Read the Word: Jesus Is Com- Man Resources Director

September 2011

Growing & Praising God Together Quinquennial Report Organized April 1901, the Southern Union is one of nine unions (including Canada) which comprise the North American Division of the World Church of Seventh-day Adventists. Housed in the eight southern states which make up this great Union, are more than 250,000 church members, and a wide multi-disciplinary network of ministries and institutions. The Southern Union of Seventh-day Adventists continues to celebrate the blessings of God through each venue of the vast ministry He has summoned us to. The Southern Union currently serves through: • 8 Conferences • 29 Hospital Campuses • 1,077 Churches • 11 Skilled Nursing Facilities • Approximately 100 Early Childhood Programs • 7 Summer Camp Programs • 152 Elementary Schools • 8 Radio Stations • 16 Academies (including 4 self-supporting) • 2 Universities/ 1 College Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences Oakwood University Southern Adventist University Growing & Praising God Together

Organization Churches Companies membership Close of seCOnd Quarter 2011 Carolina 120 21 20,577 Florida 194 50 60,751 Ga-Cumberland 160 33 36,207 Gulf States 78 13 10,864 Ky-Tennessee 96 8 13,760 South Atlantic 156 7 42,906 South Central 137 10 28,809 Southeastern 136 16 42,079 Union Totals 1,077 158 255,953 6 12 18 22

24 27 28 30

32 42 44 54

62 64 68 71

72 76 78 80

84 88 94 98

4 T IDINGS • September 2011 SOUTHERN

Volume 105, No. 9, September 2011 The Southern Tidings is the Official Publication of the Southern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists SOUTHERN UNION CONFERENCE 3978 Memorial Drive • Mail Address P.O. Box 849, Decatur, Georgia 30031 Telephone (404) 299-1832 www.southernunion.com Contents Staff Editor R. Steven Norman III Office of the President 6 Editorial Assistant IRISENE DOUCE Circulation Bobbie Millburn Office of the Secretariat 12 Advertising Nathan Zinner Production COLLEGE PRESS OFFICE OF Treasury 18 Layout BRIAN WIEHN Association & SOUTHERN UNION REVOLVING FUND Contributing Editors 22 Adventist Health System Julie Zaiback Planned Giving and Trust Services 24 Carolina RON QUICK CREATION Health Lynell LaMountain Evangelism Church Growth Institute 27 Florida MARTIN BUTLER Florida Hospital College eric cadiente Evangelism 28 Georgia-Cumberland Tamara Wolcott Fisher Gulf States Becky Grice Ministerial 30 Hispanic Mariel Lombardi Kentucky-Tennessee MARVIN LOWMAN Church Ministries 32 Oakwood University Michele Solomon South Atlantic JAMES LAMB OFFICE OF Communication 42 South Central Michael Harpe Southeastern Robert Henley Office of Education 44 Southern Adventist University rainey park Conference/Institution Directory Hispanic Ministries 54 CAROLINA (704) 596-3200 Native American Ministries 62 P.O. Box 44270, Charlotte, NC 28215 FLORIDA (407) 644-5000 Public Affairs and Religious Liberty 64 P.O. Box 2626, Winter Park, FL 32790-2626 GEORGIA-CUMBERLAND (706) 629-7951 Publishing P.O. Box 12000, Calhoun, GA 30703-7001 68 GULF STATES (334) 272-7493 Information Systems P.O. Box 240249, Montgomery, AL 36117. 71 KENTUCKY-TENNESSEE (615) 859-1391 Women’s Ministries P.O. Box 1088, Goodlettsville, TN 37070-1088 72 SOUTH ATLANTIC (404) 792-0535 P.O. Box 92447, M.B., Sta., Atlanta, GA 30314 Adventist Health System 76 SOUTH CENTRAL (615) 226-6500 P.O. Box 24936, Nashville, TN 37202 Florida Hospital College OF HEALTH SCIENCES 78 SOUTHEASTERN (352) 735-3142 P.O. Box 1016, Mt. Dora, FL 32756-0056 Oakwood University 80 ADVENTIST HEALTH SYSTEM (407) 975-1400 111 North Orlando Ave., Winter Park, Southern Adventist University 84 FL 32789-3675 FLORIDA HOSPITAL COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES (800) 500-7747 671 Winyah Drive., Orlando, FL 32803 Session Delegates 88 OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY (256) 726-7000 7000 Adventist Blvd., Huntsville, AL 35896 Classified Advertising SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY 94 (800) SOUTHERN P.O. Box 370, Collegedale, TN 37315-0370 Events Calendar 98 SOUTHERN TIDINGS Volume 105 Number 9, September 2011. Published monthly by the Southern Union. Free to all members. POSTMASTER: send changes of address to South- ern Tidings, P.O. Box 849, Decatur, GA 30031 [email protected]

September 2011 • T IDINGS 5 Office of the President

Praise God! In fact, during the last quinquennium, South- ern Union membership passed 250,000. This is your report and represents the combined efforts of conference and church leaders and dedicated lay members working together. We thank the Lord and give glory to God.

Since 2006 we have focused on three priorities: 1. Reach Greater Atlanta Through “Good News Atlanta” Georgia-Cumberland and South Atlantic conference leaders and members came together to impact greater Atlanta, in anticipation of the 59th General Con- ference Session in Atlanta, Geor- gia. Departments and churches coordinated plans and strategies together. Churches were planted; new work was begun targeting various ethnic groups. Pastors and churches came together from both conferences to pray, worship, and witness. It was historic, and I commend the

Cheryl Retzer, shepherdess director and women’s ministries advisor, and Gordon Retzer, president In the first two sentences of Ellen White’s book, Acts of the Apostles, the prophet given to the remnant Church declares clearly that, “The church is God’s appointed agency for the salvation of men [and women]. It was organized for service, and its mission is to carry the gospel to the world.” The mission is clear, and as we review how God has led His church in the Southern Union, we focus on the ulti- mate purpose for the Church’s existence. Precious new members have been added to the Church, number- Lessie Scurry, executive administrative ing in the thousands. assistant

6 T IDINGS • September 2011 leadership of conference presi- Executive Committee mem- dents Vanard Mendinghall (South bers were asked to volunteer Atlantic) and Ed Wright (Geor- to preach an evangelistic gia-Cumberland). meeting in San Salvador. In May and June 2010, What a tremendous response! evangelistic events were held all Many preached, and then over the city, culminating in a came back to the Southern grand reaping weekend prior to Union and preached again. All the General Conference Session, over the Southern Union lay at the Georgia World Congress men and women, young and Center, with 1,026 people bap- seniors, are joining the ranks Vanard J. Mendinghall, South Atlantic tized. of evangelists. Even my wife, Conference president (left), and Ed Wright, Cheryl, who has never, ever Georgia-Cumberland Conference presi- 2. Train and Empower Lay Evan- thought of preaching an evan- dent, joined efforts in the 2008 Habitat for Humanity project in Atlanta, Georgia. gelists gelistic meeting, was used by It was our goal to invite God to preach a full series of I am convinced that one of lay persons who had never meetings in Rwanda. I commend the reasons the Southern Union preached an evangelistic meet- Elder Bob Folkenberg for his vi- is growing is the evangelistic ing to see what the Holy Spirit sion and leadership in empower- enthusiasm of hundreds of lay would do if they were open to ing lay members through Share- persons who have become lay try evangelism. As a part of this Him, which is an initiative of the evangelists. We praise God for initiative, the Southern Union Carolina Conference. you!

Attendees of the March 2010 Prayer Countdown Rally pray together.

September 2011 • T IDINGS 7 In 2008, Southern Union committee members and their spouses, along with six Southern Union staff, five ASI members, and students from Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences, took the time to pose for a photo during their time together in San Salvador.

Southern Union Membership 2001-2010 300,000 201,847 250,000 208,015

200,000 213,956 220,785 150,000 225,987 233,164 100,000 239,794

50,000 248,218 250,767 0 253,187 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

8 T IDINGS • September 2011 3. Increase K-12 enrollment by 30 percent through Adventist EDGE We did not reach our goal. The graph shows that while the Southern Union membership is growing, elementary and academy enrollment has been declin- ing. This is a serious challenge. Adventist EDGE is a Southern Union Department of Education macro initiative which is trying to address this issue. The total enrollment continued to decline in the last five years. However, there are, to date, 13 Adventist EDGE “Schools of Excellence” in the Southern Union, and those schools, carefully implement- Dennis Millburn (left), Southern Union undertreasurer, is in the baptismal pool ing the Adventist EDGE vision, after an evangelistic meeting he conducted in June 2009 at the Hendersonville, experienced a total increase of Tennessee, Church. Jerry Rimer, pastor, prepares to baptize Christine Burbank.

Five-5-yearYear BBaptisms/aptisms/ Profession Professions of Faith of Faith

September 2011 • T IDINGS 9 enrollment from 1,904 students people are touched for Jesus pate in a quarterly day of fasting in 2005 to 2,053 students in 2010! Christ through the ministry of and prayer on the first Friday of This is an eight percent increase, the hospitals which are a part of each quarter and is a dramatic turn-around Adventist Health System. I believe showing the impact of change. the growth of the Southern Union REACH OUT I commend education leader- membership is also a result of our “An Invitation to Discipling” ship in the Southern Union and educational and health care in- • Conferences collaborating conferences, as well as dedicated stitutions. I affirm committed and in joint efforts for evangelism teachers who are leading chil- incredibly talented leaders and and discipling in major metro- dren and youth to the Lord. employees who expand Christ’s politan areas kingdom every day. • Union-wide target on INSTITUTIONS What about the future? greater Memphis, Tennessee, Southern Adventist University We continue on the mission with Tampa Bay, Florida, as a continues to experience growth — the Gospel message to our secondary focus in enrollment every year, and world and the whole world. How • Bridge childcare centers continues to provide quality and do we articulate the vision for the with evangelistic events trustworthy Adventist education next five years? • Disciple lay members for for our young men and women. evangelism And, what a blessing to also have REACH UP • Disciple all members Oakwood University and Florida “An Invitation to Intimacy” through the various ministries of Hospital College of Health Scienc- • Revival and transformation the Church es in our territory. We are proud through a growing relationship of our colleges and universities. with Jesus REACH ACROSS Every year thousands of • Invite members to partici- “An Invitation to Caring”

Ten-Year10-Year K -12K-12 EnrollmentEnrollment

10 T IDINGS • September 2011 In 2008, Southern Union committee members leave the hotel in San Salvador with their computers and projector cases to go preach. • Inspire cross-cultural and • Inspire Adventist academy Lord Jesus and the mission that cross-generational friendships and college/university churches motivates all of us. After 43 years • Involve all genders, eth- to be a training ground to in- of ministry, we have decided to nic groups, and generations in volve youth in the mission and transition from the leadership of church programming leadership of the Church the great Southern Union, which • Affirm, empower, and • Promote dialogue and means that at this Southern involve in ministry the Adventist understanding through cross- Union session, a new president college and university students cultural interaction will be elected. We have been • Continue to sup- blessed to work with a ter- port the global mission rific group of colleagues in the of the Seventh-day Southern Union office, and in Adventist Church our conferences and institutions. Now, I conclude my We praise God for this privilege. last Southern Tidings Thank you for your trust and for Vantage Point on a per- your encouragement. We thank sonal note. Cheryl and the Lord for the growth of the I are deeply grateful for Church, and look forward to see- the wonderful privilege ing continued success through- we have had since 2003 out the territory of this Union. to serve the members We long for and pray for the of the Southern Union. soon coming of Jesus. We have felt your love, and have admired your commitment to the

September 2011 • T IDINGS 11 Office of the Secretariat

Gospel Commission extended by Jesus. Faithfulness to the responsibility of teaching, preaching, baptizing, and the making disciples of men, women, and children is being celebrated in the Southern Union (SU). We, the Secretariat of this great Union, seize this opportunity to acknowledge the faithfulness of laity and church employees in the quest to fulfill the ministries we’ve been given in the Lord. We live in a celebrity-crazed society. Time film critic Richard Schickel says, “Celebrities have become the chief agents of moral change in America.” Why? Be- cause they’re so moral? No. Sim- ply because they’re celebrities, and we listen to celebrities. Scripture tells us that God has chosen to use the foolish things of the world to confound the wise, the weak to shame the strong, yet we fall into the celebrity trap, too. Our world may be obsessed with celebrities, but God most often builds His kingdom through

Ron C. Smith, D.Min., Ph.D., executive secretary, and his wife, Yolanda

Responsible Ministry And say to Archippus, “Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfill it,” Colossians 4:17, KJV. And Tell Archippus, “Be sure to finish the task you were given in the Lord’s service,” Colossians 4:17, GNT. And oh, yes, tell Archippus, “Do your best in the job you received from the Master. Do your very best,” Colossians 4:17, MSG. Each institution, division, union, and conference is accountable Lessie Scurry, executive administrative to almighty God for their part in executing the charge couched in the assistant

12 T IDINGS • September 2011 Southern Union Five-Year Membership Totals 2006-2010

7,177 increase 6,630 increase 8,424 increase 2,549 increase 2,420 increase

233,164 239,794 248,218 250,767 253,187

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

the faithful obedience of ordinary the operations and explosive There are also hundreds of peo- people. We thank God for the enrollment growth of Southern ple who donate their time and faithful obedience of the mem- Adventist University, Oakwood resources for building the king- bers of the Southern Union. University, and Florida Hospital dom of God through the varied During this past quinquen- College of Health Sciences, and ministries of the Southern Union. nium, God honored our faithful- the inspiring initiatives of 12 There are nine unions in the ness to the Gospel Commission. academies and 158 elementary North American Division (NAD). At the last Union constituency schools in the Southern Union. The Southern Union is the larg- session, we reported that the membership of the Southern Union Conference in 2006 was 233,164 individuals. This Union session, reflecting this past quinquennial period, our membership at the end of the second quarter of 2011 stood at 255,953 individuals, an increase of 22,789 members. At this session we are proud to announce that there were 1,074 churches and 158 companies at the end of the first quarter of 2011. The Lord has continued to bless

September 2011 • T IDINGS 13 est with respect to membership. and quinquennium constituency those who have fallen asleep in We thank the Lord for blessing sessions; managing Union calen- the Lord are blessed, gives us this area of North America with dars and schedules; serving as a stabilizing perspective in the explosive growth and with an advisor to all conference Consti- journey of church life. We mourn emphasis on diversity. In every tution and Bylaws committees; the passing of loved ones as we category of operational ministry vice chair of Southern Adventist remember them, and we look in the Southern Union, there is University Board, secretary of forward to the day when we an emphasis placed on inclusion. the Southern Union Association, will be reunited again as family. Intentional representation which trustee member of numerous ex- Our statistical records show that is reflective of denominational ecutive boards of Southern Union 6,094 fell asleep in the arms of employees, lay members, gen- conferences and institutions, and Jesus. They rest until resurrec- der, ethnicity, and nationalistic NAD Secretaries Council mem- tion day when Jesus will call all orientation are factored into the ber; and addressing concerns of of the sleeping saints back into execution of responsible ministry. the constituents regarding policy, existence for eternity. We look The role and function of procedures, and other topics. forward to hearing the trumpet the Office of the Secretariat is During the past five years, sound. multifaceted. Among the many 27,200 members were added to The leadership of the South- critically needed responsibilities the churches in the Southern ern Union, laity, and clergy are maintaining service records; Union territory through baptism remain intentional in our quest processing Seventh-day Adventist and profession of faith; 33,088 to identify and recover men, Yearbook information; processing transferred into the Southern women, and children who once retirement applications; process- Union, while 28,102 transferred walked with us as members ing ministerial scholarship and out; 8,038 individuals were re- of the Seventh-day Adventist internship applications; pro- ported missing; and 3,703 were Church. Through the Office of cessing requests for conference lost to apostasy. the Secretariat, it is our desire to ordinands; processing service re- It is most comforting to reclaim them. quests; preparing NAD Quarterly embrace the blessed truth that Reports; preparing SU Quarterly Jesus is indeed the resurrection SPECIAL MINISTRIES Baptismal Reports; supporting and the life. The assurance that The coordination of South- local conferences for constituency sessions, annual reviews and Executive Committee meetings; planning and organizing Union-wide events such as Admin- istrative and Depart- mental Council; hosting and coordinating pre-retirement seminars; issuing credentials and licenses; preparing NAD Denomination- ally Employed Work- ers’ Reports; preparing NAD Language Reports; preparing minutes for Executive Committee, Administration Com- mittee, Association and Revolving Fund boards Roy Patterson, South Central Conference prison ministries director

14 T IDINGS • September 2011 ern Union Prison Ministries and Adventist Church when they are sion in Atlanta, and workshops Disabilities Ministries operates released. on disabilities at the 2009 NAD through the Office of the Secre- Adventist Ministries Convention tariat. Disabilities Ministries in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Twenty years ago, the min- The ministry has also promoted Prison Ministries istry for people with disabilities the Year of Autism, and Revers- Florida Prison Ministries was began in the Southern Union ing Diabetes, and this year was formed in 1989 by Frank and Conference with Joan Bova con- voted and approved to become Maxine Barton of the Florida ducting a program on disability at an NAD Advisory Committee. Conference. They were success- Florida Hospital. Several months Bova and Harrell have ful, and continue to be, in setting later, Michael and Sharon Har- expanded disabilities ministries up an advisory committee of nu- rell made history by conducting throughout Southern Union via merous individuals rep- the first disability the following: resentative of ministers awareness program • Sponsoring Union-wide and lay members that at the Port Charlotte disabilities programs in churches, could help plan and Church in Florida. colleges, and Camp Meetings that implement the vision The Commis- included directors from confer- that they had to reach sion for People with ences within Southern Union God’s children behind Disabilities Minis- • Advising and recommend- prison walls and their tries began in 1989 ing structure modifications for families/friends with with Rosa T. Banks, accessibility and accommodation a Bible-based prison Ed.D., former NAD to several churches in the South- ministry program associate secretary, ern Union containing only Bible now General Con- • Promoting the Pathfinder truth. The Lord has ference associate Disability Awareness Honor (de- given them an effec- Maxine and Frank secretary and liaison veloped by Bova and approved tive training program Barton for the East/West by the Florida Conference) for volunteers to receive Central African Divi- • Writing articles for the orientation. Scores of correctional sion. At the 1995 General Con- Southern Tidings institutions are beneficiaries of ference Session in Utrecht (the this well-organized and -executed Netherlands), the ministry was In December 2010, Michael ministry today. Sets of well- voted and approved for all facets Harrell and Joan Bova completed prepared, multi-colored Bible les- of church life — their ministry as sons, which have been authored offices, adminis- directors of the by the Bartons, help foster this trations, and the Southern Union dynamic prison ministry. local church. Conference Dis- Also, during this quinquen- Under the abilities Minis- nium period, Roy Patterson, leadership of the tries. South Central Conference (SCC) current director, In January prison ministries director, has Charlotte L. V. 2011, Rosemary been vigilant in his planning Thoms, Ph.D., Graham was and coordination of the annual the ministry selected and SCC Prison Ministries Conven- has expanded accepted the tion in Memphis, Tennessee. with an updated responsibilities These conventions have featured edition of the of leading the Tyrone Boyd, the former chief of Disabilities Minis- Union in dis- chaplains for the state of Florida, tries Handbook, abilities minis- and Tony Hall, CEO of the Xof- a disabilities min- tries. Graham fender Network. Ex-convicts are istries booth at brings a wealth given the wherewithal to study, the 2010 General of experience to worship, and contribute to the Conference Ses- Rosemary Graham the Disabilities

