Turning Contacts Into Converts

JUNE 2018

LITERATURE EVANGELISM: TURNING CONTACTS INTO CONVERTS

FLORIDA HOSPITAL GREENEVILLE EXPANDS PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS BRING MAKING PATIENTS WHOLE WAFFLE HOUSE HERO PATIENTS WITH AUTISM LOVE TO MOLDOVA AND SPECIAL NEEDS vantagepoint

It’s All About People

For 2,000 years, men and women who have accepted Jesus as their Savior have been commissioned to go and preach the Gospel. The Christian movement has struggled over the millennia, sometimes doing very well and with marvelous breakthroughs. Other times, not as well. Over the past few decades, evangelism has at times been mischaracterized as religious salesmanship, accompanied by goals and pressure to produce. But, this is an unfortunate representation. Preaching the Gospel to lost people is the consummate work of people who have accepted the Gospel summons and love Jesus. It is the most wonderful privilege given to His children — leading someone to a life-changing, transformational decision. In what way may anyone invest his or her life to find a deeper sense of meaning and privilege? Mike Cauley, D.Min. Former President of the Having had the blessing to serve the Church vocationally for 40 years, I Florida Conference am glad that I accepted God’s providential call to serve God and His Church.

Guest Editorial I don’t know how many more years I will serve vocationally, but, obviously, I have fewer years ahead of me than I had in 1978, when I began as a pastor of a three-church district. But, even after formal ministry is over, I will be about evangelism, because evangelism is about loving Jesus, loving His Church (which He regards as His own body), and loving people. It’s simply about people — because Jesus is crazy about people. So the next time you hear a pastor talking about evangelism, remember that it’s just about people — loving people who are far from Him. Loving people in the Church who may grow to maturity in order to share Jesus more effectively. And loving those who lead us to share the Good News — because you love Jesus and you love people.

2 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | June 2018 contents features Volume 112, No. 6, June 2018 The Southern Tidings is the official publication of june 2018 the Southern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

SOUTHERN UNION CONFERENCE 302 Research Drive 4 Norcross, Georgia 30092 Mail Address P.O. Box 923868 literature Evangelism: turning Norcross, Georgia 30010-3868 Telephone (770) 408-1800 contacts into converts www.southernunion.com

Editor R. Steven Norman III Managing Editor Irisene Douce 8 Circulation Yaime Cordova making patients whole Advertising Nathan Zinner Layout Licci Zemleduch Production College Press 9 waffle house hero Contributing Editors

Adventist Health System Meghan Brescher Halley 10 Adventist University of Health Sciences florida hospital expands Lisa Marie Esser program for patients with autism Carolina Rebecca Carpenter and special needs Florida Gladys Neigel Georgia-Cumberland Tamara Wolcott Fisher Gulf States Shane Hochstetler 11 Hispanic Mariel Lombardi Kentucky-Tennessee Greeneville Students Bring LOVE Denise Pope TO MOLDOVa Oakwood University Kenn Dixon South Atlantic 4 Carl McRoy 12 South Central GROWING YOUNG Roger R. Wade Southeastern Christopher Thompson, D.Min. Southern Adventist University 14 Janell Hullquist vegetarian test fest

Conference/ Institution Directory 15 CAROLINA (704) 596-3200 Southeastern Invests ONE MILLION P.O. Box 44270, Charlotte, NC 28215 FLORIDA (407) 644-5000 PLUS IN SCHOOLS 9 351 S. State Road 434, Altamonte Springs, FL 8 32714-3824 GEORGIA-CUMBERLAND (706) 629-7951 P.O. Box 12000, Calhoun, GA 30703-7001 GULF STATES (334) 272-7493 16 P.O. Box 240249, Montgomery, AL 36117 KENTUCKY-TENNESSEE (615) 859-1391 TRAINING TO HANDLE A CRISIs P.O. Box 1088, Goodlettsville, TN 37070-1088 SOUTH ATLANTIC (404) 792-0535 P.O. Box 1688, Decatur, GA 30031-1688 SOUTH CENTRAL (615) 226-6500 P.O. Box 24936, Nashville, TN 37202 SOUTHEASTERN (352) 735-3142 news P.O. Box 1016, Mt. Dora, FL 32756-0056 ADVENTIST HEALTH SYSTEM 17 Southern adventist university (407) 357-2083 900 Hope Way, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 18 adventist health system ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH 20 Carolina SCIENCES (800) 500-7747 671 Winyah Drive, Orlando, FL 32803 23 adventist university of health OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY (256) 726-7000 sciences 7000 Adventist Blvd., Huntsville, AL 35896 24 Florida SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY 10 (800) SOUTHERN 26 Georgia-Cumberland P.O. Box 370, Collegedale, TN 37315-0370 28 Gulf States 31 lifetalk radio 32 Kentucky-Tennessee SOUTHERN TIDINGS | Volume 112 Robert and Zulay Waggon have led Number 6 | June 2018 34 South atlantic more than 200 person to Christ as a Published monthly by the Southern Union. 36 south central Free to all members. result of knocking on doors in the POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to 38 southeastern Gulf States Conference. Southern Tidings 40 Oakwood University P.O. Box 923868 Photo By: R. Steven Norman III Norcross, GA 30010-3868 Email: [email protected] 41 obituaries 44 Classified Advertising 43 Announcements 47 Events Calendar June 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 3 coverfeature

Literature Evangelism: Turning Contacts into Converts

by Alva James-Johnson

hen Zulay Waggon de- at the Southern Union Conference, cided to join her hus- says the Waggons’ story is reminiscent “When God calls band, Roberto Waggon, of the days when many more literature you, He never calls Was a full-time literature evangelists around the country played evangelist, her former employer wor- a key role in winning others for the ried about her financial future. Kingdom. you to failure; But, Zulay did not falter in her desire “Years ago, that was a pretty com- to do canvassing work. She accepted mon thing in conferences around He calls you to the call to ministry, knowing that God North America,” he said. “Literature would somehow provide. evangelists would contact people, success.” Over the next 14 years, she would sign them up for Bible studies, and we —Roberto Waggon not be disappointed. During that pe- would have hundreds and hundreds of riod, the Waggons — now literature baptisms on a yearly basis.” evangelists in the Gulf States Confer- Keith Reid, associate publishing ence — led 291 people to Christ, aver - director at the Southern Union, who aging about 20 baptisms a year. They has sold books for more than 35 years, also sold enough books to make a de- believes it is easier than ever to sell cent living. Adventist books for several reasons: “When God calls you, He never world conditions are causing people calls you to failure; He calls you to to search for answers as never before; success,” said Roberto, paraphrasing literature evangelists (LEs) have more a well-known quote from Ellen G. resources from attractive books, to White. “We only have to consecrate DVDs, CDs, websites, and QR codes; ourselves, put ourselves in the Lord’s GPS (Global Positioning System) tech- hand, and the Lord will provide for our nology has helped the LEs to spend less needs because He is the provider. We time looking for addresses, and more are just co-workers with Him,” Col- time in front of customers; the Home porteur Ministry, pages 17, 18. Health Education Service (HHES) has William Smith, publishing director an excellent support staff, and a lead

4 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | June 2018 “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scrip- tures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures,” 1 Corinthians Photo By: R. Steven Norman III 15:3-4, NIV.

June 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 5 coverfeature

card system that is second to none; and canvassing in 1980 with the Mountain the Massachusetts Conference. He people have become more aware of the View Conference in West Virginia. moved to the United States and met impact that lifestyle plays in their over- Jabe launched his ministry seven years Zulay in Miami. The couple married all health. Additionally, the innovative later in the Nevada-Utah Conference. in in 2003 in North Carolina, where health books are some of the best on Pattie was a student at Southern Mis- Zulay worked for a physician before the market. This gives the LEs an en- sionary College, and Jabe managed a joining her husband as a full-time tering wedge to the homes and hearts hotel in California. They married in literature evangelist. Their first year of of the people they are trying to reach. 1990 and combined their ministries in ministry resulted in 16 baptisms. The Waggons, and others like them, 2007. Since then, they have traveled In addition to distributing lead cards are proving that literature evangelism more than 500,000 miles, and had more at area businesses, the Waggons said is still a viable option for those will- than 500,000 contracts processed. they also hand them out at Adventist ing to put in the time and effort. All The couple distributes Amaz- churches in the area, and they reach it takes is personal contact and a total ing Facts information cards to all of out to visitors. Sometimes they get as reliance on the Holy Spirit. their contacts. When the cards are many as 20 leads a week, and they go “For those that work it, it really mailed in, the Morrises recruit lo- to the homes to provide information. works,” said Smith. “The Word is pow- cal church members to visit the in- The Waggons said God has blessed erful and God is already preparing terested parties. Their efforts have their efforts tremendously, and they hearts. We just have to go out and reap yielded 24 baptisms so far in their have been able to meet financial goals the harvest.” ministry. set by the conference. But, they are Literature evangelism is a book-sell- “We love it when we see a contact most proud of their success turning ing ministry that also aims to win or a costumer with a spiritual interest,” contacts into converts by addressing converts. Colporteurs working in the Jabe said. “We connect them with Ad- people’s needs, both physically and field advertise at key locations in the ventists, usually at our home church, spiritually. communities they serve. They leave who visit them. We also continue to “I tell them, ‘I didn’t just come to sample books at local businesses, such work with the families and individu- sell you books,’” Roberto said. “If we as dental and medical offices. People als.” find somebody sick, sometimes we who patronize the businesses fill out Zulay Waggon is a native of Vene- ourselves go and prepare the natu- lead cards and mail them to the Home zuela. Roberto Waggon comes from ral remedy for them. If it’s a spiritual Health Education Service office in De- Nicaragua. need, I tell the truth with boldness and catur, Georgia, which then mails them Roberto launched his colporteur min- not going around the bush. I tell them to the local conferences. The confer- istry in 1979, after accepting the Adven- plain what Jesus has done for them and ences send the lead cards to the liter- tist message in Nicaragua. He relocated about their salvation. Their salvation is ature evangelists who then visit the to Guatemala following the start of the everything.” homes. Nicaraguan revolution. There, he When contacts request Bible study, Jabe and Pattie Morris, literature worked as a literature evangelist for 10 the Waggons refer them to a local pas- evangelists in the Carolina Confer- years, leading 26 people to baptism in tor, elder, or Bible worker. However, ence, are another couple working pas- one year. they continue to visit their homes. In sionately in the field. Pattie started In 1992 Roberto accepted a call from Montgomery, there are currently six an III an III rm rm o o N N Photo By: R. Steven R. Steven By: Photo R. Steven By: Photo Pattie and Jabe Morris Jabe Morris (left), Willis Gatten, B.J. Gatten, and Pattie Morris

6 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | June 2018 coverfeature

Five Steps to Successful Literature Evangelism

1. Trust in the Lord Remember that it is God who has called you to ministry, and He will equip you for success. Dedicate yourself to His service, and He will guide your

man III path. Nor

n 2. Advertise

eve Distribute sample books widely in the community. In addition to local businesses, place By: R. St By:

o them in church buildings and t

o at nonprofit organizations. Ph

Romeo Velazquez (front row, left), Oscar Salas, and Elvira Vazquez, Robert 3. Meet People’s Needs Waggon (back row, left), Evelyn Lopez, and Zulay Waggon Focus more on people’s needs than book sales. God will bless young people in Bible study as a result to make a presentation. your efforts both evangelisti- of their ministry. The couple also has helped bring cally and financially. Sometimes they walk into homes former Adventists back into the fold. where people have already been exposed In 2015 they visited one former mem- 4. Build Relationships to the Adventist message through tele- ber in Decatur, Alabama, who had Work with local Adventist pas- vision evangelists. One Baptist wom- been attending a Pentecostal church. tors and church members in an said she had been watching Doug They asked the man why he had left ministry. Step outside of your comfort zone and mingle with Batchelor on television. She prayed the church, and he said because no one others in the community. and asked the Lord to send someone had visited him when he was sick. who believes what she believes. Three The Waggons noticed that his car 5. Stay Organized days later, the Waggons showed up at registration had expired. The man said Follow a daily plan for adver- her front door. he lost his job and could not afford tising and making home visits. In another case, the Waggons were to register his vehicle. So, the couple Keep track of leads and fol- staying in a hotel where they met a helped him resolve the situation. low through with requests for man who worked there. They gave him “After two or three months, he got additional information. Also, a copy of Steps to Christ and other Ad- baptized over again in the church,” don’t forget to make prayer ventist literature. When they returned Roberto said. “And now, not only him, and personal Bible study a one night from Prayer Meeting, the the wife is baptized, the daughter is part of your daily routine. Your man told them he had been reading the baptized, and now he’s working on the own spiritual health will help books, and had called his pastor to ask rest of his family. He also has a radio fuel your ministry. about the Sabbath. The next Saturday, program preaching the message.” he attended an Adventist church, and Interested persons should now he is baptized. contact their local publishing Another Baptist woman the couple directors for more visited was reluctant to let them into Alva James-Johnson is a former information. her home, but after hearing their pre- newspaper reporter, and currently an assistant professor in the School sentation, she offered to help them sell of Journalism and Communication at books. She invited them to her church Southern Adventist University.

June 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 7 medicaldentalfeature

Making Patients Whole

by jim davidson

he growth of the Seventh-day Ad- portunities the Park offers, there will be struggles. You can talk with them, you ventist Church has truly shown the a golf tournament on Friday afternoon. can network, bounce ideas off each oth- Tblessing and providence of God’s But, perhaps the most beneficial and er, and see what works.” - Eli Kim, M.D. leading. From a handful of believers in unique aspect of this convention, is the • “We enjoy meeting new friends and New England in the 1800s to 20 million time spent in sharing ideas of how to seeing old friends and former class- strong in 215 countries worldwide. As make medical work an ever more effec- mates.” - Jonathan Fritz, M.D. the Church expanded, often the first line tive evangelistic ministry of the Church. • “I can’t tell you what you’re miss- of work that was begun in a new area The theme for this year’s convention is ing because if you’ve never been here, was health ministry, utilizing mission “Making Patients Whole.” There will you’ve never experienced it. But, I can doctors, dentists, nurses and other health be inspiring testimonies of how God is tell you that once you come to this professionals. As clinics and hospitals enabling medical professionals to wit- convention, you want to come back.” - were created, not only were the physical ness for Christ with their patients. The Danny Chacko, D.D.S. needs of patients met, but their spiritual weekend special speaker will be Randy The reason the Southern Union con- needs were met as well. As the medical Roberts, D.Min., senior pastor of the Lo- tinues to foster the medical/dental/ work grew, so, too, did the Church. ma Linda University Church. Jennifer health professional work is because of This divinely ordained plan contin- LaMountain will bless everyone through the recognition of the vital role the ma- ues to benefit the growth of God’s work her music. ny health professionals in this territory into the 21st century. In recognition of Here is what just a few of the past at- play in the furthering of the Gospel. The those who serve in the medical field, tendees have said about this convention: admonition was given by Ellen White the Southern Union Conference has for • “It’s important to network with other many years ago, “When connected with more than 50 years provided continuing Seventh-day Adventist professionals so other lines of gospel effort, medical mis- education, inspiration, and fellowship that you can find the support in that type sionary work is a most effective instru- for health professionals throughout the of community. If you have a question, or ment by which the ground is prepared Union. This year’s convention begins on you get stuck, you can rely on the sound for the sowing of the seeds of truth, and Thursday evening, September 27, 2018, advice from people with similar values, the instrument also by which the harvest and will be held at the beautiful, inter- principles, and backgrounds.” - Melissa is reaped. Medical missionary work is nationally known Stone Mountain Park Kemink, D.D.S. the helping hand of the gospel ministry,” and Resort in Stone Mountain, Georgia. • “Being a Christian in the medical field The Review and Herald, September 10, Accredited continuing education units is not easy in the first place — trying 1908. will be offered for physicians, dentists, to reach certain patients in a spiritual The Southern Union is thankful for optometrists, nurses, and physical thera- way. It’s nice when you have other peo- the army of health professionals who are pists. In addition to the many family op- ple who are going through those same daily helping to spread the Good News of Christ’s soon coming. For more information about attending this convention, including an early bird discount, which expires August 31, 2018, please go to www.southernunion.com/ medicaldentalconvention.

Jim Davidson is the executive secretary at the Southern Union in Norcross, Georgia.

