December 2020
from the Grants Pass Seventh-day Adventist Church
Pastor: Charles Byrd Newsletter Editor: Melissa Derfler [email protected] Courage Amid the Chaos
I grew up in a very isolated and As Christians, we have understood that mind”. (2 Timothy 1:7) shielded community, where most as we approach the end of time that we As we face the future, let us remember everyone came together to enjoy would see corruption in high places. But that God is no stranger to rebellion this community picnics, play softball, and we cannot begin to fathom the spread is nothing new at all. God was faced with have games and races, with prizes for of evil that has come upon this fair land rebellion. It started with just one, and the kids. Everyone knew their neighbors, in nearly every direction we look. For soon spread to one-third of the angels and life was so innocent to a young boy those who have looked beyond what the of heaven. It then spread to the earth. in that world of yesteryear. Immorality mainstream media has tried to portray, This rebellion has interrupted the peace, was called by its right name, and deviant it is not difficult to discover that there serenity and joy of God’s creation. But it lifestyles were “hidden in the closet” is a cesspool of immorality, corruption is soon to have an end. because they were considered just that. and crime and even treason against our So, while things are beginning to look Shame kept even the hardened in sin country. If it were not for the grace of as if there is evil everywhere around from exposing their folly. There were God, we are now living in a world where us, do not lose heart, for God has not no movements to force or belittle those there would be no hope. The constitution lost control. And this brings me to the who stood for right, and we called evil and stability of the United States is under most important part that we must not for what it was. attack, and many are seeking to make it lose sight of. In the middle of this mess, As we look around at our world today, of no effect. surrounded by confusion, sorrow, hatred we cannot help but wonder, and ask the As I have been following world events, and uncertainty, God sends an army question “How is it that what we once it has been very obvious that it would be of warriors equipped with the most called evil is now called normal?” And easy to get caught up in the downward powerful weapon known to mankind. while sin has always existed, we have spiral. But in the middle of this so-called That is the power of an unselfish, seen a shift that considers lawlessness a pandemic, I am reminded of the promise unconditional love written upon hearts normal part of society, and in some cases that “God has not given us a spirit of of those who have given all for the protected by the government. fear… but of power and love and a sound continued on page 7
In this issue... 1 Ccourage Amid the Chaos 2 Health Corner / Message Board 3 Prayer Ministry / from the Editor 4 School News / Library News 5 Trinitarianism & the SDA Church 7 Loaves & Fishes: Soup Kitchen Report 8 Family Portraits: Jerry & Zola Lewis 9 Kid’s Corner 11 December 2020 Church Calendar 12 Pastor’s Page: “No Sooner” Physical touch is the first of the Michelangelo said, to touch is to give made in His image, in fact, and He is a 5 senses we develop in the womb. life. social triune being. Meantime, we can Premature babies that are touched What then do we do, when we are continue to carry on some supporting often gain weight much more quickly forbidden to do any social touching? and warm interaction, even at a than otherwise, and babies that are when we can’t hug friends at church, distance, by spending time with others, deprived of all human touch will die. or even shake hands. Stay 6 feet apart! texting, video or phone calling if need It remains throughout our lifetime as When you’re passing people on the be. Eye to eye contact, even if 6 feet the most effective way to transmit street or in the store, how can they apart. We can share laughter and tears emotional support. A friendly pat on ever be encouraged by your smile, still. Know that your human touch will a colleague’s back for encouragement, when you’re wearing a mask? It seems make a real difference to others. You a hug for a bereaved friend, a kiss to like the Coronavirus has effectively can still have a healing influence. It may show our child how much they’re shut down the most basic means take a little more effort and creativity, loved, how could we ever discard this of emotional support that humans but it is well worth the effort. part of our humanity? Studies show engage in. Suicide rates are up, due ~Randy Currier, M.D. that doctors who give a warm, friendly to social isolation. We can’t go to touch, or encouraging squeeze on the Grandma’s house for arm, will have patient’s who actually Thanksgiving dinner. heal better. Alzheimer-affected Forget potlucks, or individuals suffer less depression if wedding parties. touched kindly. Young students who By all means, we are touched affirmatively by their have to hope this is all teachers are twice as likely to speak temporary. God didn’t up in class. Jesus knew the value of design us for this type compassionate hands-on healing. As of isolation. We are MESSAGE BOAR D Bruce Preyer sends his greetings! Check out the Bible Studies and Sending a heartfelt thank you for His sister Mary writes that he is interactive presentations at all the prayers, cards, and phone NEW living with her and her husband www.2ndAdventRevivalMinistry.com calls during Bill’s illness. Thank you so much and about 13 miles from Savannah, praise the TN. He enjoys the simple life there, Lord for all the wild turkeys, daily walking, and our wonderful reading out loud during their family friends in this time. He likes our newsletter and time. Looking reading about people he knows here. forward to when we will be Ed Wagner’s ministry, Project with our loved Caleb, had an important meeting ones again. this week to discuss a significant Hope it comes expansion in this internet ministry in soon! order to reach people searching for -Joan Peterson truth. Keep them in your prayers!
