available. All utilities, attractions. The park has an Frank Bondurant BUYING? Erhard Furniture, 6681 U.S. 31, Theme: www.homesdatabase.com/ low taxes, flexible financing. Four assortment of 1-4 room cabins May 20 at 7 p.m. Berrien Springs, MI; phone: “Sabbath: It’s all About Him” realestate miles from Southern Adventist with sleeping for 2-6 persons. Beltsville Church Call us for a free copy of (269) 471-7366 evenings from University. Adventist churches, See pictures and rates at Your First Home 8-11 p.m., EST. Website allows you to search schools, and ABC available. 15 www.kahilipark.org. Andrea D. Hicks Clifford Goldstein MD MLS database by price, minutes to mall and stores. SINGLE AND OVER 40? Reservations: (808) 742-9921. SELLING? Workshops: July 29 at 7 p.m. zip code, and have new list- Moderate climate, great people, The only interracial group FLORIDA LIVING: Baltimore First Church ings emailed to you. and great place to live. Call David exclusively for all singles over 40. WHERE THE LIVING IS EASY! “Why Do Some Romantic Call us or a free copy of Job, (770) 601-6356 or Herman Stay home and meet new friends Relationships Fail?” Preparingf Your Home to Sell Senior community near Disney/ Third Annual Conference Serving Maryland Harp, (423) 315-2661. No in the United States, with a pen beach. Ground level apts./rooms “Awakening Your Heart After October 4 - All day Saturday calls. pal monthly newsletter of mem- on 13.5 acres. Transportation/ INVESTING? Love Dies” Mt. Aetna Camp and Ask about our buy/sell bers and album. For information, housekeeping available. Church/ “Tools for a Successful Single Retreat Center program: Special pricing send a large, self-addressed, pool/shopping/activities; 3ABN, Call us for a free copy of SERVICES Adult Ministry” Hagerstown, Md. when you both buy and sell stamped envelope to ASO40 or Hope TV. Vacationers: Furnished The Millionaire from Phyllis. MARYLAND ADVENTIST Ebony Choice ASO40, 2747 rentals—$45, $75/per night; www.mmof.org Real Estate Investor PODIATRIST: Nonpareil, Sutherlin, OR 97479. minimum 3 nights. 2BR/2BA Prices: Weekend (meals and lodging): Recipient of Dr. Scott Nutter—highly trained, MOVE WITH AN AWARD- for $300 or $400/per week. For more information: QUESTIONS? experienced, and board certified— (800) 729-8017; local (407) Cabins $85; Sabbath (No Re/max Hall of Fame and WINNING AGENCY. overnight stay) $40 Re/max Platinum Sales awards is available in several locations to Apex Moving & Storage partners 862-2646, ext. 24. Website: Email Call us for free answers! help your foot/ankle problems, with the General Conference www.floridalivingretirement.com; Registration Deadline: April 17 [email protected] including arthritis, heel pain, spurs, email: [email protected]. Re/max Realty Centre, Inc. to provide quality moves at a Mel & Lisa Carreno diabetes, callouses, ingrown nails, For more information (301) 774-5900 discounted rate. Call us for your and a brochure: Phone Keller Williams Realty sprains, fractures, warts, bunions, relocation needs. Adventist (240) 485-0232 etc. Surgery, if it is needed, at visit (410) 465-6864 Selling Maryland homes beliefs uncompromised. Call www.CarrenoTeam.com Adventist hospitals. Laurel-(301) www.asamchesapeake.com Baltimore First Church since 1987. Marcy Danté at (800) 766-1902 317-6800; Greenbelt-(301) 345- for a free estimate. Visit us at or call (410) 992-9731. 5200; or Columbia-(410) 531-6350. www.apexmoving.com/adventist.