8 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | June 2018 southernunionfeature

Adventist Education Helps Shape Character of Waffle House hero

by lucas L. Johnson II

“For all those who exalt Throughout all the notoriety, however, lle i themselves will be humbled, Shaw has maintained a humble attitude. v

He reiterated his feelings when he was ash

and those who humble N

honored in May in Nashville by his alma in themselves will be exalted,” mater, Tennessee State University, which an Luke 14:11, NIV. e has set up a scholarship in his name. “Like ss e

I said, I was just trying to save myself. I did nn this with no recognition,” said Shaw. “But, e Te hen James Shaw Jr. said he was h it seems like it inspired so many people T f

not a hero after wresting an as- throughout the world. For that, I am great- o i k

sault-style rifle from a gunman ly, greatly appreciative.” s

W le

at a Waffle House and saving numerous a Following the shooting, Shaw went to James Shaw Jr. and his daughter attended a lives, Shirley Wilson-Wiley was not sur-

the hospital to visit those who had been vigil that was held for the victims shortly af- rk Z prised by his humility — one of many vir- wounded at the restaurant, and he also paid ter the shooting at a Waffle House in Nash- a ville, Tennessee. A New York man started a : M tues she noticed when he was a child. y his respect to the families of those who GoFundMe to help create a college fund for o B

“That was James,” recalled Wilson-Wi- died. Shaw has also set up a GoFundMe Shaw’s daughter. It’s now close to or more t o

ley, who at one time was Shaw’s kindergar- than $200,000. h campaign for all the victims. His goal was P ten teacher at the child development center $15,000, but he’s raised close to $250,000. two decades ago, he appreciates the nurtur- at Hillcrest Seventh-day Adventist Church Shaw said he also plans to use the attention ing he received. in Nashville, Tennessee. “Even as a little he’s receiving to shine more light on issues “It was like a family,” said Shaw, who boy, he was like that. He was very polite. like gun violence and mental health, espe- was honored in April by the Oakwood I remember him saying, ‘yes ma’am, no cially the latter. “There are going to be a University Church in Huntsville, Alabama. ma’am.’ Even when a lot of the other chil- lot more things I plan to do to try to help Shaw’s family has several ties to the Oak- dren wouldn’t, James would.” people,” he said. wood Church family and the community. The world has come to know what Wil- Wilson-Wiley said she believes Shaw’s While he is not Adventist, Shaw does at- son-Wiley has known for nearly 25 years, early exposure to a Christian education tend a church in Nashville with his family, following the incident on April 22, 2018. helped make him the humble and caring including his 4-year-old daughter. Four people were killed after the gunman person he is today. “Christian education is At the Tennessee State University event stormed into the Waffle House early that very, very important,” she said. “One, we that honored Shaw, it was evident that his morning, firing the rifle. Shaw was eating teach them about Christ, and to pray.” She parents, James Sr. and Karen Shaw, played at the restaurant and charged the man, who said praying was one thing Shaw seemed a strong role in shaping the character of had paused firing, and took the rifle away to really enjoy. “At devotion time, I’d al- him and his siblings. from him. Authorities have said there prob- ways have one of the children to pray,” she When it was their time to speak, both ably would have been more casualties had recalled. “James always wanted to pray.” parents remembered the victims of the Shaw not intervened. Each year, Wilson-Wiley said she would shooting, and thanked God for saving their Since the incident, the 29-year-old has take her kindergartners to the open house son. remained in the national spotlight, appear- at the F.H. Jenkins Preparatory School, “This could have been a memorial ser- ing on numerous talk shows, including which is also run by Seventh-day Adven- vice,” said Karen Shaw. “I’m thankful.” “The Ellen Show,” where he was surprised tists, and invite their parents as well. She by his favorite basketball player, NBA star said many of the parents liked the prep Dwyane Wade. Lucas L. Johnson II is a former re- school so much, that they ended up sending porter for The Associated Press. He is I know you don’t want to be called a he- their sons and daughters there. Shaw was also author of the book, Finding the ro, but I look at you as an American hero,” one of those young people. He said even Good, which was featured on National Wade told him. though his Christian education was almost Public Radio.

June 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 9 adventisthealthsystemfeature

Florida Hospital Expands Program for autism AND special needs

by Florida Hospital Media Relations

iving blood is an uneasy experience for many people. But, for Gthose with autism and other special needs, the simple procedure can be outright terrifying. Sean Sikora, a 15-year-old with Down syndrome, was so distressed when he came for bloodwork as part of his treatment for kidney disease, physicians and nurses had to sedate and forcefully re- strain him. Not anymore! Adventist Health System’s Flori- da Hospital for Children developed a new program that provides customized treatment plans for patients with special Sean Sikora, a child with special needs, receives personalized treatment designed needs, which allows caregivers to learn to keep him calm while having his blood drawn. about the patient’s triggers, how to keep them calm, and deescalate issues before they can arise. mulated routine with Sikora for each of The program — called S.T.A.R. — has his visits — he knows he will watch Tom been so successful with pediatric pa- and Jerry, have numbing cream applied to tients that Florida Hospital is now begin- his hand to help ease the discomfort, and ning to expand the initiative, and make child life specialists will be by his side. training available for all Florida Hospital Jenn Sikora, his mother, said that prior clinicians. to the S.T.A.R program, he had to be held “Hospitals can be scary, especially for down during procedures, a difficult situa- our patients who can’t communicate how tion for her to witness. “Now, he’s happy they feel or understand what’s happening to come to the hospital, and talks about around them,” said Chantelle Bennett, the people and the procedure. He looks child life manager at Florida Hospital for forward to coming in. I tell everyone A child life specialist sits with Sikora Children. “We’re dedicated to providing I know because this has made a drastic prior to a procedure to learn his trigger points, and to work to ease any dis- compassionate care to all of our patients, change in our lives.” comfort. and in my heart, I know that this program The S.T.A.R. program (named for has made a life-changing difference for “Sensory, Tactile, Auditory Rock stars”) so many of our patients and their fami- is built on specialized training for child patients receive routine preventative care lies.” life specialists, nurses, and other clini- with ease, making it easier to manage In Sikora’s case, the simple act of being cians, and a standardized treatment form chronic diseases, and receive timely di- touched was a trigger for panic and ag- accessible by the entire care team. agnoses for new conditions. gressive behavior. But now, there’s a for- The program has helped special needs

10 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | JUNE 2018 georgiacumberlandfeature

Greeneville Students Bring Love to Moldova by katie-jane emde

atie-Jane Emde shares a testimony for just one more (and one more) hymn of her mission trip experience to to be sung. She was so happy we brought KMoldova, Russia, this past April. Jesus back to her life, she said, because My class at Greeneville Adventist Acad- several years ago, when she could still see, e d

emy in Greeneville, Tennessee, recently her prized possession — her Bible — was m E

returned from a wonderful mission trip to thrown into the river by an angry man as a l Moldova. Moldova is the poorest European she was reading it. As the tears now started e country, and it is nestled between Roma- to course down my own cheeks, I realized nia and the Ukraine. Although the weath- just how blessed I am, and how much I take er was snowy and cold, the sweet people for granted.

showered us with warm love. Another experience that really stood Ang By: Photo During the day, our team of 26 students out to me on the trip was a day that I was Katie-Jane Emde helps a Moldovan and chaperones worked in community ser- working in the vision clinic. An Ameri- with an eye exam, communicating vice teams and vision clinics. For commu- can woman working for the Peace Corps through a translator, Malinda, an Amer- ican working for the Peace Corps. nity service, we chopped wood, shoveled named Malinda had come in from a village snow, thoroughly cleaned houses, visited to our eye clinic with her Moldovan “house shut-ins, and delivered food to the poorest parent.” He needed to get his eyes checked. of the poor as well as at the homeless shel- She noticed that we were short a translator e

ter. During the week, the vision clinic, led for the first hour or so, so she volunteered d m

by Brad Emde, D.O., provided free eye ex- to help as long as we needed her (which E a l

ams to almost 800 people, and gave away ended up with her staying all day). She as- e more than 750 pairs of glasses. In the eve- sisted me in the near visual acuity testing. nings, we ran two Vacation Bible School While there, I mentioned how we hoped programs and an evangelistic series led by we wouldn’t put the local eye doctor out of Alejandro Sarria, pastor, with wonderful business. Malinda said not to worry, for he Photo By: Ang By: Photo results. had just been shut down and jailed by the Greenville Adventist Academy stu- Though there were countless experi- police. She went on to say how much she dents visit the Moldova shut-ins as part ences, I would like to share a story that is appreciated our group, and wished others of their community service during their meaningful to me. My community service who had the means, as we did, would share mission trip. group’s assignment was to help deliver with those who didn’t have access to good food to the poorest 16 families in the city medical assistance. Doctors over there, of Cahul. Among many heartbreaking she told me, typically only treat those with situations, a particular woman stood out: money. She thanked us for, as she put it, our her name was Maria, and this 68-year-old “right spirit of giving.” This really touched woman was nearly blind and immobile. me, and made me step back and do some Entering her dark, cold abode where she thinking about our witness to — if no one was huddled by her meager fire, we ducked else — this nonAdventist. in through the doorway to find an over- While we went to serve and bless others, Katie-Jane Emde joyed greeting. She soon began to tell of I feel that it was our team that was truly is a ninth- grade student how all but one of her children had died in a blessed. My classmates and I came back at Greeneville tragic car accident, and that the remaining home with an eagerness for mission work, Adventist one never came to visit. She clung to us in and for serving the Lord. Academy. tears, not wanting us to leave, and begging

JUNE 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 11 gulfstatesfeature Growing Young

by shane hochstetler

oung adults from around the Con- or #GYA, certified speaker. Growing Mulder, and Griffin, and presents it in an ference started an extended week- Young Adventists is a learning journey Adventist context. The solution, to put it Yend retreat to Camp Alamisco on for local churches and leaders, helping simply, is to treat others like Jesus would Thursday evening, April 12, 2018. The to build faith communities that will not treat them. Yang offered this paraphrase Spring Retreat, arranged by the Young only survive, but also thrive in the years of Matthew 25:37-40, “...inasmuch as you Adult Ministries Department, offered a ahead. The issue it seeks to remedy is did it to one of the young adults, you did relaxed schedule and plenty of opportu- not difficult to understand; the median it to Me.” The most effective strategy in nities through the weekend to take in the age of Christian church members is be- reaching young adults is offering a warm beauty and activities of camp, especially coming older. Young adults are leaving environment, not cool worship and pro- boating and kayaking on Lake Martin. or have already left the Church, and what gramming. In churches where the me- Many enjoyed taking walks in the fresh once was known as the future generation dian age is under 50, a Growing Young air outdoors, and others were grateful to of the Church is growing non-existent. church, young adults state that what they accept the opportunity to rest awhile. This is not breaking news; for years lo- like the most about their church is that Starting Friday night, guest presenter cal churches and conferences have talked they are treated like family. They are not Justin Yang, pastor of the Atlanta Ko- about the growing disinterest of young being loved because they believe in or rean Church in Duluth, Georgia, began adults, and often have stated that some- are following the right doctrine, but are a series of presentations on “Growing thing should be done. That something, being loved because they are there. This Young,” and the six essential strategies to however, has yet to happen successfully. leads to more genuine interest in the doc- help young people discover and love their #GYA builds on the work and resourc- trine, as it is presented in love. church. In addition to pastoring, Yang es of the Fuller Youth Institute, particu- Yang shared a story about a young is also a #GrowingYoungAdventists, larly the book Growing Young by Powell, woman who was attending a church for tetler s och H ne a : Sh y Photo B Photo Attendees gather around the Young Adult Ministries banner and display their attendance gift, the Growing Young book.

12 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | June 2018 gulfstatesfeature

some time and showed interest in be- coming more involved — before disap- pearing for several months. After many attempts to reconnect with her, the pastor was fi nally able to speak with her and learned that she had become pregnant as a result of her boyfriend raping her. She was devastated and didn’t know what to do; her family and friends were not able to help her. It seemed fi tting to the pastor and several others to offer her a baby shower, so she could acquire all of the supplies she would need for her new baby. But, when the idea was brought to CHRIS FELDMANN BY: PHOTO the church board, it was denied because Justin Yang, pastor of the Atlanta Korean church, presents on making the church the church did not want to condone the a warm place to be. lifestyle that led to her pregnancy. Yang concluded the story by stating that “when people stop helping other people, they stop feeling.” The 6 Core Commitments We can avoid this by living and lov- of Churches Growing Young ing as Jesus did, making a point to empathize with one another, and striving for intergenerational friendships. If people took the time to get to know their younger or older church members, their attitudes and understanding of each other would change for the better. One of the take-home challenges presented by Yang during the weekend was to empathize with a person from a different generation for six months. “If we really did this, each one of us, it would change the church climate,” stated Yang. The idea of Growing Young is not a quick solution. Although our interac- tions with young adults and older gener- ations could improve quickly, the goal is Unlock keychain leadership: Fuel a warm community: to make authentic and meaningful rela- Instead of centralizing authority, empower Instead of focusing on cool worship or programs, others—especially young people. aim for warm peer and intergenerational tionships, which will take time. Yang has friendships. been implementing these strategies in his Empathize with today’s young people: Prioritize young people (and families) everywhere: church for three years, and is now seeing Instead of judging or criticizing, step into the Instead of giving lip service to how much young shoes of this generation. people matter, look for creative ways to tangibly some fruit. The median age has dropped support, resource, and involve them in all facets below 50, and their community impact of your congregation. Take Jesus’ message seriously: Instead of asserting formulaic gospel claims, has signifi cantly increased. Be the best neighbors: welcome young people into a Jesus-centered Instead of condemning the world outside your walls, To fi nd more infor mation about making way of life. enable young people to neighbor well locally and your church a Growing Young church, visit globally. www.growingyoungadventists.com.

Shane Hochstetler is communication director for Gulf States Conference.

JUNE 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 13 kentuckytennesseefeature

Middletown Holds VEGETARIAN TASTE FEST by BARBARA HAGELE

he Middletown Church in Lou- interest and inactive members’ list. The guest was given a tray to collect sam- isville, Kentucky, held its first event was approved to be posted on the ples of mouth-watering vegetarian and TVegetarian Taste Fest on Sunday, official City of Louisville events web- vegan dishes — Spinach (Saag) Curry, March 25, 2018. Such an event is a big site. Of course, church members were Easy Burger Burrito Skillet, Red Beans undertaking for a church the size of encouraged to tell their friends and fam- & Rice, Pancit (Filipino Rice Noodles), Middletown, but more than 35 volun- ily about the event, passing along flyers Ratatouille, Corn and Black Bean Salsa, teers rallied to the cause. Each of the 20 inserted into the bulletins for several and Vegan Carrot Cake. cooks was asked to submit two of their weeks. The question was, would it be Guests also received a ticket for a best vegetarian recipes. The final se- enough for the event to be a success? chance to receive one of the door priz- lection of recipes was then based upon During the weeks before the event, es donated by local health food stores. achieving a variety of dishes, from pasta registrations on the church website slow- At the end of the hour, the first group of and entrees to salads and desserts. ly came in. Two sessions of 40 guests guests moved into the sanctuary for a All guests had the opportunity to sam- each were scheduled, and the members health talk on the advantages of a natu- ple more than 20 vegetarian dishes, and prayed that God would fill them. In ral, plant-based diet with tips on how to received a small cookbook containing the last few days before the event, God begin. Finally, the guests passed through all of the recipes. Samples were served moved in amazing ways for the event the Sabbath School wing where they had in two-ounce cups, labeled with the to receive complimentary coverage on a chance to browse through excellent number of the recipe in the book, which a Christian radio station in the Louis- vegetarian cookbooks on display for made it easier for guests to mark recipes ville Weekender in the main Louisville sale. Exit surveys were traded for a pam- they wanted to make themselves. newspaper, and finally, a spot on live TV phlet on “The 8 Secrets of a Long Life.” The biggest challenge was getting the news the morning of the event. God blessed with more than 96 at- word out so people would want to attend. Excitement was high and all was in tendees who could not rave enough Since the budget was limited, it was readiness — the fellowship hall was about how good the food was, and how necessary to find ways to promote the tastefully decorated, and the food was nice an event had been planned. It will event that was cost-free. Eye-catching ready. Guests entered through the church be followed up with other health-related flyers were designed and distributed to lobby where they registered, and then events such as Dinner with a Doctor, a libraries and local health food stores, in were seated to wait for the doors to open. monthly vegetarian cooking class, a nat- addition to being mailed to the church’s When the top of the hour arrived, each ural remedies class, and CPR training.