September 2011 • T IDINGS 15 Ministries Department. She was Foundation of America, Georgia remain active: diagnosed with lupus in 1984, Chapter, as a board director and • South Atlantic (Rosemary and since November 1997 has minority outreach director. She Graham) ministered as the South Atlantic also served as board director • South Central (George Conference disabilities ministries of the National Black Women’s Hamilton) director. She has been a member Health Imperative, and former • Carolina (Debbie Rapp) of the NAD Disabilities Ministries Advisory Committee member • Florida (Carmen Rodriguez) Advisory Committee since 1995, of the National Black Women’s • Georgia-Cumberland (Jerry Fore) and has represented the NAD on Health Study (Boston and How- the National Council of Churches ard Universities School of Medi- • South Atlantic and Georgia- Disability Committee since 1999. cine). Cumberland conferences pro- Formerly, Graham was an Five of the eight confer- vided sign interpreters for the active volunteer with the Lupus ences within the Southern Union deaf at the Good News Atlanta meeting featuring Mark Finley prior to the General Conference session in Atlanta. • Volunteers from the NAD Disabilities Ministries team Southern Union Portion and South Atlantic Conference of NAD Membership in 2010 worked the Disabilities Ministries booth at the 59th General Con- ference Session vendor hall in Total NAD Membership: Atlanta. • Southern Deaf Fellowship 1,126,815 (Georgia-Cumberland) has baptized six individuals at their annual Camp Meetings in Cohutta Other Unions, Springs, Georgia. 22% Canada & Military Church Graham states her goals and 873,628 visions for disabilities ministries include, but are not limited to, 78% the following: Southern Union • Expanding information about 253,187 disabilities ministries available on the Southern Union website OTHER MEMBERSHIP TOTALS (click Services, Community, and Disability) Pacific Union 20% 222,708 • Increasing the number of dis- Columbia Union 12% 136,193 abilities ministries directors in conferences and churches within Atlantic Union 9% 104,520 the Southern Union Southwestern Union 9% 102,669 • Promoting the Accessible Con- North Pacific Union 9% 97,133 gregations Initiative developed Lake Union 7% 83,248 and piloted in the South Atlantic Mid-America Union 6% 64,573 Conference SDA Church in Canada 6% 62,559 • Developing training videos for NAD -- Military Church 0% 25 the local church coordinators • Continuing disability awareness SOURCE: NAD Secretary's Statistical Report 4th Quarter 2010 programs in churches and universities throughout the Union

16 T IDINGS • September 2011 • Collaborating with other de- education has opened doors for been baptized through these partments relative to disabilities many young people in this great public evangelistic meetings dur- ministries Union. Scores of worthy student ing this quinquennium period. • Encouraging inclusion of scholarships have been awarded As we prepare for another people with disabilities in church annually. This continues to be quinquennium, we cannot rest leadership an effective incentive for young on our past successes in evange- • Increasing support by the lo- adults living in the Southern lism, disabilities ministries, prison cal church for awareness of the Union territory to pursue a qual- ministries, church growth, and needs of individuals and families ity Christian education. general Secretariat functions. We with disabilities must be poised on the tiptoes of • Encouraging Bible studies and Evangelism deep-seated commitment to sus- baptisms for and by people with Finally, through the Office of taining the proclamation of the disabilities the Secretariat, I’ve been inspired Three Angels’ Messages to this by Gordon Retzer, Southern contemporary society in crisis. A Currently, 650 million men, Union president, to conduct special thank you is in order to women, and children through- several evangelistic meetings in my loving wife, Yolanda, for our out the world have some form different parts of the Southern 32-year partnership in ministry. of disability, of which more than Union territory. Also, two have Also, thank you to Lessie Scurry, 54 million are Americans. As we been conducted outside of this the most efficient executive assis- move forward with disabilities Union. My wife, Yolanda, and tant on the top-side of the planet. ministries within the Southern I have preached three- or four- My sincere and heart-felt prayer Union, I compare our mission to week meetings in Georgia-Cum- request is that God will empower the story of the master in Luke 14 berland, Florida, Southeastern, us to enjoy a responsible ministry who held a feast and sent his ser- and South Atlantic conferences; on behalf of Him to the Southern vant to gather the invitees. When Columbia Union; and Bermuda. Union. excuses were given, instead of More than 400 individuals have invitees attending, the master charged his servant: “Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame…Go out to the roads and country lanes and compel them to come in, so that my house will be full.” Let’s fill God’s house and hasten His soon return.

Scholarship Initia- tives Through the Office of the Secre- tariat, emphasizing university Christian Ron Smith, D.Min., Ph.D., evangelizes at West End Church in Atlanta, Georgia.

September 2011 • T IDINGS 17 Office of Treasury

Randy Robinson (center, sitting), treasurer; Dennis Millburn, undertreasurer; Cindy Bray, accountant; Merkita Mosely, associate treasurer; and Diana Gunter, executive assistant and human resources director

Darleen Herbert, receptionist Eric Witter, maintenance

18 T IDINGS • September 2011 Tithe Totals by Conference $200,000,000 $180,000,000 Southeastern $160,000,000 S. Central $140,000,000 S. Atlantic $120,000,000 KY-TN $100,000,000 Gulf States $80,000,000 . $60,000,000 GA-Cumb $40,000,000 Florida $20,000,000 Carolina $0

Year By Year Working Capital UNDER GRAPH: 100% = Operating for six months with no income The Southern Union Ministry of Treasury Year By Year Working Capital The Seventh-day Adventist Church has a rich culture of 150.00% focus on the second coming of 145.00% Jesus. And we do so with no apology! In the Southern Union, 140.00% 140.59% 137.87% 139.70% as well as other unions around 135.21% 137.28% the world, we strive to do what- 135.00% ever we can to hasten that day. That includes the management 130.00% of the resources our members 125.00% give through their local churches and conferences. It is with 120.00% great care that we take on this 2006 2007 responsibility. 2008 2009 During the last five years, 2010 the membership of the South- ern Union gave a total of 100% = Operating for six months with no income $933,724,874 in tithe. That is $160,000,231, nearly 21 percent, bined conferences of the South- “…to whom much is given, more than the previous quin- ern Union led the North Ameri- much is required,” Luke 12:48. quennium. And this comes in can Division (NAD) in total tithe As a part of the World Church, the middle of one of the most and membership. Truly God the Southern Union member difficult economic periods of has been good and continues to churches and conferences pro- our country’s history! At the bless the Southern Union. vide resources here at home as conclusion of 2010, the com- However, the Scripture says, well as abroad. Each local con-

September 2011 • T IDINGS 19 Year by Year Gains Under Graph: * $750,000 special appropriation given to conferences and Haiti Relief

ference collects the tithe from Year by Year Gains each of its individual churches. Of those total tithe dollars, nine percent is sent to the Southern $800,000 $751,450 Union. Approximately half of these Union funds are returned $600,000 in either direct or indirect ap- $400,000 propriations. Examples of indi- $268,145 rect appropriations are taking $200,000 $161,159 care of audit costs, funding for $75,520 Southern Adventist University, $0 and computer development 2006 costs. -$200,000 2007 2008 2009 The remaining half is used 2010 -$400,000 to pay NAD retirement costs, operating costs such as Union -$600,000 departments and administration, and funds sent on for the -$800,000 work of the World Church. Not -$750,820 * counting funds that are received and then sent back in appropriations, the Southern Union * $750,000 special appropriation given and its departments operate on to conferences and Haiti Relief a total of just 2.86 cents of each Under graph: Five year total: $933,724,874 gross tithe dollar generated in Union Quinquennial Tithe Totals

$189,288,164 $187,412,269 $187,828,353 $187,309,296 $181,886,792

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

Five year total: $933,724,874

20 T IDINGS • September 2011 the Southern Union territory. deals with receipting, remit- staff willing to do the same. We are blessed to have an tances, and paying the bills. We live in a world rife amazing treasury staff who are Darleen Herbert is the face of with events that foretell the both competent at their jobs, the Southern Union to so many. soon coming of Jesus. We have and have a heart for the mission She handles the receptionist du- been through terrible natural of the Church. Dennis Millburn ties in a terrific way. Eric Witter disasters, economic meltdown, serves as undertreasurer and keeps us up and running as our corruption, political gridlock, manages statement preparation, man in charge of maintenance. greed, and so much more. Yet as well as many administrative While all of these individu- we strive to do the best we can issues. Merkita Mosely serves als are competent at the jobs to bring the message of a soon- as associate treasurer and is in they have been called to, they coming Savior to this dying charge of payroll and employee have also contributed to and world. benefits, as well as other gen- supported the mission of the It is my prayer that as we eral accounting duties. Diana Church in terms of soul-win- wait on Him to come, we will Gunter wears two hats as execu- ning. Most have conducted full continue to use the talents and tive assistant to the treasurer evangelistic meetings, and some resources He has given us to and undertreasurer, and as hu- have done so multiple times. It spread the word: Jesus is com- man resources director. Cindy is a privilege to engage in soul- ing again! BrayUnion serves Retained as Tithe accountant Use - 2010 and winning, and to be a part of a Union Retained Tithe Use - 2010

To NAD/GC

18.31% Retirement

Direct 26.51% Appropriations

13.41% Indirect Appropriations

Union Departments

Union 10.03% Administration

Working Capital 23.14% Addition 8.37% 0.22%

September 2011 • T IDINGS 21 ASSOCIATION & SOUTHERN UNION REVOLVING FUND (SURF)

The interest rate paid is generally much more favorable than the market is offering for the same type of funds. So, we are able to provide investors with a no-fee process and favorable interest rates, while at the same time providing our investors with better- than-market rates. The SURF Committee strives to maintain that balance while keeping the fund solvent, viable, and protected into the future. SURF currently charges bor- rowers 4.5 percent interest, and pays its depositors two percent. There are also protections in place, one of which we call the “Sinking Fund.” This is a fund we set aside in cash, regulated by North American Division Policy and Federal agencies, that serves as a protection for investors against catastrophic defaults. Once the required threshold is met for that protection, a portion of SURF earnings are distributed back to the participating conferences in the Union. During this quinquennium, which ended December 31, 2010, SURF deposits grew from $165,270,000 to $169,558,000, an increase of 2.3 percent. During Carlos Salazar (center, sitting), Association treasurer; June Cranshaw, accoun- the same period, total outstand- tant; Peter Devries, assistant treasurer; and Cheryl Hubbard, administrative ing loans grew from $79,600,000 assistant to $121,000,000, an increase of Association and Southern Union Revolving Fund (SURF) 52 percent. As you can see, local The Southern Union Conference Association is the incorporated churches and schools are mak- entity of the Southern Union, and holds title to real property as well ing use of these funds, and it has as equipment. It also manages much of the investment activity of the been a great blessing to many Union, including oversight of the Southern Union Revolving Fund growing congregations in need of (SURF). new or larger facilities. SURF is a federally regulated organization whose primary purpose We are so appreciative of is to provide funds from which local churches, schools, and confer- the staff, including June Cran- ences borrow for building purchases, construction, or remodeling. shaw, Peter DeVries, and Cheryl The borrowing process is totally free of fees, and the interest rate Hubbard, under the direction of charged is generally lower than market rates. The funding is provided Carlos Salazar. Many thanks for from those in the Southern Union, including individuals, conferences, their efforts as we continue to do churches, schools, and colleges and universities, who wish to earn our best to provide the necessary interest and provide funds for the benefit of borrowing institutions. services to you, our constituents.

22 T IDINGS • September 2011 Total SURF Deposit Totals

140 120 $112.36 $94.98 $110.71 $117.10 $121.02

Millions 100 80 60 40 20 0 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

Total SURF Loans Outstanding

$170 $169.56 $166.58 $165

Millions $160 $153.93 $155 $150.79 $153.49 $150 $145 $140 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

September 2011 • T IDINGS 23 Planned Giving and Trust Services

G. Tom Carter, planned giving and trust services director, and Cheryl Hubbard, administrative assistant

Defining Planned Giving and Trust The Financial Benefits of Planned meted, while unemployment has Services Giving and Trust Services soared. During the last five-year The Planned Giving and Trust Because of the careful plan- period, through Planned Giving Services Department of the South- ning and dedication of members and Trust Services of the Florida ern Union has been established in the Southern Union, during Conference, $3,533,600 benefited to help individuals and families the past five years $16,534,954 the Florida Conference directly. continue their whole-hearted sup- has come in to bless the Lord’s In addition, local churches in port of the Lord’s work through work. Since 1970 when com- the Florida Conference received wills, trusts, annuities, special gifts, plete records started to be kept, $2,110,959, and other Seventh- and other legal plans adapted to $101,256,295 has been received day Adventist entities received its state laws. for the Lord’s work. Think of it — $1,207,492. While fully considering the more than $100 million through needs of one’s family, the Chris- the conference and institutional Expanding and Passing on Chris- tian will also want to consider the entities in the Southern Union for tian Influence and Values needs of the larger family and the the Lord’s cause! “When a man [or woman] mission Christ gave to us. That’s To illustrate how much this dies, his [or her] influence does why we are counseled, “In depos- means to the Lord’s cause, let’s not die with him [or her]; but it ing of your property by will to look at the Florida Conference. lives on, reproducing itself,” Tes- your relatives, be sure that you do Florida may have been hit by the timonies to Ministers, page 429. not forget God’s cause,” Counsels recession more than any other While the financial benefits of on Stewardship, page 328. state. House values have plum- planned giving and trust services

24 T IDINGS • September 2011 Southern Union Conference Trust Income & Maturities Declared in Five-Year Intervals 25,000,000

1975 $3,413,224.00 1980 $5,166,568.00 20,000,000 1985 $7,845,666.00 1990 $15,578,427.00 1995 $16,366,059.00 2000 $16,394,917.00 15,000,000 2005 $19,956,480.53 2010 $16,534,954.40 Total $101,256,295.00

10,000,000

5,000,000

1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 are important, the most important in the Southern Union. Stories values he left behind. object is to help members pass on of members within the Southern The late Gladys and Silas their values. The last two years Union are featured in the South- McClamb served the Adventist has seen a re-emphasis on this ern Tidings as well as on the Church for more than 40 years. website. The General Conference After his retirement as publishing June 2010 issue of the Southern director, they made a revocable Tidings featured stories from each trust that passed on their values conference and the two universi- in the training of new literature ties. Below are two brief stories evangelists. They both died in involving faithful Southern Union their 90’s with Elder McClamb dy- members who have died during ing at 99, but their values live on. this quinquennium.

The late Desmond Doss is re- membered for his legendary hero- ism during World War II when he was awarded the Medal of Honor. He left much of his humble estate, including his life story, to those who meant the most to him — God, his Church, his family, his country, and his fellowman. His values are preserved in the

September 2011 • T IDINGS 25 Southern Union Responsibility for the Association treasury all work- and trust services personnel. It Trust Services Management ing together to make sure the also mandates standards for each By policy, the Southern Union trustee responsibility is faithfully organization operating a trust normally serves as trustee for fulfilled. Millions of dollars have services program. One of the Charitable Remainder Unitrusts matured to benefit the Lord’s requirements is the continuing and Annuity Trusts. This means work through these trusts this education of all personnel. The that the conferences and institu- past quinquennium. Southern Union Planned Giving tions within the Southern Union and Trust Services Department is are usually the remainder benefi- Planned Giving and Trust Services assigned to coordinate this vital ciaries, with the donors usually Personnel process, including a yearly com- being the life beneficiaries. As the quinquennium began, bined seminar. Being trustee is a demanding Tom Kapusta was serving as the Planned giving and trust responsibility. With the limited Southern Union planned giving services is designed to benefit staff at the Southern Union, it has and trust services director; Jose every area of the work of the been necessary to partner with a LeGrand then served for three Church, and thereby to fulfill the specialized entity to ensure that years; and Tom Carter has served counsel given in Testimonies to fiduciary duties are carried out. since October of 2009. Cheryl the Church, vol. 7, page 174: “Let The Southern Union has chosen Hubbard is serving as administra- every department of our work, to link up with Western Adventist tive assistant. Each conference every institution connected with Foundation in fulfilling its duties. and university within the South- our cause, be conducted on con- This still means that adequate ern Union also has their planned siderate, generous lines. Let every files and oversight remain with giving and trust services directors branch of the work, while main- the Southern Union. This process with their support staff. taining its own distinctive char- is under the Southern Union trea- The North American Divi- acter, seek to protect, strengthen, sury with the Association board, sion has mandated standards for and build up every other branch.” and the trust services director and certification of all planned giving

Southern Union planned giving and trust services directors: David Long (front row, left), Southeastern Conference; Carolyn Liers, Southern Adventist University; Jose LeGrand, Florida Conference; Lin Powell, Kentucky-Tennessee Conference; Tom Carter, Southern Union; Mitch Hazekamp (back row, left), Georgia-Cumberland Conference; Michael Harpe, South Central Conference; Fred Pullins, Oakwood University; Lawrence Hamilton, South Atlantic Conference; Ken Ford, Carolina Confer- ence; and Rick Hutchinson, Gulf States Conference

26 T IDINGS • September 2011 Evangelism Church Growth Institute

using computer Jewish Ministries graphics and The Shalom Learning Center scripts by Share- trains individuals to reach the Jew- Him. They also ish community and their friends. learn how to There is a building for Jewish disciple the new ministries training in Hollywood, members and Florida, but we also have the mo- interests as a bile Shalom Learning Center that part of nurturing will come to areas where individu- follow-up. These als desire to start a Jewish work. meetings can be We now have five Jewish Adven- held in church- tist congregations in the Southern es, classrooms, Union, 21 in the North American fellowship halls, Division and 33 worldwide. schools, homes, apartment Southern Union Evangelism building meet- Council ing rooms, store The Southern Union Evange- fronts, communi- lism Council is for full-time evan- ty rooms, tents, gelists, pastor/evangelists, and lay or anywhere evangelists. The purpose of the people can be evangelism council is to inspire, Ralph Ringer, director gathered. The train, and give the evangelists time gospel commis- to relax and network. Ministerial Evangelistic Training sion says that we Southern Union Adventist should GO to where the people Church Growth University Field Schools in public are. They are trained to preach to Weekend seminars are held evangelism have made a dynamic audiences that number from five in local churches to help them change. to 500. grow. The pastor and members are All theology students hold their We show evangelists how to challenged to practice the practical own series of meetings. A central conduct low-budget meetings by ways learned to grow their church: meeting is held by an experienced using intercessory prayer, prayer making the church service evange- evangelist. The students con- ministries, and prayer countdown listic, community prayer ministries, duct meetings in the surrounding to reach communities. friendship evangelism, community churches four nights a week, and outreach programs, and applying they attend evangelistic preparation Elder’s Training the cycle of evangelism. classes two or three days weekly. Lay pastoral assis- One night a week they attend the tant training and elder’s main evangelistic meeting to ob- certification training serve and assist. The students also are organized into four assist with the baptisms. areas — elder’s administration/pastoral duties, Lay Evangelism Training visitation, preaching, Boot camps for lay evangelism and personal evange- are held to train lay evangelists and lism — in more than 40 those who assist them. Individuals hours of class work. In are trained how to get involved in cooperation with the the community in various ways that pastor and the church, help boost attendance at the meet- the on-the-job applica- ings and make kingdom friends. tion of their training Ben Crerar, student evangelist, in Jupiter, Florida. The lay evangelists learn how to is applied in the local The field school was held from May 13 until June organize and conduct the meetings church. 18, 2011, in West Palm Beach, Florida.

September 2011 • T IDINGS 27 Evangelism

a huge impact on the city of Atlanta, Georgia, for the Kingdom of God. Months of planning went into this mighty endeavor. Both presidents and selected leaders from each conference came together for prayer and guidance of the Holy Spirit, and at the conclusion, more than 1,000 people were baptized.

Unprecedented Participation in Evangelism The Southern Union Commit- tee set several goals at the beginning of the quinquennium. One of them was to involve the laity in preaching and winning souls to the kingdom of God. Having set this ambitious goal, the example was set from the Union committee, as nine persons, with many different professions, committed to a mission trip for three weeks in San Salvador. In addition, there were six Union staff, five ASI members, and eight students from Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences. All of the above were novice in the art of the “pulpit- preaching ministry.” Only one professional evangelist and his wife were in the group. The team Dennis and Jacquelyn Ross, director and associate This quinquennium was historical in nature. During the past five years, the Southern Union Conference baptized more individuals than at any other time in its history. To God be the glory!

Preparation for Service During this five-year period, the eight conferences had visions of a more active soul-winning participation in their territory. The sense of urgency was felt and the task was begun with much heartfelt prayer. The conferences began to have prayer summits, and days of prayer and fasting. Each conference put more emphasis on having a prayer coordinator, understanding that more is wrought through prayer than working without the power of the Holy Spirit. As we sought to win souls, the preparation was being sought through prayer.