and family 2 Prayer Ministry “Send Me!” Next quarter we will be studying the Old Testament book of Isaiah and in preparation for teaching that study I have begun reading the book. Today I read chapter 6 in which Isaiah is shown a vision of “the Lord sitting on His throne, high and lifted up”. As I progressed through the chapter, I was struck with the seriousness of the question in verse 6. “Also, I heard the voice of the Lord saying: ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?’ “ Then Isaiah answered: “Here am I! Send me.” Wow! What a time to read that verse. Now I am not suggesting that we get up and go to the mission field, because obviously even if we wanted to, we can’t because of Covid. But I am suggesting that we can still making ourselves available to be used by be sent. And that sending begins in our morning prayer time by God for that day. “Lord, here I am, I make myself available to you today. If you have a plan for me to follow, please lead me through it. Show me your will, for I am willing to be from This month I’dthe like to especiallyEditor... thank our contributors! a part of it. Speak Lord, for your servant Ginny Frost never fails to come through with a wonderful heareth.” I challenge each of you to pray article featuring some of our church family. These that prayer in the morning. connections are even more important with the lockdowns Friends, the world around us is spinning preventing in-person contact. THANK YOU to all our contributors: Donna Griffith – such an inspiration; our out of control, yet we know that “While own Dr. Randy Currier, on the importance of touch; our nations have rejected God’s principles, and wonderful Pastor; Shirleen Powell, reporting from the in this rejection have wrought their own Soup Kitchen (what a blessing this ministry is!); Andie ruin, yet a divine, overruling purpose has Springer; tirelessly maintaining our wonderful church manifestly been at work throughout the library, and Les Derfler, (a man I’m pretty partial to)! The ages.” (PK 535) If you would like to have a pictures below are of our newly decorated church, where part in that divine, overruling purpose make Stephanie Crary and her team (Tracy Archbold, Martha Covrig, and Tim of course!) has created a Christmas yourself available every day to God and be landscape so beautiful you can almost hear the angels prepared for a situation to happen you did sing! See it on Livestream if you’re not there in person. not expect. I know because it happened to Their handiwork even includes a stunning poinsettia tree. me. Ask me and I will tell you about it. God
~Melissa Derfler Bless! ~Donna Griffith, Prayer Ministry 3 Library News
Did you know that each member of this church has over 5,000 items in their library? Yes!!! The Grants Pass Seventh- day Adventist Church Library has over 5,000 items on the shelves for your research, reading, listening and viewing Dear Church Family, pleasure. I can’t believe we have that many items on the Your Grants Pass Seventh-day Adventist shelves. This library belongs to the church members. It is School has provided quality, Christ-centered education your library. Let me know ideas and suggestions you have. for over 100 years. This year our teachers have worked We keep a “NEW Items List” so you can come and see what tirelessly to provide online and in-person instruction is new. Some of these items are on the counter close to the within COVID-19 guidelines. We need your help now door though some are not. This includes over 50 new items to ensure the school continues to educate students for in the library (BOOKS, CD’s, and DVD’s). this world and eternity. NEW Items List (only 3 out of 50-plus are hi-lighted): The current pandemic has impacted our school in multiple ways. The most damaging financially is the * Devotional series for juniors and kids, a set of CD’s called reduced enrollment this school year mostly due to the Discovery Quest: Encounters with GOD in Nature: China, students in grades 4-8 not being able to attend school Egypt, Hawaii, and Russia by Pan De Vida Productions and full days from the beginning of the school year Aug 31, One Mustard Seed with Presenter, Rich Aguilera. to just this month of November. Full days for in-person attendance finally began on Nov 9. * Days of Noah. This series of 4 DVD’s (1. The Flood, 2. The other very noticeable effect is not being able to The Judgment Hour, 3. Valley of Decision, and 4. Ark of have our fund raising events that have made a huge Fire). The Days of Noah series investigates the revealing difference in the financial needs of the school. So we prophetic parallels between the message of Noah and the are asking for your help to ensure every family who book of Revelation to uncover as never before, the Truth desires has access to Christian education. This is our about the Ark of refuge at the end of time. local mission field. It seems more exciting to give to project needs in other lands but what can be more * It Is Written 500 (years later) DVD set: The Story of the exciting than seeing a young person connect with Reformation – a Movement that changed the World: The Jesus? Your support will ensure the continuation of Reformation, The Celtic Connection, A Lamp Unto My Feet, Adventist Christian Education in Grants Pass. Rome and the Reformation, Here I stand, The Counter- God’s school here needs to raise an additional $38,500 Reformation, A Wall of Separation, Tell It to the World and this school year. In order to do this everyone’s help is Finishing the Reformation with John Bradshaw as speaker needed. If 150 people in the constituency contribute $32 and director. each month for the next 8 months (Nov-June) we would have the needed finances. If 75 people gave $64 each * The Real Meaning of the Zodiac: The Gospel in the Stars month, or 38 people paid $128 per month. It is possible (CD set) by James D Kennedy. if we all work together. God has a plan for everyone and everything, including your participation in His school here * Oracle Bones Speak by Ethel R. Nelson. This book in Grants Pass. demonstrates how the ancient Chinese were very aware of Please prayerfully consider what you can do. Every the Creator God. We have several books by this author. dollar helps. Let’s come together and unite behind this Library Hours: Sabbaths between meetings and cause. Your donation helps our young students forge after church service and Wednesdays 9am to 2pm by forever relationships with their Friend and Saviour, appointment. I work in the library almost every Wednesday Jesus Christ. This is priceless. and I am open to Thank you for your consideration and your very much appointments. I can also needed contribution. schedule other times for Please send your contributions directly to the school. your convenience. Please It would help for the school to know each person’s call or text Andie Springer intentions so you may send your pledge by e-mail, snail at 458-212-4020 for mail, or by phone to the school at: scheduling. [email protected]; 2250 NW Heidi Ln, Grants