14 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | JUNE 2018 southeasternfeature

Southeastern Invests One Million Plus in Schools by keitha hatcher

ne aspect of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) mission-fo- Ocused strategy is to grow God’s Kingdom by giving the best for the youth and children. In order to do so, Southeast- ern has renewed its commitment to provide its schools with valuable resources to make them top quality institutions. The Southeastern administration set a on

goal to establish a fully funded education ps endowment of $1,100,000. In less than hom two years, since its official establishment, T the endowment is nearly fully funded with $1,012,069 raised to date. With only $87,930 to be raised, the administra-

tors anticipate that the endowment will C. By: Photo be fully funded by 2019. Nicole Brisé, Southeastern Conference education team at the recent Church School Rally Day retired educator, stated that, “From the in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida: Doris Brown, newly elected associate superintendent of first day the idea was presented by Elder education; Barbara Davis, Ed.D., superintendent of education; and Karen Winston, Paul, then superintendent of education, administrative assistant. my husband and I began to donate $5 from our paychecks every month — that sists in securing funding for the annual outdoor signage. was over 30 years ago — until my retire- summer teacher training institute, which Recently, a special planning committee ment. My husband still gives $5 from his provides continuing education opportu- was organized by the SEC K-12 board to paycheck every month. The funds were nities for Conference teachers. This year, plan a major reorganization of the Con- for the improvement of the schools, and Southeastern has also increased benefits ference school district. Local schools, I’m passionate about Adventist Christian for locally-funded teachers, including churches, and administrators are working education.” cost of living allowance, healthcare assis- together to strategize for the future of ed- Southeastern is also “putting its money tance plan, and dependent tuition subsidy. ucation in Southeastern. where its mouth is” by funding expand- The goal is to pour valuable resourc- The children are the future of the ed professional development and teacher es into education. Within the past year, Church. Southeastern is making substan- certification training. The Conference ed- $400,000 has been allocated for reno- tive investment to ensure that they are ucators have participated in CRISS, ESE, vations to Miami Union Academy in well-equipped to meet the challenges of and ESOL trainings, with the goal of Miami, Florida. Also, the Conference the future. equipping educators to teach to students’ began purchasing smart boards for every individual learning styles and needs. school. Each school has also received a Southeastern also prides itself in that $5,000 grant toward physical plant im- Keitha Hatcher is the administrative assistant for human resources, the teachers continue to maintain 100 provements. An additional special grant communication, and technology at percent certification. This distinction as- is also available to each school for new Southeastern Conference.

JUNE 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 15 southernadventistuniversityfeature

Training to Handle a Crisis

by Oksana Wetmore

hen hurricanes, mass shoot- “I think anyone can be ready to re- Disaster Simulations ings, and other disasters spond to a crisis, but most are not pre- The School of Nursing also coordi- Whappen, the aftermath often pared,” de Souza said. nates a disaster training exercise for involves chaos and confusion. Normal Upon completing these sessions, par- students. Held each semester, the Emer- routines are disrupted, and individuals ticipants received two separate certifi- gency Preparedness Interprofessional may be overwhelmed or unsure how to cates from the International Critical In- Collaborative Practice Simulation brings proceed. Prior training can help, both cident Stress Foundation: Group Crisis together students from the schools of during a crisis and in the days and weeks Intervention and Individual Crisis Inter- Nursing, Social Work, Religion, and afterwards. vention and Peer Support. Journalism and Communication to role- “In light of the recent mass shooting at “I found it to be beneficial because we play the aftermath of a disaster. Com- Stoneman Douglas High School in Park- received training in both the role of the munity volunteers act as victims, with land, Florida, and other current events, person in crisis and the crisis respond- Southern students providing medical, it seems thoughts of crisis are never far er,” said Emmanuel Aragon, ’14, clinical mental, and spiritual support, as well as from our minds,” said Mikhaile Spence, mental health counseling graduate stu- documenting the event. This semester graduate program manager in Southern dent. “The diverse group of people who 89 students and volunteers participated. Adventist University’s School of Edu- attended these sessions all offered their “Southern’s mission is to provide our cation and Psychology. “We often feel own experience and knowledge to what students with the best education possi- helpless in the face of these tragedies, we were learning. The training prepared ble,” said Ronda Christman, associate but there are steps we can take to bet- me to feel more confident if I ever have professor of nursing at Southern and ter prepare ourselves and be prepared to to deal with a crisis situation.” coordinator of this event. “Offering re- help others in crisis situations.” These sessions stemmed from a crisis alistic simulation experiences for our With this in mind, Southern offers counseling course that the department students will help equip them to think several crisis training opportunities, offers graduate students. However, this better on their feet, and have the criti- including a new option coordinated by year de Souza saw it as an opportunity to cal thinking skills to identify, assess, re- the School of Education and Psychology. not only teach her students about crisis spond, and provide care. Our goal is to This spring the department conducted a intervention, but also to extend the invi- prepare our students to help take care of three-session crisis intervention training tation to a broader audience. Among the God’s hurting children in a meaningful program for Southern students, faculty, nearly 30 participants who attended the and professional manner.” and community members. Liane de Sou- sessions were several Southern profes- za, Ph.D., associate professor of coun- sors; a professor from Lee University in seling, planned the program with the Cleveland, Tennessee; and the associate Oksana Wetmore is a senior public goal of teaching others how to respond news director from a local TV station. relations major at Southern Adventist to both man-made and natural disasters. University in Collegedale, Tennessee.

16 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | june 2018 southernadventistuniversitynews

Students Mentor Middle Schoolers in Computer Science outhern Adventist University stu- the younger girls in our community.” able environment,” Price said. “I joined dents have taken the initiative Each weekly meeting consists of because I have made friends in this Sto mentor middle-school-aged spending time discussing the prior week, group, and I feel that girls should be girls through a program they call Hire watching videos about prominent fe- more active with technology because we Tech-Minded Ladies (HTML). males in the computer science field, and live in a tech age, so we should strive to Headed by Eileen Flores, junior man- working on a health and wellness app be more ‘out there.’” agement major, and Natasya Panjaitan, that the girls are designing and coding. sophomore management major, the pro- The middle school girls who take part BY Tierra Hayes gram is in collaboration with Girls Who in this on-campus program said they Code, a nationwide nonprofit organiza- deeply enjoy being able to spend time tion that works to increase the number of with new friends, learn new skills, and women in the field of computer science. be mentored by the college-aged girls. “I just wanted to do something bigger “A friend told me about the program, than myself, and I think there is a lot of and we had something like this at our potential in the Chattanooga area to im- school, but it wasn’t as interesting as pact women in the technology industry,” HTML,” said Naomi Diaz, a participant. Panjaitan said. “With computer science, “I also want to do something like this in you can be really independent. You can the future. I like the videos and learning start companies and have big opportuni- about different jobs in the field.” Eileen Flores (right) and her team- mates encourage middle school girls ties just because of this one skillset. So Her classmate Gaielle Price agreed. to explore computer science through we wanted to bring this opportunity to “The leaders make it a very comfort- their program, HTML. Southern Adventist University Professor Posthumously Honored by Scientific Journal ay Hefferlin, Ph.D., former all of us when I say that anyone who has of intellectual exploration, and pushed Southern Adventist University ever encountered Ray came away with for an annual research day. This semes- Rprofessor and globally-renowned the impression of the kindest and most ter, Southern’s annual Campus Research physicist, was recently honored by an in- dignified person they had ever met.” Day featured 409 presentations, with stu- ternational science journal. Foundations Commonly referred to as “Doc” by dents representing nearly every academ- of Chemistry dedicated Volume 20 to his peers, Hefferlin began his career at ic department on campus sharing their Hefferlin for his work with the periodic Southern in 1955, spending the next 60 research. system of molecules, which interweaves years teaching, researching, and inspir- “Doc lived a full, diverse, and interest- mathematics, physics, and chemistry. ing students in the Physics and Engineer- ing life,” said Ken Caviness, Ph.D., pro- The journal also included an article writing Department until his death in 2015. fessor of physics and former colleague ten by Hefferlin, titled “An Allegory on During that time, he pioneered a new and friend of Hefferlin. “He trained gen- Molecular Periodicity.” field of study in the realm of physics, erations of physicists and Christian sci- The publication’s editor, Eric Scerri, and his work with the periodic systems entists. May we all, as physicists, be able Ph.D., professor at the University of Cal- of molecules is widely used today by stu- to say that.” ifornia, Los Angeles, and personal friend dents and scientists alike. of Hefferlin, wrote, “I believe I speak for Hefferlin emphasized the importance BY Oksana Wetmore

JUNE 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 17 adventisthealthsystemnews

Memorial Hospital Grows Produce for Underserved Patients and Seniors

ipe tomatoes, crunchy lettuce, well be hindered,” said Justin Birmele, ing model that is changing the way and sweet carrots are just a vice president of operations at Winter communities eat by providing knowl- Rfew of the nutritious foods that Park Memorial Hospital. “We’re very edge and education about sustainable will be growing in the central Florida excited to see this partnership flour- farming by installing micro-farms in city, Winter Park’s, newest community ish and help make our community front yards. garden. healthier.” “This garden is a billboard of health Adventist Health System’s Winter According to a recent study by and wellness,” said Lee Perry, Fleet Park Memorial Hospital and urban Feeding America, food insecurity is Farming’s program director. “We be- agriculture program Fleet Farming a significant issue in Florida, where lieve that everyone deserves the right are teaming up to plant a fruit and more than three million people have to local food, and this initiative shows vegetable garden at the hospital to to choose between nutritious food and that we can grow food right here, meet a significant community need: other basic living expenses. In central where people are healing.” food insecurity. Florida, one in six people turn to local Produce harvested from the gar- charitable food assistance programs, den will be donated to underserved according to the latest figures from patients who are discharged from the Second Harvest Food Bank. hospital, and shut-in seniors who live Food insecurity can have a big im- within three miles of the hospital. pact on health, as certain ailments and “When our patients go home, it’s im- chronic diseases can be directly linked portant that they have access to foods to malnourishment. that are healthy and nutritious to help Known for their work harvest- in their healing. We can provide them ing gardens at homes and churches excellent care within our hospital, but throughout the Audubon Park and if they have an empty refrigerator or Parramore communities in Orlando, pantry at home, their recovery may very Fleet Farming is an innovative farm- BY Florida Hospital Media Relations

Nutrition is a key component to healing, and Winter Park Me- Justin Birmele, vice president of operations at Winter Park morial hospital staff is utilizing Fleet Farming to ensure that Memorial Hospital, helps plant healthy vegetables that will patients always have a healthy meal when they return home. assist in the healing of patients.

18 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | June 2018 adventisthealthsystemnews

AHS’s Hospitals Participate in National Pilot to Improve Opioid Safety

ment expectations, as well as education on the safe use, storage, and disposal of opioids. Clinicians at each hospital also receive education on appropriate opioid risk screening, prescribing, dispensing, and administration. The Safer Post-operative Pain Manage- ment pilot supported hospitals by providing virtual and onsite technical assistance from industry-leading experts; systematic planning for performance improvement; real-time data collection; the use of standardized process, outcome, harm, and cost avoidance measures; peer-to-peer learning; and continuous monitoring, evaluation, and refinement of implement- ed strategies to drive results. Often opioid addiction can begin with a single prescription following a medical procedure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, overdose The Safer Post-operative Pain Management pilot included more than 30 deaths involving prescription opioids industry-leading hospitals. have quadrupled since 1999, leading to our Adventist Health System (AHS) “Adventist Health System is proud to more than 183,000 deaths. hospitals joined the Safer Post-oper- participate in a program that is proactive- “Opioid addiction is an increasing Fative Pain Management pilot to test ly addressing opioid misuse at such a crit- problem across our communities, and the and redesign new care delivery processes ical point in time,” said Kathleen Clem, epidemic has been called on by the White to better manage pain and the potential for MD, executive vice president and chief House as a national priority,” said Blair drug addiction. The Safer Post-operative clinical officer for Adventist Health Sys- Childs, senior vice president of public Pain Management pilot is offered through tem. “We look forward to working with affairs at Premier. “To find solutions, we the Premier Inc. Hospital Improvement Premier HIIN member hospitals on evi- must test and redesign care models for Innovation Network (HIIN). dence-based initiatives to further improve measurable approaches to continuous im- Florida Hospital East Orlando, Metro- pain management practices and opioid provements that ensure professionals are plex Adventist Hospital, Park Ridge safety across the communities we serve.” trained based on what the evidence has Health, and Rollins Brook Communi- The data-driven pilot initially focused proven to work. Premier is thrilled to be ty Hospital joined more than 30 indus- on adult patients undergoing hip and working with Adventist Health System, try-leading hospitals in the effort to im- knee arthroplasty, and colectomy surgical an outstanding leader helping to create prove post-operative pain management procedures. The program sought to help new pain management strategies in our from September 2017 through March participants redesign their existing care ongoing effort to reduce adverse drug 2018. The American Society of Anesthe- practices with safer pain management events, dependence, and addiction.” siologists was also a key performance strategies. This included partnering with improvement partner in the initiative. patients and families on pain manage- BY Mario Roberts

June 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 19 carolinanews

Catch A Glimpse of Glory Bright on Pisgah’s Lofty Height

ount Pisgah Academy (MPA) in Recently, a strategic planning committee Board of Education are fully engaged in Candler, N.C., is dedicated to was formed to prioritize capital needs on reviewing and finalizing some recom- Mproviding the youth of the Caro- the MPA campus, such as added security mendations for new leadership and staff- lina Conference — and beyond — excel- and safety measures, and maintenance ing to provide young people the finest lence in education. This school, situated and improvement of the campus’ aesthet- in Adventist educational service. On the in the Blue Ridge Mountains, serves as ic beauty. In addition, the Conference has financial side, the sale of Carolina Ad- a safe, friendly environment where stu- partnered with the Philanthropic Services ventist Retirement Systems (CARS) has dents can develop socially, and it pro- Institute to add a full-time business de- increased the MPA endowment fund this vides opportunities for them to nurture a velopment director to the MPA staff. This year by almost 900 percent. This fund healthy work ethic. “Jesus lives at MPA” individual facilitates the application for will yield a steady, sustainable revenue is the campus theme, which demon- educational grants, promotes Touch a stream for student assistance and capital strates the commitment of the faculty and Life at MPA as the signature student fi- improvement for the Academy. staff to helping young people cultivate a nancial assistance initiative, and assists Challenges arise because there is an en- personal relationship with Jesus Christ as the strategic planning committee with emy on Earth to contend with every day. their lifelong companion. major campaign enterprises. Just a few However, the promise is sure: “…the one Each MPA student is extended the op- weeks ago, MPA was the recipient of a Who is in you is greater than the one who portunity to participate in the compas- Versacare grant for $10,000, and two is in the world,” 1 John 4:4, NIV. The sionate mission of the Church in multi- other donors have pledged $5,000 each. Conference leadership holds fast to this ple corners of the world. Every Friday Also, Adventist Health Systems, Inc. promise as they seek God’s leading and is a service day, and the different classes (AHS) will add MPA to its list of quali- blessing for the coming school year and take turns ministering to the surrounding fying academies this year, which enables beyond. MPA exists to guide young peo- community. Students can also go on mis- MPA to apply for AHS’s major Adventist ple into a life of service to others, and to sion trips overseas — recent trips have academy grant program initiative. instill a heartfelt desire in every student been to the Dominican Republic, Kenya, MPA is poised to experience some sig- to continue reaching people for Christ Peru, Honduras, and Lesotho in Southern nificant changes in the future. Change until He comes again. This is the mission Africa — as well as fulfill the Gospel is sometimes viewed in a negative con- upheld by every individual who invests commission in the United States at places text, although change can create the in Seventh-day Adventist education. such as La Vida Mission in New Mexico. climate for something new, fresh, and Seventh-day Adventist education is a revitalizing. The Conference personnel top priority in the Carolina Conference. committee, the MPA Board, and the K-12 BY Leslie D. Louis, president

20 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | June 2018 carolinanews

Alive Youth Rally Celebrates 10 Years od r tney He ur oto By: Co By: oto h P Roger Hernandez, ministerial director for the Southern Union, makes an appeal for students who want to be baptized, and students who feel called to ministry in some form.