Good News Atlanta Our visionary leader, Gordon Retzer, wanted to see the Georgia- Carol Hollie-Tsede, administrative Cumberland and South Atlantic conferences come together to make assistant

28 T IDINGS • September 2011 was so blessed that 1,694 indi- Carolina Conference – that encounters, block parties, needs viduals came to Jesus from the every church district hold at least of community action plans, and willingness of laymen answering two evangelistic events. young people and older people the call of service through public Florida Conference – to make did the work, yet there is much evangelism. The team from the each member a disciple and each to be done. God’s people prayed Union office came back so highly church a discipleship center of and fasted and worked hard, and charged that they have continued evangelism and training; also, to the results spoke. to preach whenever an opportu- involve each department in the As we are ending this quin- nity is extended, and many are conference in evangelism in 2009. quennium, we are challenged as still being won. The president, Georgia-Cumberland Confer- never before to keep the fires of executive secretary, treasurer, un- ence – that every church have evangelism burning brightly in dertreasurer, associate treasurer, a culture of evangelism — not our hearts, and in the hearts of all and human resources director; a special event, but rather the of our conferences. Tornadoes, administrative assistants; and life-blood of the churches in the floods, hail storms, and earth- directors and associates from trust conference. quakes such as we have not seen services, education, publishing, Gulf States Conference – for before are happening before our communication, stewardship, and every pastor, together with his very eyes. These signs are telling religious liberty went out blazing leadership team, to conduct at us of Jesus’ soon return to take the evangelistic trail. They are still least one ShareHim evangelistic us home. We must keep the fires on fire for Jesus. In our confer- series of meetings with a church burning throughout the Southern ences from Florida, all the way member as the speaker. Union, as we face a new quin- up the east coast to North Caro- Kentucky-Tennessee Con- quennium. lina, our conference leadership ference – to ask God in faith to has done a work unprecedented give them triple the amount in in the area of soul-winning. The baptisms that they have baptized days in which we live, demand before. that we all put our hands to the South Atlantic Conference – Gospel plow. to create an evangelistic process Give us a watchword for that has already begun, and build the hour, a thrilling word, a Year of Evangelism it to a rising crescendo leading up word of power; In 2009, we celebrated the to the 2010 General Conference A battle cry, a flaming “Year of Evangelism,” and what a and beyond. year it was. One of the goals was South Central – to seek a breath, a call to conquest to increase church membership more prayerful approach, coupled or to death; by 10 percent. The eight confer- with seed sowing, and harvest- A word to rouse the ences in the Union came up with ing; and to get all of the officers, church from rest, to heed their own additional visions: conference workers, and pastors and their churches praying for the Master’s high behest. the Holy Spirit, infusing all with The call is given, ye Baptisms/Professions the power and passion for soul- hosts arise, the watchword winning. of Faith for the quin- is EVANGELIZE! quennium (including Southeastern Conference – to saturate the pulpits and the To fallen men, a dying last quarter of 2006 churches with evangelism, con- race, make known the gift and first quarter of ducting large city-wide meetings of gospel grace. 2011): 44,102 throughout the territory. The world that now in The fact that more souls were Baptisms/Professions baptized, mentored, and cared for darkness lies, O CHURCH of Faith for 2009 Year than ever before is not by chance. OF CHRIST, EVANGE- House meetings, cottage meet- of Evangelism: 11,066 LIZE!!! ings, tent meetings, hall meetings, --Author Unknown church meetings, one-on-one

September 2011 • T IDINGS 29 Ministerial

here in the Southern Union: the females that are doing ministry as pastors. We learned that there are 12, and we are making efforts to be encouragers to them and their spouses. Because they bring a special and valuable perspective to ministry, we are seeking to enhance their work in building the kingdom of God. Another main focus in the department is that of connecting with our older preachers’ kids. It has been an absolute joy to share cards of love with them and to hear from them. They are helping us to learn more about the work of Jesus. This report would not be complete without mentioning our brother and colleague, the late Oliver J. McKinney Jr., who served as ministerial secretary for many years, and now rest from his labors Dennis and Jacquelyn Ross, director and associate until the Life Giver calls him from his sleep for a “job well done.” For the past five years, the variety of resources for the entire Our hearts and prayers are with his Ministerial Department of the family. The fellowship is unbeliev- wife and family. Southern Union has been focused able, and the food, delectable. In As the Ministerial Department on the pastor and his family. 2008, we were host to more than begins a new quinquennium, with The development and growth 2,000 pastors and their families. new challenges and new leader- of the pastor’s spiritual, intel- The department is praying and ship, we solicit your prayers and lectual, and financial needs have planning now for the next Ministe- support. been targeted. The challenge of rium to take place in 2013. the pastor to weekly be ready to The pastor’s intellectual growth feed the people of God from the in the Southern Union has been Word of God can be accomplished greatly enhanced through our only if the pastor’s own heart is seminary at Andrews University’s fed, through personal devotion and In–Ministry Program. It is a pro- study. This has been an important gram that gives the pastor op- emphasis of the Ministerial Depart- portunity to receive the master’s ment through conferences and degree and doctor’s degree without retreats. leaving his field of ministry; the Once every five years, the Min- seminary brings the classes to the isterial Department has a Ministe- Southern Union territory. Hundreds rium which brings the pastors and of our pastors have taken advan- their families together for several tage of this program and received days of meaningful seminars, spirit- advanced degrees through the help filled worship experiences, won- of the Southern Union administra- derful children’s meetings, power tion. hours for ministers’ wives, prayer- Cheryl Retzer suggested that room time, divine mini-concerts, we find out about a very important Carol Hollie-Tsede, administrative and a host of vendors with a wide segment of our ministerial team assistant

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September 2011 • T IDINGS 31 Church Ministries Church Ministries - Adventist Chaplaincy - ASI - Family Children’s Ministries - Prayer Ministries - Stewardship - Youth to grow and be a blessing to families and churches. Quality resource materials and leadership seminars have helped develop strong leaders in these ministries. “Called to Serve” was the theme of the Southern Union Pathfinder camporee held at Camp Kulaqua in 2007. More than 5,600 were in attendance during the week, and on Sabbath that number topped 6,100. This was the largest Union Pathfinder camporee ever held in North America. On Sabbath afternoon a baptism was held, and 23 Pathfinders dedicated their lives to Jesus and His Church. More than 6,500 Pathfinders from the Southern Union attended the “Courage to Stand” International Pathfinder Camporee, August 11-15, 2009, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The Southern Union had the largest attendance of Pathfinders camping at the EAA Airventure Campground. Our Pathfinders had the privilege of singing, worshiping, and making new friends every day with believers from around the world, and enjoying many activities. On Sabbath afternoon a beautiful baptism was held in two Allan Williamson, director

The Church Ministries Department includes every age group from children to adults. Service and leadership are given to the following ministries: youth, young adults, Adventist Christian Fellowship, children’s and family ministries, Vacation Bible School, Pathfinders, Adventurers, camping, personal ministries, Sabbath School, stewardship, and Adventist Community Services and Disaster Response.

Pathfinders The Pathfinder organization continues to grow under the dedicated leadership of volunteer staff. Ad- venturer ministry for children, which began in the Southern Union, continues Alicia Zinner, administrative assistant

32 T IDINGS • September 2011 large swimming pools where 518 Union territory. Pathfinders were baptized. One Our summer of the Pathfinders from Southern youth camps Union said, “I want to be baptized are evangelism because I want to make it official. in action. That I want to show that Jesus Christ is is really what my Savior, and that I am willing to our Adven- do anything for Him.” turer, junior, Proverbs 3:6 describes the and teen camp commitment of Pathfinders: “In all ministry is all thy ways acknowledge Him and He about — leading shall direct thy paths.” boys and girls to Jesus Christ. Youth High school and Youth and Young Adult Minis- college stu- tries continue to be a priority in the dents serve as Southern Union. University commit- counselors and ment weekends are held each year instructors at our at Southern Adventist University youth camps. and Oakwood University. During They also serve this weekend, students make a spir- as big brothers itual commitment to be involved in and big sisters some type of service. in being friends Adventist Christian Fellowship to the campers (ACF) became the official public and modeling a campus ministry “umbrella orga- Christian life- nization” of the North American style. Hundreds serve the local church by hosting Division in 2005. ACF organizations of baptisms take place at our sum- retreats, seminars, and leadership are found on college and university mer camps each year. Our year- conventions. campuses throughout the Southern round camp ministry continues to Many of our youth, Pathfinder,

September 2011 • T IDINGS 33 and family leaders at- Adventist Community tended the first-ever North Services and Disaster Re- American Division (NAD) sponse “Just Claim It” Prayer Con- Adventist Commu- gress in Dallas, Texas, in nity Services and Disaster 2007. They also attended Response provide services the NAD “Just Claim to disaster victims, their It2” Prayer Congress in families, and communi- Columbus, Ohio, in 2010. ties. When disaster strikes, They attended leadership local church and confer- seminars that helped to ence disaster coordina- develop their knowledge tors evaluate the damage and skills in ministry. situation and then take Spiritual commitment appropriate action. If and student leadership training is a Family Ministries needed, Adventist Community Ser- very important part of our Southern Strengthening families in our vices and Disaster Response man- Union Academy Bible/Leadership churches, schools, and communities ages warehouse operations where conferences, which are held each is very important to family minis- donated goods are stored and year. tries. “From This Day Forward,” a organized for distribution. Disaster Students get excited about at- one-day celebration of marriage response training helps our lead- tending Southern Union Academy commitment to reconnect, re-ener- ers to be better prepared to serve Youth Prayer Conference held each gize, and recommit has been held when disaster strikes. The Southern year. The reason is that Prayer Con- throughout the Southern Union. Union has established a disaster ference is a rich spiritual experi- Leadership seminars help develop response call center with a toll-free ence for them. Decisions for Christ the knowledge and skills needed in number that will only be activated and baptisms are made each year. family ministries. in case of a major disaster.

Medical/Dental The medical/dental family of physicians, dentists, and optometrists has grown year after year until today there are approximately 2,000 members in our Union. The Medical/Dental Council, along with its counterparts from the conferences, has accepted the mission of recruiting new physicians, dentists, and optometrists to come to the Southern Union. The Southern Union Confer- ence biennial medical/dental retreat provides continuing education credits, spiritual enrichment, and Christian fellowship for physicians, dentists, and optometrists. One of the highlights of the past medical/dental retreat was the attendance of eight pre-medical/ dental students from Southern In September 2008, students from Bass Memorial Academy in Lumberton, Mississippi, Adventist University who attended assisted Hurricane Ike victims in Bridge City, Texas. the retreat. These students spent

34 T IDINGS • September 2011 time interacting with medical/dental ministries person- professionals, and getting mentored nel, and programs on a personal level. Mentors shared in the Southern knowledge and advice on what it Union. is like practicing as a professional, InStep for Life and how their faith relates to their began in 2008, and work. is a new walking The Southern Union believes program designed that medical/dental professionals to motivate and strengthen the Union; help build encourage a stronger communities, schools, healthier lifestyle. and churches; and provide excel- For most people, lent leadership in the local church. walking is the Adventist Chaplain William (Whiz) Broome presents a flag Thank you, medical/dental profes- simplest, most to the mother of a friend at Arlington National Cemetery. sionals, for making a difference convenient, and in the Southern Union territory. least expensive Together, with our dedicated mem- way to be physically active. You Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries bers, we reach out to share with can walk almost anywhere at any Chaplains are ministers who others the good news that Jesus is time. This new program has been serve in institutional settings of coming again. welcomed with enthusiasm and hospitals, campuses, and prisons, increased physical activity by our as well as in the military and com- Health Church members. munity assignments. Our depart- Whether or not healthy living During the last quinquennium, ment at the North American Divi- comes easy to you, science has two Southern Union Health Profes- sion (NAD) provides endorsement shown that a healthier lifestyle can sionals’ Retreats have been held in for those who meet the require- ward off many common illnesses. Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This retreat ments of pastoral experience, a The Seventh-day Adventist Church provides continuing health educa- ministerial license/credential, and has long-supported a healthy life- tion for nurses, nurse practitioners, appropriate education. Ministers style, and in recognition of the Bi- certified registered nurse anesthe- who desire to serve as chaplains ble passage that identifies our body tists (CRNA’s), physical therapists, receive guidance from Adventist as the temple of the Holy Spirit, respiratory therapists, pastors, and Chaplaincy Ministries (ACM) as the Health Ministries Department health ministries directors in the lo- they prepare for endorsement. in the Southern cal churches. We are fortunate to have Union Conference The Southern around 120 chaplains serving in believes that main- Union is also the the Southern Union territory at taining a healthy co-sponsor of the the present time, and it is our lifestyle will help a Health Careers Fair privilege to visit them and provide person reach their at Southern Adven- encouragement and support, as full potential in tist University each well as to assist them in maintain- all aspects of life: year. ing a close relationship with our mentally, physical- Remember the office at the NAD. Many of our ly, and spiritually. counsel given in chaplains are in situations where To help a per- the Holy Scrip- there are no other Adventists serv- son live healthier, tures to each of us: ing with them or even the pres- the Southern “Beloved, I wish ence of other Adventist ministers Union Conference above all things to fellowship with. We are also Health Minis- that thou mayest involved in assisting pastors who tries Department prosper and be in want to be chaplains as we help provides support health, even as thy guide them in the process of pre- and consultation to Les Rilea, Southern Union chap- soul prospereth,” 3 paring for endorsement. conferences, health laincy director John 2. Seventh-day Adventist chap-

September 2011 • T IDINGS 35 meetings to give this assistance for those not in our Adventist schools. A very helpful DVD called “Reality” has been pro- duced by ACM, and it discusses these issues in detail. It is available free of charge from your conference NSO/Youth Depart- ment or from the ACM office; call 301-680-6782 or email acm@ Les Rilea discusses military issues with Chaplains from around the world gc.adventist.org. academy students. attended the First Adventist Chaplains World Summit. For individuals who do de- lains from 22 nations helped cide to enlist, local churches can make history as nearly 300 people are provided to Adventist mili- give them spiritual support by participated in the First Adven- tary personnel and also to those providing them with a Military tist Chaplains World Summit in anticipating military service. Bible Kit before they leave for Atlanta, Georgia. The summit was Because of Sabbath concerns and the service. This can be obtained held from June 22-27, 2010, allow- issues relating to the bearing of from the conference NSO/Youth ing for them to participate in the arms, the Church strongly coun- Department for a few dollars, and first weekend of the General Con- sels its members to consider the it contains a Bible, devotional ference session. For three days possible conflicts of conscience material, and other helpful items chaplains received encourage- in these and other areas, and to help keep them close to the ment, witnessed speakers being discourages voluntary enlistment. Church. There is also information willing to share their vulnerabili- The military states that they will to request free Adventist literature ties in ministry and personal life, endeavor to accommodate a of their choice while they are in and were challenged to meet the person’s request to observe their the service. needs of a rapidly changing world religious faith, but commanders For further information on that knows so little of the Christ have the last word and it is deter- chaplaincy and military issues, who offers grace and hope. mined on the basis of military visit www.nad.adventistchaplains. Every chaplain hired in the necessity. The facts are that Sat- org. public arena represents a free Ad- urday is routinely a day like any ventist clergy person and witness other day and everyone, other Adventist-Laymen’s Services & In- that otherwise would not have a than chaplains, receives combat dustries Southern Union Chapter job. The presence of the Church weapons training. By Calvin Thrash, president in that place would be missing. Because of the complexity The Southern Union Chapter When the average cost of of these and other issues, it is of Adventist-Laymen’s Services & fielding one pastor on denomi- important that our youth have Industries (ASI) is composed of national pay is multiplied by the information to help guide them 233 individuals in business and lay number of chaplains paid from before they make a decision that ministry whose passion is to share non-Church funds, the sav- can place them in conflict with Christ in the marketplace. Southern ings comes to approximately military regulations. Having taken Union treasurer Randy Robinson $27,600,000 per year (NAD only) the oath of enlistment, they are currently holds the position of in- in tithe dollars. bound by law to obey orders or terim executive secretary/treasurer, suffer the consequences of serious and has done so since the untimely National Service Organization discipline. In addition to visiting death of Oliver J. McKinney this (NSO) our academies and colleges to past February. NSO is the military relations provide this information to our During the past five years, the office of the Seventh-day Adven- youth, effort is made to be pres- members of ASI have been active tist Church and is a chapter of ent at Bible conferences, youth in occupations from construction Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries. rallies/congresses, conventions, and agriculture to healthcare and Spiritual support and guidance camp meetings, and workers’ food distribution. Many have seized

36 T IDINGS • September 2011 on opportunities to give Bible studies, go on mission trips, and preach in lay evangelistic efforts. Others continue to find unique ways of witnessing for Jesus in their ministry and places of business, and each year up to $100,000 is raised for mission projects that member organizations might otherwise have trouble funding. Our 2011 offering recipients include the following organizations:

Haiti Helpers organization has taken teams of people to Haiti over 25 times in the last 10 years for evangelism, Vacation Bible School (VBS), and agriculture among other projects. Most recently, Haiti Help- illustrate Bible stories to more than and they in turn would tell their ers provided shelter for widows 17,450 children in 600 churches. children. Then they would put and their children who were vic- their trust in God and would not tims of the 2010 earthquake. We thank our officers, mem- forget His deeds but would keep bers, supporters, and conference His commands,” Psalm 78:6, 7, NIV. South East Youth Confer- representatives who are of the And so they would have long life: ence (SEYC) is an official regional conviction that they have a part to Exodus 20:12 and Deuteronomy chapter of Generation of Youth for play in spreading the Good News 11:21. God reminds us, “Train up Christ (GYC). Their focus is to train, of Jesus’ second coming. Due to a child in the way he should go, equip, and inspire young people in their tireless efforts, energy, vi- and when he is old he will not active evangelism while maintain- sion, and support, our chapter is depart from it,” Proverbs 22:6. He ing a life of integrity and biblical the largest, most active of all ASI wants His children to know Him spirituality. chapters. To learn more about ASI, and experience His blessings. He please contact our administrative knows how important it is that 3Angel’sTube, Inc. is YouTube personnel at the Southern Union we work with children while they for Seventh-day Adventists. Since Conference, P.O. Box 849, Deca- are impressionable. This quote on its inception in 2009, this organi- tur, GA 30031; call 404-299-1832, a church bulletin board seems to zation has witnessed a growing x449; or visit our website at www. mirror that thought: “It is better to need for sharing the Gospel via asisouthernunion.org. build children, than to repair men.” the Internet. Their phenomenal Calvin Thrash is president of ASI With this in mind, the Southern growth was multiplied after stream- Southern Union Chapter. Union Children’s Ministries De- ing live the acceptance sermon of partment, in cooperation with the newly elected General Conference Children’s Ministries North American Division (NAD) president, Ted Wilson, during the By Kathy Russell Children’s Ministries Department, 2010 General Conference Session in When God spoke His com- has played an important role in Atlanta, Georgia. mandments through Moses to the the ministry of local conferences children of Israel, He took time to by helping with training events Columbia Mission Project emphasize the importance of teach- and by sending resource materi- ministers to orphaned children ing them to our children (Deuter- als. The Southern Union and NAD in Columbia, South America. The onomy 4:9, 10; 6:5-9 and 11:18-21). Children’s Ministries Departments organization plans to provide The reason for this was “so the have provided guidance, support, scholastic, evangelistic, and Sab- next generation would know them, and funding for training events for bath School materials which would even the children yet to be born, children’s ministries leaders in the

September 2011 • T IDINGS 37 areas of Sabbath School, Vacation the South Atlantic Conference and ence, spoke of McKinney as some- Bible School, and other relevant funded through the Southern Union one who “took a personal interest children’s ministries topics. Yearly to help teachers, parents, and chil- in each of us (children’s ministries Departmental Council Meetings dren learn about prayer. This semi- leaders) and our families. He was a have afforded the opportunity nar has been shared in other local man of prayer.” One time, McKin- for speakers and resources to be Southern Union conferences with ney said to Swafford, “Children’s shared with the local conference positive response. The local confer- ministries is not my specialty, but I children’s ministries directors. ences have been blessed to receive have some funding and I want to During this quinquennium, four the resources and training that they help.” Swafford says that McKin- “Go Fish” children’s ministries train- have been given through the gener- ney’s phone conferences were ing conventions have been held in ous support of the Southern Union upbeat and positive, he had a the Southern Union. Two were in Children’s Ministries Department. balanced attitude toward racial/ Georgia-Cumberland Conference, at ethnic issues, and “encouraged us Cohutta Springs Camp in 2009, and Tribute to Elder Oliver J. McKin- by providing speakers and helping in 2011 when a Hispanic track was ney Jr. with funding for training events provided with Spanish-speaking In memorial tribute to the late each year. He always came to ev- presenters; and two in the Florida Oliver J. McKinney Jr., who was ery convention, though sometimes Conference, in 2009 at Orlando’s the Southern Union director for only for a short time.” Florida Hospital, and 2010 at Camp children’s ministries, John Swafford, Kathy Russell, Carolina Confer- Kulaqua, which featured training director for children’s ministries at ence children’s ministries director, for Spanish-speaking leaders. These the Georgia-Cumberland Confer- once observed McKinney running “Go Fish” conventions and other training events have provided opportunities for children’s ministries leaders to receive basic and advanced certification through the NAD Chil- dren’s Ministries Depart- ment. In addition to training children’s ministries leaders, the South Union Children’s Ministries De- partment has had a direct impact on children by providing children’s Sabbath School classes at medical/ dental and health professionals’ conferences, and by encouraging children to actively participate in their church programs by serving as ushers, deacons and deaconesses; providing music, scripture readings, and prayer; and by speak- Gordon Retzer, Ruthie Jacobsen, and the late Oliver J. McKinney were honored during South ing at church services and Central Conference’s Prayer Summit. Pictured are Ruthie Jacobsen (left); Don Jacobsen; Dennis at children’s church. A Smith, pastor; Anthony McKinney (standing in for his father); Dana Edmond, South Central president; Jill Edmond; Cheryl Retzer; Gordon Retzer, Southern Union president; Elaine Rugless; Children’s Ministries Prayer Roy Rugless, South Central prayer ministries director; Janice Browne; and Benjamin Browne, Summit was developed in former South Central president.