Pass, 97526; 541-479-2293 4 ~Andie Springer
Trinitarianism and the Seventh-day Adventist Church
Are you a trinitarian? According to Webster, a trinitarian is one God (the Father) and that the Holy Spirit is the is simply “one who believes in the doctrine of the Trinity”. I spirit of the Father, NOT the third Person of the Godhead, have had individuals – some of whom have attended the and that Jesus did not always exist, but was created. At SDA church – tell me that this doctrine is a take-away first reading, their studies sound plausible, since writings from the Roman Catholic Church, and therefore not to from the Adventist Pioneers, as well as various Scriptures be accepted. So, let’s take a closer look. Although the and Spirit of Prophecy quotations are cited as proof of word “trinity” is not found in the Scriptures, it is a word their positions. that, according to Webster, denotes “the unity of Father, I read some of their material (which perhaps I shouldn’t Son, and Holy Spirit as three persons in one Godhead”. have done) – but I didn’t want to be accused of answering This coincides with the fundamental beliefs of Seventh- a matter before hearing it. I’ll have to say it was day Adventists as convincing, at first, stated in Seventh-day and I can understand Adventists Believe: why many have been A Biblical Exposition drawn into this. But of 27 Fundamental deeper study and a Doctrines that: search for truth led 1) ”There is one God: me to the following Father, Son, and Holy conclusions (check Spirit, a unity of three out the quotes for co-eternal Persons…” yourself, as space will ibid, p. 16 not allow for writing 2) “God the Eternal out all of them, and Father is the Creator, I’m just giving a brief Source, Sustainer, synopsis of what I and Sovereign of all found): creation…” ibid, 28 The Holy Spirit is 3) “God the Eternal “as much a Person Son became incarnate as God is a Person” in Jesus Christ. (EV 616); He is the Through Him all “Third Person of the things were created, Godhead” (DA 671); the salvation of humanity is accomplished, and the world one of the “three living Persons of the heavenly trio” (EV is judged. Forever truly God, He became also truly man…..” 615). Christ Himself promised to send Him. The Holy Spirit ibid, 36 speaks to us. He gives us grace, guidance, enlightenment, 4) “God the Eternal Spirit was active with the Father conviction, comfort. According to DA 671, sin can be and the Son in Creation, incarnation, and redemption. He resisted and overcome “only through the mighty agency of inspired the writers of Scripture. He filled Christ’s life with the Third Person of the Godhead, who would come with no power. He draws and convicts human beings, and those modified energy, but in the fullness of Divine power.” who respond He transforms and renews into the image of Satan is delighted when people deny his existence; then God. Sent by the Father and the Son to be always with His he can work more effectively. So if we deny the existence children…” ibid, 58 of the Holy Spirit, does that limit His work in our lives? Is Sincere opponents of the above will tell you that the this a form of “grieving” the Holy Spirit? I don’t know, but Adventist pioneers did not subscribe to this doctrine, I do know that rejecting the Holy Spirit is a pretty serious thing. and that “the Adventist Church, as a whole, [has] shifted As a Seventh-day Adventist, I believe simply what the away from the truth revealed in Scripture, and taken up Bible (and the Spirit of Prophecy) say. That is enough for me. doctrines of the Catholic church, which are held by all of her I believe in the Father, in Jesus Christ the Son of daughters, the apostate Protestant churches”. (What Did God, and the Holy Spirit. Jesus Himself said to go and the Adventist Pioneers Believe? p. 2, by Lynnford Beachy) baptize “in the name of the Father, the Son, and
continued on page 6
So what do they believe? Basically, they teach that there 5 Trinitarianism, continued from page 5 the fullness of the Godhead bodily” regarding His nature. Here silence is the Holy Ghost” (Matt 28:19). All (Col 2:9); “equal with God” but gave eloquence. The Omniscient One is three Persons of the Godhead are up His divine privilege to become our above discussion.” MH 429 mentioned in Luke 3:22, John 14:26, Saviour (Phil 2:5-12), took our fallen For deeper study on the Deity of John 15:26, Acts 2:33, 10:38, 2 Cor. nature (Heb 2:17), bore our sins and Christ, in the Bible, writings of Ellen 13:14, 1 Pet. 1:2, and many more. died the second death in our place G. White, and history of the Seventh- EGW describes them: “There are (Is. 53), able to lay down His life and day Adventist church, here is a link three living persons of the heavenly take it again (John 10:18), “Minister to an excellent study and thesis trio; in the name of these three great of the sanctuary” & our High Priest that I found both interesting and powers – the Father, the Son, and at the right hand of the Majesty of informative. http://www.sdanet. the Holy Spirit – those who receive heaven (Heb. 8:1, 2), able “to save us org/atissue/trinity/gane-thesis/ Christ by living faith are baptized, and to the uttermost” (Heb 7:25), coming index.htm Although I didn’t run these powers will co-operate with the again (John 14:1-3), “King of Kings and across it until