live Youth Rally, the brainchild mondt and her team, whose goal was to ciate pastor of the Spartanburg Church, of Ryan Hodgins and Kevin enhance the experience of the students continued the anniversary celebration AWatson, celebrated its 10-year who traveled from all over the Confer- with a few giveaways. Each giveaway anniversary on March 31, 2018. The ence for the rally. corresponded to a question asked by youth pastors and leaders at the Spartan- The guest speaker this year was Rog- Johnson and Watson. In order to quali- burg, S.C., Church have changed through er Hernandez, ministerial director and fy for a chance at winning a prize, stu- the years, but Watson and his team have evangelism coordinator for the Southern dents had to raise their hands and not worked diligently to make each year bet- Union. Although Hernandez spends most shout out the answers. The one ques- ter than the last, which is not easy to do of his time traveling around the Union tion these men probably regret asking for 10 years. This year’s crowd was one participating in evangelistic meetings, was for the students to guess their ages. of the largest to date with more than 500 he truly has a heart for young people. The Sabbath evening session concluded students in attendance, and the team of The students were on the edge of their with eight students entering the baptis- volunteers from the Spartanburg Church seats, hanging on to his every word. At mal tank, and exiting with big smiles kept everything flowing smoothly. “You the end of the church service, Hernandez after publicly declaring their decision cannot do something like this without a made a call by asking the students two to follow Christ. “Seeing young people lot of hands,” one volunteer commented. questions. If they wanted to make a deci- dedicate their lives to Jesus makes all the Because the rally took place on Easter sion for baptism, come to his right, and if work and sacrifice for putting on an event weekend, the room’s decor emphasized they felt called to ministry in some way, like this for 10 years worth it. All Heaven Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. The stage come to his left. There was a large group is rejoicing, and so are we. I can’t wait to was set up to resemble the rocks sur- of students on each side. Those attending see the next chapters in the lives of these rounding the empty tomb, and a giant witnessed the blessing of seeing young young people as they impact our Confer- replica of the crown of thorns was sus- people committing their lives to Christ ence for Jesus,” said Johnson. pended in midair above a portable bap- and to sharing the Gospel. tistry. The fantastic artistry was created Before the Sabbath afternoon session BY Courtney Herod by Spartanburg member Henrietta Dead- began, Watson and Henry Johnson, asso-

June 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 21 carolinanews

God, Great Hope Visits Valdese

aldese is the location of the larg- individuals think a situation is a total est U.S. settlement of Walden- disaster. Vsians in 1893. The members of The American Legion folks were ex- Great Hope, a small new church plant tremely apologetic for the inconvenience, in Valdese, N.C., scheduled prophecy and decided not to charge the group for seminars during March 2018, with Has- the two nights. They also allowed the kell Williams, ministerial director for group to move to the larger, more conve- the Carolina Conference. In prepara- nient room on the upper ground level for tion for the seminars, a room was rent- the same low price of the smaller room ed in the American Legion Hall, but the originally rented. Great Hope group had no idea what was One attendee, John*, missed the first ahead. With much prayer, the “soil had night but attended the second night and been tilled” by holding two series of for the rest of the meetings. However, he reversing diabetes classes, distributing did not live in the area the brochures had many Bible studies, and hosting a booth been mailed. He saw the brochure in one at the Waldensian Festival. Ten thou- of the homes he visited during his ser- sand brochures were mailed in Valdese vice calls as a plumber, and he decided and the surrounding area. On the open- to attend. The following week, on anoth- ing night of the prophecy seminars, the er service call, he invited the woman of Great Hope group welcomed 21 guests, the house to attend that night’s meeting twice the usual ratio for the number of only an hour before it was to begin. She

brochures mailed. Some of these guests happily attended many of the seminars. ney r

were already taking Bible studies, and Even when a brochure is not mailed ho some were from the reversing diabetes to the home of a truth seeker, God can a

classes. handle it. yn M

When the group rented the downstairs Another attendee, Mary, had initially arr room at the American Legion Hall, they responded to a Bible request card she were told there would be an event above received in the mail. A member of the them on the second night. However, no Great Hope group tried to locate her but one mentioned the practice for the previ- was unsuccessful. Mary was shopping Sh By: Photo ous evening that would take place on the in Walmart one day, and said something Retired pastor Barry Mahorney baptizes first night. The noise was very loud and to the clerk about wanting to worship on Aida following Prophecy seminar. distracting both nights, but on the second Sabbath. The clerk happened to be Sev- on hearts. Twelve individuals attended night, the parking lot was so full there enth-day Adventist, and told Mary where through the end of the seminars, and four were no parking spots left for the leaders the little, relatively unknown Great Hope have joined the church, with others soon who had arrrived early, much less for the group met in Valdese, close to her home. to follow in their footsteps. The Great guests who would come later. Prayers as- Mary showed up to worship with the Hope Church plant has seen God work cended quickly: “God, there’s not a thing group and attended the prophecy semi- in many ways, far beyond their feeble at- we can do! It’s Your problem, and You nars, even helping to distribute literature. tempts. Once, when thanked for her work will need to work a miracle!” She was warmly welcomed into church with Bible studies and transportation, God showed up! When opening time fellowship. Michelle is another attendee Myra’s God-filled response was, “That’s came on night two, not a guest was miss- who is taking Bible studies and search- why I’m here!” It is surely rewarding and ing. They parked out in the field and ing for truth. A church member named exciting to work alongside God. hiked to the seminar with no complaints. Myra invited her to come to the prophe- *First names used to protect privacy. Some attendees mentioned later that the cy seminars. Michelle shared, “At first I information presented was so interest- came with Myra just to make her happy, ing that they just tuned out the noise and but now I come because I want to hear focused on the speaker. The organizers truth.” recogized that God works even when The group witnessed God working BY Sharryn Mahorney

22 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | June 2018 adventistuniversityofhealthsciencesnews Hope Clinic Educates Students, Serves Community

dventist University of Health Sci- more patients. Hernández concluded the ceremony, ences’ (ADU) newly expanded The event opened with Hughes wel- once again thanking attendees and donors Aand relocated Hope Clinic had coming and thanking the attendees for for their support. He expressed his pride its grand opening celebration on April 4, their support as she described the clinic’s in Hughes and her team’s hard work, and 2018. Tia Hughes, Dr.O.T., department story from its inception until the present. called the clinic “a story of faith from a chair of occupational therapy (OT), and The clinic provides no-cost services for leader with vision, heart, and passion.” He Edwin I. Hernández, Ph.D., president of the uninsured, underinsured, and individ- referred to the patient’s success story, say- ADU, along with Hope Clinic staff, ADU uals who would not otherwise have access ing, “Miracles are happening here.” faculty and staff, and others, attended the to care, making an impact on an under- A plaque was unveiled, dedicated to the open house. Also present were clinic do- served portion of the local community. donors who helped finance and build the nors, including Daryl and Kimberly Dix- Hughes said, “The opportunity to serve is new clinic, followed by a prayer dedica- on, Chris Bordner with Synergy Wealth more of a blessing than receiving care.” tion from Reynold Acosta, one of ADU’s Alliance, and members of Florida Hospi- It offers opportunities for students from chaplains. After the ceremony, guests tal’s CHiC Foundation. ADU’s PT, OT, and nursing programs to were invited to enjoy refreshments while The Hope Clinic is a teaching facili- gain first-hand outpatient clinical experi- exploring the new, updated facility. ty that provides outpatient occupational ence. There are plans to also add opportu- The Hope Clinic provides treatment therapy, physical therapy (PT), mental nities for physician assistant students later and care to the community while educat- health counseling, and nursing services. this year. ing ADU’s students on whole person care The clinic was the product of Hughes’ A patient from the Hope Clinic ad- — a perfect embodiment of ADU’s mis- determination to establish a facility where dressed the group next and shared his sion to develop skilled professionals who students in the occupational therapy, experience. He spoke of the positive atti- live the healing values of Christ. With the physical therapy, and nursing programs tudes of the staff who gave him hope af- new facility, it faces a future bright with could observe faculty members provide ter he had been told he might never walk growth and opportunities, not only for care to patients without insurance. again following a stroke. Like the other the institution and its students, but for the Patients are seen for a variety of med- patients of the clinic, he was underinsured people it serves. ical reasons, including stroke, brain inju- and was left with no plan for his recovery. ries, orthopedic injuries, and developmen- But, thanks to the clinic’s staff, he was tal delays. This new facility will allow able to leave his wheelchair and begin BY Hope Clinic staff to better serve even walking again. lisa marie esser

The Hope Clinic staff poses inside the new Hope Clinic space: Angela Sampson (front row, left), OTR/L; Vicki Case, OTR/L; Milly Rodriguez, OTR/L; Susan Rodd, COTA/L; and Jennifer Sanabria, COTA/L; Rubin Acosta (back row, left), COTA/L; Jessica Drummond, PTA; Elizabeth Clark, D.P.T.; Tia Hughes, Dr.O.T.; and Jeff Emde, D.P.T.

JUNE 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 23 floridanews

Florida Conference Headquarters Highlights Spiritual Emphasis

he Lord’s business is conducted here! There is a conscientious ef- Tfort by the spiritual life committee, under the direction of José LeGrand, to make sure the ambiance and working environment reflects Christ in the Florida Conference office building in Altamonte Springs, Fla.

Week of Spiritual Emphasis Each year the calendar year begins on a high note with a Week of Spiritu- al Emphasis. This year was no excep-

tion, with insightful messages brought Lee Bennett By: Photo each morning by Orlando Lopez, senior Allan Machado, Florida Conference interim president, led employees in a communion service. pastor of Spring Meadows Church in Sanford, Fla. A dynamic speaker, Lopez spoke from his heart as he encouraged each person to open their hearts to “New Beginnings with Jesus.” Each morning, hearts were also lifted in singing together and listen- ing to local elementary and academy mu- ld Go sic groups perform musical selections. l

Monday Worships The spiritual life committee has an intentional plan in presenting Mon- day worships. The first Monday of the Chery By: Photo month’s worship is presented by local Forest Lake Education Center Wind Symphony in Longwood, Fla., under the teachers, pastors, and other Adventist direction of Dustin Gold, performed for the Florida Conference Week of Spiritual Emphasis. employees. The second Monday worship is presented by departmental personnel. On the third Monday, new employees are Spanish language ministries. Timothy interviewed, and then the president pres- Goff, vice president for pastoral minis- ents worship on the fourth Monday. tries, gave the blessing upon the juice. Allan Machado, interim president of Communion the Florida Conference, led out in the On a recent Monday, employees gath- sacred service. His homily was based on ered in the atrium around tables fash- the passage from 1 Peter 1:18-19, KJV: ioned in the shape of a cross to partake of “Forasmuch as ye know that ye were the Lord’s Supper. To make the occasion not redeemed with corruptible things, as Orlando Lopez, senior pastor of Spring even more special, juice was served in silver and gold, from your vain conver- Meadows Church in Sanford, Fla., spoke on “New Beginnings With Jesus” cups made from the wood of olive trees sation received by tradition from your for the Florida Conference Office Week from Israel. fathers; but with the precious blood of of Spiritual Emphasis. The blessing upon the bread was giv- Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and en by Abdiel del Toro, vice president for without spot.” BY Gladys M. Neigel

24 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | June 2018 floridanews

Columbia City Company Celebrates High Day with Baptism

embers of Columbia City Com- wishes. As each person came out of pany, Lake City, Fla., designated the water, a crescendo of “Amens” was MFebruary 24, 2018, as “A High heard from the congregation. Day in Zion.” It was on this day the This eclectic group of young people members commissioned their new bap- baptized was composed of a mother and tistery by baptizing five precious souls daughter, grandmother and grandson, for the Lord. The event was also auspi- and a teenager. The service was well-at- cious because the members used their tended as families and well-wishers of newly acquired baptismal robes for the the candidates filled the church. first time. The service was concluded with an ap- Newly baptized members of Columbia The service was impressive in its or- peal. The neighbor of one of the candi- City Company in Lake City, Fla.: Ander- der and solemnity. As each candidate dates, who came to escort her to the pool, son Fuller (left), Evan Kinsella, Jonathan was lowered into the water by George C. publicly expressed his desire to accept Webb, Audy Fuller, and Tracy Norwood. Worrell, pastor, specially selected songs Jesus as his Lord and be baptized. were sung according to the candidate’s BY George C. Worrell Florida Conference Pastor Offers Prayer for Florida State Senate arilus Pierre Jr., pastor for Tem- ple Adventiste de West Palm VBeach in Greenacres, Fla., and Gethsemane Church Company in Port St. Lucie, Fla., was invited by the State of Florida to offer the opening prayer for the Florida Senate on March 5, 2018, in Tallahassee, Fla. The senate was called to order by President Joe Negron at 10:25 a.m. A quorum was present with 38 senators in attendance. Pierre, who is trilingual and fluent in French, Creole, and English, prayed for all senators and House of Representative members in the State’s capital, coupled with all lawmak- ers in the U.S. and in its entirety. After prayer, he had the unique opportunity to greet senators and some members of the House of Representatives. “I knew one of the senators from Miami; her name is Daphne Campbell,” said Varilus Pierre Jr., pastor, offered the opening prayer on March 5, 2018, for Florida Pierre. “She is the first and the only Hai- State senators. He also prayed for members of the Florida House of Representa- tian senator in the State of Florida.” tives, as well as the U.S. Congress.

BY Jeffrey THompson

June 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 25 georgiacumberlandnews

OAKS Bells Choir Blesses Community Churches

inistering to area churches is the er dream of Mary Wilcox, teacher sl Mand director of the Ooltewah Ad- ventist School (OAKS) bells and chimes

choir in Ooltewah, Tenn. He Sandra y: The opportunity arrived when the b First Cumberland Presbyterian Church mitted

graciously lent their bells and chimes b equipment to OAKS at the beginning of Su the 2016-2017 school year. Students with The OAKS bells and chimes choir students received financial blessings as well as little to no musical knowledge now had raised funds through baking and yard sales. the privilege of learning music. As a thank you for the generosity of the fundraising project that had been sparked new bells will provide a valuable and Presbyterian Church, the OAKS bells and by a $5,000 gift earlier in the 2017-2018 continuing educational opportunity for chimes choir performed at one of their school year. the students to grow, not only in practical church services, bringing a blessing to Bell choir students raised the remain- music education, but also in real-world the members through their music. Many ing needed funds through the sale of community outreach. words of appreciation were expressed to baked goods and T-shirts. Additional The school expresses thanks to all who Wilcox and the student choir. funds were also raised through a church made this possibility a reality, as well as A performance at the Ooltewah United community-wide yard sale. By April to Wilcox for fulfilling her childhood de- Methodist Church, next-door neighbors 2018, Wilcox was able to purchase new sire to spread the blessing of music. This to the OAKS school, resulted in an un- bells for the choir. is now playing out in the lives of OAKS expected and welcome blessing. Arriving Spreading the joy of worshipful students and their community. back at OAKS after the performance, melody and cheerful praise, the OAKS Wilcox opened a thank-you card from bells choir continues to return the the Methodist church, and discovered a blessing to the people and churches in BY sandra hesler check for $500 to go toward the choir’s the Chattanooga, Tenn., community. The Greg Leavitt Joins as Auditing Director

eorgia-Cumberland Conference went to Southern, and it just feels like office welcomes Greg Leavitt to home,” said Leavitt on accepting the job. the treasury team as the director Before moving to Michigan, Leavitt G g of auditing. He and his wife of 28 years, worked in Apison, Tenn., with G.R. Rush oun

Arlene Leavitt, spent 24 years serving & Company, a CPA firm. He worked with Y in Michigan, where he was the busi- auditing, taxes, and accounting, but felt ness manager for Great Lakes Adventist like something was missing. He wanted Academy. to serve his Church and feel a sense of

“We are excited to add such a skilled mission. Brian By: oto h and dedicated person to direct our audit- Leavitt says he is excited about travel, P ing team,” said Kurt Allen, vice presi- meeting new people, and helping to sup- Greg Leavitt is the new auditing director dent for finance. port the local church treasurers. for Georgia-Cumberland Conference. He will travel to audit the finances of Confer- The Leavitts two daughters, Brittany He added, “I am passionate about the ence churches and schools. Leavitt and Bethany Leavitt, both hap- Gospel and furthering God’s work in pen to live in Georgia and Tennessee, these last days, and I want to be a part of and were definitely hoping their parents finishing the work.” BY jodi herod steele would head south. “Arlene and I both