38 T IDINGS • September 2011 between two different retreats in to give you a brief review of prayer ences. Gordon Retzer, president of different locations in one weekend. ministries. the Southern Union, heeded the She says, “He was definitely a man There is no doubt in anyone’s call and put in place the Prayer who didn’t just speak of his sup- mind about the importance of Ministries Department in 2005. He port, he showed it.” prayer. The servant of the Lord calls asked the late Oliver J. McKinney to Oscar Sherrod, director of it the “breath of the soul.” It is our be the director of that department. children’s ministries for the South lifeline to our heavenly Father, a At the same time, he asked the lo- Atlantic Conference, spoke with vital connection which without we cal conference directors within the regard to the Children’s Ministries cannot be saved. It is one of the Southern Union to appoint prayer Prayer Summit: “We appreciated El- prongs that aides our spirituality. coordinators within their confer- der McKinney’s support in assisting There are three aspects to prayer ences as well. Some conferences us financially and being there.” ministries: prayer, Bible study, and already had prayer coordinators Speaking on behalf of the local witnessing. This combination helps and were having prayer summits, conferences, we will all miss Oliver one to grow in Christ, to be pre- but not all. Retzer then took it one J. McKinney Jr., a godly gentleman pared for the second coming, and step further and asked the local who supported children’s ministries to help others to get ready. Prayer conferences to hold joint cultural not only with funding and resourc- ministries helps the Church to do prayer summits — regional and es, but with his supportive prayers the work of God. state conferences to come together and presence. Ruthie Jacobsen, director of to pray. Kathy Russell is Carolina Confer- prayer ministries for the North History was made, for this was ence children’s ministries director. American Division, has had a the first time that cultures within burden and vision for prayer the Southern Union came together Prayer Ministries ministries to reach our churches. to pray Union-wide at the same By Roy Rugless She realized that in order for that time in the same place. In 2006, all It was a chain reaction. It to happen, it needed to start at the eight conferences held joint cultural started from the top and trickled top. She spoke to Division lead- prayer summits in different places down. What I am talking about is ers and union presidents about the within the Union, and state and the advancement of prayer minis- necessity of prayer ministries, and regional churches came together for tries in the Southern Union. Before encouraged the leadership to begin prayer during the same time when I tell you how it trickled, allow me prayer ministries in their Confer- the summits were being held. The Southern Union supplied the financial resources, and Elder McKinney helped to organize the Union events along with the conference coordinators. It was a tremendous success. Hearts and tears were blended together, walls were broken down, the Holy Spirit was present, and Christ’s prayer for unity in John 17 was experienced. Since then, the South- ern Union Prayer Ministries Department has held workshops for the local conference prayer coordinators, and those prayer coordinators have held workshops and weekend prayer emphasis. The Southern Union

September 2011 • T IDINGS 39 Prayer Ministries Department has and stature, and in favor with God Union Conference, Elder McKinney encouraged the local conferences and man,” Luke 2:52. Solomon, the held the distinction of serving as to continue having prayer summits, wisest king of Israel and of all time the Union’s first African-American especially the cultural exchange. wrote, “Whatsoever thy hand find- ministerial director. For the past The South Central and Gulf States eth to do, do it with all thy might, five years, he served as direc- conferences conducted another one for there is no work, nor device, tor of prayer ministries, children’s in 2007, and will do it again this nor knowledge, nor wisdom in the ministries, and stewardship, and year. Two goals of the Southern grave whither thou goest,” Ecclesi- also served as executive secretary/ Union Prayer Ministries Department astes 9:10. treasurer of ASI Southern Union are to bring God’s people together In an effort to edify the Chapter for the last four years. through prayer, and to turn our members as Paul admonishes, the Elder McKinney died in his churches into houses of prayer. stewardship directors of each con- sleep on February 24, 2011, fol- Special tribute is given to Gor- ference preach sermons regarding lowing a brief period of illness. He don Retzer who had the heart to God’s grace, which is able to make wore many hats and was known listen to God, and the late Oliver J. all abound in every good work. as a “Jack of all trades.” McKin- McKinney who had the passion to Seminars and educational materials ney supported the ministry of the carry out God’s will. We appreci- are also presented in order to give Church in tangible, meaningful ate the contribution that they have practical and hands-on training for ways, and made himself accessible made to prayer ministries within the purpose of integrating steward- to constituents and colleagues alike. the Southern Union. The South ship principles into daily living. Whether it was changing a tire, Central Conference honored them Stewardship is much more tinkering under the hood of a ve- and Ruthie Jacobsen at their annual than money. In fact, money is just hicle, or paying a visit to someone prayer summit which was inspired a byproduct. The main goal of in the hospital, his help was always by these three. the Stewardship Department is to needed, and this servant of God May the spark that they started engender love — to increase love and a friend to man was always just fan into a flame that finishes the for God and to strengthen love one phone call away. work in us and in this Union. May for our fellowman. Ellen White Until his death, Elder McKinney the Lord bless them all. wrote, “Love must be the principle remained a faithful leader, states- Roy Rugless is South Central Con- of action. Love is the underlying man, and consummate diplomat. ference prayer ministries director. principle of God’s government in He did all he could, in as many Heaven and Earth, and it must be ways as he could, for as many as Stewardship the foundation of the Christian’s he could. We look forward to that By David Long character. This alone can make and great reunion day when we will The Stewardship Department is keep him steadfast. This alone can meet him in the sky, and there shall more than just another department enable him to withstand trial and we ever be with our Lord. While of the Church. Stewardship actually temptation,” Christian Service, page we work, wait, and reflect on McK- represents who we are as individu- 197. inney’s life, we are reminded and als. The reason this department is David Long is Southeastern Confer- comforted by these words penned so crucial is because in 2 Corin- ence stewardship director. by John the Revelator, “And I heard thians 5:10, it says, “For we must a voice from heaven saying unto all appear before the judgment me, Write, Blessed are the dead seat of Christ: that everyone may Tribute to Elder Oliver J. McKin- which die in the Lord from hence- receive the things done in his body, ney Jr. forth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they whether it be good or bad.” For more than 50 years, Elder may rest from their labours; and The Stewardship Department Oliver J. McKinney Jr. lovingly their works do follow them,” Rev- warns those who are unaware that and faithfully served the Seventh- elation 14:13. all will be held accountable for day Adventist Church. He began This tribute was humbly submitted their days on this planet. It encour- his Church ministry as a literature on behalf of Elder Oliver J. McKinney ages those who are believers to ex- evangelist, serving as pastor and Jr., by his administrative assistant, Carol hibit integrity in every area of their administrator along the way. A Hollie-Tsede. lives and to “increase in wisdom 30-year employee of the Southern

40 T IDINGS • September 2011 Help Them Find Your Church Office of Communication

Nathan Zinner (left), assistant to the director of communication/Southern Tidings advertising manager; R. Steven Norman III, communication director/Southern Tidings editor; Irisene Douce, Southern Tidings editorial assistant/production manager; and Bobbie Millburn, Southern Tidings circulation manager, serve as the Southern Union communication team.

God is to be praised for the Southern Union Office of Worker and the Field Tidings His goodness! Four-and-one- Communication. I continue to when the Union was divided; half-years ago, I was called to appreciate my immediate pre- and then was renamed the decessors Ron Quick and Olson Southern Tidings when the Perry, who enabled a smooth Union was reunited in 1932. transition. Since 2007, more than 100 Samuel S. Snow once re- years of the Southern Tidings marked we never have to fear have been available online at when we turn our programs the General Conference Archives over to the Holy Spirit. These website. In 2008, we offered the past five year have been filled Tidings via email, and with the with multiple displays of what January 2009 issue, we began to can happen through God’s include a Spanish section. Spirit. In 2010, we moved from a centuries old linear approach Southern Tidings in producing the magazine to a July 2007 marked the 100th parallel, collaborative approach anniversary of the birth of the using K4. This reduces produc- Southern Tidings, which began tion time for each issue from an Reggie Mattison, Southern Union sign as the Report of Progress: split average of 17 days to 11 work- engineer into two papers, The Southern ing days. K4 also positions us

42 T IDINGS • September 2011 to flow the Tidings in digital formats to all eight conferences and Hispanic websites, cell phones, iPads, and other mobile devices. Finally, it creates a much needed searchable database for all photos, articles, and video clips in the system. During the past five years, our circulation has grown from 79,000 to nearly 105,000 in the months that the Spanish edition is published. Indeed, 2010 was the first year that our annual circulation exceeded one million! Thanks to Bobbie Millburn, the church clerks, and each conference membership coordinator, whose diligent efforts with eAdventist manage the delivery of the Tidings to your homes. Lianna Carpenter loves catching up on the news in the Southern Tidings before Hats off to Irisene Douce, dinner. Her favorite section is Carolina Conference news; her mom, Rebecca Nathan Zinner, Sheila Elwin, Carpenter, is Carolina associate communication director. and Brian Wiehn and Brad Fisher of the College Press, and quinquennium, more than one churches and schools can select all the contributing editors, who dozen students and graduates and purchase highway direction- write, edit, take pictures, design, have served as summer interns al signs, yard signs, welcome and print the Southern Tidings. and North American Division mats, and other type of signs. Together we share the news, interns. For more details, visit www. history, and spirit of the South- southernunion.com/signs. ern Union Adventist family. Church Identification Program Oscar Heinrich launched the Other Services Internships and Mentoring church identification service in We provide services to and Southern Adventist Universi- 1964. It is the only full-service foster the ministry of all depart- ty and Oakwood University have church identification service ments of the Southern Union, trained hundreds of communi- within our denomination. Reg- the eight conferences, two cation, design, and broadcast gie Mattison, Southern Union universities, one college, and majors. The Union is committed sign engineer, secures permits, hospitals. Some of the new or to helping these students obtain installs, and maintains the more updated things we have pre- on-the-job experience and op- than 1,500 signs in the Southern pared: portunities to use their skills Union. • The Southern Union Crisis within the Church. We foster a Recently, we began to offer Management Guide relationship with our students yard signs to churches within • An updated Southern Tidings by sponsoring scores of students the Southern Union territory. Style Manual who desire to attend the yearly Signs are provided at near • New Southern Union website Society of Adventist Commu- wholesale prices, with free • A new Southern Union Trail nicators convention, and by installation, and free lifetime of Adventism website with a offering summer and two-year maintenance. printed guide to be published internships in the eight confer- We have also launched a soon ences, the Southern Union, and new website for the church our universities. During this identification service, where

September 2011 • T IDINGS 43 Office of Education

W. Eugene Brewer, educa- Jim Ingersoll, secondary tion specialist director

Diane Ruff, elementary Tamara Libonati, early director childhood director Debra Fryson, director

Gracie Culpepper, Luberta Biggs, Currine Harris, Raiza Fernandez, Patricia Campbell, Mariel Lombardi, former registrar registrar administrative administrative administrative administrative assistant assistant assistant assistant

44 T IDINGS • September 2011 Pressing Toward cation looks like in centers and words of the song said: ‘I know the Mark of schools across the Union. my Lord is able to carry me Our High Calling through.’” With that she thanked God-centered the director sincerely for teach- The Psalmist declares, God-centered centers and ing her daughter about Jesus. “Great is the Lord! How ex- schools integrate Seventh-day At another center, a four- cellent is thy name in all the Adventists Christian principles year-old child shared with her earth!” Psalm 145:3, 8:1. Because with learning to anchor students parents what she’d learned at we serve a great and excellent in a relationship with God and school each day, including the God, throughout the 2006-2010 prepare them for a joyful life of Bible stories her teacher told. quinquennium, educators in the service. Within the year, the father was Southern Union have worked baptized and the mother is cur- to accomplish the goals of the • A Little Child Shall Lead rently taking Bible studies. Adventist EDGE, the Southern The God-centered nature of Union’s implementation of the our Union’s early childhood • Service/Outreach Activities North American Division Jour- education and care centers is One Christmas, students at ney to Excellence. To honor the evidenced by the testimonies Silver Creek Adventist School God we serve, we press toward program directors share on a chose to forgo a party where the mark of our high calling so regular basis. On one occasion they exchanged gifts, and in- that every school in the South- a two-year-old little girl from a stead hosted a party for home- ern Union will become a GREAT non-Adventist home was picked less children in their communi- school, with GREAT teachers, up from the center by her mom, ty. The money they would have who address all learners with buckled into her car seat, and spent on one another they used a GREAT curriculum and with was heading home quite hap- to purchase Bibles and other GREAT delivery of instruction. pily. The mother, on the other gifts for their guests. The Southern Union is home hand, was not in such a content- Eighth- and 12th-grade to 90 early childhood centers ed mood. She’d lost her job, was students in many Southern and school-based pre-k pro- going through a divorce, and Union schools, rather than plan grams, 158 elementary schools, felt like she was at the end of an end-of-the-year class trip to 12 academies, one college, and her rope. As the mother drove relax, unwind, and celebrate two universities. During the she cried and questioned aloud, the accomplishment of a major 2006-2011 quinquennium, these “Why…?” “How…?” “What…?” milestone, plan mission trips at birth-through- grade-12 centers The two-year-old heard her home and abroad where they and schools educated an aver- mother’s distress and began can serve others by building age of 12,294 students annu- singing from the backseat, “He’s churches and schools. ally. More than 1,200 teachers able, He’s able, I know He’s Students at Appalachian and administrators accepted the able, I know my Lord is able to Christian Academy, a small one- challenge of guiding students, carry me through,” a song she’d teacher school, held yard sales, both academically and spiritu- learned during worship time at read-a-thons, and many other ally. And, the Office of Educa- Meadows Academy Child Care projects during a two-year peri- tion was responsible for provid- Center. The day after this drive od to raise more than $32,000 to ing administrative support to home, the mother came to the help build an elementary school each of the eight conferences, director and related the occur- at the Maluti Adventist Hospital assisting them in their education rence. Again she cried, but this in Lesotho. mission. time with tears of appreciation While space will not per- and gratitude as she explained, • Bible Study and Prayer mit us to list all the wonderful “When I stopped to listen to Bass Memorial Academy things that have transpired dur- what my daughter was sing- has involved their students in ing the past five years, in this ing, I felt an instant peace and extensive Bible marking classes, report we share with you some hope that everything was going giving Bible studies, weekly snapshots of what GREAT edu- to work out okay, just like the prayer meetings, Generation

September 2011 • T IDINGS 45 — a factor few other schools measure. One of the most dramatic findings is that students who transferred to Adventist schools saw a marked improvement in academic achievement. The more years a student attended an Adventist school, the more his or her performance improved. (Elisa Kiddo, “For Real Education Reform, Take a Cue From the Adventists, “The Christian Science Monitor, www.csmonitor.com/Commen- tary/Opinion/1115, November 15, 2010.) of Youth for Christ confer- • CognitiveGenesis Research ence on campus among other CognitiveGenesis is a • Writing Assessment Program God-centered activities that longitudinal study to assess In preparation for transition have brought about an unprec- Adventist academics. From 2006 from elementary to high school, edented spiritual awakening on to 2010, test scores measuring the Southern Union elementary campus. both achievement and ability division adopted the Writing Coble Elementary students were analyzed for 51,706 el- Assessment Program (WrAP), a participated in the Partners in ementary and secondary stu- criterion reference assessment Prayer Program. Each student dents. In each subject category, that identifies student strengths had a Georgia-Cumberland students attending Adventist and weaknesses in writing. Academy student and a Calhoun schools scored higher than the WrAP is aligned with the six Church member teamed up with national average. They also traits of writing and the new them in prayer. Coble students scored higher than their ex- Pathways curriculum. An addi- prayed for their partners daily, pected achievement based on tional component of the WrAP and in turn the partners prayed assessment of individual ability assessment provides opportunity for them, and at least once each quarter they contacted each other. The valuable lesson learned: prayer changes things!

Results-oriented Excellence is not a single accomplishment or a one-time event; it is a continuous cycle that pervades the classroom, the school, and the entire system. Regular examination of all aspects of the educational program must occur to determine if a quality product has been pro- duced and if goals have been accomplished. Highlights below offer a glimpse of measures used to determine if desired results have been achieved.

46 T IDINGS • September 2011 for students to go online and learning styles 2 and 3. Testing not measured by test scores. The participate in sample practice revealed their student popu- results we strive for are realized writing activities whenever they lation to be composed of 43 when young children and their choose, with immediate assess- percent 1’s, 16 percent 2’s, 13 families take hold of the opportu- ment results. As a result of our percent 3’s, and 28 percent 4’s nity to make Christian education focus to improve student writ- — totally opposite of what was a priority in their lives. When paring, students are now becoming expected. A look at students’ ents are baptized and children go published writers. records in light of learning forward and enroll in an Adven- styles showed that lower GPA’s tist elementary school, we have • Helping All Students Experi- and the majority of attendance constructed important bridges to ence Success and discipline problems were both the church and the school. Madison Academy adminis- experienced by students with We have begun this work dur- tration and faculty determined learning styles 1 and 4. This in- ing the last few years, and with that the best way to meet the formation made it clear that tra- intentional efforts continue to educational needs of their ditional education does not ad- seek and implement strategies for students was to identify each dress the needs of students with improvement in this area. student’s learning style and find learning styles 1 and 4. In fact, ways to address the needs of all it causes them to dislike school Environment that is Safe and learners across the curriculum. as revealed by their attendance Nurturing Traditional education focuses on and discipline issues and lower Administrators and teachers GPAs. It has become a high prior- reflect God’s love, and work to LEARNING STYLES ity by administration and faculty create safe and nurturing en- alike to address this disparity in vironments that foster respect; Type One learners seek personal as- delivering education at Madison honor diversity; and establish a sociations, meaning, and involvement. Academy, with goals of provid- climate of grace, acceptance, and They are good at making, connec- ing a balanced approach for all trust. tions. learning styles and of helping all students experience success in • Respect for Others Type Two learners think about infor- school. Centers and schools engage mation. They seek facts, think through in a wide range of activities to ideas, and learn what the experts • Building Bridges create a safe and nurturing en- think. In the field of early childhood vironment. Visitors are greeted education, “desired results” are warmly by friendly students, Type Three learners like to experiment, build, and create usability. They are always tinkering and applying ideas.

Type Four learners look for hidden possibilities. They like exploring, learning by trial and error, and self- discovery. They are good at creating original adaptations.

While all learners engage in all types of learning, most seem to favor one particular type. There is no right or wrong learning style, just different. This information is based on the work of Bernice McCarthy author of the 4MAT system of instruction.

September 2011 • T IDINGS 47 teachers, and staff. Students Rucker Jr., Adventist Health four types of learners and offers are taught to be kind and to System corporate relations vice teachers a way to reach them have respect for one another. president. As stated by Aristo- all. It also offers learners insight One example of how this is tle, “We are what we repeatedly into their personal approaches accomplished can be found do. Excellence, then, is not an to learning. Southern Union at A. W. Spalding Elementary act, but a habit.” Desire of Ages, secondary teachers, in response School. Students in grades 6-8 page 418, states that “Christian the question, “Why is 4MAT use- participate twice each year in courtesy should reign in every ful?” had this to say: “Don’t Laugh at Me,” a program household (and schoolhouse).” •“It makes the concepts very designed to create a caring, Hence, the ideal goal for each clear for our students.” compassionate, and cooperative Adventist school is to always •“It keeps me organized and classroom and school environ- provide customer service that fresh in my teaching approach.” ment. Through this program is invitational, intentional, and •“It is better teaching for our they learn a healthy expression Christ-like. students.” of feelings; caring, compassion, •“It is very useful and practi- and cooperation; the creative • Brain-friendly Classrooms cal — this is an awesome ap- resolution of conflicts; and an It is the job of teachers to proach.” appreciation of differences. change the human brain every •“I think it will engage more In addition, to accommodate day. The more they know about students in the learning pro- and welcome more constituents how it learns, the more success.” and community residents, early cessful they can be. From the •“Focuses more on student childhood education and care beginning, the Adventist EDGE learning rather than teacher brochures and documents have adopted the 4MAT Model as the teaching.” been translated into Spanish and framework from which it would made available to teachers, cen- operate; thus, ensuring brain- • S.A.F.E. Manual ter directors, and administrators based learning as the choice of To ensure a more safe envi- for assisting them in meeting the instructional delivery. 4MAT is ronment, the School Activation needs of the Spanish-speaking a method for helping all learn- for Emergency (S.A.F.E.) Guide families in their churches and ers to be successful. It identifies was restructured to provide communities.