I’d about finished obedient subjects of heaven in their Lord of Lords” (Rev 17:14). He has life my study, I was delighted to find efforts to live the new life in Christ.” “original, unborrowed, and underived” it, and feel God brought it to my EV 615 “We are to co-operate with the (DA 530) and “He assures us that attention, as it systematically and three highest powers in heaven – the there never was a time when He was thoroughly examines the historical Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost not in close fellowship with the eternal positions of Seventh-day Adventists, – and these powers will work through God.” EV 615. He is the Lifegiver, in with answers from the Bible and us, making us workers together with Whose presence death has no power. Spirit of Prophecy to each of the God.” Ibid, 617. “The eternal heavenly (DA 528) When He died, humanity major positions held by Seventh-day dignitaries – God, and Christ, and the died, but Deity did not die (1SM 301; Adventist anti-trinitarians. It was Holy Spirit – arming them (the disciples) 5BC 1113). No one should dare to very helpful to me in my study. The with more than mortal energy…would denigrate Jesus, our Lord and Savior, material I had been given left me advance with them to the work and to a lesser God who is not in every way confused, so I wanted — and found — convince the world of sin.” Ibid 616 part of and equal to God the Father. answers from the Bible and Spirit of Jesus is Immanuel, ”God with us” The Holy Spirit, as stated above, “is Prophecy for myself. (Matt. 1:23), the “Word made flesh” as much a person as God is a person.” I have observed that proponents of (John 1:1); the self-existent One (John Ibid 616. “Christ, our Mediator, and the these ideas have caused dissension 17:5, 24; 8:58), the “Son of God” (1 Holy Spirit are constantly interceding and division in Seventh-day Adventist Jn. 4:15), “from everlasting” (Micah in man’s behalf, but the Spirit pleads churches, since they basically teach 5:2); “everlasting Father” (Is. 9:6), not for us as does Christ, who presents that the SDA church is in apostasy. has immortality (1 Tim 6:15, 16), has His blood, shed from the foundation Acts 20:29 talks about wolves coming the keys to the grave (Rev 1:18), “all of the world; the Spirit works upon into the church to scatter and divide. our hearts, drawing out prayers and Satan would like to tear apart God’s penitence, praise and thanksgiving.” 1 church, and he doesn’t care how it Thoughts & Prayers SM 344 happens. Catherine Bell Sharon Karen There are a lot more verses and E.G. White wrote, “I was shown that Stan Bishop Steve King Cathy Bovee Delbert & Alice Lewis quotes to read. However, we are it is Satan’s special work to lead men Joyce Casper Jerry & Zola Lewis mortal and not able to understand to feel that it is God’s order for them Mildred Chaney Darlene Loewen everything about God. “Canst thou to strike out for themselves and choose Bonnie Day Henry Martin Artur & Tulia De Cathy McGinnis by searching find out God? canst their own course independent of their Carvalho Marvin McKillip thou find out the Almighty unto brethren.” TM 29. But, it continues, Sylvia Crary Rita McMullen perfection?” (Job 11:7). “’The secret “God is leading a people out from the Patty Esquivel Molly Mourning things belong unto the Lord our God, world upon the exalted platform of Todd & Connie Frye Shirley Napoletano Tom Fuller Our School but those things that are revealed eternal truth, the commandments Dennis Gallegos Chuck Painter belong unto us and to our children of God and the faith of Jesus. He will Beth Greer Melvin Partin forever. DT 29:29.’ The revelation of discipline and fit up His people. They Ingrid Gruenheid Jessica Rae Betty Hamblin Ron Rau Himself that God has given in His will not be at variance, one believing David Hamblin Israel Rush Word is for our study. This we may seek one thing and another having faith and Joney & Dahnn Lance Schmidt to understand. But beyond this we are views entirely opposite, each moving Haning Mel Smith Harry Hansen Joy Stewart not to penetrate. The highest intellect independently of the body.” Ibid 30 Butch & Pam Helwig Yvonne Tooley may tax itself until it is wearied out “To claim that the Seventh-day Fran Holder Rinann Uteg on conjectures regarding the nature Adventist Church is Babylon, is to Virginia Hume Ethel Watts Dr. Frank & Rosalie Don Wills of God, but the effort will be fruitless. make the same claim as does Satan, Hurd BLBN This problem has not been given us to who is an accuser of the brethren, who Dennis Kamberg solve. No human mind can comprehend accuses them before God night and God. None are to indulge in speculation 6 continued on page 10 after helping to prepare the lunches. The Loaves and the Fishes: Ministry of the The first time I volunteered at Dorcas at lunch time, I really enjoyed the music that I heard being played on the piano. It was the younger Ortiz son, practicing a song for his grandma’s birthday. The Ortiz children are all blessed by God to have musical talents: violin, flute, piano & guitar. We are grateful for the ministry of this talented family; they are a blessing! ~Shirleen Powell Christ fed the five thousand with five am, preparing food to feed all that come loaves and two fishes before He spoke to the Soup Kitchen. Between 80-90 to them. A Soup Kitchen is described as people come to the door to pick up the Courage Amid the Chaos, continued from page 1 a meal center for those that are hungry healthy, hot sack lunches. Menu items and in need, staffed by volunteers. Soup may include soup, a burrito or pasta, cause of God. They cannot be bought kitchens usually get their food from food fruit, and some chips, along with juice or bullied into conformity to the world. banks for free or at a lower cost. or hot chocolate. A vegetarian meal They have become so focused upon Him Adventist Community Services, with is an option. Before COVID-19, Hector that they have begun to reflect His love. its many branches reach far and wide. calculated that they were feeding about In mercy they have been sent to a fallen Here in Grants Pass we have Dorcas, the 180 each Tuesday. world