26 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | June 2018 georgiacumberlandnews

Wally and Mary Ellen Fox Retire After 43 Years at GCA eorgia-Cumberland Academy’s work successful.” (GCA) Alumni Weekend on The Foxes’ memories and career high- GApril 6-8, 2018, was a bitter- lights include friendships with both stu- sweet experience as current and former dents and fellow faculty members. When students and faculty gathered to wish they first came to GCA, they formed Wally and Mary Ellen Fox a happy re- strong friendships with a number of oth-

tirement. The couple was recognized er young faculty families, and still keep teele

during church with an award for their 77 in touch with many of them. They have od S

years of combined service at GCA. Later also connected with thousands of young Her that afternoon, several hundred people people during the years, through lessons gathered in the GCA gymnasium for a learned inside and outside of the class-

Celebration of Service program and re- room. They feel privileged to have wit- Jodi d by: tte

ception in honor of the Foxes. nessed God’s leading in their students’ i Wally Fox said the turnout for their lives. m celebration was amazing. They also “We joke that we can’t go anywhere o Sub heard from many people who were un- without seeing someone we know,” said t able to be there in person, but wanted to Mary Ellen Fox. “We even saw a former Pho send the couple their congratulations. student on a cruise several years ago.” The Fox Family in 1976: Wally and Mary “The line of people waiting to talk “It’s probably the memories we cher- Ellen Fox, with their daughter, Jennifer. The couple were both recognized for with us was just overwhelming,” said ish more than anything, and the fun times their service with GCA’s new gymna- Mary Ellen Fox. “We didn’t want to miss we’ve shared with the kids,” said Wally sium complex, to be named The Wally anyone.” Fox. “To watch the Lord work in their Fox Wellness Center, and the school’s “It was priceless to get that kind of lives over the years, and see them going renovated library will be named The Mary Ellen Fox Library and Resource love and support,” said her husband. in the right direction are experiences you Center. “There couldn’t have been a better way just can’t replace.” to finish out our career. We’re so thankful As the Foxes look forward to retire- for the opportunities we’ve had here. The ment, they hope to travel more, and to love and support we’ve felt from every- spend time with family, including qual- one is definitely mutual.” ity time with their grandchildren. Their One of the biggest honors of the day friends at GCA are also delighted to for the Foxes was the announcement that know that they plan to continue living GCA’s new gymnasium complex will be in Calhoun. The Georgia-Cumberland named The Wally Fox Wellness Center, Academy campus will not be the same and the school’s renovated library will be place without the Foxes. named The Mary Ellen Fox Library and Resource Center. The couple says they oyd B

greatly appreciate this special recognition, and are humbled by the gesture. rew The Fox family moved to Calhoun,

Ga., in 1975 when Wally Fox took the And y: B

job of athletic director at GCA. Mary o Ellen Fox has also been a fixture at the t Academy, serving as librarian since Pho Greg Gerard (left), GCA principal, and 1984, as well as teaching home econom- Bob Overstreet, alumni president, ics for many years. presented Wally and Mary Ellen Fox “My wife had a definite impact on with service awards at GCA’s Alumni my career,” said Fox. “Her support Weekend this past April. Combined, they have 77 years of service at GCA. throughout the years helped make my BY Tamara wolcott fisher

June 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 27 gulfstatesnews

Crooked Cop, Framed Convict Present at Camp Meeting

rowds gathered at Camp Ala- misco over the chilly weekend Cof Aril 6-7, 2018, as the second annual Alamsico Camp Meeting was held. The year’s theme, which was also used at the Bass Memorial Acad- emy Camp Meeting, May 23-26, 2018, was “Forgiven to Forgive,” based on the text from Colossians 3:13. Darold Bigger, Ph.D., and his wife, Barbara Bigger, were the keynote presenters for the weekend, and they shared an incredible experience of losing their daughter to a brutal murder and going through the journey of forgiving the man who committed the heinous act. This has led to the development of a published book, A Time to Forgive; a DVD-based workshop, Forgive Now; a university class; and frequent speak- ing appointments. Two other presenters, Andrew Col- Jameel McGee (left) and Andrew Collins share their story of forgiveness. lins and Jameel McGee, took the plat- form Sabbath afternoon, and shared report to include McGee in the case. inal records obtain and hold paying a story that only God could have or- McGee was found guilty based on jobs. Shortly after that, McGee came chestrated. Collins was a police offi- the police report, and sentenced to the to take one of those jobs. The two met, cer in Benton Harbor, Mich., and was maximum prison time. A couple of and although McGee had experienced inspired to start his career because he years later, Collins himself was bust- so much loss from being wrongfully wanted to make a positive difference ed with drugs in his office, and, after accused, he forgave Collins, who in- in his community. He also wanted to making a plea deal to right the wrongs tensely apologized for his actions. The make a name for himself and was in- in his false reports, was sentenced to two have become great friends and tent on being the top cop in every way a few years in prison. McGee was re- have written a book about their whole he could. This eventually resulted in leased from jail, but not before realiz- experience, Convicted: A Crooked Cop, him falsifying his reports to improve ing that he needed to change his life an Innocent Man, and an Unlikely Jour- his reputation. McGee, on the other by allowing God to lead it instead of ney of Forgiveness and Friendship. hand, did not have a spotless record directing it himself. Collins came to and harbored hatred and anger in his the same understanding while he was life, yet was going about a typical day in prison, and determined to be a fol- of catching a ride to the store with his lower of Jesus. friend. Collins came to the store on Years later, when Collins was re- a tip to make a drug bust, and found leased, he decided to go back to the some drugs in the vehicle McGee was neighborhoods where he had caused riding in. The drugs did not belong to so much pain, and attempt to make it McGee, but Collins was intent on get- right. He became involved in a local ting the conviction, so he falsified his program that helped people with crim- BY Shane Hochstetler

28 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | JUNE 2018 gulfstatesnews

Preparations Under Way for Alamisco’s 50th Anniversary

amp Alamisco, though it had more. Adventurers and Pathfinders uti- not been named yet, was intro- lize it throughout the year, as do other Cduced to the Southern Union Christian groups, and Gulf States con- in the May 1968 issue of the South- stituents for summer camp. To them, ern Tidings. That article showed the Alamsico has become the place where constituency vote that took place on they feel the presence of God, and March 24, 1968, which enabled the where their spiritual walk has been Conference to lease the land from the positively influenced. Alabama Power Company, and pro- This year marks the 50th year of ceed with building plans for a camp- people of all ages being drawn closing program. The lease for the proper to God at Alamisco, and plans have erty was signed on October 27, 1968. been made to have an anniversary Spectators look on as young woman The agreement was in the interest of celebration, October 5-7, 2018. Ron performs for the ski show on Lake the public and the Conference, as it Whitehead, youth director for the Lake Martin at Camp Alamisco. retained a significant portion of nat- Union, will be the keynote presenter, ural resources to be preserved on the and Bill Wood, retired youth direc- shores of Lake Martin. The late J. tor for the Atlantic Union, will give a Henson Whitehead, then secretary- history-of-Alamisco presentation. treasurer of the Southern Union, stat- If you have been a staff member at ed, “I have seen many youth camps, Alamisco any time during the last 50 most of them ideally located, but I years, you are invited to attend and have never seen as beautiful a location perform a classic camp skit on Satur- with as much potential as the proposed day night. This weekend event is not site on Lake Martin in Alabama. The just for staff, but also to anyone on Pathfinders and families sit down for a view is breathtaking; the lake is large, whom Alamisco has made a positive meal at Alamisco. clear, and beautiful.” impact. The expectations for Alamisco Lodging reservations are sched- were high, and dreams for its po- uled to go online this month, and tential were big. During the next 50 more information is available at years, most, if not all, of those ex- www.campalamisco.org. pectations were met or exceeded, and dreams became a reality. A search of “Camp Alamisco” in the Southern Tidings archives from the Office of Archives, Statistics, and Research nets more than 440 results; Alamisco has had an active role in reaching souls for Christ through Gulf States Conference. For many, Alamisco is a special place to them. For school children, it is the place they come for outdoor school each year; for local church leaders, it is where they are equipped Bill Wood, former Atlantic Union youth for service at elders’ and deacons’ re- director, and his wife, Janet, pose for a BY linda freeman treats, Sabbath School training, and 1993 Camp Alamisco staff photo.

JUNE 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 29 gulfstatesnews

Piedmont Church Burns Mortgage

hurch members of the Pied- mont, Ala., Church celebrated Cpaying off their church property on Sabbath, March 31, 2018, with a mortgage-burning ceremony. It was with a lot of emotion that Mike Duman, pastor, shared what it was like to see an F-5 tornado destroy the church he and fellow members had worked so hard to build. The tornado occurred on April 27, 2011, just two weeks before the first mortgage burning was scheduled. That church fin- ished construction in 2006, and with generous financial support, including support from charter members Ron and Carol Pletcher and Desmond Doss, it was paid off four years later. Follow- ing that tornado, the reconstruction included a basement community storm shelter. Five years after reconstruction Mike Duman, pastor, leads a congregational song while Dennis Milburn (left), completion, the church is debt-free retired Southern Union undertreasurer and former treasurer of Gulf States; Dave once again. Livermore, president of Gulf States; Mel Eisele, former president of Gulf States; Dave Livermore, president of the and Michael Abraham, local elder, sing along for the ceremony. Gulf States Conference, and Mike Duman, pastor and co-founder of Piedmont Church, led out in the service. Rick Blythe, former pastor and co-founder of Piedmont, was in attendance as well. The ceremony included greetings and remarks from Mel Eisele, former president of Gulf States, and Dennis Milburn, former treasurer of Gulf States. Video messages from those not able to attend included Bri- an Danese, treasurer of Gulf States; Leslie Louis, president of the Caro- lina Conference; and Wes Peppers, associate ministerial director of the Michigan Conference.

BY Shane hochstetler

30 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | JUNE 2018 LifeTalkRadionews

New LifeTalk Radio Station Connects Listeners with Christ ew radio station WYAW-LP ROKU, satellite, or Amazon Echo. gramming from Voice of Prophecy, (“Where You Are Welcome”) Does your church pray to reach out to Breath of Life, It Is Written, Jesus 101, N93.5 FM in Pooler/Savannah, the community for Christ, and wonder Faith for Today, and all of the North Ga., began broadcasting LifeTalk Ra- how it can get a LifeTalk station in the American Division Adventist ministries. dio programming on February 14, 2018. area? Steve Dickman, ASI president and WYAW joins the LifeTalk network of LifeTalk Radio has assisted more than station manager of WDNX in Savannah, 130+ affiliate stations across North 150 churches in starting a radio outreach Tenn., says, “LifeTalk does an amazing America that are connecting with their ministry. Other new stations in the net- job of providing a stable, Christ-cen- communities, and offering hope and work include the following: tered, and balanced stream of program- wholeness through Jesus Christ. • Asheville, N.C., 104.7 FM ming that will help you connect with “We are already airing local spots for • Brandon/Tampa, Fla., WSDX-LP your local community. We have been our church,” reports Joe Wamack, pas- 101.9 FM using the LifeTalk programming since tor. “Our church members are loving • Cape Coral, Fla., WLLJ-LP 101.7 FM 1998.” it!” said Carroll Baker, station manager. • Lenoir City, Tenn., WBLC 95.1 “LifeTalk Radio seems like one of “From the studio located in the Savannah FM/1360 AM those hidden treasures of our Church. First Adventist Church building, our new • Maple Grove, Minn., KPJT-LP 99.1 [I hope churches] understand what they station covers the densely populated area FM (Minnesota Conference) have access to! I hope churches highlight surrounding the church.” “This radio ministry is an incredible LifeTalk Radio on their websites,” said “I am so excited about this station!” opportunity to reach out into the com- Ron Vozar, pastor. exclaimed a new listener. “Jan” was driv- munity! It is so far-reaching, 24/7. It is a “LifeTalk Radio is the premier Ad- ing through Pooler, Ga., when she hap- greater bang for our [evangelistic] buck. ventist supplier of radio content. What a pened to notice the Seventh-day Adven- We do wish there were funds available blessing it is to hear the inspiring stories tist Church sign announcing their new to help new stations get started,” com- of how LifeTalk impacts listeners’ lives,” radio station. She tuned her car radio to mented Frank Bailey, manager of the commented Ken Denslow, assistant to 93.5 FM, and caught part of the program new LifeTalk Radio affiliate WSDX in the North American Division president. before she lost the signal. Brandon (Tampa area), Fla. Get the free LifeTalk Radio mobile “How can I hear more?” she asked. John Bradshaw, speaker/director for app or listen online at www.lifetalk.net. She learned she could get the free Life- It Is Written, said, “LifeTalk Radio is For free sharing cards to hand to your Talk Radio mobile app for her phone, our partner in ministry. Together, we are neighbor or friend, email your name and immediately found the podcast of connecting people with Christ. LifeTalk and address to [email protected] or call the show she wanted to hear again. She can help you to reach your community 1-800-775-HOPE (4673). also learned she could listen to LifeTalk for Christ.” online at www.lifetalk.net, or listen via LifeTalk is the radio outlet for pro- BY Becky Carlson

Carroll Baker is the station manager/engineer at the Savannah First Church radio station WYAW-LP 93.5 FM in Pooler, Ga.

June 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 31 kentuckytennesseenews MJA Showcases Class Projects at Flavors of Memphis emphis Junior Academy (MJA) is models of their favorite Memphis locales, is rich in culture and diversity almost like no stranger to the annual Educa- as well as creating a display with pictures nowhere else.” Mtion Fair. The posters, the presen- and information about their neighborhoods. The students of Memphis Junior Acade- tations, the papers — MJA students have The third- through fifth-graders present- my most definitely let that gold shine. been doing them for years. This year, the ed notable African Americans in history planning team wanted something differ- by means of creative displays, original art- ent. Several ideas were thrown around, but work, and 3-D models. BY KAYLEE BAUGHMAN nothing had the right feel, the right flavor. Students in sixth through eighth grades Moreover, they felt that in Memphis, flavor chose a non-profit organization in the com- is VERY important! munity, where they learned all about the Then the idea was born, a Community mission of the organization, interviewed Fair. MJA is in a city rich in culture, the leaders, and even put in a few volunteer arts, history, and well, flavor — so why not hours. showcase that? The student body provided Lastly, the ninth- and 10th-graders select- educational information on the great city ed a city landmark to highlight. Even life- they call home on March 4, 2018. long Memphians learned something new The preK-K class showcased their career about their beloved city. ambitions as their favorite Memphis pro- A famous musician once said, “There fessions. They looked the part, knew their is a grit in Memphis. If you’re here long careers details, and happily shared with vis- enough you get to the gold beneath the grit, oto By: Lisa McLarty Lisa By: oto h

itors their displays. and then you fall in love with the grit itself. P The first- and second-graders constructed It is quintessentially an American city that Layla Hall’s career ambition is to be a dentist. Lexington Women’s Ministries Experience “R.E.A.L.” Growth

n the last several years at Lexington event theme. Opportunities such as prepar- Church in Lexington, Ky., few activities ing Bags of Love for homeless women or Iwere happening in women’s ministries. sending cards to inactive members allows The leadership role was even vacant for these events to be spiritual, ministry mind- a time. However, beginning in 2017 with ed, and social. leaders Ana Banos, Olivia Morris, and their Changes are coming for women’s minis- team — Cindy Willey, Sherri Strickland, tries as the Banos family moves to another Lizzie Garcia, Andrea Miller, and Heidi district in May, and Olivia Morris leaves Herrera — this ministry has become very for college in July. A special quote says, active, with more than 50 women at some Leader Ana Banos welcomes the women “As women of faith, our greatest Friend is events. to the fall craft event, and introduces Christ, but when He blesses us with sisters Becky Mirsky, the evening speaker. Volunteers like Ellen Morris, Emma in Christ, we experience a bond that will Morris, Dionne Blackburn, Irmgard Kohler, managed to get a few snacks and hellos in never die.” Realizing this, Lexington wom- and Lisa Chumley assisting with prepa- before getting kicked out. en’s ministries plans to keep their activities rations, providing food, or taking pictures The ministry’s slogan, “We are Re- going, and continue to look for ways to also aided in this success. Most important deemed, Esteemed, Adopted, Loved,” show the women of the Lexington area the are God’s abundant blessings, those pray- (R.E.A.L.) emphasizes women as individ- blessings of bonds in Christ. ing for the ministry, and those consistently uals cherished by God. Each event begins attending. The events are so popular that with a message shared by a woman from an “intruder” (Bryan Banos, pastor) even the congregation, and is often tied to the BY NIKKI GETMAN