• Intentional Custom- er Service Customer service is the life-giving force of an organization. It is great customer service that calls one to return again and again. It is embod- ied in reaching out and creating positive relationships. To cap- ture this concept in Seventh-day Adventist schools, special Share the Spirit customer service presentations were conducted around the Southern Union by Womack

48 T IDINGS • September 2011 assistance for today’s rising standards are to be used in all — with a click of the mouse school emergencies and crises. academies across the Division. — to address the needs and Immediate responses for manag- enhance the learning experience ing body fluids, bullying, child • Pathways of students. abuse, bomb threats, suicide This quinquennium also 4MATION web-based soft- attempts, and disasters are criti- ushered in curriculum changes ware also includes hundreds of cal issues that each center and with the new NAD balanced exemplary 4MAT units, from all school must be prepared to ad- literacy program, Pathways: A subject areas and for all grade dress at a moment’s notice. This Journey to Excellence Through levels. Nearly 1,500 units in the Guide identifies the responsi- Literacy, which focuses on all of data bank have been prepared bilities of the center and school the components of reading and by Seventh-day Adventist teach- administrator, faculty, and staff writing across interdisciplinary ers, the majority of whom are in during these and any other subjects in grades 1-8. To assist the Southern Union. emergencies that may occur. teachers with movement from Pre-service teachers at instructional practices where Oakwood University and South- Aligned with Adventist and Na- they have traditionally served ern Adventist University have tional Standards as the major delivery systems of also been provided 4MATION Adventist and national cur- knowledge, to becoming facilita- subscriptions, and ECE teach- riculum standards focus on what tors requires much professional ers have recently received students should know and be development. The elementary subscriptions to an early child- able to do. To help students team launched the initial intro- hood version that more accu- achieve, goals must be clearly duction of Pathways for teach- rately accommodates learning outlined. In addition, resources ers in all eight conferences with experiences for young children. for ongoing professional devel- training in balanced literacy. Our Union continues to exem- opment must be readily avail- The North American Division plify a seamless educational able to ensure instructional Office of Education provided system as teachers of toddlers quality. approximately $200,000 towards through higher education share this same effort. Furthermore, a cutting-edge electronic tool • Secondary Standards specialized Pathways profession- for effecting better teaching and The Southern Union’s sec- al development has been con- learning at all levels of develop- ondary education leaders, dur- ducted in Florida and at Oak- ment and educational growth. ing the past five years, have wood University each summer. led out in the development of Additionally, more than $80,000 Team Effort a full high school curriculum in Commonwealth grant funding Strong partnerships be- of Seventh-day Adventist sec- was secured to purchase books tween the home, church, center, ondary standards composed of to provide print-enriched class- school, local, and wider com- 38 classes in 10 subject areas. room environments. munity are critical for GREAT These standards are succinct, education to occur. Students yet comprehensive, and pro- • 4MATION have the best advantage when vide a user-friendly tool from Every teacher in the South- a collaborative and supportive which teachers can build their ern Union has a subscription to community exists. classes and ensure students are 4MATION, a web-based lesson prepared for college. The North design technology tool. It ac- • K.I.D. School & Truth 4 Youth American Division Office of tively assists teachers in the cre- Kids in Discipleship training Education saw value in what the ation of lesson designs that lead has equipped teachers, admin- Southern Union was doing and to individual learner growth at istrators, pastors, and parents to provided financing, time, and each step of the instructional work as a team to be intentional people at their summer cur- process. Using 4MATION, teach- about nurturing the spiritual riculum writing workshops to ers design lessons and units that growth of early childhood, el- write standards for the last five integrate Adventist and national ementary, and secondary stu- subject areas. These secondary standards in an intentional way dents. The desired result is for

September 2011 • T IDINGS 49 partnership between the pastor, home, school, and church.

• Active Christians That Serve Almost six years ago when Hurricane Katrina struck, an opportunity was afforded Seventh- day Adventist college and academy youth through ACTS (Active Christians That Serve) World Relief to get involved in disaster relief that changes all who participate for life. Whenever natural disasters strike, ACTS provides our youth opportunities to directly help victims in desperate need to survive mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. They unload, sort, and distribute food, clothes, cleaning supplies, ice, and water on-site; they help clean up yards and houses; search for and find precious possessions; prepare and serve hot meals; and pray with and hug people who have

nowhere to turn. In so doing Southern Union children and more than 28 baptisms. Both they get a clear picture of what youth to invite Jesus to be their programs knit together the fam- God’s Church is all about: being Lord, then to share Him with ily of God and provide an active the hands and feet of Jesus. their friends. The major thrust of KID School is to help students explore their faith as they develop a personal relationship with Jesus. KID School was extended through Truth 4 Youth, a dynamic, Christ-centered evangelistic series designed especially for youth. Because youth are five times more likely to make a lifelong commitment to Christ than adults, this program began in two conference schools, resulting in

50 T IDINGS • September 2011 • Distance Education • A.N.G.E.L. The demand for distance The Adven- education in the Southern Union tist Network of has been increasing over the General Edu- past five years. Atlanta Adventist cational Librar- Academy, Forest Lake Acad- ies (A.N.G.E.L.) emy, Florida Hospital College of program exists Health Sciences, Oakwood Uni- to provide pro- versity, and Southern Adventist fessional library University have all developed services for distance education programs elementary and that provide secondary educa- academy librar- tion and dual credit classes for ies in the South- students and schools needing ern Union and these options. To further as- North American sist in the development of the Division. Dur- distance education needs in ing the past five the Southern Union, the North years, A.N.G.E.L. American Division Technology moved from the and Distance Education Com- Southern Adven- mittee (TDEC) has granted the tist University Southern Union representation library and is on their committee. Collabora- now fully oper- tion with TDEC will provide ated and funded access, making them available wider insights and opportunities by the Southern Union. Through even when the library is closed. on a national level in distance A.N.G.E.L., school library cata- education as well as all areas of logs are now accessible from Excellence Awards education technology. any computer with Internet Recognizing that excellence is never achieved by accident, Adventist EDGE excellence awards recognize schools, teachers, and administrators that are committed to the delivery of GREAT Adventist education and are intentional about moving to higher levels of excellence. During the past quinquennium 12 schools have received the School of Excellence Award, two teachers have received the Teacher of Excellence Award, and one principal has received the Adminis-

September 2011 • T IDINGS 51

Adventist EDGE Schools of Excellence AAF Excellence in Teaching Adventist EDGE Schools of Excellence AAF Excellence in Teaching 2007 A. W. Spalding Elementary 2007 A. W. Spalding Elementary Award Recipients Award Recipients 2008 Decatur Adventist Junior Academy 2008 Decatur Adventist Junior Academy 2010 Beryl Wisdom Adventist School 2006 Gordon Davis, Walker Memorial 2010 Beryl Wisdom Adventist School 2006 Gordon Davis, Walker Memorial 2010 Dickson Adventist Elementary Academy 2007 Stan Hobbs, Atlanta Adventist Academy 2010 Dickson Adventist Elementary Academy 2010 Duluth Adventist Elementary 2007 Stan Hobbs, Atlanta Adventist Academy 2008 Richard Hickam, Collegedale Academy 2010 Duluth Adventist Elementary 2010 Forest Lake Education Center 2008 Richard Hickam, Collegedale Academy 2009 Randy Heilman, Collegedale Academy 2010 Forest Lake Education Center 2010 Greeneville Adventist Academy 2009 Rusty Litten, Orlando Junior Academy 2009 Randy Heilman, Collegedale Academy 2010 Madison Campus Elementary 2010 Tammy Overstreet, Osceola Adventist 2010 Greeneville Adventist Academy 2009 Rusty Litten, Orlando Junior Academy 2010 Silver Creek Adventist School Christian School 2010 Madison Campus Elementary 2010 Tammy Overstreet, Osceola Adventist 2011 Berean Christian Junior Academy 2010 Patricia Thompson, Alcy Seventh-day 2010 Silver Creek Adventist School Christian School 2011 Greater Atlanta Adventist Academy Adventist Junior Academy 2011 Keren Taccone, West Palm Beach 2010 Patricia Thompson, Alcy Seventh-day 2011 John L. Coble Elementary 2011 Berean Christian Junior Academy Junior Academy 2011 Greater Atlanta Adventist Academy Adventist Junior Academy 2011 Ridgetop Adventist Elementary 2011 Steve Baughman, Highland Academy 2011 Keren Taccone, West Palm Beach 2011 John L. Coble Elementary Junior Academy Adventist EDGE Teachers of Excellence 2011 Ridgetop Adventist Elementary 2011 Steve Baughman, Highland Academy 2007 Reggenia Baskin

2008 Sherry Housley Adventist EDGE Teachers of Excellence

2007 Reggenia Baskin Adventist EDGE Administrator of

Excellence 2008 Sherry Housley 2010 Keith Nelson

Adventist EDGE Administrator of Excellence 2010 Keith Nelson

trator of Excellence Award. July 1, 2011, after serving for education. Because of our high Southern Union teachers 28 years as the Southern Union calling, we must enable learners have also been honored with certification registrar. During the to develop a life of faith in God, the Excellence in Teaching years, she has helped countless and to use their knowledge, Award given by the Alumni teachers acquire or maintain skills, and understanding to Awards Foundation (AAF), denominational certification. serve God and humanity. When an independent organization Gordon Retzer, Southern Union all is said and done, “the work of volunteers willing to fund, president, observed that “Gracie of education and the work of advance, and sustain greater exhibited constant attention to redemption are one,” Education, excellence in Adventist schools. quality and excellence, and the page 30, and the desired result North America’s finest Adventist field has appreciated her care- is to prepare students to enroll teachers are selected to receive ful attention to all the details in the school of the hereafter this award on the basis of class- involved with the ministry of the where they will sit at the feet of room innovation, passion for registrar.” She has been suc- Jesus, the Master Teacher. What teaching, professional growth, ceeded by Luberta Biggs. a GREAT education that will be! and commitment to Adventist education. AAF recognizes that Our High Calling great teachers are the heartbeat As we move into a new of great Adventist schools. quinquennium, the Southern Union education team will Teacher Certification continue on the journey to Gracie Culpepper retired on excellence to provide GREAT

52 T IDINGS • September 2011 Success is calling.

EDUCATION | EXCELLENCE | ETERNITY

Oakwood University HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA

www.oakwood.edu Hispanic Ministries

Ivette Figueroa, administrative assistant, and Jorge Mayer, director Ministering to the Hispanic through in terms of finances and ence shows a 165.52 percent membership during the past immigration, which affects to the increase, Carolina Conference a decade has been and contin- majority of our membership, the 49.13 percent, and Georgia Cum- ues to be a blessing to me. God charts show a significant growth berland Conference a 77.85 per- has constantly manifested His in the past five years. cent increase. The same indicator power, through the result of the Tithe: The tithe figures, that for the rest of the Union is of an dedicated work done by the eight were already higher in 2005 increase of 9.86 percent. Hispanic directors in the Southern compared to 2001, were even Baptisms: There was a re- Union territory. Their leadership higher in 2010, and in all years markable increase in the percent- is an inspiration to the churches. in between. If we only compare age of baptisms every year in the We can constantly verify this 2010 with 2005, the percentage of past quinquennium, and a 9.58 when visiting the different con- growth was 20 percent, and the percent increase in 2010 com- gregations; the enthusiasm of same indicator for the rest of the pared to 2005. A total of 12,258 members for sharing God’s love Union was of 4.42 percent. individuals have joined the South- is remarkable. Membership: This indicator ern Union Hispanic family during also shows a noticeable increase the past five years. Statistics of a 30.65 percent in 2010 com- Many events and programs In spite of the difficult situ- pared to 2005. It is worth men- were organized to help attain ation that the country is going tioning that Gulf States Confer- these results:

54 T IDINGS • September 2011 Caravans There is usually a main pre- to provide training on family life. Twice a year, every confer- sentation followed by seminars, Pastors face many challenges in ence organizes an evangelistic on simple outreach methods that the field and need to be profes- caravan in several cities. Only can be applied in our daily activi- sionally trained to deal with the one sermon is presented in ties, on the importance of prayer problems of the church members each location, and it is done by in obtaining better results and and the community. Topics like evangelist Alejandro Bullón. To the reason why God uses church parenting, marital relationship, this event, church members bring members to bring people to drug addiction within the family, those people they have been Him, etc. At the end, all available jail, alcohol use, etc., are realities working with on a personal basis, materials that the Union has for that pastors deal with almost on through small groups, mission- evangelism are sold, and people a daily basis in their ministry, and ary couples, etc. The purpose of go back to their congregations this program is helping to face these efforts is to help people in trained, motivated and with the them in a biblical context. After their final decision for Christ, and necessary tools to do the work. the completion of the program, give church members the possi- pastors are certified as educators bility to see this process. Academic/Professional on family life, by the AAFLP (Ad- Development ventist Association of Family Life Festival of the Laity Southern Union continues Professionals). The Festival of the Laity is a to facilitate the academic and yearly event organized to bring professional development for pas- Overseas Crusades together pastors and lay delegates tors, providing the possibility of Hispanic churches usually from a specific area in the Union. registering in the pastoral minis- gather many cultures. Even though In the past, this event was held tries master’s program, offered by they speak the same language, every four years, but the need to the faculty of Andrews University those cultures differ in many do it more often was expressed Hispanic Institute of the Theo- aspects. Very often, ministering to by the laity in many occasions, logical Seminary. Many pastors multicultural churches is a chal- and it is clearly shown by the have completed this program in lenge. In order to help pastors attendance to the meetings that the past 10 years. understand the different Hispanic every time is near 1,000. We have also seen the need idiosyncrasies, our department has organized crusades to Latino countries once a year, since 1999. Every conference selects a group of pastors to be the main presenters at the crusades, and share/learn different methods of evangelism. These groups have gone to Cuba (2007), the south of Argentina (2006), South of México (2008), Do- minican Republic (2009), northeast of Argentina (2010), and Spain (2011).

September 2011 • T IDINGS 55 uted in the churches of our territory, as well as other unions. The movie shows the process that a family went through as they realized their neighbors needed help. How they became friends, spent leisure time together, and comforted them as they mourned the lost of their son. Little by little their new friends became interested in their beliefs, and ac- cepting Christ was the consequence.

Elders’ Retreat Churches have been extreme- Personal Evangelism Two elders’ retreats have ly enthusiastic about this method According to a statistic been organized at the Union of evangelism, and the Hispanic presented by the Barna group, level. There was a detailed review Department has organized semi- widely considered to be the lead- of the function of the elders in nars and prepared materials and ing research organization focused the church, as well as their role ideas to make the work easy. on the intersection of faith and in its mission. Team work was Usually, after a certain period culture, 80 percent of Christians presented as a very important as- of time, once small groups have will die without bringing some- set to this function. finished a series of studies and one to Christ. If these results During the last retreat that become familiar with some of the applied to our Church, it would was held in Atlanta in April of church members, they are invited mean that only 20 percent of our 2011, there was a lot of inter- to an evangelistic campaign. members are participating in the action at the meetings. People Many individuals have been bap- mission of making disciples. We showed a deep interest in many tized after these efforts. believe that one of the reasons of the topics that were presented, “In our churches, let small for this is the methods of evan- and participated actively by mak- companies be formed for ser- gelism that churches have always ing numerous questions and com- vice…The formation of small presented. For a layperson, giving ments. The event was transmitted companies as basis of Christian Bible studies or doing any type via Internet, and 200 sites could effort has been presented to me of public presentation is some- participate from a distance. by One who cannot err,” Testi- times unthinkable. Other institu- mony Treasures III, page 84. tions make a big emphasis on Small Groups the door-to-door work, and once There are approximately 920 New Evangelistic Approach again, most people feel uncom- families that have opened their Movie La Ventana fortable practicing this method. homes to small groups of Bible Now, the concept of win- We could mention many outreach study. People find it easier to ning souls has taken a different strategies that have been very attend a meeting at the house of approach. A more personal and popular through the years, but someone they know, and enjoy a natural method of evangelism have not made a big impression Bible study in a familiar environ- was introduced through the mov- on Church members. ment where they do not feel like ie “La Ventana” (The Window, Since our standing against the strangers, rather than going to a script by evangelist Alejandro devil’s tricks depends on a daily church or a meeting hall. Bullón), which has been distrib- and progressive relationship with

56 T IDINGS • September 2011 Christ obtained from the spiritual bor to our homes to strengthen of blessings received. At the end armor presented in Ephesians our friendship may, as we show of the visit, the family prayed for 6, the Word of God (listening), God’s love and become closer to the friend; gave him/her a small prayer (talking), and the readi- them, bring them to Jesus’ feet. present; and lent a book, video, ness to announce the Good News or CD that will leave the door of Peace (sharing), our focus was Homes of Hope open to a future encounter. The to think of creative ways of an- An invitation was extended idea is to continue that friendship nouncing the Good News, with to the 10,000 Hispanic families in a social way, and tactfully take which the majority of the Church in the Union territory, to open every opportunity to show Jesus’ members can feel comfortable. their homes to a new friend. The kindness and love. Little by little, Jesus spent a great amount of idea was to pray for this person the friend will become interested time at his followers’ homes, either staying or just having a meal with them. People were very open to listen to Him in familiar environments, sharing social activities. Even the early Church’s fast growth was, to a great extent, thanks to this simple method of friendship and care about people’s needs. “Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Savior mingled with men as One who de- during a certain period of time, in the beliefs that make that fam- sired their good. He showed His before inviting her/him to enjoy ily different. This method requires sympathy for them, ministered moments of fellowship during a a lot of prayer and study. to their needs, and won their special and simple meal at home, The invitation goes even confidence. Then, He bade them on May 14. After the invitation, farther. Evangelism is not a single “follow Me,” The Ministry of Heal- and until May 14, families contin- event; it is a lifestyle that attracts ing, page 143. ued to pray for the Holy Spirit to more people than the most elo- The call to the churches provide them love and wisdom quent sermon. now, is to have a more per- to witness, and to the guest the “By being social and com- sonal method of evangelism. The capability of seeing the love of ing close to people, you may Church has always talked about the Lord toward men. The idea turn the current of their thoughts the power of love and a good was not for a preaching session, more readily than the most able example, but this, even though but a nice and warm gathering, discourse,” Gospel Workers, page based on the same principle, is simple conversation on matters 193. much more intentional. Inviting of mutual interest, looking for a friend, coworker, or neigh- the opportunity to mingle stories

September 2011 • T IDINGS 57 Departamento Hispano

diferentes congregaciones; el entusiasmo de los miembros por compartir el amor de Dios es notable.