in sin and rebellion. They have Soup Kitchen and the Food Pantry. This Safety comes first as COVID-19 looms not been caught up in returning evil for week is Thanksgiving week; a week that over the Soup Kitchen. They are no evil, because they have now become we all give thanks, and a month that longer allowed to welcome those that like their Master and Maker who does we all think more about being grateful. are hungry and cold to come in out of not wish that any should perish, but that Tuesday we will be open as usual at the the weather. Masks are worn, but that all may come to repentance. Therefore Soup Kitchen. For Hector Ortiz and his has not stopped most people from He hesitates to give those in rebellion family, this is their gift and their ministry. coming to get the help they need when what they deserve. Instead He gives On Thanksgiving Day, the Soup Kitchen they are hungry for food – for both their them what they least deserve. So as will be open and giving out sack lunches body and spirit. we approach the end of time, we have from 11 am – 1 pm at the Better Living After awhile, they start to get to know a warning message of the most unusual Center. Talking with Hector, he reminded and trust the Ortiz family. Some will ask nature. Argument will never win a heart, me that we are to give rather than to to speak with Hector because he has nor will reason. Only the love of God can receive. He and his family will take any given them a bit of himself. He will sit redeem and melt a heart of stone. By leftover meals to the Riverside Park, and talk with them about God, and share beholding we become changed. That is where there are about 40 tents set up, his testimony. Colleen and Trina sit vigil why we read: with 60-70 homeless people living in that at the door, welcoming those that come, “The last message of mercy to be area. Helping to feed as many as they and offering them a meal and some hot given to the world, is a revelation of His can is important. Sharing a meal and an chocolate. Sharing God is part of life for character of love. The children of God encouraging word is the way they share the Ortiz family. are to manifest His glory. In their own life God with their community. As you can see from the photo, the and character they are to reveal what the The Ortiz family has been volunteering Ortiz children are school age except for grace of God has done for them”. COL 415 at the Soup Kitchen for over three years. the youngest, who now runs around, There will be times ahead when the Hector and Colleen Ortiz, their four providing Physical Education for the older world may turn on God’s people, but we children, and Colleen’s mother Trina kids who chase him around! The older need to keep our eyes upon Jesus, Who Pucker show up and start cooking at 9 children do their online school studies will give us the strength and grace that we need in every situation. “For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps: “Who committed no sin, nor was deceit found in His mouth”; Who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously.” 1 Peter 2:20-23 We are to be the light of the world, and the darker things get, the more God’s 7 people will shine. ~Les Derfler Unfortunately she did not find either. She was young and
her husband was not an Adventist and Zola were in a short time she just drifted away Hanks was born Seventh- from the small church she had been in Fort Bidwell, day attending, and no one seemed to be very CA, the far north Adventists, and his concerned about it. east corner of the state. father was happy to She and her husband had one son Her “claim to fame” is that have them take over the and her greatest regret is that she was she is a direct descendent of responsibility for raising the not in the Adventist faith when he was President Abraham Lincoln (which children. growing up. When her marriage finally also makes her related to Tom Jerry attended Adventist dissolved, she, once again, was looking Hanks). There were eight children elementary schools in Cave for love in her life. This led to another in her family; Zola was born next to Junction and Grants Pass, then marriage, but she still did not find what the youngest. Only six of them lived went to Laurelwood Academy (all she so desperately wanted. Single once to adulthood, and when her younger in Oregon), as well as Lodi Academy again, she was very unhappy and felt brother died at a year of age, she in California. After a year and a half that her life was a mess. She knew deep became the youngest. Zola’s mother of public high school, he moved to down that the only one who truly loved died due to complications from child Washington and lived with his married her was Jesus and she needed Him in her birth when Zola was 10 years old. Her brother and sister-in-law while going life. She made the decision to come back father remarried but Zola’s stepmother to Walla Walla Valley Academy. Upon to church and was rebaptized in Klamath didn’t like the children or want any of graduation, due to an unfortunate Falls. She began attending the same them around. The older ones moved incident while still in academy, he little church in Lakeview where she had away to make it on their own, some decided that he was through with been a member 40 years before and was married. And after the death of her Adventism. He promptly joined the army happy to be back again. Several years youngest brother Zola was shipped off and was shipped off to Camp Roberts later she decided to move to Grants Pass to live with another family for a while. It in the desert, located about half way where her son and his family were living was during this time while she was away between San Francisco and Los Angeles, at the time, and she began going to our from home that Zola was baptized into where he completed basic training. church about 1994. the Seventh-day Adventist Church. During the time he was in the army, Jerry began his life in Fresno, CA, with When Zola was ready to enter high he married and had a daughter. Most an older brother and sister. His mother school she was sent to Gem State of his army career was spent in the had been in poor health for a number Academy, where