32 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | june 2018 kentuckytennesseenews Leach Church Holds Seventh Annual Easter Prayer Breakfast ne of the greatest means of friend- church and community friends for prayer, ship evangelism is to conduct food, stories, and fellowship. This year’s Oevents that allow people from all special emphasis for the annual brunch was walks of life to sit at your table and eat. praying for four distinct areas: the nation’s Food often tears down walls and fosters leaders, community leaders, church leaders, the development of friendships, as Jesus and families. The prayer session began with himself demonstrated in John 21:17. Jesus a leader from a local Mormon congregation asks Peter at breakfast if He loved Him. Pe- praying for the U.S. President and his cab- ter emphatically affirmed his Master with inet, followed by two church elders and a a hearty “yes!” After each answer Jesus deacon praying for their distinct areas. responded by saying, “Feed my sheep!” At The room was filled to capacity as par- the Leach Church in west Tennessee, two ticipants heard stories of God’s faithfulness ways have been used to do just that, which and undying love. The event culminated in include both the physical and spiritual as a short video vignette of eight individuals Attendees during the 2018 Easter morning prayer breakfast Jesus intended. impacted by the events of the crucifixion Each year the church is blessed with two and resurrection weekend. The success of major events that feature food: the annu- these events has grown so significantly that al Easter Morning Prayer Breakfast and a new fellowship hall is in the process of Thanksgiving Agape Luncheon. The in- being built this spring. tent of these two events is to bring together BY JOHN BAKER Franklin Church Miraculously Finds a Home fter 15 years of renting, the Franklin, Bannister. Tenn., Church finally has a perma- Steve Haley, Conference president, shared Anent church home after a string of with the congregation, “In over 30 years of rapid, miraculous events last fall. ministry, the opportunity for a small congre- Formed in 2001 in a joint effort by the gation to purchase this beautiful property in a Madison Campus and Nashville First congre- high-income, high-cost area rates as one of the gations, the group rented a space in an office Rendering of the future Franklin, Tenn., most stunning events that I’ve ever witnessed. park. In 2011, the church purchased a 10-acre Church campus Just when it seemed that there was no imme- property in Franklin, and in 2012 began meet- diate means by which the church could move ing in the cafeteria of the public school next erty, the first phase of the project with a small forward, God made this property available, at door. Every week for five years, the members chapel would take at least 15 years, and the an affordable price, and in a prime location in had to transport, set up, and tear down every- lease with the school was running out.” one of the fastest growing counties in North thing needed for worship. The first week of September, the board vot- America. Within weeks of closing on the new A large fundraising campaign was devel- ed to explore options. The next day, a 14-acre property, unexpectedly, we had a buyer for the oped for a multi-phase master plan to include property with an already built youth center and former acreage we owned. Amazing! I don’t a chapel, school, and eventually a full campus. fully planned church campus was identified. In use the word ‘miracle’ lightly, but this has in- Through the years, there have been big direc- an urgent business session, the church voted to deed been a miracle, and God alone deserves tional signs of God’s favor, but then all the move forward with an offer, and hired mem- the glory. Truly, God has great plans for the doors to move forward would close. By every ber Naomi Bannister as the real estate agent. Franklin, Tenn., Church, and I can’t wait to see appearance, the church was in an intractable The Franklin Church closed on the property how He will bless and prosper the congrega- situation — financially and logistically. on November 9, 2017, and had their first wor- tion in the future!” When Alex Sozinov joined the congrega- ship service there Thanksgiving weekend. tion in August 2017 as pastor, his assessment “From the time we made the offer to close, confirmed the predicament. “Based on the is- it seemed like every day had a new hurdle, and sues and restrictions we had at the other prop- then just as quickly, it would be resolved,” said BY CYNTHIA WILLEY and ANA BANOS

june 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 33 southatlanticnews

Summerville Members Continue “Touch 10K Challenge” he Summerville, S.C., Church continued their outreach-oriented Tmomentum on March 24, 2018, by launching their Touch 10K Challenge. Touch 10K is an initiative of the regional conference personal ministries departments in partnership with their respective publishing departments. The simple goal is to inspire and empower each church to touch the lives of 10,000 people in their communities with the Gospel. Touching someone’s life could be through blood pressure screenings at a health fair, food Summerville member Horace Johnson (right) stands with a man from the distribution to the hungry, Vacation Bible community. School, or — as in this case — literature Raymond Johnson (left), pastor, and the Summerville members display their distribution. touches, and brainstorm various follow Touch 10K Challenge T-shirts. The day began with a celebratory yet up strategies. abbreviated worship service that transi- One provocative moment of the numbers who do not listen to the preach- tioned into a witness service. The mem- brainstorming session that emboldened ing of God’s Word or attend any religious bers were led into the community by the group was a revelation made plain service. If they are reached by the Gos- their pastor, Raymond Johnson, along through a demographic study. According pel, it must be carried to their homes,” with South Atlantic Conference pub- to city-data.com, approximately 80,000 Ministry of Healing, page 143-4. Upon lishing director, Carl McRoy. After dis- people (58.8 percent of the population) learning this, the members agreed that tributing about 300 Message magazines have no religious affiliation. touching 10K is only the beginning! door to door, the members returned to In spite of all the steeples punctuating the church to eat, testify about their 300 the city of Summerville, “There are large BY carl mcroy Summerville Holds Annual Women’s International Day of Prayer he annual Women’s International Day of Prayer was held at Sum- Tmerville, S.C., Church on March 3, 2018. The church was filled with an- ticipation because the women’s ministries leader challenged the women with the theme “Each One Bring One,” to invite other women to the celebration who are not Adventists. They wanted the day to be about prayer, with an evangelistic approach. It was a bright, sunny morning, with coolness in the air. The church pews began to fill with members and visitors. Many countries were represented during the parade of flags.

34 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | June 2018 southatlanticnews

They came from the north and south, east belief in Him. Subsequently, God began and west, and were invited to join with to work a set of miracles in their lives Jesus as the Supreme Guest. that reassured them that He was still on Divine worship began with the Pa- their side. The testimony was so power- rade of Flags representing members and ful that there was hardly a dry eye in the friends of the church. One special feature house. of the service was when two guests who The message for the day coincided weren’t Adventists shared their experi- with the testimonies, because the speak- ences of answered prayer in their lives. er, Hannah Walker Johnson, elder, reem- The Summerville members enjoy their Debra Summers told about her husband’s phasized to the congregation, “No matter meal during the Women’s International battle with cancer, and that their son was what we’re going through, God sees, He Day of Prayer dinner. a perfect match for bone marrow trans- understands, and He cares!” Mexico, Philippines, Virgin Islands, and plant. However, in the midst of rejoicing Following the spiritual food, came the Zambia. This is an annual event, and all and thanking God, he became ill again, physical meal — a display of culinary are invited to attend next year! and was diagnosed with throat cancer. treats from Antigua, Barbados, Camer- BY They began to question God and their oon, Canada, Cuba, Guyana, Jamaica, Raymond Johnson Christ is the Answer Members “Hit the Bricks” to Share Gospel here was wind, scattered show- ers, and fluctuating temperatures. TThere was also gratitude, determination, and fellowship as the members of Christ is the Answer Church in Orange- burg, S.C., experienced a revival as they “hit the bricks” to share the Gospel. Carl McRoy, Conference communication/publishing director and former pastor of Christ is the Answer, received a warm welcome back to the church as he introduced the Touch 10K Challenge to the congregation. The goal is for every church in the Conference to touch 10,000 people in their community with some form of evangelistic outreach. The method used on April 7, 2018, was to share Message magazines in an apartment complex near the church. The members enjoyed the teamwork Christ is the Answer members “hit the bricks” to share the Gospel and distribute in the fellowship hall as they labeled the Message magazines to a nearby apartment complex. magazines with their local church’s contact information, and then they placed them in plastic door-hanger bags from Close to half of the attendees gath- in a short span of time by keeping it www.sharewaves.org (the South Atlantic ered for a potluck in one of the mem- simple. The members are excited about Conference online store for affordable ber’s apartments before touching reaching their goal. outreach literature). Some members took approximately 350 neighbors with literature to communities in other sur- Message magazines in less than an hour. BY rounding areas. This small church made a big impact carl mcroy

June 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 35 southcentralnews

OAA Holds Groundbreaking Ceremony for New Academy Building

he Oakwood community waited and union officials, and dignitaries from ed a small gold commemorative shovel years to break ground for a new the local area government. Will Culver, to individuals in recognition of their in- Tacademy. Oakwood Adventist councilman of Huntsville District 5, pre- valuable contributions that brought OAA Academy (OAA) broke ground on its sented congratulatory remarks, as did to this point. new academy building for grades 9-12 Alex Bryant, executive secretary of the on March 30, 2018. It will be remem- North American Division. Also offering BY paul D. nixon bered as a great day in OAA history, not words of congratulations and encourage- only because of its significance to the ment were Ron C. Smith, D.Min., Ph.D., Oakwood community, but also because president of the Southern Union Confer- of its significance to Seventh-day Adven- ence; Benjamin Jones Jr., president of tists and African American communities. the South Central Conference; and John- Rupert Bushner Jr., D.Min., senior pastor ny Holiday, superintendent of schools for of the Mt. Calvary Church in Huntsville, South Central. Ala., prayed a prayer of thankfulness to The building plans call for 11 class- God, stating that, “We are our ancestors’ rooms, including a collaboration space wildest dream.” that will have clear walls and three sci- OAA’s groundbreaking ceremony ence labs, one each for chemistry, biol- was small but elegant. Gathered togeth- ogy, and STEM, as well as an adminis- A commemorative shovel is presented er were students and employees of the trative suite. To conclude the ceremony, to T. Marshall Kelly by Gabriel Madrid, school, local area pastors, conference Gabriel Madrid, OAA principal, present- OAA principal.

Participating in the OAA groundbreaking ceremony are Alphonso Green (left), First Church associate pastor; Michael Ross, New Life pastor; Julius Edmund, Oakwood University Church associate pastor; Carlton Byrd, D.Min., Oakwood University Church senior pastor; Paul Goodridge, Oakwood University Church associate pastor; Willie Taylor, Trinity pastor; and Rupert Bushner Jr., D.Min., Mt. Calvary senior pastor.

36 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | JUNE 2018 southcentralnews

OAA Students Win Awards at State Science Fair

even Oakwood Adventist Acad- Masters for the Junior International emy (OAA) students earned the science competition. Vanterpool will Sright to compete in the Alabama attend the International Science and Science and Engineering Fair (ASEF) Engineering Fair (ISEF) in the Student this past April 2018. All seven OAA stu- Observer program, May 13-18, 2018, in dents won multiple awards at the event, Pittsburg, Pa. and OAA took home 28 awards, the Oakwood Adventist Academy con- second most awards of any school rep- gratulates all the winners on a job well OAA Robotics team with Brandon Dent resented. Two students, Brianna Henry done! OAA is proud of how they rep- (back row, left), OAA math and physics and Arielle Madrid, placed first in their resented their families, school, region, teacher, and Vaughan Mountain (back respective divisions. In addition, Henry state, and most all, God! row, right), assistant coach and Jayden Vanterpool advanced to the next stage, and will present their projects at the international level. BY Henry will advance to the Broadcom Nanetta Joiner-Pressley OAA Places First, Third at Southern Challenge for Robotics

akwood Adventist Academy with at least two professionals, and in- (OAA) participated in the South- clude the latter’s responses in their final Oern Challenge, March 25, 2018, research report. an annual tournament held at Southern The OAA team researched the prob- Adventist University that features LEGO lem of high soil salinity from irrigation robotics and research projects presented and its detrimental effects on produce. by middle and high school students. OAA They identified several reasons why salt received first place for their core values collects in irrigation water, and how the presentation, and third place for their re- evaporation of water from the surface of search project. The Southern Challenge the Earth causes salt to collect around has three levels of competition — robot the roots of plants and produce. After missions, scientific research, and a core much research and collaboration with values presentation. The theme was “Hy- professors from Oakwood University, drodynamics,” which required teams to Alabama A&M University, and the Uni- program robots to solve water-related versity of Alabama at Birmingham, the problems associated with the process of team shared their solution, which includ- OAA students at State Science Fair locating, transporting, and using and dis- ed setting an optimal irrigation schedule with Gabriel Madrid, OAA principal (back row, left), and Nanetta posing water. for typical weather conditions, and us- Joiner-Pressley, science teacher (right) Teams also had to conduct research ing sensors to detect excess rain or arid to identify their own problem, and rec- conditions to cancel or initiate additional ommend a viable solution. Additionally, water cycles as needed. they were required to share their research BY brandon dent

JUNE 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 37 southeasternnews Southeastern Hosts Pathfinder Bible Experience on ps hom T Photo By: C. By: Photo Pathfinders from across the North American Division and beyond huddle to answer test Alex Bryant, NAD executive secretary, questions during the Pathfinder Bible Experience division finals. Nearly 200 teams of six reminded the Pathfinders that they were demonstrated their knowledge of Daniel and Esther. chosen by God. Sabbath worship served as the climax to the testing event. hey came from as far as California, so that nearly 200 teams of six could huddle Washington, Oregon, Canada, and in small groups and discuss the word of God. Tsome as far as Great Britain. And, Each team listened for the question (which they all came for one thing — to share in the was also read in Spanish), and then they were study of the Word of God. The Pathfinder given 30 seconds to write down the correct on ps Bible Experience (PBE) is the official North answer. When the time expired, a “runner” hom American Division (NAD) Pathfinder Bible took each team’s final answer to the panel of T study program. Each year teams of six mem- judges to be tallied and scored, along with all bers study a book of the Bible to be tested at their other responses. Each team that answers several events on various levels. There are at least 90 percent of the questions correctly

four levels of competition: area, conference, receives a first place award. The teams were C. By: Photo union, and division. This year’s division was asked 90 questions (taken from Daniel and Pathfinder Bible Experience supporter held at the Southeastern Conference Camp- Esther) worth a total of 170 points. Of the 185 watches the competition from the rear ground, Camp Hawthorne in Hawthorne, teams that participated in this year’s competi- of her vehicle. Since supporters are not allowed inside the testing area, many Fla. tion, 114 teams were awarded first place. It is watched online via mobile devices and More than 4,000 Pathfinders, parents, and evident that this year’s participants were well closed circuit television. friends flocked to Camp Hawthorne on April prepared to demonstrate their knowledge of 20, 2018, to spend the weekend testing their the Scriptures. “chosen by God.” Bible knowledge. The weekend event began The Sabbath worship service was held Prince Lewis, Southeastern Conference with a Vesper service that featured songs; a after the morning testing. The worship ser- youth director, remarked, “It was a blessing short play based on the book of Esther; and vice featured special music from Saman- to host such an awesome event. We look for- a keynote message by Vandeon Griffin, asso- tha Grady, the Adventist teenager who was ward to opening our doors to PBE again in ciate director of youth ministries at the NAD. among the victims of the Stoneman Douglas the future.” The Sabbath morning schedule began with Shooting in March of this year. Alex Bryant, the finals testing. The chairs in the camp- NAD executive secretary, delivered a ser- ground’s main pavilion were all rearranged, mon to remind the Pathfinders that they were BY communication staff

38 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | June 2018 southeasternnews Southeastern Partners for Sustainable Health embers of the Northside Church in Miami, Fla., brought together Mroughly 300 volunteers to provide health services for more than 1,000 community residents on March 24, 2018.