52 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 53 Bulletin Board Last Words SAM BELONY

LA SIERRA ACADEMY (Fla.) church for eight years and Celeste Ryan Blyden I Editor 2008 ALUMNI WEEKEND— served as an assistant treasurer LaVerne Henderson I Associate Editor for News & Features People First When: April 26-27. Where: at Shenandoah Valley Academy Beth Michaels I Associate Editor for Newsletters La Sierra Academy campus. from 1964-1966, and as boy’s Kelly Butler Coe I Art Director & Designer Steve Blue and Jackson dean from 1966-1968; Bible Sandra Jones I Copy Editor & Bulletin Board Editor Gingles, speakers; honor class teacher/associate pastor at reunions; golf tournament on Jefferson Academy, 1968-1970; here were sermons to preach, disci- Sunday. Call (951) 351-1445, principal at Fort Worth Junior PUBLISHING BOARD: Dave Weigley (chair), Celeste Ryan ples to teach, banquets to attend. ext. 210, for details, or visit Academy, 1970-1973; principal Blyden (secretary), Raj Attiken, Seth Bardu, Larry Boggess, T www.lsak12.com. at Indianapolis Junior Academy, Charles Cheatham, José Cortés, J. Neville Harcombe, Avid truth-seekers had traveled from 1973-1976; principal at Highland Ray Hartwell, James L. Lewis, Bill Miller, Rob Vandeman BROADVIEW ACADEMY View Academy, 1976-1979; Bible, afar to hear the Master speak and fellow- ALUMNI WEEKEND— MISSION STATEMENT history, and business teacher at the first weekend in May. All The Visitor provides news and information, resources for effective ship with Him. But as soon as He heard of Takoma Academy, 1979-1987, alumni are encouraged to attend. ministry, and insight on issues with a spiritual focus to help people and principal,1987-1992; chaplain Simon’s mother-in-law’s sickness, Jesus Mark your calendars. Call your celebrate God's transforming grace in preparation for His return. at Washington Adventist Hospital, classmates and start planning COLUMBIA UNION CONFERENCE OF SEVENTH-DAY turned His back on all and went to her bed- 1992-1995; and Bible teacher at for this weekend now. Honor ADVENTISTS I 5427 Twin Knolls Road, Columbia, MD 21045 Greater Miami Academy, 1996- classes: 1948, 1958, 1968, (888) 4-VISITOR I http://www.columbiaunion.org side (see Mark 1:29–31). Lunch could wait. 1997. He is survived by his wife 1978, 1983, 1988, and 1998. of 45 years, Ruth Bristow, of Free to Columbia Union members. All others—$15 per year. Teaching could wait. Fellowship could wait. She came first! Friday night Vespers, Sabbath Inverness, Fla.; daughters Teresa School and church. All ideas and COLUMBIA UNION CONFERENCE Christ’s method of evangelism was simple: People’s needs took Kelchner of Mt. Airy, Md., and information welcome. For com- Dave Weigley President Carol Hipps of Burtonsville, Md.; precedence. Before denouncing sin or preaching the kingdom of munication purposes, we need J. Neville Harcombe Executive Secretary four grandchildren; his mother, Seth Bardu Treasurer everyone's email address. Send heaven, He first healed their infirmities, fed their hungry, and raised Leone Bristow of Calhoun, Ga.; Frank Bondurant Vice President/Ministry Development it to: scross@broadviewacade- his brother, Raymond Bristow of Hamlet Canosa Vice President/Education my.org or call Shona Cross at their dead. And the greater their need, the more tender His touch. Salem, Va.; and a sister, Mary Walter Carson Vice President/General Counsel/PARL (630) 677-4387. More informa- Edward Motschiedler Special Asst. to the President Ellen Van Horn of Calhoun, Ga. Even with our modern scientific enlightenment, there is great tion to come. Don't miss it! Celeste Ryan Blyden Asst. to the President/Communication Broadview Academy Alumni CALES, Emma Mae Gordon, Rubén Ramos Asst. to the President/Multilingual Min. evidence that people still have needs: Association is alive and well. Our born September 17, 1922; died Harold Greene Information Technology I Curtis Boore Plant Services school still binds us together! December 8, 2007. She was a An excess of 8 million people die annually as a result of poverty. Peggy Lee Revolving Fund I member of the Christiansburg Carol Wright Undertreasurer (Va.) church. At 85 years old 33.2 million people are currently living with HIV, and OBITUARIES 1 she was the last of the charter CONFERENCES 2.5 million of them are children under 15 . BRISTOW, Harvey E., Jr., members of the Radford church ALLEGHENY EAST: Charles L. Cheatham, President; Robert Booker, I born June 4, 1941, in in Radford, Va. Visitor Correspondent; P.O. Box 266, Pine Forge, PA 19548. Roughly one-sixth of the world’s population lives on less Portsmouth, Va.; died Dec. 30, Tel. (610) 326-4610 I www.myalleghenyeast.com 2007, in Crystal River, Fla. He ALLEGHENY WEST: James L. Lewis, President; Bryant Taylor, than $1 per day. was a member of the Inverness Visitor Correspondent; 1339 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43205. Tel. (614) 252-5271 I www.awconf.org This is disheartening, but until the Lord appears in the clouds CHESAPEAKE: Rob Vandeman, President; (vacant), Visitor and forever declares, “It is finished!” people will always have Are you a Correspondent; 6600 Martin Rd., Columbia, MD 21044. Tel. (410) 995-1910 needs. Diseases will continue to roam rampant. Children will die professional MOUNTAIN VIEW: Larry Boggess, President; Brian Jones, Visitor of hunger, AIDS, and cancer the world over. People in poverty- student, Correspondent; 1400 Liberty St., Parkersburg, WV 26101. freelancer, Tel. (304) 422-4581 I www.mtviewconf.org infested nations will continue to be malnourished. People who NEW JERSEY: José Cortés, President; Laffit Cortés, or communicator Visitor Correspondent; 2160 Brunswick Ave., Trenton, NJ 08648. seemingly have everything will suffer from depression and hope- working in the Tel. (609) 392-7131 I www.njcsda.org lessness. Day by day we can expect to see sin’s prevailing dark- OHIO: Raj Attiken, President; Nancy Barnett, Visitor communication field? Correspondent; P.O. Box 1230, Mount Vernon, OH 43050. ness deepening its grip on our communities. The question is, as a Tel. (740) 397-4665 I www.ohioadventist.org I print church, what do we do about it? What can we do? PENNSYLVANIA: Ray Hartwell, President; Tamyra Horst, Visitor I broadcast Correspondent; 720 Museum Rd., Reading, PA 19611. I technology Tel. (610) 374-8331 I www.paconference.org Follow the Leader I public relations POTOMAC: Bill Miller, President; Don Wood, Visitor I education Correspondent; 606 Greenville Avenue, Staunton, VA 24401. Christ left us countless examples. From changing water to wine I radio Tel. (540) 886-0771 I www.pcsda.org in Cana, to inviting the thief on the cross to His Father’s kingdom, COLLEGES JOIN THE COLUMBIA UNION COLLEGE: Weymouth Spence, President; the focal point of His ministry had been meeting the needs of Society of Scott Steward, Visitor Correspondent; 7600 Flower Ave., communities. As His followers we are also called to be a beacon of Takoma Park, MD 20912. Tel. (301) 891-4000 I www.cuc.edu Adventist KETTERING COLLEGE OF MEDICAL ARTS: Charles Scriven, hope, to develop a connection with our communities, to mingle President; Mindy Claggett, Visitor Correspondent; 3737 Southern Communicators Blvd., Kettering, OH 45429. Tel. (937) 395-8601 I www.kcma.edu with them (without compromising our doctrine), to learn what

HEALTHCARE SYSTEMS their needs are, and then to meet them. www.adventistcommunicator.org ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE: William G. “Bill” Robertson, President So this year, before we go out and invite them to our & CEO; Ray Tetz, Visitor Correspondent; 1801 Research Blvd., Suite 400, Rockville, MD 20850. Tel. (301) 315-3030 Revelation seminars, our tent efforts, or our Bible studies, let’s To get information and www.adventisthealthcare.com put people—and their needs—first. electronic newsletters, email: KETTERING ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE: Frank Perez, President [email protected] & CEO; Kathryn Stiles, Visitor Correspondent; 3965 Southern Blvd., Kettering, OH 45429. Tel. (937) 395-8167 Sam Belony, a member of Newark’s Trinity Temple Seventh-day www.kmcnetwork.org Adventist Church, writes from Randolph, N.J. NEXT CONVENTION: Published by the Columbia Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Printed at the Review & Herald Publishing Association.

® ® Denver Adventist and Seventh-day Adventist are the registered trade- ______1 October 9-12, 2008 marks of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists ®. 2007 AIDS Epidemic Update from the United Nations HIV/AIDS Program (www.unaids.org) Volume 113 I Issue 4

54 | VISITOR APRIL 2008 | 55