Estadísticas A pesar de la difícil situación por la que atraviesa el país en términos de finanzas e inmigración, la cual afecta a la mayoría de nuestros miembros, las estadísticas muestran un crecimiento significativo en los últimos cinco años. Diezmos: Las cifras de los diezmos, que habían experimentado un incremento en el 2005 comparadas con las cifras del 2001, fueron aun más elevadas en el 2010, y en todos los años de por medio. Si se Ivette Figueroa, asistente administrativa, y Jorge Mayer, director compara el año 2010 con el 2005, El ministerio de servir a resultado del trabajo dedicado de el porcentaje de crecimiento en la membrecía hispana durante los ocho directores hispanos del este indicador fue de un 20 por una década, ha sido y continúa territorio de la Unión del Sur. Su ciento, y en el resto de la unión siendo una bendición para mí. liderazgo es una inspiración para alcanzó el 4.42 por ciento. Dios ha manifestado su poder las iglesias. Podemos verificarlo Membrecía: Este indicador constantemente a través del constantemente al visitar las muestra también un incremento

58 T IDINGS • September 2011 notable del 30.65 por ciento en el el propósito de reunir pastores entrenados de manera profesional 2010 con respecto al año 2005. y delegados laicos de un área para poder hacer frente a los Vale la pena mencionar que la específica de la unión. En el problemas de los miembros de asociación de los estados del pasado, este evento se llevaba iglesia y de la comunidad. Temas golfo, Gulf States Conference, a cabo cada cuatro años, pero como paternidad, relaciones muestra un crecimiento de 165.52 en muchas ocasiones los laicos conyugales, adicciones dentro por ciento. La asociación de Las expresaron la idea de hacerlo de la familia, encarcelamiento, Carolinas, Carolina Conference, con mayor frecuencia; la prueba etc., son realidades con las que un 49.13 por ciento, y la se ve claramente en la asistencia, los pastores se enfrentan a diario asociación Georgia Cumberland que todos los años es de en su ministerio. Este programa un 77.85 por ciento de aproximadamente mil personas. los ayuda a manejarlos desde incremento. El mismo indicador Usualmente se presenta un contexto bíblico. Luego para el resto de la unión muestra un tema central, seguido de de su compleción, reciben un un crecimiento del 9.86 por seminarios sobre métodos certificado como Educadores ciento. simples para el alcance de almas en Vida Familiar extendido por Bautismos: El porcentaje de que puedan ser aplicados en AAFLP, Asociación Adventista de bautismos anuales en el pasado las actividades diarias, sobre la Profesionales de Vida Familiar quinquenio experimentó también importancia de la oración en la (Adventist Association of Family un notable crecimiento. La cifra obtención de mejores resultados, Life Professionals). del año 2010 comparada con la y las razones por las cuales Dios del 2005, es un 9.58 por ciento usa a los miembros de iglesia Campañas en el Exterior mayor. Un total de 12,258 almas para atraer gente hacia Él, etc. Por lo general, las iglesias se han unido a la familia hispana Al final del evento, se ofrece hispanas reúnen muchas de la Unión del Sur durante los para la venta todo el material culturas. A pesar de hablar un últimos cinco años. de evangelismo que la unión mismo lenguaje, estas culturas Para obtener estos resultados, tiene disponible, y los asistentes difieren en muchos aspectos. se organizó un buen número de regresan a sus congregaciones Por esta razón, frecuentemente eventos: entrenados, motivados y con el ministerio en estas iglesias se las herramientas necesarias para convi erte en un reto. A los Caravanas hacer el trabajo. efectos de entender las diferentes Dos veces al año, cada idiosincrasias hispanas, nuestro asociación organiza una caravana Desarrollo Académico/ departamento organiza desde evangélica en diferentes ciudades. Profesional 1999, un viaje anual para llevar Se presenta sólo un sermón en La Unión del Sur continúa a cabo campañas evangélicas en cada localidad, y el orador es facilitando el desarrollo países latinos. Cada asociación el evangelista Alejandro Bullón. académico y profesional de los selecciona un grupo de pastores Los miembros de iglesia invitan pastores, dándoles la posibilidad para que oficien como oradores a aquellas personas con las de registrarse en el programa de en estas campañas, y compartan/ cuales ya han estado trabajando maestría de ministerio pastoral, aprendan diferentes métodos en forma personal, a través ofrecido por profesores del de evangelismo. Estos grupos de grupos pequeños, parejas Instituto Hispano del Seminario han ido a Cuba (2007), el sur de misioneras, etc. El propósito de Teológico de la universidad Argentina (2006), el sur de Méjico estos esfuerzos es ayudar a estas Andrews. Un significativo número (2008), la República Dominicana personas en su decisión final por de pastores ha completado este (2009), el noroeste de Argentina Cristo, y dar a los miembros de programa en esta última década. (2010) y España (2011). iglesia la posibilidad de ver el En adición al programa proceso. mencionado, se vio la necesidad Retiro de Ancianos de proveer educación en Se organizaron dos retiros de Festival de Laicos relaciones familiares. Los pastores ancianos a nivel de unión, en los El festival de laicos es un enfrentan muchos desafíos que se repasaron detalladamente evento anual organizado con en este área y necesitan ser los objetivos y tareas de esta

September 2011 • T IDINGS 59 función, y su rol en la misión. El trabajo en equipo fue presentado como característica esencial de este ministerio. Durante el último retiro que se llevó a cabo en Atlanta en abril del año en curso, se destacó una dinámica interacción en cada una de las reuniones. Los asistentes mostraron un profundo interés en los tópicos que fueron presentados, participando activamente con numerosas preguntas y comentarios. El evento fue transmitido vía Internet, y 200 sitios a distancia pudieron beneficiarse del mismo. ha mostrado por Aquel que NO el 80 por ciento de los cristianos Grupos Pequeños puede equivocarse” Joyas de los morirán sin haber traído a Existen aproximadamente Testimonios tomo 3 pág. 84 alguien a los pies de Cristo. Si 920 familias que han abierto estos resultados se aplicaran a las puertas de sus hogares para Nuevo Enfoque de Evangelismo nuestra iglesia, significaría que grupos pequeños de estudio de Película La Ventana solo el 20 por ciento de nuestros la Biblia. Es más sencillo atraer En la actualidad, el concepto miembros están participando en personas a reuniones en la de ganancia de almas ha la misión de hacer discípulos. casa de alguien que conocen, y tomado un giro diferente. La Creemos que una de las razones disfrutar de un estudio bíblico película La Ventana (guión por para dicho resultado es los en un ambiente familiar en el Alejandro Bullón), que ha sido métodos de evangelismo que que no se sienten extraños, que distribuida en las iglesias de se han presentado siempre en asistir a un templo o lugar de nuestro territorio como también las iglesias. Para una persona convenciones. en otras uniones, introdujo un laica, el hecho de dar estudios Las iglesias adoptaron método más personal y natural bíblicos o tener cualquier este método de evangelismo de evangelismo. Se muestra el tipo de presentación pública con mucho entusiasmo, y proceso que una familia vivió es algo impensable. Algunas el departamento hispano cuando se dio cuenta de que instituciones enfatizan el trabajo ha organizado seminarios y sus vecinos necesitaban ayuda; puerta a puerta, y una vez más, preparado materiales e ideas para cómo entablaron una amistad con la mayoría de las personas se hacer este trabajo de manera ellos y los consolaron mientras sienten incómodas practicando sencilla. Generalmente, luego de sufrían por la pérdida de su este método. Se podría mencionar cierto período de tiempo, una vez hijo. Paulatinamente sus nuevos muchas estrategias de alcance que participantes de los grupos amigos comenzaron a interesarse misionero que han sido muy pequeños terminan una serie de en sus creencias, y aceptar a publicitadas a través de los estudios y se han familiarizado Cristo fue el resultado. años, pero no han tenido una con algunos de los miembros impresión honda en los miembros de iglesia, se los invita a una Evangelismo Personal de iglesia. campaña evangélica. Muchas De acuerdo con las Debido a que nuestra personas han sido bautizadas estadísticas presentadas por el resistencia frente a los trucos luego de estos esfuerzos. grupo de investigación Barna, satánicos depende de una ““La formación de pequeños ampliamente considerado como relación diaria y progresiva con grupos como base del esfuerzo la organización líder en el área Cristo obtenida de la armadura cristiano es un plan que se me de intersección entre fe y cultura, espiritual presentada en Efesios

60 T IDINGS • September 2011 6, -la Palabra de Dios (escuchar), personal de evangelismo. La sesión de predicación, sino un la oración (hablar), y el estar iglesia siempre ha promocionado cálido encuentro de conversación siempre listos para anunciar el poder del amor y el buen simple acerca de temas de mutuo las Buenas Nuevas de Paz ejemplo, pero este método, interés, buscando la oportunidad (compartir)- nuestro objetivo si bien se basa en el mismo de mostrar agradecimiento por fue pensar en métodos creativos principio, es más intencional. El las bendiciones recibidas. Al de anunciar las Buenas Nuevas, invitar a un amigo, compañero de final de la visita, la familia oró con los que la mayoría de los trabajo o vecino a nuestra casa con su amigo; le obsequió algo miembros se sientan cómodos. para estrechar nuestra amistad pequeño, y le prestó un libro o Jesús pasó mucho tiempo y mostrarle el amor de Dios, CD que dejará la puerta abierta en las casas de sus seguidores, puede traerlo a los pies de Jesús. para un encuentro futuro. La simplemente hospedándose allí idea es continuar esa amistad o disfrutando de una comida. Las Hogares de Esperanza compartiendo actividades personas estaban predispuestas Las 10,000 familias en el sociales, y con tacto buscar a escucharlo en ambientes territorio de nuestra unión toda oportunidad de mostrar familiares, compartiendo recibieron la invitación de abrir la bondad y el amor de Jesús. actividades sociales. Incluso el las puertas de sus hogares a Poco a poco, la nueva amistad rápido crecimiento de la iglesia un nuevo amigo. La idea fue se interesará en lo que hace primitiva se debió en gran orar por esta persona por un que esta familia sea diferente. manera al empleo de este simple período de tiempo antes de Este método requiere de mucha método de amistad y cuidado por invitarlo para disfrutar momentos oración y estudio. las necesidades de la gente. de camaradería durante una La invitación se extiende aún “El salvador trataba con los comida simple pero especial, más. El evangelismo no es un hombres como quien deseaba el día 14 de mayo pasado. evento aislado; es un estilo de hacerles bien, les mostraba Luego de la invitación y hasta vida que atrae a más personas simpatía, atendía sus necesidades la fecha indicada, las familias que el más elocuente sermón. y se ganaba su confianza. continuaron orando pidiendo que “Siendo sociables y Entonces les decía ‘seguidme’” el Espíritu Santo les provea amor acercándoos a la gente, podréis Ministerio de Curación, p. 102 y sabiduría en su testificación, atraer la corriente de sus El llamado a nuestras y que su amigo pueda ver el pensamientos más fácilmente que congregaciones en el presente, amor de Dios hacia el hombre. por el discurso más capaz.” OE es de tener un método más El objetivo no fue establecer una p 201.

September 2011 • T IDINGS 61 Native American Ministries

to operate their health the not so distant past, they have clinics, hospitals, housing mostly meshed with the Hispanic needs, and other needed churches without revealing their services for their people. true identity. They are able to do Forty-four tribes are state this because they speak Span- recognized, meaning they ish as a second language. They do not receive federal became very excited to learn that dollars other than some the Southern Union has a ministry grants that are available to reach indigenous peoples. We to many different orga- have partnered with many His- nizations. One of the panic churches that have indig- state recognized tribes enous people in their churches (Lumbee) is the largest and communities. Following, you tribe located east of the will find reports of the work of the Mississippi River, yet has Southern Union Native American not received federal rec- Ministries. ognition. • Evangelism: Native Ameri- In addition to the 51 can Ministries funded 22 evange- tribes indigenous to the listic meetings across the Southern 50 states of the United Union in 2010, investing approxi- States there are numerous mately $50,000 evangelizing the indigenous people living native people. We conducted in the Southern Union meetings in tents, churches, halls, Fred Rogers, director from Central and South and homes. Reports from all loca- America. We became tions funded by Native American Native American Ministries aware of these people Ministries totaled 445 baptisms. extends a heartfelt appreciation to about two years ago. There are 56 • Equipping Churches: the Southern Union Conference different languages spoken by in- During the past year and a half, for having the vision to establish digenous people in Mexico alone. Native American Ministries has the ministry for Native Americans The Kanjobal, Tzotzil, Chol, and invested approximately $30,000 across the great Southern Union. the Mam are just a few of the in- equipping churches with PA There are 51 separate native tribes digenous people from the Ameri- systems, DVD players, projectors, listed in a data base that tracks cas. The Mam are also located in computers, printed material, and the native population across the Guatemala. software. These materials are used United States. Seven of those Due to the discrimination and to conduct small group ministries are federally recognized, which persecution of indigenous people in anticipation of a great harvest means they receive federal dollars in Central and South America, in soon to come. Native American

62 T IDINGS • September 2011 Ministries has provided training VBS programs across the Union under the direction of Carolyn programs utilizing trainers from in native country. These programs Stuyvesant, Native American the North American Division and have been conducted in Tennes- Ministries receives hundreds of other conferences such as Okla- see, North Carolina, and Florida. pounds of literature to be given to homa and South Dakota. Plans have been set to conduct our communities. Danny Arocho, • Vacation Bible Schools programs in North Carolina and a worker/volunteer with Native (VBS): Native Ministries has Tennessee again in 2011. The American Ministries, gave a copy partnered with the North Ameri- teams sent by the NAD include of Bible Readings for the Home, can Division (NAD) Children’s native children from other states which came from California, to the Ministries, under the direction of across our land. wife of the minister of a Pente- Phyllis Washington, to conduct • Church Planting: Due to the costal church in North Carolina. lack of transpor- Danny had visited this church tation, we need occasionally, becoming acquainted to plant church with the pastor and his wife, and companies to felt free to give the book. The accommodate church has now changed their our native church sign to read their wor- brothers and sis- ship service is conducted on the ters. During the seventh-day Sabbath. We will be past two years, contacting this church to see if we Native American can be of further service. Ministries has • Activities: Native American planted six new Ministries conducted its first camp church groups. meeting in 2010 with about 200 These church people in attendance. We partici- plants have pated in the Indian Village during been in Florida, the Pathfinder Camporee in Osh- Alabama, South kosh, Wisconsin, and also con- Carolina, and ducted several native weddings in Tennessee. With the Southern Union. the help of an • Prayer: Please pray for Na- evangelistic- tive American Ministries. We are minded group growing and need your support. from California,

September 2011 • T IDINGS 63 Public Affairs and Religious Liberty

Kevin James, associate director; Amireh Al-Haddad, director; and Aminga Bracy, administrative assistant

Imagine Your liberty of conscience among and an administrative assistant, World Without It His followers. Imagine a world Aminga Bracy. without it. Worse than that, Among its many programs “And if it seems evil to imagine a god who does not and outreach opportunities, you to serve the LORD, choose believe in it. the department continues to for yourselves this day whom In the spirit of Christ, the deliver services to our con- you will serve ...” Joshua 24:15 Public Affairs and Religious stituents both on an individual NJKV. In just one short text, Liberty Department strives to basis and through the churches. Joshua conveys much about the defend, preserve, and expand During the last five years, we grace of God and the impor- religious liberty both inside have made 189 visits to local tance of liberty of conscience to and outside of the Church. The churches, held religious liberty Him as well. department is staffed by its workshops and seminars, and God has always placed im- director, Amireh Al-Haddad; an made multiple appearances on portance upon free choice and associate director, Kevin James; both television and radio.

64 T IDINGS • September 2011 Religious Discrimination Cases increase is the number of em- child custody, dietary standards, The overall work of religious ployers who are fighting unem- prisoners’ religious rights, and liberty is multifaceted, but we ployment benefits for members parents’ education choice rights still place a great deal of time who are fired because of Sab- during the last five years. and emphasis on protecting indi- bath problems. With the decline viduals’ jobs. Surprisingly there in the economy, fewer employ- Religious Liberty Offerings and has been a slight decrease in the ers are willing to mediate cases, Liberty Magazine number of individuals we are and our overall mediation totals The Southern Union contin- assisting with Sabbath accom- have decreased in size. What this ues to lead the North American modation problems. In the last means for members is that settle- Division in the annual religious quinquenium we saw an increase ment sums are getting smaller. liberty offering. With nine unions in the number of long-time The majority of all our settle- in total within the Division, the members experiencing problems. ments this session happened Southern Union has provided a However, with the decline of the before the economic downturn five-year average of 27 percent economy mid-session, we are in 2008. or $1,382,930 of the religious now seeing the numbers about While Sabbath accommo- liberty offering. Liberty magazine equal between long-time mem- dation issues have made up continues to be not only the pre- bers and new members coming the majority of work, we have miere religious liberty magazine into the Church. Continuing to also dealt with cases regarding out there, but also an important

September 2011 • T IDINGS 65 outreach tool of this ministry. mandment postings; and in States and abroad. The newslet- Looking at the individual years Florida we continue to oppose ter continues to be acclaimed of the offering, we see a clear the ongoing attempt to amend by its readers as informative and indicator that the recession has the state constitution to allow tax resourceful, with information all had a negative effect on overall dollars to go directly to religious members need to know. giving in this sector. The excep- organizations. We still believe tion to this was in 2010, when that “... religion and Government The Future the religious liberty offering will both exist in greater purity One hundred sixty-seven coincided with the Haitian earth- the less they are mixed together,” years since the Great Disap- quake and the special offering James Madison, Letter to Edward pointment is a long time to wait, appeal made for that particular Livingston, July 10, 1822. but Daniel’s prophecies have all disaster. Overall, even in light of been fulfilled, and we continue economic hardship, our constitu- Southern Society of Adventist At- to believe that Christ’s return will ents have shown faithfulness to torneys happen soon. Religious liberty this ministry that fills us with The society exists in order to is important in final prophecy, gratitude. provide spiritual and profession- and it is just one of the reasons al interaction for Adventists who why Adventists place such a Government Liaison Program practice law. Adventist attorneys high importance on this ministry. We continue to operate our and law students within the soci- This department continues to state legislative program, and ety currently number 159 mem- pledge to do all it can to protect have worked diligently dur- bers. In addition to area spring liberty of conscience, not only ing the last few years not only dinners, an annual family retreat for our Church members here to maintain the program but to is held for the attorneys in our in the Southern Union, but for grow it as well. Currently six of territory. To contact the society all people. You can email us at the eight states have a carefully or for application to join, email ReligiousLiberty@southernunion. chosen lay person working with us at [email protected]. com. our department in monitoring the legislation in each state. We Waymarks also utilize an Internet service Our bi-monthly newslet- that assists us in monitoring the ter currently has a circulation legislation for bills of interest to of about 3,500 names in the the Church and you, her mem- Southern Union. The newsletter bers. Some of the current issues serves to update and educate our we are monitoring include, but pastors, religious liberty leaders, are not limited to, Bible-based and interested laypeople on cur- curriculum, public school prayer, rent religious liberty issues that labor union bills, and Ten Com- are taking place in the United

66 T IDINGS • September 2011 September 2011 • T IDINGS 67 Publishing Department

The Southern Union Publishing Department staff: Connie Beckworth (front row, seated left), administrative assistant for FHES and youth publishing; Beverly Perry, administrative assistant for publishing and HHES; Margie Compton, assistant treasurer; Keith Reid, publishing associate director; William Smith, publishing director; Wally Bray, shipping manager; Bob Mills, receptionist; Jennifer Reifsnyder, accounts processor; Rick Christman, youth publishing director; Greg Medley, accountant; Margay Wilson, receptionist; Jim Wilson, treasurer; and Steven Davis, accounts processor

“The Lord gave the Word: God be the glory, great things consisting of outstanding office Great was the company of those He has done! The Lord has put personnel, exceptional confer- that published it,” Psalm 68:11. together a winning, unified team ence publishing directors, excel- This past quinquen- lent associate directors, top nium, the publishing quality Adventist Book Cen- ministry in the Southern ter (ABC) managers, valiant Union has continued to youth outreach coordina- advance steadily, leaving a tors, inspiring local church trail of blessings behind in publishing representatives, the form of thousands of and a host of Spirit-filled prayers and encouraging full-time, part-time, and stu- words; millions of truth- dent literature evangelists. filled books, tracts, and The Southern Union is DVD’s; and thousands of served by a literature minis- tear-stained faces, revived tries team consisting of var- students, on-fire church ious organizations, includ- members, Bible searching ing Home Health Education souls, and newly baptized Bill Beckworth (center) stands with baptismal can- Service (HHES), Family Seventh-day Adventists. To didates, Ryan and Angela Sehstedt. Health Education Service

68 T IDINGS • September 2011 (FHES), and Giving Light to Our World program (GLOW). From January 1987 until September 2010, Bill Beckworth served with excellence as the Union publishing director. He served as a literature minister for 43 years. Recently, while enjoying his retirement, yet still sell- ing truth-filled books, the Lord led him to a wonderful couple who bought books from him, received Bible studies from him, and were baptized into this glorious truth. Beck- worth, though retired, Union and conference publishing leaders: Bill Beckworth (seated, left), Jim Wilson, Renita Samuels, Tim Merryman, William Smith, Felix Castro, Rocky Davis, Java Mattison, David is still on fire for the Sigamani (standing, left), David Haugsted, Les McCoy, Carl McRoy, Dan Herwick, Dan Lord! Shannon, Lance Morrison, Theus Young, Tim Leffew, Peter Marzano, Bruce Germsheid, Demilson Reis, Keith Reid, Alfredo Gonzalez, Clay Grice, Tim Barker, Andrew Rachal, Cesar New Programs and Quispe, and Joe Holloway Projects 1. Light America Hispanic brothers and sisters designed to engage thousands Mission (LAM): initiated by the through highly organized, group of church members in mass dis- Georgia-Cumberland Confer- door to door sales. tribution of sponsored literature ence to reach thousands of our 2. Mass Distribution Projects: during special events. More than

Doug Thompson, Kentucky-Tennessee ABC manager and coordinator Student literature evangelists