she enjoyed three Army Security Agency in administrative of years and she died when he was just happy years. After graduation, she went positions. He served in Korea, Ethiopia two years old. His father was not able to to live with an older married sister in in East Africa, and later in Vietnam, take care of his children and work so he Lakeview, OR, helping her on the ranch as well as various posts in the United sent them off to live with family. Jerry’s where she lived. She then began a series States. After a career spanning more father was one of 16 children so Jerry of various jobs that kept her in Lakeview than 20 years Jerry retired with the rank lived with various aunts and uncles for for the next fifty years. of Sergeant First Class. After he retired, a few years. All of his father’s family Since Zola had not felt loved while he and his wife discovered that they did was Catholic, except for himself who she was growing up all she wanted not do well living together; they had practiced no religion, and by the time was someone to love her and to love gotten along great while Jerry was in the Jerry was ready to start school his father in return. So when a young man army. But his wife had her own career was adamant that his children would not came along with promises of love and they had not lived together for be raised in the Catholic faith. Jerry’s
and happiness she soon married. 8 grandparents, his mother’s parents, continued on page 9 Family Portraits, cont. from page 8 But over the course of the next two places they need to go from Medford to most of their marriage. They mutually years they each began to ask the Lord if Portland. At times they have been asked agreed to go their separate ways and He had more in mind for their friendship. how much they charge for this service? Jerry moved to Monterey, CA. He soon When Zola finally confessed to Jerry They always answer that they don’t ask relocated to the Silicon Valley where he that she had been praying about their for anything as they are “using God’s landed a job with the Itel Corporation. friendship and wondering if there was credit card”. He has always provided for When that job ended after two years, more in store for them, he told her that them and they have never lacked for the Jerry decided to do some traveling. Up he had been doing the same thing. The means to provide this service to others. to this point most of his traveling had Lord impressed each of them that He Even with the Covid-19 virus, they been to foreign countries while he was was leading in this relationship and they have been delivering Sabbath School in the service. But he thought this finally told Pastor Clark that they were quarterlies and church newsletters to would be a good opportunity for him interested in making this arrangement shut-ins and phoning people just to see to see the West Coast, so he purchased permanent, but swore him to secrecy how they are doing and if they need a motorhome and traveled around for until they had a chance to discuss it with anything. about three and a half years, visiting the their children. The church was happily Jerry and Zola have their share of Grants Pass area often. He had enjoyed surprised when it was announced that serious health challenges and heart living here as a child and seemed drawn Jerry and Zola were getting married as no disease is just one of them. But even if to it. one had suspected anything all this time. their bodily hearts don’t function at full Jerry’s brother, Del, was a school Jerry and Zola live their lives for capacity God has given them hearts of teacher and during the summers service. They have served in several gold. Zola says that, “The last 23 years he spent his time working at Camp capacities and ministries over the years have been the most beautiful time of my Wawona, located in Yosemite National including Deacon and Elder, Deaconess, life.” The Lord has fulfilled the longing Park. Jerry decided he would build a Dorcas, church greeters, hosting in her heart for someone to love her in home in Mariposa, a small town near fellowship meals, operating TV camera giving her Jerry. And Jerry smilingly nods Wawona, and spend some time with for church service, and transportation in agreement. Every day their prayer is Del there. Sabbath was the only day ministry. They began giving people for God to show them someone who that Del had to spend time with Jerry, rides to Sabbath School and church long they can help. They are truly dedicated so Jerry would often go up to Wawona before it was even an official ministry of examples of what we can do for others if to spend the day with him. He would the church. They take people to doctor’s we ask God to show us whom He wants dutifully go to church and then in the appointments, the store, or other us to help each day. ~Ginny Frost afternoon they would often hike in God’s glorious creation. One beautiful summer day, Jerry heard a sermon that made him realize that after 45 years away, he wanted to come back to the Adventist Church. He was rebaptized in Oakhurst, CA. In 1996, Jerry decided to make Grants Pass his home, and began attending our church. He ended up going to the same Sabbath School class as Zola was going to. One day Zola dropped one of her gloves as she was leaving class and Jerry stopped to pick it up. He returned it to her, and that was the beginning of a great friendship that grew into a wonderful love. They began spending time together, going for a nice afternoon drive and stopping to eat somewhere along the way. They made sure to take these drives away from the Grants Pass area and were always careful to make sure they were not seen together. They always arrived separately for church or other programs and never sat together during Sabbath School or church or any other function for the church or school. They were just friends and they did not want to get any tongues wagging or start any rumors. Neither was interested in getting married again, they just enjoyed spending time in each other’s company. 