Local universities such as Southeastern n

University College of Dental Medicine, Dea Barry University School of Podiatric h Medicine, Miami Miller School of Med- icine, and Florida International Universi- oto By: Bet By: oto

ty sent scores of medical students to pro- h vide on-site medical care, evaluations, P and testing, including mammograms and Mobile testing units from local medical schools provide free mammograms and HIV tests to community residents. More than 300 volunteers from numerous organiza- tests for diabetes, HIV, and Hepatitis C. tions partnered to provide free healthcare to the North Miami, Fla., community. Also, local health care professionals volunteered their services to provide optical care, as well as answer questions about pre-existing conditions. Several Adventist and non-Adventist organizations, local media outlets, and even a local school district office collab- orated to organize and provide a compre- hensive health awareness and care event that was completely free to the public. n

Also, attendees with extensive needs Dea h were given referrals for follow-up care at low or no cost. Children enjoyed pup- pet shows, biblical stories, songs, animal oto By: Bet By: oto

creations from balloons, and snack packs h P while parents browsed through the fair. A local organization donated groceries that served more than 500 families. Free And, it wasn’t just the children’s area groceries were distributed to those in need. that told about God’s love. The health event was a living expression of the love of God. With a mission-driven mandate, the focus was to create partnerships that will continue over time to provide care and support and demonstrate God’s love. n Dea h oto By: Bet By: oto h P Barry University podiatry students provided foot care to health fair attendees. More than 1,000 residents were served during the health fair.

BY beth dean

June 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 39 oakwooduniversitynews Oakwood Offers Place of Quiet Rest, Beauty

Road leading to Oakwood Memorial Gardens

ince its establishment in 2001, Oakwood Memorial Gardens SCemetery in Huntsville, Ala., has been filling a need for families ex- periencing the loss of a loved one. The 15-acre cemetery is located at the southern boundary of Oakwood’s property, near the Historic Slave Cemetery and Pioneer Lake. How comforting it is to know that their loved one is resting in a place that is naturally lovely, and can be considered, in many ways, “sacred ground.” It is a peaceful place where family members can pause and remember their loved ones. In the mid-1970s, while pastoring the Oakwood Memorial Gardens sign Oakwood College Church (now Oak- wood University Church), Eric C. Ward expressed a desire to see a cemetery on might not exist were it not for Ward’s vi- other personnel will be available at buri- the campus. Delbert Baker, then Oak- sion. Some well-known black Adventists al services to ensure that families’ plans wood president, championed the concept are buried there, including Earl E. Cleve- are executed, and guests are comfortable some 30 years later, and Ward’s dream land, Eva B. Dykes, and Garland J. Millet. during graveside services. became a reality. When Ward died in The current Oakwood University pres- Each Memorial Day and Veteran’s 2004, he was buried in his hometown of ident, Leslie Pollard, Ph.D., D.Min., has Day, American flags are placed on the Los Angeles, Calif. However, in 2017 his dramatically expanded the business op- graves of veterans buried in the cemetery family decided to move his remains to eration of the cemetery as one of Oak- in honor of their service to their country. Oakwood Memorial Gardens Cemetery wood’s industries. — a fitting decision since the cemetery Gerald Kibble, cemetery director, and BY staff writer

40 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | June 2018 obituaries

BROOKS, HERMAN O., 83, born Feb. 3, Center Church in Apopka for one year, but she in death by her husband, Irvin “Harold” Ihrig. 1934 in Fort Meade, FL, died Dec. 2, 2017 in was a lifetime Adventist. She was employed as a Harold was a long time employee of the South- Lakeland, FL. He was a life-long member of the director of Florida Hospital South for volunteer ern Publishing Association after which he was Church, first in Ft. Meade and then in Lakeland services for 30 to 35 years. She is survived by employed by Review and Herald. since 1968. His faith and trust in God increased one daughter, Cynthia Jean Scheffler. The ser- as he got older, and it was tested as he faced vice was conducted by Pastor Jim King at Bald- KWIEK, CHESTER, 96, born Jan. 20, 1922 more and more health issues. Herman worked win Fairchild West in Altamonte Springs, FL. in Sandusky, OH, died Jan. 22, 2018 in New Port hard all his life as a nurseryman/landscaper, Richey, FL. He was a member of the New Port maintenance man for almost 34 years for the DAVIS, WILLIAM EDWARD, 89, born Richey Church for 17 years. He survived by one Polk County Association for Handicapped Cit- April 13, 1928 in Rock Island, TN, died Feb. 28, son, Darryl of New Port Richey; one daughter, izens, raised cattle, planted big gardens, and 2018 in Goodlettsville, TN. As a young teenag- Carol Pulfer of Churubusco, IN; one brother of had a small citrus grove on his acreage. He is er, he went to work in a cotton mill and contin- DeLand; nine grandchildren; 23 great-grand- survived by his wife of 26 years, Arliss; three ued in other labor-intensive jobs. In 1952, he children; and seven great-great-grandchildren. daughters: Judy Brooks of Bartow, FL, Connie joined the U.S. Marines, serving in the Korean The service was conducted by Pastor Jonathon (Tracy) Takemoto of Hanapepe, HI, and San- War, and was awarded several medals for his Pawson at the Meadow Lawn Funeral Home in dra Peatross of Winter Springs, FL; one sister, service and skills. Following seven years in the New Port Richey. Interment was at the Mead- Faye Garcia of Homeland, FL; seven grand- service, he began a new career as a truck driver. ow Lawn Cemetery in New Port Richey. children; and five great-grandchildren. He was His love and talent for music brought pleasure predeceased by his parents, David and Nannie to many. He was a writer and composed many SHULTZ, JOAN ADELL RADER, 83, Lou Brooks; his first wife, June; three broth- poems. He was a faithful member of the Ridge- died April 12, 2018. Arrangements were han- ers: Jack, Harold, and Earl; two sisters: Betty top, TN, Church. He is survived by two sons: dled by Covenant Funeral & Crematory, Crox. O’Steen and Lucy Hartwein; and one son-in- Mark E. Davis and Ervin (Karen) Brown; three law, Phillip Peatross. A memorial service was daughters: Tracy Davis, Oleta (David) Emer- SMITH, DOROTHY MAY, 99 of McDon- held at the Lakeland Church, followed by a prison, and Cherie (David) La Tourette; one broth- ald, TN, born April 21, 1918, died Feb. 9, 2018 vate family burial in New Hope Cemetery in er, Aubra W. (Billie Faye) Davis; 12 grandchil- in Chattanooga, TN. She was a member of Ft. Meade with Pastor Robert Beck officiating. dren; and three great-grandchildren. He was the Collegedale Church. She is survived by preceded in death by his wife, Lona Davis; and her husband of 67 years, LB Smith; daughter, BROWN, SHARON ANN, 82, of Col- several siblings. Pamela (Terry) Dietrich; two grandchildren: legedale, TN, died March 13, 2018, at a local Nikki (Brandon) Sutton and Mark (Shelli) health care facility surrounded by her family. ELLER, JOSEPH QUENTIN, 90, of Col- Dietrich; four great-grandchildren: Hayden, Arrangements were by Cremation Center of legedale, TN, born Nov. 11, 1927 in Rockwell, Dylan, Landon Dietrich, and Cassie Sutton. A Chattanooga. NC, to the late Calvin and Josie Eller, died Feb. Memorial Service was conducted Feb. 17, 2018 2, 2018. He moved to Collegedale in 1946. He at the Collegedale Church. BURKS, SHIRLEY ANN BENNETT, 80, graduated from Collegedale Academy and at- born Sept. 15, 1937, died Feb. 10, 2018. She tended Southern Missionary College. He was a SPURLOCK JR., JOSEPH M., 65, of was a strong, courageous, and joyful woman. commercial builder and worked for T.U. Parks McDonald, TN, born in Ft. Rucker, AL, died She was a woman of strong faith and a giving Construction, Payne and Harris Construction, March 19, 2018 at Vanderbilt University Med- heart, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and Rufus and Sanders Whaley Construction. ical Center. Joe spent his early life in Frost- and great-grandmother, as well as a prolific The last 20 years of his working career were at proof, FL, before moving to Collegedale, TN, gardener. Shirley was the co-founder of Life Southern Adventist University. He is survived in his teens. Joe was a custom home builder Line Foods and Ameritrek Tours. She is sur- by his four children: Barbara Aileen Eller, Ann in the Chattanooga area for many years. The vive by her six children: Lester (Terry) Burks, Eller Arquitt, Edward (Tracy) Eller, and Jim- homes he built stand around the area as mon- Twyla (Bill) Landess, Teresa (Billy Frank) my (Luann) Eller; four sisters: Peggy Daniel, uments to his talent and creativity. Joe loved Angel, Leland Burks, April (Lee) Whitman, Charlotte (Dan) Tullock, Venita Key, Joan Fox; to make people laugh, and his sense of humor and June (James) Price; 17 grandchildren; 11 seven grandchildren: Tyler (Christine) Eller, brought joy to all who knew him. Joe is sur- great-grandchildren; and her younger broth- Trevor Eller, Mark Arquitt, Alex Arquitt, Jef- vived by his wife of almost 44 years, Donna er, Joe Bennett. She was preceded in death by frey Arquitt, Megan (Lincoln) Duff, and Zach- Spurlock; two daughters: Kelly (Josh) Sink and her husband of 60 years, Gary Burks; her par- ary Eller. He was preceded in death by his lov- Stephanie (Justice) Haga; four grandchildren: ents: Ernie and Bessie Bennett; her twin sister, ing wife, Barbara Allen Jacobs Eller; and one Autumn and Emmett Haga and Kirubel and Charlotte (Bennett) Hallabough; and her older brother, Kermit Duane Eller. The funeral ser- Amahle Sink; two sisters: Karen (John) Gil- brother, Neil Bennett. Shirley loved the Lord vice was held Feb. 4, 2018, in the funeral home breath and Kay (Ed) Nestell and their families; and was certain of His love for her. Her heart’s chapel with Dr. Doug Jacobs officiating. Burial as well as other family members; and beloved desire was to experience the presence of God followed at Collegedale Memorial Park. friends whom he considered family. A celebra- in the Earth made new. Shirely was a charter tion of Joe’s life was held on March 24, 2018. member of the Pikeville Church. A memorial IHRIG, BARBARA, 94, born Oct. 1, 1923 was held in her honor on Feb.17, 2018, with her in Addison, NY, died Feb. 19, 2018 in Madi- son-in-law, Lee Whitman, officiating. son, TN. She was a member of the Bordeaux Church in Nashville, TN. She is survived by CHURCHILL, AGNES, 87, born Dec. 15, three daughters: Marilyn Owen, Chris Warden, 1930 in Chicago, IL, died Feb. 1, 2018 in Apop- and Becky Wheeler; four grandchildren; and ka, FL. She was a member of the Florida Living seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded

JUNE 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 41 announcements

Friday through Saturday evening. class years ending in 3’s and 8’s. announcements Contact: 423-892-6013 or for fur- The Class of 1968 will be marking ther details, visit: sgsdaschool.org its 50th Reunion. Special invita- FIRST ATLANTA CHILDREN’S tion to former Fletcher Academy BUSINESS FAIR – June 3. Renée PLAINVIEW ADVENTIST ACADE- choir members. Please update your Bishop, a member of Pillars of Faith MY, SHEYENNE RIVER ACADEMY, contact information at agibbs@ Church, will host the fair. The fair is and DAKOTA ADVENTIST ACAD- fletcheracademy.com, 828-209- exclusively for children, 4-16, to sell EMY ALUMNI WEEKEND – Oct . 6704. More details at: www.fletch- handmade items or services. This 5, 6. Dakota Adventist Academy, eracademy.com. endeavor is to promote creativity 15905 Sheyenne Circle, Bismarck, and fiscal responsibility. It is free to ND. Come and renew your friend- weimar institute 40th HOME- attend and everyone is encouraged ships. Honor Classes: ‘44, ‘49, ‘54, COMING – Nov. 2-4. We are cele- to support our young entrepre- ‘59, ‘64, ‘69, ‘79, ‘89, ‘94, ‘99, ‘04, brating 40 years of God’s blessings neurs. Details: www.atlantachildbi- ‘09, and ‘14. Details: 701-751-6177, at Weimar Institute this year! If zfair.com. x212, or visit our website at www. you attended academy or pursued dakotaadventistacademy.org. higher edu-cation here, please join “YE OLDE” CEDAR LAKE ACAD- us. Honor classes: ’83, ’88, ’93, ’98, EMY REUNION – June 8-10. For FLETCHER ACADEMY HOME- 03’, ’08, ’13. For more infor-mation: alumni and classmates at Great COMING WEEKEND – Oct. 5-7. FA 530-422-7964 or http://weimar. Lakes Adventist Academy, Cedar Campus. Join us as we honor the edu/alumni/ Lake, MI. Honor classes: 1938, 1948, 1958, 1968. For further information, you may contact GLAA Alumni Of- SUNSET fice at 989-427-5181 or visit http:// www.glaa.net. Jun 1 Jun 8 Jun 15 Jun 22 Jun 29 Jul 6 Atlanta, Ga 8:43 8:46 8:49 8:51 8:52 8:51 CELEBRATE YOUR FAVORITE Charleston, SC 8:22 8:26 8:29 8:31 8:31 8:31 TEACHER. The Cover Feature for Charlotte, NC the July 2018 Southern Tidings will 8:32 8:36 8:39 8:41 8:41 8:41 Collegedale, TN highlight personal tributes to teach- 8:50 8:53 8:56 8:58 8:59 8:58 ers who had a lasting influence on Huntsville, AL 7:54 7:58 8:01 8:02 8:03 8:02 their students. If there is such a Jackson, MS 8:02 8:06 8:09 8:10 8:11 8:11 teacher who made a difference in Louisville, KY 9:00 9:04 9:08 9:09 9:10 9:09 your life, please share your story at Memphis, TN 8:09 8:13 8:16 8:18 8:18 8:17 www.southernunion.com/teachers. Miami, FL 8:08 8:11 8:13 8:15 8:16 8:16 In 250 words, answer the following: Montgomery, AL 7:47 7:50 7:53 7:55 7:56 7:55 Who was your favorite teacher? Nashville, TN 7:58 8:02 8:05 8:07 8:08 8:07 Why? Orlando, FL 8:18 8:22 8:24 8:26 8:27 8:26 Tampa, FL 8:21 8:24 8:27 8:29 8:30 8:29 LAURELWOOD ADVENTIST Wilmington, NC 8:18 8:22 8:25 8:27 8:27 8:26 ACADEMY – Aug. 3-5. Members of the Class of 1968 will meet at the Adobe Resort in Yachts, Oregon, for a 50-year class reunion. Call CLOSE TO SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY and make your reservations now. 350 SW GENEVE LN - 37311 Reference Laurelwood Academy’s 50th Class Reunion. Questions? Call Jacquie Jenkins Biloff at 605-295- 0040 or email at skyjaky@gmail. com.