September 2011 • T IDINGS 69 programs in book, Revive Us Again, to our the North members. American Di- There have been several vision. With capital improvements recently. the support The Georgia-Cumberland ABC of the local completed a remodeling project conferences at their branch store in Atlanta, and the and in Kentucky-Tennessee, the Union, they store has moved to a new larger offer several building with better street ex- promotions posure. If you do not live close unique to to the ABC, you may be able to the Southern shop during one of the book- Union. Each mobile trips the ABC makes year they throughout the year. Every year 125,000 truth-filled magazines are able to they make more than 370 stops were distributed during Good offer the new missionary book at local churches and schools News Atlanta. of the year for a price lower throughout their territory. If 3. GLOW (Giving Light to than standards discounts. During you prefer to shop online, visit Our World one page at a time): the last 10 years they have also www.adventistbookcenter.com designed to enlist hundreds of been distributing the hardcover, to browse many of the books more church members to do five-volume Conflict of the Ages and other products stocked at literature evangelism work on set for a special price of $29.99. the ABC. a part-time basis. The purpose This program has allowed The Adventist Book Centers of GLOW is to provide every almost 14,000 sets to be distrib- in the Southern Union are com- willing-hearted church member uted to our members during the mitted to the ministry of sharing with the training and materials past five years — that is more the Gospel through the printed necessary to become a literature than 60 percent of the total page and healthy living. Every evangelist. hardcover Conflict of the Ages piece of literature that passes 4. Electronic media: added sets sold by all of the ABC’s! through our ABC’s is helping as supplements with the litera- The ABC’s were also recently in- to prepare a life for the soon ture being distributed. strumental in the distribution of return of Jesus. 50,000 copies of Mark Finley’s Adventist Book Centers The Adventist Book Centers (ABC) continue to be a great source of truth- filled literature and vegetarian foods for our members. There are products designed to both strengthen our members’ spiritual lives and to help them share their love of Jesus in the community. Many non-members also enjoy visiting our stores and especially appreciate the vegetarian foods sold through our ABC’s. The Southern Union has one of the strongest ABC

70 T IDINGS • September 2011 Information Systems

Todd Mace (left), director; David Koliadko, accounting support specialist; Richard Stephenson, associate director; and Leonard Fernandez, support engineer

During the last three years, the • Maximizing the use of This transformation has also Southern Union Information Sys- technology led our department to reach out tems Department has transformed • Advocating for the use of current and provide accounting software itself into a cutting edge informa- and emerging technology hosting to more than 12 South- tion technology ministry focused ern Union Conference entities, on spreading the Lord’s message. The Vision of SUIS: IT Hap- E-mail hosting for four Southern In order to serve our territory bet- pens Here Union Conference entities, remote ter, we have made great strides in “Let the workers for God mani- backup services, and remote sup- updating the department for the fest tact and talent, and originate port services. We want, in the near common goal of service. “Unity in devices by which to communicate future, to become an incubator Service” has been and continues to light to those who are near and to for innovative and technological be our theme for the department. those who are afar off,” The Voice ways to spread the Gospel. We are Information systems has facilitated in Speech and Song, page 282. not only a department of support in forming a fellowship of IS direc- In order to do our part, we to our Church, but also a ministry tors and associates, who serve in have instituted many services and that can be a catalyst for modern- Southern Union conferences and systems that provide day evangelism. schools, so as to create more ef- efficiency and savings We are continuing ficiency in our service, and to grow for our Church. Some to grow and support together professionally. This group, of these systems and the Church behind the named simply “SUIS” (Southern services include infor- scenes in many differ- Union Information Systems), has mation technology pol- ent areas of ministry, S O U T H E R N U N I O N held retreats and events in order to icies; new servers; new I N F O R M A T I O N S Y S T E M S while also setting a for- inspire and share in this endeavor, desktops and laptops; ward pace and model in order to break down silos, and a fire protection and suppression for breaking down silos through come together for the common system; moisture, humidity, and our openness to creative ideas and purpose of sharing the good news. temperature sensors; offsite back- unified mission. We encourage the The results from this organization ups and protection; cloud-based Southern Union constituents to join have led to the creation of a uni- computing; wireless access; docu- us in accomplishing this unified fied mission and vision statement. ment management system; new mission as we work together and copiers; security surveillance; VOIP look forward to the soon coming The Mission of SUIS: To ac- phone system; helpdesk ticketing of Christ. complish the mission of the Church. system; sign ministry database; se- “How good and pleasant it is We will be a leader in our field, curity encryption; new accounting when God’s people live together in effectively… systems; new high-speed Internet; unity,” Psalm 133:1. • Supporting our technology remote support system; Microsoft professionals training; and much, much more.

September 2011 • T IDINGS 71 Women’s Ministries

Laura Smith, women’s ministries Cheryl Retzer, shepherdess director Lessie Scurry, executive administrative director and women’s ministries advisor assistant

How We Achieve turing experiences that grow and 2. Women are conducting D.R.E.A.M.S develop disciples. Emphasis is public evangelistic meetings with (Discipleship, Reclamation, Evan- placed on knowing Jesus Christ phenomenal success. gelism, Affirmation, Mentoring, on a personal level and helping 3. Women are engaged in Servant Leadership Training) others to know, love and serve friendship evangelism. They are During the past quinquenni- Him. Spiritual growth activities touching hearts and changing um the Spirit of God has contin- include annual women’s retreats, lives through outreach ministries ued to hover over the Southern small groups, discipleship semi- such as Bags of Love, Prayers Union Department of Women’s nars, and Bible studies. and Squares, Celebrate Recovery, Ministries. Under the power of and God in Shoes. the Holy Spirit the women have Reclamation touched hearts and impacted 1. Friendship evangelism Affirmation the lives of individuals within is emphasized in the Southern 1. Women are affirmed the Southern Union and beyond. Union. through special women’s min- The mission of the Department 2. Conference and church istries activities such as Secret of Women’s Ministries is accom- women’s ministries leaders are Sisters, Prayer Partners, Mothers plished through effectual prayers utilizing Heart Call, a reclamation of Pre-schoolers, support groups as we seek God to build His program developed by the North for widows, and a ministry to kingdom through significant min- American Division Department home-bound members. istries and effective D.R.E.A.M.S. of Women’s Ministries to reclaim 2. Each of the eight confer- sisters who no longer attend ences sponsors from one to four Major emphasis has been church. conference-wide or area-wide placed on the following: retreats each year. Evangelism Discipleship 1. “ShareHim” evangelistic Mentoring Programs The vision and mission state- training has been conducted to 1. Conferences sponsor ments of the department are real- equip women for sharing the young women’s retreats annual- ized through teaching and nur- Gospel. ly. Conferences are emphasizing

72 T IDINGS • September 2011 Conference and Union women’s ministries directors: Debbie Rapp (seated, left), Carolina; Laura Smith, Southern Union; Cheryl Retzer, Southern Union advisor; Nicolle Brise’, Southeastern; Sheryal Vandenburghe, Florida; Mary Jo Dubs, Georgia-Cumberland; Shirley Scott (standing, left), South Central; Janice Shipbaugh, former director for Gulf States; and Sylvia Wilson, South Atlantic.

peer mentoring, Purity Celebra- tions, and teen support groups.

Servant Leadership Training 1. Each conference sponsors leadership training for local women’s ministries leaders. 2. Conference women’s ministries directors are provided leadership training during the annual Southern Union Adminis- tration and Departmental Meet- ings, Women’s Ministries Execu- tive Committee Meetings, and during local conferences leadership weekends. We praise God for the following accomplishments that have been made during the last Gail McKenzie is women’s ministries April Hobbs is the new women’s minis- five years. director for Kentucky-Tennessee. tries director for Gulf States.

September 2011 • T IDINGS 73 Southern Union United Women’s times, inspirational music, infor- awareness of the various forms Conference mative messages and seminars; of abuse and the magnitude of Nearly 2,000 women at- and second, for the women to the problem. Church members tended the historic Southern touch the lives of hundreds of throughout the Union used cre- Union United Women’s Confer- individuals in Atlanta through ative means to obtain hundreds ence that was held September the Good News Atlanta and God of signatures on a petition that 4-7, 2008, at the Hyatt Regency in Shoes Community Outreach. was presented to the United Na- Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia. The The written and verbal com- tions. The Alabama State Capitol conference was co-sponsored by ments of the attendees validated was one of several sites for suc- the women’s ministries depart- the successful accomplishment cessful ENDITNOW rallies. ments in the eight conferences of both goals. Praise God! that comprise the Southern Leadership Certification Union. Attendees came from ENDITNOW The eight conference direc- the eight southeastern states, (Adventists Say No to Violence tors and the Southern Union various other states within the Against Women and Girls) director completed the four continental United States, and Women’s ministries joined levels of the General Confer- from England. The theme for forces with the General Con- ence Women’s Ministries Leader- the conference was One Voice, ference Women’s Ministries ship Certification Program. The One Vision. Department and the Adventist conference directors utilize their The two goals for the con- Development and Relief Agency training to conduct leadership ference were, first, to provide (ADRA) in their global initiative training programs in the confer- opportunities for women to to eliminate all forms of violence ences. Collectively, they have be blessed and drawn to Jesus against women and girls. In the certified hundreds of women at through the intensive prayer Southern Union we raised an the local church level.

74 T IDINGS • September 2011 Women’s Retreats Retreats continue to be a source of spiritual renewal, inspiration, and fellowship for the women in the Southern Union. At the retreats, women have been blessed to have their specific and diverse needs addressed through the messages of dynamic speakers, seminar presenters, prayer groups, and other activities.

Women’s Ministries Sabbaths Women’s ministries endorses and implements the Sabbaths designated by the General Con- ference and the North American Division: the International Day

of Prayer, Women’s Ministries The “God in Shoes” outreach ministry enabled women to serve by giving away Emphasis Day, Special Women’s shoes to individuals in homeless shelters during the September 2008 Southern Union Women’s Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. Ministries Offering Day, and the Abuse Prevention/ENDITNOW Public and Friendship Evangelism Mission Project Emphasis Sabbath. The years of evangelism The Southern Union De- during this quinquennium have partment of Women’s Ministries As We Look to the Future challenged women to make contributed financial support Under the guidance of the evangelism a way of life and not to an orphanage in Africa, Holy Spirit, women will continue an event. Women were trained “REACHING HEARTS 4 CHIL- to utilize their God-given gifts and propelled into conducting DREN,” and Cheryl Retzer, and talents to touch lives and to public evangelism campaigns in advisor, delivered goods to the invite individuals to accept and addition to being intentionally children in the orphanage from follow Jesus Christ. I acknowl- involved in friendship evange- the department during a mis- edge with gratitude the South- lism that included prayer min- sion trip. ern Union administrators, the istry, home Bible studies, men- women’s ministries advisor, and toring, nurturing, and kindness Young Women’s Ministries the conference directors for their ministry. The evangelistic efforts Each conference has de- tireless efforts and leadership in resulted in thousands of bap- veloped ministries for young their local conferences and for tisms. women and girls. The goals their assistance in guidance at for this ministry are to spiritu- the Union level. I solicit your Touch a Heart - A Ministry for ally uplift and nurture; to assist continued prayers that God will Every Woman young ladies in recognizing and continue to shower His blessings Statistics for 2006–2010 appreciating their self-worth upon the Department of Wom- *Baptisms include those in and their purpose in Christ; en’s Ministries. Africa and other countries to identify and develop their Evangelistic Meetings . . .766 God-given talents and abilities; Reclaimed Members ...... 658 and to enjoy a connection with Training Seminars . . . 2,317 Jesus Christ and others through Other Meetings . . . 34,326 Bible study, prayer, community Rereats ...... 749 service, kind deeds, wholesome *Baptisms ...... 3,321 recreation, and other activities.

September 2011 • T IDINGS 75 Adventist Health System

An Extension of His Touch

Praying with an anxious patient tion is implemented, hospitals across before surgery. Teaching the local the United States will be expected community about preventable health to deliver standardized, high-quality measures. Developing breakthrough care based on exacting safety stan- improvements in patient care. As a dards without increasing costs. As a Christ-centered organization, Ad- system committed to not just keep- ventist Health System believes that ing up with change, but setting the every action and interaction is an pace of change, Adventist Health opportunity to extend the healing System is developing creative solu- ministry of Christ. Our growth and tions to meet these challenges head success as an organization exist for on. At the center of all of our efforts one reason — to serve others. is our mission. Adventist Health Serving more than four million System is committed to “Extending patients annually, Adventist Health the Healing Ministry of Christ” to System has become the largest not- communities in need. for-profit Protestant health care pro- vider in the nation. Composed of 43 Growing Stronger hospitals, 16 extended care facilities, In September 2010, Adventist Donald Jernigan, Adventist Health System president/CEO and more than 20 home health and Health System acquired five hospi- hospice agencies, Adventist Health tals in the Tampa Bay area: Univer- Adventist health message with the System employs more than 55,000 sity Community Hospital, University Tampa Bay community as well as people. Facilities exist in four of the Community Hospital-Carrollwood, our new employees. Peter Bath, D. North American Division unions: Long Term Acute Care Hospital, Min., accepted the role of vice presi- Southern, Southwestern, Lake, and Pepin Heart Hospital & Dr. Kiran C. dent of mission for the new Tampa Mid-America. Patel Research Institute, and Helen Bay Region. Ellis Memorial Hospital. The addi- “The questions of change Leading the Way Forward tion of these facilities has provided abound as the wonderful people of The landscape of health care is Adventist Health System with an op- the University Community hospitals changing. As health reform legisla- portunity to share the Seventh-day seek to understand and embrace

76 T IDINGS • September 2011 Adventist Health System

the very clear mission and operating culture of Adventist Health System,” says Peter Bath. “Underneath it all is a sense of hope and help as we move forward in ministry to the large Tampa area population.”

Investing in Our Communities By putting Christ at the center of our efforts, we are driven to care for our patients even before they enter one of our hospitals. Adventist Health System is bringing CREATION Health to communities across the United States. CREATION Health is a transformational program designed to help us live an abun- dant life based on the principles found in the biblical story of Cre- ation: Choice, Rest, Environment, Activity, Trust in God, Interpersonal ing a health revolution. CREATION where they need it most. Two preg- relationships, Outlook, and Nutri- Health teaches us that every choice nancy support service organizations tion. This blueprint on how to live a we make will directly impact our in Asheville, North Carolina, had a meaningful and well-balanced life is health. Getting adequate rest will need for skilled radiologists to help changing lives. replenish our bodies. A calm envi- provide ultrasounds to the growing The small coastal town of Port ronment will be nurturing. Increas- number of girls and women expe- Charlotte, Florida, knows first hand ing activity will help us become riencing unexpected pregnancies. the power inherent in these princi- stronger. Remembering to trust in Asheville Pregnancy Support Service ples. Once battling with preventable God will renew our spirits. Finding reports that more than 90% of the diseases, Port Charlotte is experienc- support in interpersonal relation- women who receive an ultrasound ships will strengthen choose to go through with their us during difficult pregnancy. By participating in this times. Maintaining a program, Park Ridge Health is meet- positive outlook on ing a need in the local community life will influence our and providing hopeful parents with overall health. Re- a chance for a family. ceiving well-balanced nutrition will fuel Mission Matters physical, mental, and “Extending the Healing Minis- emotional wellbeing. try of Christ” is a special mission that drives Adventist Health System Meeting Needs employees to provide patient care Each of our at the highest of standards. This facilities is as unique means caring for the whole person as the communities — mind, body and spirit. By focus- we serve. While pa- ing equal attention on clinical excel- tients can be assured lence, spiritual nourishment, and the same high-quality care that includes a personal touch, care at all Adventist Adventist Health System believes Health System facili- that patients receive the best care ties, each community possible. Mission matters at every has specific needs. level of our organization. From the We are committed boardroom to the hospital bedside, to meeting these Adventist Health System employees requirements and are committed to sharing Christ’s ex- helping a community ample of hope, health, and healing.

September 2011 • T IDINGS 77 Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences

The hand of God has been much “These vision words, along with the in evidence during the development motto of ‘Healthcare as Ministry,’ are and growth of Florida Hospital Col- a constant reminder to faculty, staff, lege of Health Sciences (FHCHS). and students of what makes FHCHS The college opened its doors in 1992 an institution of excellence,” states with an enrollment of 243. Next David E. Greenlaw, D.Min., president year will mark the 20th anniversary of Florida Hospital College. for the institution. Since its begin- Since its inception, the College ning, literally thousands of students has enjoyed a continual increase in have benefitted from a faith-based enrollment. During the last five years, healthcare education offered by this the total number of students has institution of excellence. The mission grown from 2,112 in the fall of 2006, statement gives a clarity of direction to 2,741 in the fall of 2010. and purpose: “Florida Hospital Col- Increased enrollment has been lege of Health Sciences, a Seventh- accommodated by the completion of day Adventist institution owned by the new Campus Center building, a Florida Hospital, specializes in the large three-story structure which hous- David E. Greenlaw, D.Min., president of education of healthcare profession- es 10 classrooms, five labs, adminis- Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences als. In harmony with the mission of trative offices, service departments, Florida Hospital, the college provides marketing and enrollment services, a technology, occupational therapy as- an environment where students can chapel, campus bookstore and café, sistant, pre-professional studies, and develop spiritually, intellectually, so- student services, student lounge, radiography. cially, and physically while pursuing financial services, and the new Center The newest degrees offered are a professional expertise integrated with for Academic Achievement. master’s in certified registered nurse Christian values.” The degrees offered to students anesthetist (CRNA), a master’s in oc- In keeping with its mission, four include undergraduate, graduate, and cupational therapy, and a bachelor’s words have become central to the online programs. The B.S. in bio- in nuclear medicine. And, beginning vision of the college: Nuture, Excel- health sciences prepares students for in the fall of 2012, the four-year B.S. lence, Spirituality, and Stewardship. entry into dental school, medicine, oc- in nursing will be taught on campus. cupational therapy, (The R.N. to B.S.N. online will con- FHCHS Enrollment physical therapy, tinue to be offered.) and veterinary Opportunities for the College to medicine. Two- expand its on-campus programs be- year associate of yond the Orlando main campus have science degrees been realized by a second site located are offered in at Porter Adventist Hospital in Den- diagnostic medical ver, Colorado. Utilizing live interactive sonography (gen- technology (PolyCom), classes taught eral or cardiovas- at the Orlando campus are accessed cular ultrasound), in Denver by students there who can nuclear medicine participate as if being present in the

78 T IDINGS • September 2011 Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences

graduates, who have learned and FHCHS Faculty Degrees and workshop presentations, and contributions to professional journals experienced what it means to reflect and textbooks. the ministry of Christ in their chosen During spring term 2010, Florida professions. Healthcare as Ministry is Hospital College launched a new more than just a logo, it personifies 30 7 course named “Philosophy of Health- the philosophy and vision this institu- care,” which every student coming to the college is required to take. It has two main goals: first, to help future healthcare providers develop their own philosophy of healthcare from a 37 biblical perspective; secondly, students are given opportunities to work with teachers and coaches assigned to each section to identify academic Master’s vulnerabilities, learning style prefer- Doctorate Baccalaureate ences, and time management skills.