9 Trinitarianism, continued from page 5 stirred with enmity against Seventh- foundation that God has established. day Adventists, because they will We cannot now enter into any new day.” Ibid 42 “When anyone arises, not yield homage to the papacy, by organization; for this would mean either among us or outside of us, who honoring Sunday, the institution apostasy from the truth.” 2SM 390 is burdened with a message which of this antichristian power. It is the “God has a church upon the earth, declares that the people of God are purpose of Satan to cause them to be who are His chosen people, who keep numbered with Babylon, and claims blotted from the earth, in order that His commandments. He is leading, not that the loud cry is a call to come out his supremacy of the world may not stray off-shoots, not one here and one of her, you may know that he is not be disputed.” ibid there, but a people.” RH 3, p 82 bearing the message of truth. Receive “Although there are evils existing in “There must be no separating” [of him not, nor bid him Godspeed; for the church, and will be until the end the faithful from the church] “in this God has not spoken by him, neither of the world, the church in these last great testing time. This you may settle has He given a message to him…” ibid 41 days is to be the light of the world with yourselves forever.” 3SM 21 ”Those who assert that Are there “tares” in the the Seventh-day Adventist church? Of course. What will churches constitute Babylon, happen to them? “There will be or any part of Babylon, might a shaking of the sieve. The chaff better stay at home. Let them must in time be separated from stop and consider what is the the wheat. Because iniquity message to be proclaimed at abounds, the love of many waxes this time. In place of working cold. It is the very time when the with divine agencies to prepare genuine will be strongest. There a people to stand in the day will be a separating from us of of the Lord, they have taken those who have not appreciated their stand with him who is an the light nor walked in it.” EGW, accuser of the brethren, who Letter 46, 1887, p 6 accuses them before God day “The church may appear as and night.” (Ibid 37) Not the about to fall, but it does not position I want to be in, how fall. It remains, while the sinners about you? in Zion will be sifted out – the “Those who start up to chaff separated from the precious proclaim a message on their wheat. This is a terrible ordeal, own individual responsibility, but nevertheless, it must take place.” who, while claiming to be 2SM p 380 taught and led of God, still When will this happen? “The make it their special work to time is not far distant when tear down that which God the test will come to every soul. has been for years building up, The mark of the beast will be are not doing the will of God. urged upon us. Those who have Be it known that these men step by step yielded to worldly are on the side of the great that is polluted and demoralized demands and conformed to worldly deceiver. Believe them not. They are by sin. The church, enfeebled and customs will not find it a hard matter allying themselves with the enemies defective, needing to be reproved, to yield to the powers that be, rather of God and the truth. They will deride warned, and counseled, is the only than subject themselves to derision, the order of the ministry as a system object upon earth upon which Christ insult, threatened imprisonment, of priestcraft. From such turn away, bestows His supreme regard. The and death. The contest is between have no fellowship with their message, world is a workshop in which, through the commandments of God and the however much they may quote the the cooperation of human and divine commandments of men. In this time Testimonies and seek to entrench agencies, Jesus is making experiments the gold will be separated from the themselves behind them. Receive them by His grace and divine mercy upon dross in the church.” 5T 81 not, for God has not given them this human hearts. Angels are amazed We get to choose whether we want work to do.” ibid 52 as they behold the transformation to be part of God’s remnant people, God is not at all happy with these of character brought about in those or one of Satan’s wolves who are people. “God has a people in which who yield themselves to God, and they accusing them. There are many true, all heaven is interested, and they express their joy in songs of rapturous faithful SDAs in our church. As in the are the one object on earth dear praise to God and to the Lamb.” ibid 49 days of Elijah, God has many who to the heart of God.” ibid 41 Who
“We cannot now step off the have not bowed the knee to Baal. are they? “The whole world is to be
10 ~Melissa Derfler 7:00 am FIRST LIGHT 7:00 am FIRST LIGHT 7:00 am FIRST LIGHT 7:00 am FIRST LIGHT SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SABBATH CHURCH OFFICE CLOSED https://www.grantspasschurch. Events may have been changed or added; please check: (Zoom) (Zoom) (Zoom) (Zoom) com/calendar/ 9:30 am-1:30 pm Thriftam-1:30 9:30 Store pm Thriftam-1:30 9:30 Store 7:00 pm AT REST (BLC) 5:30-7:00 pm Pathfinders pm Thriftam-1:30 9:30 Store pm Thriftam-1:30 9:30 Store DEC 24 TO 31 (Zoom) 4:00 pm Romans Study (MP rm) 12-4:00 pm Veggie Food Store 2:00 pm Women’s Study 9:30 am-1:30 pm Thrift Store Dorcas 9:00 am-1:30 pm 7:00 am FIRST LIGHT (Zoom) 4:00 pm Romans Study (MP rm) 2:00 pm Women’s Study 12-4:00 pm Veggie Food Store 9:30 am-1:30 pm Thrift Store Dorcas 9:00 am-1:30 pm 7:00 am FIRST LIGHT (Zoom) 2:00 pm Women’s Study 12-4:00 pm Veggie Food Store 9:30 am-1:30 pm Thrift Store Dorcas 9:00 am-1:30 pm 7:00 am FIRST LIGHT (Zoom) 6:30 pm Elders Board 4:00 pm Romans Study (MP rm) 2:00 pm Women’s Study 12-4:00 pm Veggie Food Store 9:30 am-1:30 pm Thrift Store Dorcas 9:00 am-1:30 pm 7:00 am FIRST LIGHT (Zoom) 7:00 pm Church Board 6:00 pm Finance Board 4:00 pm Romans Study (MP) 2:00 pm Women’s Study (MP Rm) 12-4:00 pm Veggie Food Store 9:30 am-1:30 pm Thrift Store 9:00 am-1:30 pm Dorcas 7:00 am FIRST LIGHT (Zoom) (MP rm) (MP rm) (MP rm) (MP rm) (Zoom) (Zoom)