STANDIFER GAP SDA SCHOOL CELEBRATES 70th ANNIVERSA- RY – Sept . 28, 29. All former students and former staff are invited to attend the celebration in Chatta- nooga, TN. Festivities will begin on

42 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | JUNE 2018 advertisements

Southern Union ENGAGE SEP- Youth Leadership Training Convention 2018 with presenters TEM ROGER WADE & DAVE FERGUSON along with seminars and workshops presented by -BER your Southern Union youth directors! Cohutta Springs Youth Camp 21-23 Crandall, GA

CONNECTING YOUTH TO JESUS AND HIS CHURCH

Learn more and register at www.gccsda.com/events/engage2018 Presented by the Southern Union and hosted by the Georgia-Cumberland Conference

JUNE 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 43 advertisements

How to Submit Your Advertising Call Soon Lee, 931-980-9011. [6] (1) Have your pastor or local church elder write “Approved” and his signature on the sheet of paper containing 40X80 COMMERCIAL METAL BUILD- the advertisement, (2) write your name and address on the same sheet, (3) specify how many times the ad is to ING – Altamont, TN. Well insulated, run, (4) send the approved ad to your conference office 6 weeks in advance of the publication date and (5) don’t forget to enclose payment in full for each month the ad is to run. Make checks payable to SOUTHERN UNION. with walk-in and 10x10 rollup door. 2 storage buildings 24x40 each with RATES: Southern Union: $40 for 20 words or less, including address. $45 for anything longer than draw bucket wells, large fenced gar- 20 words up to 45 words. $1.30 per word beyond 45. Accepted as space is available. Ads may run in successive months as space permits. den area, blueberries, 169 level acres on hardtop road, utilities available. Southern Tidings makes every reasonable effort to screen all advertising, but in no case can the periodical Call Soon Lee, 931-980-9011. [6] assume responsibility for advertisements appearing in its columns, or for typographical errors. 1 BED CONDO IN HONOLULU, HA- COLLEGEDALE AREA – 7 level acres WAII – In Nu’uanu. Relaxing & afford- Propertypropert Availabley Available with a creek and large plantation style able, minutes to beaches, Chinatown home, $342,000. Ringgold, GA. One & hiking! Clean, comfortable, like COLLEGEDALE GUESTHOUSE: 1.5 acre home with 4 bed, 3.5 bath with new. Sleeps 6 comfortably. Furnished bedroom fully equipped condo with above ground pool, $289,900. Visit kitchen, washer/dryer and more. Free kitchen and laundry, no steps, huge www.DixonTeam.com. Wendy Dixon, parking. Visit www.honcentralsda.org deck, secluded woodland setting. ask for a member of the Dixon Team or call 808-524-1352. [6] “What a find!” say guests, “Delightful!” with Keller Williams Realty, Ooltewah: $70/night for two (2-night minimum). 423-702-2000, direct, 423-664-1800, Call 423-236-4688 or 423-716-1298. office. [6] PositionsPo Availablesitions Available See pictures at www.rogerkingrentals. com [6] SOUTHERN TINY LIVING proud- SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVER- ly presented by Southern Adventist SITY seeks Digital Engagement SUMMIT RIDGE RETIREMENT VILLA- University. The Tiny House features Manager for the Marketing and GE – An Adventist community in a rural 300 square feet of living space, high University Relations department setting that offers affordable homes ceiling with two lofts, fully equipped to develop content for SAU or apartments and caring neighbors, kitchen, full-size bathtub and shower, constituents by leading, developing, with a fellowship you’ll enjoy. On- fully furnished. Reduced: now only and implementing the university’s site church, planned activities, and $49,500. For more information call social/digital advertising strategy. transportation, as needed. Also, Wolfe 423-236-2537, email: tprice@south- This position focuses on analytics, Living Center offering independent ern.edu or visit www.southerntinyliv- testing, and optimization, along with living and nursing home. Website: ing.com [6] social campaigns/online relationship http://summitridgevillage.org or Bill development. To apply/see full Norman 405-208-1289. © HOUSE FOR SALE IN THE COL- description visit: www.southern. LEGEDALE AREA: Beautifully remod- edu/jobs [6] FLORIDA LIVING, INDEPENDENT eled 3 bedroom home located off RETIREMENT LIVING – celebrating Tallant Road near Southern Adventist SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVER- 53 years of service. A small, relaxed, University on 3/4 acre lot. Check out SITY seeks CIRC Lead Programmer/ sunny and warm environment for the virtual tour at www.6009tallant. Analyst in the School of Computing. SDA retirees. Affordable, lease only com. Contact Jon D’Avanzo, Davanzo This position oversees/coordinates condos, efficiencies and homes. Real Estate: 423-834-4545 or JDhelp- work of students/staff engaged in Located near SDA hospitals, medical [email protected] [6] software development/analysis. B.S. offices, shopping and entertainment. in Computer Science or similar and Vegetarian meals and healthy living PICTURESQUE 65 ACRES with end 5 years of programming experience. style promoted. 407-862-2646, of road privacy. Nice double-wide, Graduate education in computer www.floridalivingretirement.com [6- ready to move in to. Also included is a science preferred. To apply and see 3] horse barn, shop and unfinished cab- full description visit: www.southern. in. Very private location near Adven- edu/jobs [6] ENJOY WORRY-FREE INDEPEN- tist community. Dunlap TN address. DENT RETIREMENT at Fletcher Park Church/school only 20 minutes. Ask- OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY seeks a Inn on the Fletcher Academy cam- ing $249,000. Call Chuck for more full-time professor for the Nursing pus near Hendersonville, NC. Lovely, details: 423-949-8211. [6] Department, starting July 1, spacious apartments available now. 2018. Master’s degree in nursing, Enjoy a complimentary lunch at our LATE MODEL 2300 sq. ft., 3 bed, 2 minimum of 5 years clinical practice vegetarian buffet on the day of your bath triple-wide mobile home in Al- in nursing with family and children, no-obligation tour. Call Lisa for de- tamont, TN. Metal carport, 12x16 well current Alabama nursing license, tails. 828-209-6935 and visit: www. house, 3 small ponds, large blueber- excellent physical assessment skills fletcherparkinn.com [6] ry patch, 16.9 acres on blacktop road. and interpersonal relationship, City water available. Call 249,000. must have a strongly expressed

44 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | JUNE 2018 advertisements

commitment to Jesus Christ and preparation and coordination, CP) to be our Laboratory Manager. the teachings of the SDA church as financial management, and ongoing Call 423-987-0831 or apply online: evidenced by regular SDA Church event planning. www.andrews. www.wildwoodhealth.org/about-us/ membership. Brief description of edu/admres/jobs/show/staff_ personnel/staff-application [6] duties: provides didactic and clinical hourly#job_10 [6] instructions related to BSN Nursing; teaches course in pediatric nursing UNION COLLEGE seeks full-time MISCELLANEOUSmiscellaneous and pediatric clinical; engages in professor of communication with student advisement; participates strong experience in emerging media RELOCATING? Apex Moving & in educational planning, curriculum and public relations beginning July Storage has a national account revision, faculty development; 2019. Doctorate is preferred. Please contract with the General Conference serves on departmental and submit a curriculum vitae to Dr. Mark for your moving needs. Take university committees; collaborates Robison, Humanities Division chair, advantage of a volume rated discount. with faculty to improve student at [email protected] [6, 7] Be assured you are moving with the success; engages in professional BEST! Call Marcy Dante’ at 800-766- development activities to maintain THE EDDLEMON CHILD DEVELOP- 1902; or visit us at: www.apexmoving. currency and expertise; serves MENT CENTER, INC., located on com/adventist [6-12] on departmental and university the campus of Eddlemon Adventist committees; demonstrate a strong School in Spartanburg, SC, is AUTHORS of cookbooks,health commitment to nursing excellence; currently seeking a director. The books, children’s chapteR coordinates, updates and maintains center provides care for 24 children, and picture books, Call 800-367- syllabi, course material, and systemic ages 2-4. The position has dual 1844 for your free evaluation. We pub- evaluation reports. Visit website responsibilities of director and part- lish all book formats, distribute to over www.oakwood.edu/Employment. time teacher. For more information 39,000 bookstores in 220 countries. Send application, curriculum contact Jennifer Spears: 864-415- Find our new titles at your local ABC vitae and transcripts to hroffice@ 7954, [email protected] [6] or www.TeachServices.com, used SDA oakwood.edu [6] books at www.LNFBooks.com [6-4] MISSION OPPORTUNITIES – Laurel- ANDREWS UNIVERSITY seeks an brook Academy is a self supporting SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSI- Administrative Assistant, Nursing. institution training missionaries. We TY offers master’s degrees in busi- Responsible for a variety of program have the following positions open: ness, computer science, counseling, management activities under the dietary manager, vegetarian cook, education, global community devel- supervision of the Department Chair CNA’s, farm manager, nursing home opment, nursing, religion and social and demonstrates competence in administrator. We provide many op- work. Flexibility is provided through various routine support services portunities to go on mission trips with some online and many on-campus which include generating reports, the students and staff to develop your programs. Financial aid may be avail- maintaining budgets, managing talents for God. For more information, able. For more information, call 423- correspondence with clients, call 423-664-5343 or email presi- 236-2585 or visit www.southern.edu/ recruits, or other parties outside [email protected] [6-8] graduatestudies [6-5] the program, collecting and maintaining accreditation and OB-GYN, Pediatrician, Psychi- SINGLE? WIDOWED? DIVORCED? assessment documents, and atrist, and Psychologist need- Meet compatible SDA’s from USA management of confidentialed for Adventist owned/operated Rural ages 18-98. Each provides: birthday, files. Will maintain program files, Health Clinic on the campus of Weimar marital status, race, occupation, inter- spreadsheets, manipulate web- Institute at Weimar, California. Competi- ests, goals, year baptized, lots more! based applications, conduct tive pay. Call Dr. Randall Steffens at: 615- Safe, confidential, effective, fun! For significant amounts of research in 604-0142. [6] information, application and current support of program accreditation catalog, send $25 to: SDA Pen-Pals, and assessment activities. www. HOUSE PARENT OR CAREGIVER for PO Box 734, Blue Ridge, Georgia andrews.edu/admres/jobs/show/ mentally challenged adult female. 30513. [6-8] staff_hourly#job_7 [6] Must be energetic with church affiliation verifiable. Caregiver must live in ISRAEL TOUR with Pastor Jim Gil- ANDREWS UNIVERSITY seeks rural setting or can live in her country ley, 3ABN’S Pastor C.A.Murray and Administrative Assistant, Social home near Uchee Pines Health Insti- friends. Two trips this fall, November Work. Manages a variety of general tute in Seale, Alabama. Prefer married 11 - 19, 2018 $3,095.00. November 18- office activities relating to future couple but will accept single with no 27, 2018 $3,395.00. Includes all tips, and current students, faculty, small children. 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JUNE 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 45 advertisements

Is an Enhanced Life Estate For Me? enny’s children were no longer in the church. She was afraid that, upon her P demise, the distribution of her assets would cause conﬂict between them. She was also quite sure they would not honor her wish to give something to her church and Savior who were so dear to her.

She contacted her Conference’s Planned Giving and Trust Services Department. They outlined several options including an Enhanced Life Estate Deed, which provides for the transfer of real estate to beneﬁciaries outside of probate. With their help she was able to devise a plan that gave her peace.

At her funeral one of her children commented that her planning had saved the family from a great deal of arguing and strife.

Act now. Please call your Planned Giving Department today.

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46 SOUTHERN TIDINGS | JUNE 2018 eventscalendar

Sept. 16. Palm Coast, Palatka, St. Au- 24) and WIT (wrangler in training), Crandall, Carolina gustine, Orange Cove, Jacksonville First, GA. ShareHim Mission Trip – June 11-27. South Jacksonville Southpoint. (Southeastern 3 Point Play Basketball and Soccer African Union. Conference: Jacksonville Ephesus.) Camps – June 11-14. Maryville, TN. Master Guide Training – July 13. NPR. Sept. 23. Kendall, Miami Temple, Miami Cohutta Springs Youth Camp – June 17-24. Prayer Summit – July 20-22.April 8. Ridge- Springs, Eden in Miami, Marantha in Miami Camps this week: Junior II, Ultimate RAD, crest Conference Center, 1 Ridgecrest Drive, Gardens. Paintball II, SIT (staff in training), DiscipleTrek, Ridgecrest, NC 28770. Varsity Pathfinder Ultimate Adventure – and WIT. Crandall, GA. LE Summer Retreat – Aug. 9-12. NPR. July 6-9. Adventure trip to Tennessee includ- Pathfinders/Adventurers Leadership – Aug. ing caving, whitewater rafting, ziplining, aerial 24-26. NPR. adventure, hiking, and camping. Cost: $250 Gulf States (nonrefundable but can be transferred to another person). Details/registration: florida- Prayer Summit – Aug. 17-19. Shocco Florida conference.com/events/varsity-ultimate-ad- Springs, Talladega, AL. www.gscsda.org/ venture. Registration deadline: June 26. prayer-ministries. Complete calendar online – floridaconfer- Young Professionals’ Gathering – July Dollars & $ense Financial Seminar – Sept. ence.com/events 20-21. Spring Meadows Church, 5783 N. 22-23. Ft. Walton Beach Church. www. A Better Choice / Florida Adventist Book Ronald Reagan Blvd., Sanford. “What’s Your gscsda.org/dollars. Center – Altamonte Springs: 407-644-4255. Story” is a gathering for post-college young Camp Alamisco 50th Anniversary Event – High Springs: 386-454-7956. Shop online: professionals (ideal age 22-35), whether you Oct. 5-7. www.campalamisco.org. floridaconference.com/abc or order by have a story to tell, just starting your story, e-mail: [email protected] or do not yet have a story to tell. Guest per- Florida Adventist Bookmobile Schedule – formers including comedian Andrew Stanley Kentucky-Tennessee Avoid shipping costs by placing an ABC or- and contemporary Christian musician Jonny der to be delivered to a scheduled location. Diaz. Cost: free. Registration: floridaconfer- Hispanic Camp Meeting – June 8-9. High- Orders must be made by phone or e-mail ence.com/events/young-professionals-gath- land Academy. before 5:30 p.m. on the Thursday before a ering Executive Committee – June 12. Confer- scheduled Sunday delivery and before noon Pathfinder/Adventurer Leadership ence Office. on the Monday before a scheduled Tuesday Convention – July 27-29. Miami DoubleTree delivery. (Hilton Airport Hotel), 711 NW 72nd Ave., June 24. Winter Haven, Avon Park, Arca- Miami. Cost: $129 if registered by March southern adventist University dia, Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Lehigh Acres, 29, $149 afterward or $169 on site. Includes Naples. all meals. Accommodation fee additional Academic Summer Camps – June 18-20. July 1. Inverness, Tampa First, Brandon, (reserved directly with hotel). Details/registra- Southern is hosting camps for high school West Coast Christian Academy in Braden- tion: floridaconference.com/events/leader- students in automotive repair, business en- ton, Sarasota, North Port, Port Charlotte. ship-convention-0 trepreneurship, creative writing, filmmaking, July 8. Palm Coast, Palatka, St. Augustine, Children’s Ministries Child Evangelism fine arts painting, photography, pre-med, Orange Cover, Jacksonville First, Jackson- Training – July 28. 8:00 a.m.-6:15 p.m. psychology, social work/missions, strings ville Southpoint. (Southeastern Conference: Miami DoubleTree (Hilton Airport Hotel), 711 chamber music, vegetarian culinary arts, Jacksonville Ephesus.) NW 72nd Ave., Miami. Partnering with the and women and minorities in civic engage- July 15. Kendall, Miami Temple, Miami Pathfinder/Adventurer Leadership Conven- ment. Registration is $150 for day camp- Springs, Eden in Miami, Marantha in Miami tion for this one-day certification in child ers ($200 if housing is needed). For more Gardens. evangelism. You must attend all seminars to information or to register, visit southern.edu/ July 29. Daytona Beach, New Smyrna, receive a certificate. The schedule will match camps or call 423-236-2781. Titusville, Cocoa, Fort Pierce. (Southeastern the seminar schedule for the Leadership Summer SALT Intensive – July 5-8. De- Conference: Palm Bay.) Convention. Discounted rates at DoubleTree signed for busy people looking for intense Aug. 5. East Pasco in Zephyrhills, Brooks- Hilton are available through July 13. evangelism training in a short period, Sum- ville, Homosassa, Spring Hill, New Port mer SALT covers the basics of personal and Richey, Clearwater, St. Petersburg. public evangelism, the evangelism cycle, and Aug. 12. Lady Lake, North Lake, Ocala, Georgia-CUmberland tools for outreach in your local church and Cross City, Perry, Tallahassee. Scenic City ARK 5K/10K – June 3. A community. Families are welcome for this Aug. 19. Midport, West Palm Beach First, 400-meter race is free to ages 12 and under. one-week intensive, coordinated in partner- Pompano Beach, Margate, Ambassador Meet at the Southern Adventist University ship with It Is Written. For more information, in Lauderdale Lakes, Sunrise. (Southeast- track. Proceeds benefit Scenic City ARK. visit southern.edu/salt. ern Conference: Port St. Lucie, West Palm Collegedale, TN. SmartStart Begins – July 23. New students Beach Ephesus.) 3 Point Play Basketball Camp – J u n e 4-7. at Southern can earn three credit hours free Aug. 26. Winter Haven, Avon Park, Arca- Auburn, GA. during the summer (a savings of more than dia, Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Lehigh Acres, Olde Time Camp Meeting – June 7-9. $2,000). To learn more, visit southern.edu/ Naples. Meister Memorial Church, Deer Lodge, TN. smartstart. Sept. 9. Inverness, Tampa First, Brandon, Cohutta Springs Youth Camp – June West Coast Christian Academy in Braden- 10-17. Camps this week: Junior I, Paintball I, ton, Sarasota, North Port, Port Charlotte. Lifeguard RAD, FitLife Camp I (June 10-June

JUNE 2018 | SOUTHERN TIDINGS 47 NONPROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID COLLEGE PRESS Southern Union Conference P.O. Box 923868 Norcross, GA 30010

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