7:00 pm Prayer Mtng (Zoom) 7:00 pm Prayer Mtng (Zoom) (MP room) 12:00 pm Red Cross Blood Drive Lunch Bunch 12:00 pm Single Ladies 7:00 7:00 7:00 pm Prayer Mtng (Zoom) pm Prayer Mtng (Zoom) pm Prayer Mtng (Zoom) 7:00 pm Final Events (Zoom) 7:00 pm Final Events (Zoom) 2-5:00 pm Veggie Food Store pm Thriftam-1:30 9:30 Store 7:00 am FIRST LIGHT 7:00 pm Final Events (Zoom) 2-5:00 pm Veggie Food Store pm Thriftam-1:30 9:30 Store 7:00 am FIRST LIGHT 7:00 pm Final Events (Zoom) 7:00 pm Final Events (Zoom) 2-5:00 pm Veggie Food Store pm Thriftam-1:30 9:30 Store 7:00 am FIRST LIGHT 7:00 pm Final Events (Zoom) 2-5:00 pm Veggie Food Store pm Thriftam-1:30 9:30 Store 7:00 am FIRST LIGHT 7:00 pm Final Events (Zoom) 2-5:00 pm Veggie Food Store pm Thriftam-1:30 9:30 Store 7:00 am FIRST LIGHT 2020 (Zoom) (Zoom) (Zoom) (Zoom) (Zoom) Sunset 4:40 pm Sunset 6:10 pm Sunset 4:45 pm Celebration of Life 10:00 am Bonnie Dolinsky Merry Christmas Sunset 4:42 pm Sunset 4:41pm CHURCH OFFICE CLOSED Happy Birthday TAYLOR DONATO DOUGLAS GARCIA 04 RONNIE FIELDS MILDRED SHAWN 03 NATALIA BLURTON 02 RICK DOBBINS 02 DAVID HAMBLIN CLOVER GREER 02 VIRGINIA ELIASON 01 TRUMAN BRITT 4:00 pm Steve Wohlberg 12:30 pm Prayer 4 Children 10:50 am Steve Wohlberg 9:30 am In-person SS classes (Donna Griffith) 12:30 pm Prayer 4 Children 10:50 am Pastor Byrd 9:30 am In-person SS classes (Donna Griffith) 9:15 am Sab. Sch. ( Sunset 4:41 pm 12:30 pm Prayer 4 Children 10:50 am Pastor Tanner 9:30 am In-person SS classes (Donna Griffith) 9:15 am Sab. Sch. ( Sunset 4:40 pm 12:30 pm Prayer 4 Children 10:50 am Chuck Austin 9:30 am In-person SS classes (Donna Griffith) 9:15 am Sab. Sch. ( 9:15 am Sab. Sch. (Zoom) 9:15 am Sab. Sch. (Zoom) Sunset 4:46 pm Sunset 4:42 pm DEC 24 TO 31 04 03 02 01 Zoom Zoom Zoom ) ) ) DONALD SMITH 31 CATHY MC GINNIS 31 TONI WESTBERRY 30 JAMES HOLDER SUSANA MARTIN RICK PECKHAM BRIDGET CLINE KENDRA HIIBEL 27 GRACIANA LITTLE 26 NOELLA BLECH CAROLE BLECH SYLVIA MACPHEE EVELYN NELSON ELORA HAGER HAILEY DAVILA GOVANNY FIERROS 22 SCOTT ROBERTS AMY GROVE VIRGINIA KNAUB 20 MARLIA WHEELER 20 LEE DONALDSON ANADAISY PEREZ NATHANIEL GREENE 19 HANNAH DAVILA HANNAH BUSHNELL 19 SHARON KAREN ROBYN HOLCOMB 18 NANCY WAGERLE 18 MARY NATIONS TRUE GOODNESS MELANIE DALE LORNA KISTLER AURORA MOLINA 15 TOM HADDDAD ROBERT GRAY JAIME ALARID 14 BRANDON MORSE 14 RICHARD SURROZ 11 MERRILL JOHNSTON 11 LORIE COUNCIL 11 CARL RUSH MAUREEN BENTLEY 10 GLENDA LOVMARK 10 SAO BEASLEY RAUL PINEDA MARISSA JOHNSON 09 DEBRAH PORTER CELSO ESQUIVEL KERRI DOBBINS CLEMENTE FIERROS 06 30 30 28 28 25 25 24 24 24 22 21 21 20 20 19 18 18 17 17 15 14 14 11 09 09 07 07 06
11 “NO SOONER” of Christ, Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; and are filled Blessed is the man who trusts in Him! with the joy of His Psalm 34:8 NKJ indwelling Spirit, we shall not be able to hold our peace. Anyone who has lost a loved one If we have tasted and seen that the to death, stood at a hospital bedside Lord is good, we shall have something and watched a child suffer, felt the to tell. . . {AG 305.3} and the school building project in India. pain of a family torn apart by divorce, This month we’re finishing the year Many have also given generously to or traveled through any of the many 2020. If we took a moment would our the I Met God project and as promised vicissitudes of life has been given a hindsight really be 2020? Would we by the Spirit of Prophecy, our world reason to wonder, “When will Jesus see that we have slowed down enough mission focus has caused our local return for us?” Well, I have great news. to “taste and see” that our Lord is budget to flourish as well, even during He told us when! “[When] this gospel indeed very good. I know some of you the Covid-19 crises. God has done of the kingdom will be preached in have been tasting and seeing. How do I amazing things through our church in all the world as a witness to all the know? I can see you anxious to get the 2020 – and He’s not finished with us nations, … then the end will come.” yet, He’s got us on Matt. 24:14. Please, a roll. take note. He’s Some have asked given us the very me, “What’s next time it will happen in the I Met God and it will happen project?” Our next no sooner than goal is to secure when we obey His the $25,000 for the commission. Ultimatte 12 green So, what’s taking screen equipment so long? Could it needed to start be that we’re too the “on location” busy with life, with filming. A $10,000 business, schooling, matching challenge with hobbies, with grant has been child rearing, (none offered by a friend of which are bad), of the QLP ministry but so busy that for this. If you like we haven’t made the idea of your taking the gospel gift being doubled to the world a you can make your top priority? Or tax-deductible gifts perhaps we haven’t to the Lord at this made “coming to Christ” such a daily message of a risen and soon coming season of the year either online at important part of our life that the desire Savior out to the world. Lance put QLP.tv or by using one of the QuestLine to get the word out to those hungering together an entire syllabus of end-time envelopes provided on the temple for something better has faded. events information and Melissa made boxes at the back of the sanctuary. Here is a prophetic utterance that it look sharp. Some of you have shared As your under-shepherd, let me should make each of us ask a question with me how you’ve been reaching out encourage you to spend that quality of our own hearts, a question that to your local neighbors. Our church time with God each morning and should make us examine our own family has given and continues to evening. Turn off the world, the TV, the experience. financially support the mission project internet, and create that intimate time No sooner does one come to Christ, of our school. And Bob inspired the of tasting and seeing that, no sooner than there is born in his heart a desire whole church to engage in world experienced, will lead you to be a living to make known to others what a missions and many of you worked ambassador for the King of Kings who precious friend he has found in Jesus; together to surpass our goals for both is soon to return and take to Himself the saving and sanctifying truth the God Pods for Papua New Guinea, cannot be shut up in his heart. If we those who love and obey Him. are clothed with the righteousness 12 ~ Pastor Charles Byrd