Don Williams, Ph.D., senior vice same classroom with the teacher and president for academic administration, Motto: Healthcare As Ministry fellow students. Presently, general states, “The course is now in its fourth education classes and radiography term, and results indicate it is fulfilling tion wants to ingrain in each student. are being offered with plans to begin its mission.” The campus ministry team seeks to sonography and nursing by next year. The Center for Academic Achieve- support this experience through stu- At FHCHS, more than half of the ment (CAA) not only assists with dent prayer sessions at noon each day student body are enrolled 100 percent the implementation of the common called “Circle Up,” community service in online studies. This is largely in course, Philosophy of Healthcare, but projects implemented and staffed by three completion programs for bach- seeks to assist students in learning each department of the school, Friday elor of science degrees in nursing, to study smarter, not harder. That’s night Vespers called “Sonset Café,” radiologic sciences, and diagnostic why The Center helps students in the Weeks of Prayer led by students, medical sonography. areas of academic coaching/advising, Sabbath services, and mission trips None of these programs could tutoring, counseling, disability ser- both domestic and beyond. Truly, the be a reality at the college without a vices, and testing. The CAA offers free student experience at FHCHS is one well-qualified and committed faculty. individual, group, and online modules filled with opportunity to learn, to The educational level of the teaching on the following topics: anxiety, time grow, to practice the ministry of Christ faculty has continued to move up- management, study skills, learning through healthcare. ward with the focus being on nurture style assessments and study tech- and excellence as an integral part of niques, nursing techniques, nursing the vision. Continuing educational op- success, English help for non-native ACADEMIC PROGRAMS portunities have greatly benefited the English speakers, and stress manage- faculty, resulting in increased respect ment. Associate Degrees among professional peers, involve- The driving mission of FHCHS • Diagnostic Medical Sonography ment in career leadership, seminar is to produce a product, namely its • Nursing • Occupational Therapy Assistant FHCHS Pass Rate 2010 • Pre-Professional Studies • Radiography 100% 2010 Bachelor’s Degrees 80% • Biomedical Sciences • Health Sciences 60% • Nuclear Medicine Technology • Diagnostic Medical Sonography 40% • Nursing • Radiologic Sciences 20% Master’s Degrees 0 • Nurse Anesthesia Nuc MedR adiographyN ursing OTAS onography Nurse • Occupational Therapy Anesthesia

September 2011 • T IDINGS 79 Oakwood University

Strategic Progress at Oakwood University 2006-2011

Aerial view of Oakwood University, Huntsville, Alabama The following points of progress lish and Foreign Languages Depart- scholarship, and service to the Univer- are of advances realized through ment was necessitated by the growth sity and community. Scholarship suc- pursuit of division strategic initiatives in enrollment and diversity of the cesses included multiple professional during this quinquennium. For all emerging programs. publications and presentations. In ad- these signs of progress, we give God Continuous program improve- dition, faculty efforts resulted in three the glory: ments were evidenced by profes- major grant awards: Howard Hughes sional reaccreditation of the following Medical Institute grant of $1,200,000, Curriculum Development/Expansion programs: business & information National Science Foundation grant of The most significant curriculum systems, education, nursing, and $2,000,000, and Nursing Simulation development achievement was the social work. Instrumentation grant of $275,150. creation of the graduate curriculum for the master’s of arts in pastoral Faculty Achievements Upgrade of Instructional Facilities studies. This allowed the University to Faculty contributions include Fostering a supportive learning achieve Level 3 status with the South- excellence in the areas of teaching, environment is critical to student suc- ern Association of Col- cess. Renovations to the leges and Schools with Health & Physical Edu- authorization to award a cation Complex (natato- master’s degree. Achiev- rium, weight room, and ing Level 3 status corre- gymnasium) provided sponded with changing students with more the institution’s name to up-to-date dressing Oakwood University. rooms and equipment Another academic in addition to a more program milestone was pleasant environment. the creation of the Com- The installation of an munications Depart- elevator in Blake Center ment. The separation Delbert W. Baker, Ph.D. (left), former president, 1996-2010; Mervyn A. War- provided needed handi- of the communications ren, Ph.D., interim president from July to December 2010, and provost and cap accessibility to key program from the Eng- senior vice president; and Leslie N. Pollard, D.Min., Ph.D., current president services. The security

80 T IDINGS • September 2011 Oakwood University

of equipment and comfort of students ity. Major upgrades were completed were enhanced with the installment in the Eva B. Dykes Library, and work of metal roofs on most instructional is continuing in the Cooper Science buildings. Complex. The Communications De- The addition of the Bradford- partment curriculum received impor- Cleveland-Brooks Leadership Center, tant support with the creation and along with major renovations of the outfitting of a new television studio. Mosley Complex, helped to make possible the introduction of the Enrollment Trends University’s first graduate program. The institution experienced Computer labs for student use were steady enrollment growth during the expanded with the addition of a lab quinquennium. The following graph in Moran Hall (History Department), illustrates enrollment increase of 8.1 Burrell Hall (Communications Depart- percent during the five-year period. ment), and Cooper Science Complex (Science Learning Center). Addition- Co-curricular Activities ally, several existing computer labs The Academic Division sponsored were expanded and upgraded. One of and/or supported several co-curricular the latest achievements is the creation activities that enhanced student learn- of a simulation lab for the Nursing ing experiences. Annual participation Department. in the Honda Campus All-Star Chal- Upgrades to existing heating and lenge tournament resulted in first Leslie N. Pollard, D.Min., Ph.D., Oakwood cooling systems remain a high prior- place awards for two consecutive University president, with his wife, Pru- dence LaBeach Pollard, Ph.D., PHR, Oak- wood University professor of management Chart A and assistant vice president for faculty Chart A - Composite Financial Index (CFI) Financial Health development, leadership, and quality Composite Financial IndexIndicator* (CFI) Financial Health Indicator* 6 5.67 years. In addition, Oakwood joined 5 4.5 the United States Collegiate Athletic 3.83 Association and won first place in the 4 3.53 3.44 national tournament its first year of 3 participation. 2 On-Campus capital projects completed 1 include: 0 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 • Student Dining Hall Renovations – $5.0 million • Bradford/Cleveland/Brooks Leader- ship Center – $2.5 million Chart B • McKee Business and Technology Financial Health Ratios Complex – $1 million

Year 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Target • Millet Activity Center – $500,000 • Clara Peterson Rock Museum – Primary Reserve Radio $80,000 How Long Can OU Operate w/o additional net • Jacobs Historic Silos – $50,000 assesst 40% 46% 35% 46% 45% 40% • Oakwood Memorial Gardens – Return on Net $35,000 Assets Ratio • E. C. Ward Roadway and Parking Does asets performatance support the strategic Complex – $500,000 direction of OU 7% 13% 9% 17% 4% 4-8% Net Income FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS Ratio Is OU living within its As stewards of God’s financial available resources 2% 6% 5% 14% 3% 2-4% resources, the following reflects our Viability Ratio commitment to and God’s blessing of Is debt managed atrategically to advance 1.25 maximizing the resources that God OU 1.77 1.8 1.46 2.08 2.32 to 2 has given us.

September 2011 • T IDINGS 81 Strengths/Success policies and practices to ensure that 10-plus years, Oakwood University • Timely Financial Reporting: The financial statements are accurate, con- has received unqualified audits. Fur- University has developed a number of sistent, and auditable. During the last thermore, the University has achieved and maintained low-risk audit status for the audit of government funds. Chart C As of the last audit for the fiscal year Endowment Growth ended June 30, 2010 — total assets were $67.1 million, total liabilities were $14.3 million, total revenues were $48.6 million, and total expenses were $46.4 million.

• Financial Health and Viability: In 2005, the University administration implemented a financial strategy to promote the long-term health and viability of the University. The strategy involved setting benchmarks and implementing plans and processes to ensure that the University had adequate resources to increase its overall wealth, attract and retain students, maintain and develop campus Chart D facilities, increase operational efficiency, and develop multiple revenue Enrollment Trends — Fall Semester sources. HEADCOUNT • FTE 2500 From Fiscal 2006 through Fiscal 2010: 1916 • Net assets have increased by 2000 1824 1865 1751 1771 $17.8 million (51 percent). • 1697 • • 1698 • 1702 • 1582 1645 • Total revenues have increased 1500 by $7.6 million (19 percent), while total expenditures have increased by 1000 $7.7 million (20 percent). • The University Composite 500 Financial Index (CFI) has remained stable between 3.44 and 5.67 (tar- 0 get range is three to seven), which 2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008 2008/2009 2009/2010 indicates Oakwood is financially healthy (Chart A) and needs to focus on transforming into a highly com- petitive organization. (The composite Chart E score combines different fundamental Subsidies from Church Related Entities elements of financial health to yield a single measure of Oakwood’s overall financial health). Subsidy Amount • The University has a primary $6,750,000 reserve ratio (measures financial $6,179,769 $6,329,530 $6,372,952 strength. It is a direct measure of $6,300,000 $5,891,544 viability and an indirect measure $5,766,105 of liquidity — it measures relative $5,850,000 wealth against commitments) of 0.45. Oakwood’s return on net as- $5,400,000 sets (it determines if the institution is 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 financially better off than in previous years) ratio is four percent (target

82 T IDINGS • September 2011 is eight percent). In addition, the viability ratio (measures the availability of expend- able net assets to cover debt) has remained strong, and for 2010 it was 2.32 (target >1.25) (Chart B). While the market value of investments has declined, the Uni- versity’s endowment has increased by $2.7 million (40 percent) (Chart C). The 2010 endowment was $9.5 million. The spending rate is generally between two to five percent and is located in the Invest- ment Policy which gov- erns the Endowment Oakwood University students gathered at Wade Hall to watch newscasters give presidential election poll updates in November 2008. Fund investments. • Net tuition revenue has increased stands the role of financial steward- is something worse than losing your by $2.1 million (14 percent); total ship in an organization and constantly sight — losing your vision!” FTE’s have remained relatively stable endeavors to direct its financial re- Oakwood University offers a overtime. In addition, as a result sources effectively. The University has world of possibilities to our Church. of the implementation of intensive consistently maintained adequate as- Its hopeful spirit reminds us of a brief recruitment and retention strategies in sets to cover annual debt service, and quote from one of our favorite poets, fall 2009, the University experienced ensured that the University’s assets Pablo Neruda, who wrote, “You can a strong increase (9.4 percent/165 were not excessively leveraged. In fis- cut all the flowers, but you cannot students) in headcount in the last five cal 2006 the University’s viability ratio stop the coming of the spring!” For years (Chart D). was 1.77, for fiscal 2010 it was 2.32, Oakwood University, spring is on • The Seventh-day Adventist and it has remained strong during the the way! In this 21st century, oppor- Church continues to be a strong sup- last five years (See Chart B). tunities to spread our wings locally, porter of the University. During the nationally, and internationally are all last five years, contributions from the For all these things we are grate- around us. But vision without work Church have increased by $600,000 ful. We seek to make the Kingdom and commitment is mere fantasy. Re- (10.5 percent) (Chart E). first, believing that He will add to member the words of Martin Luther: us those blessings He promised in “We must work, as if prayer meant • Sustainability - Budget Development Matthew 6:33, “But seek ye first the nothing. And we must pray, as if and Monitoring: In keeping with Oak- kingdom ... and all these things will work meant nothing.” wood University Board voted policies, be added to you.” Our prayer is that Under God’s providence, the next the University has implemented and God will continue adding to our vi- decade will be a season of sunshine maintained a balanced budget for the sion of the future. for Oakwood University. May God last five years. The budget is moni- The story is told of a deeply continue the mission of our found- tored on a daily basis and normally discouraged blind man who, in feel- ers. And may God bless Oakwood reviewed monthly by the president ing overcome by his sightless condi- University! and administrative officers to ensure tion, approached the ancient cleric, that variances are reviewed and cor- Anthony, with a question: “Anthony, rected. can there be anything worse than losing your sight?” Anthony paused • Debt Management and Structuring: for a moment, and then he spoke The University administration under- up. “Yes,” replied Anthony. “There

September 2011 • T IDINGS 83 Southern Adventist University A Growing Institution, An Intimate Community

Southern Adventist University has been blessed by considerable growth during the last five years, and is able to offer more and more young people the opportunity to learn in a thriving Adventist environment. Students can now choose from more than 80 academic degrees and enjoy several new facilities on campus.

And, with the amount of growth we’re blessed with, grams designed to assist students we’re still committed to maintaining an intimate commu- academically and financially, nity. At Southern, students experience the feeling of being by the time they graduate, our part of something bigger than themselves. As we continue students are ready to conquer the to see growth in the upcoming years, Southern will remain professional world. a network of Christians connected by a common desire to be a part of a mission-driven institution. New Academic Programs Since 2006, Southern has Academics and Student Success added many new programs for Dedication to student success — that’s one of the students. Some of the new aca- characteristics Southern’s faculty and staff share. With pro- demic areas include early childhood education, outdoor leadership, non-profit management, and mental health Enrollment Growth counseling. Southern strives to offer relevant degrees that meet the demands of today’s job market.

Accreditation In December 2010, Southern celebrated 60 years of accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. We continue to provide quality education as we reach milestones like this.

School of Social Work The School of Social work has expanded in the last few years. The Council on Social Work Education recently reaccredited our bachelor’s program, and a new Master

84 T IDINGS • September 2011 Southern Adventist University

of Social Work program started fall Southern Union constituents, not 2010. In this new graduate program, only are we giving more students students with a bachelor’s in social the opportunity for an Adventist work can earn their master’s degree in education, but we’re also raising the as little as 12 months. bar for our facilities and resources.

Southern Connections Florida Hospital Hall In order to help new undergradu- Our new nursing building, ate students connect with peers and Florida Hospital Hall, opened develop healthy study habits, in 2008 January 2011. With a larger facility, we established Southern Connections Southern can train even more nurses Expanded Housing 101, a freshman orientation class. This for a field that’s in desperate need. In response to our growing stu- class, along with the mentorship pro- The campaign to raise funds for dent body, two new Southern Village gram, has been a contributing factor Florida Hospital Hall and the Hulsey apartment buildings were added to in Southern’s increasing retention. The Wellness Center, Southern’s modern campus this summer, providing hous- dropout rate for freshman decreased fitness gym, was completed Febru- ing for 64 more students. Additionally, from 11.6 percent in 2007, to 7.6 per- ary 2011. A $17.5 million project, the ten other apartments were renovated cent in 2011. Campaign for Health and Healing for undergraduate housing. was the biggest fundraising cam- Financial Aid paign in Southern’s history. Up Next: Summerour Southern strives to make Chris- Summerour Hall, home to the tian education affordable. Since 2006, Hulsey Wellness Center School of Education and Psychology, more than $38 million in scholar- The Hulsey Wellness Center, is undergoing renovation to expand ships has been awarded to students. which opened in 2009, features classroom size, construct a new front Besides the scholarships awarded to more than 100 workout stations, two for the building, and redecorate the students who maintain high grades indoor pools, a climbing wall, and interior. The updated Summerour Hall and participate in extracurricular a high-energy snack shop. Open- will provide appropriate space for activities, there are also scholarships ing this building is one of the many all four programs of the school and for students who work at Adventist ways we’ve impacted students’ life- simultaneously create a connected camps over the summer, work as lit- styles. Home to the School of Physi- community for students in each field. erature evangelists, or dedicate a year cal Education, Health and Wellness, as student missionaries. Generous the wellness center also houses a gifts made to the university allow us human performance lab where, us- to reduce tuition by 25 percent. ing the latest equipment, guests can get the information they need to SIFE better reach their fitness goals. Students In Free Enterprise (SIFE) is an international non-profit organiza- McKee Library tion that encourages students to use Right before McKee Library their business skills to solve problems celebrated its 40th anniversary in in communities, organizations, and 2009, it was renovated to be a more the world. Southern’s SIFE team won open, student-friendly environment. the SIFE Regional Competition, and Renovations included a Knowledge later presented their projects at the Commons area for events and casual Adventist Heritage and national competition. Current proj- study, and eight study rooms for Spirituality ects include working with healthcare research, study groups, or project Through Bible classes, Adventist executives in Tanzania and organiz- preparation. Today, the library’s heritage tours, and our new Ellen ing a bakery at Uruguay Adventist 170,000 volumes are located in a White institute, students are discover- Academy. spacious setting that continues to ing that the founders of our church see improvements. More recently, once were young and passionate Campus Expansion and the library’s website was selected people as well. In the same way that Renovations by the Association of College and our original leaders dedicated their In the 2010 school year, South- Research Libraries as the “College lives to Christ’s work in their youth, ern’s enrollment surpassed 3,000. Library Website of the Month” for Southern students are making a differ- With the continual support from the January 2011. ence now.

September 2011 • T IDINGS 85 Institute for the Study of Ellen G. White Student Ministries and Adventist Heritage Nearly 20 student-led In October 2010, the School of outreach organizations exist at Religion inaugurated the Institute for Southern. Each week, students the Study of Ellen G. White and Ad- participating in these volunteer ventist Heritage. The four main goals groups head out to the greater of the institute are to promote Adven- Chattanooga area to provide tist Heritage tours, launch an annual food for the homeless, care lecture series, create a church history for the elderly, play with kids, student writing contest, and continue and witness to the commu- studies on Ellen White apologetics. nity. Through these outreach The institute will provide Southern ministries, students are able to with a new medium for promoting use their talents to impact the Adventist education and affirming community. church heritage. Student Missions and ERC ment at Southern to add 11 miles to Adventist Heritage Tour In the 2010 school year, 87 the Biology Trail. With the new paths, Each year, the School of Reli- students served as long-term mission- students, faculty, and the community gion’s Adventist Heritage Tour gives aries and 113 participated in short- will enjoy even more biking, walking, students the opportunity to relive term mission trips. Student Missions and exploring. the rich history of the Seventh-day enhances campus spirituality by Adventist Church. Under the leader- equipping students to serve others Environmental Sustainability ship of Jud Lake, professor of religion, in the name of Christ. Additionally, Administration, faculty, students, participants visit historic sites in New the School of Religion’s Evangelistic and Collegedale city leaders have England. With a strong foundation in Resource Center has sent students of come together to form a committee our history, students will better under- all majors to preach around the world for environmental sustainability. The stand the importance of preaching our since 2001. In the last five years, more Green Campus Initiative outlines 12 message in the present. than 10,000 people were baptized as steps towards sustainability with the a result of these summer evangelistic goal of maintaining a safe, beautiful New Small Groups trips. campus. The committee promotes Southern is committed to pro- recycling and the use of recycled ma- viding a “small campus feel” despite Health and Sustainability terials, diminishes hazardous waste, record-breaking enrollment. One Whether students are studying and reduces total waste all with the of the ways ministry leaders make on the residence hall lawns, playing help of project volunteers. Southern “smaller” is by organizing Frisbee by the Duck Pond, or biking small groups called Life Groups across through the Biology Trail, Southern Remaining an intimate aca- campus. These groups offer students strives to create a healthy campus in a place to build their faith through every sense of the word—a cam- demic community amid growth prayer and Bible study in the compa- pus that promotes balanced living, requires the continual support ny of friends. This fall, the Chaplain’s positive recreational activities, and a Office will add 10 paid positions for dynamic atmosphere. from our university friends. Life Group leaders. For this, we are thankful to the Wellness Institute Student-Led Church Being a valuable resource for the Southern Union constituents. Renewal, Collegedale Church’s surrounding community is important You provide the financial sup- student-led service, has enabled to us. Through seminars, the Wellness port, moral encouragement, students to participate and share their Institute provides important informa- talents since 2008. The opportunity tion on health and holistic living to and prayers necessary to keep to plan, prepare, and execute this the community. The Wellness Institute Southern Adventist University worship service each week gives stu- hosts several events a year, including dents a creative outlet and an active CREATION Health meetings and the a great option for a Christian role in the church. Beyond campus, WELLkids summer day camp. education. Thank you for shar- there are 29 Adventist churches in the area. With so many options, it’s easy Expanded Biology Trail ing our vision and supporting us for students to find a church family This year, community members as we carry out our mission. where they can feel at home. partnered with the Biology Depart-

86 T IDINGS • September 2011 Southern Adventist University hosts events for you!

28th Annual Sunbelt Cohutta Springs Triathlon: October 2 Join Southern Adventist University students and staff at the 28th Annual Sunbelt Cohutta Springs Triathlon, Sunday, October 2, 2011 at Cohutta Springs Youth Camp in Crandall, Georgia. Online registration opens June 1 at southerntriathlon.com. ______PreviewSouthern, October 13-14 Students interested in attending Southern Adventist University are invited to bring their families and spend time experiencing campus life during PreviewSouthern, October 13-14, 2011. To register or learn more about PreviewSouthern events, call 1.800.SOUTHERN or go to southern.edu/visit. ______Alumni Homecoming Weekend, October 27-30 Southern Adventist University’s Alumni Homecoming Weekend is coming up, October 27-30, 2011. If you can’t attend, but would like to watch the Alumni Vespers, Friday at 8 p.m., visit southern.edu/streaming. ______Online Vespers, November 11 at 8:00 p.m. Dwight Nelson, senior pastor of Pioneer Memorial Church at Andrews University, will speak at Southern Adventist University’s vespers program on Friday, November 11, 2011 at 8 p.m. To enjoy the program from the comfort of your home, visit southern.edu/streaming.

Visit Us Southern welcomes visitors all year long, and we invite you to come and experience our beautiful campus for yourself. If you know of someone looking to attend a Christian university, prospective students have several options for a scheduled visit to Southern. For more information, go online to southern.edu/visit.

1.800.SOUTHERN Collegedale, Tennessee Session Delegates

Carolina Joong Shik Kim Gail Bragg Ken Shaw Delegates (21) Jack Leach Danilo Cornejo Don T. Shelton Bryan Aalborg José A. LeGrand Harold Cunningham Gary Tracy Milton Aguilar Dalton Lewis Edward Denny Phil Wilhelm Glen Altermatt Allan Machado Mary Jo Dubs Wanda K. Beck Victor J. Maddox Ivette Figueroa Delegates-at-Large (4) Ernie Boughman Kathy McCullough Jerry Fore Melvin K. Eisele Bob Cundiff Olney McLarty Sharon Garner Arturo Ledezma Donovan Davis Robert Murphy Cynthia M. Gettys Leslie D. Louis Jeff Donaldson Tim Nichols Rick Greve Martin Fancher John Earnhardt Arne Nielsen Mitch Hazekamp Destiny Edwards Daniel Nieves Dwight Herod KENTUCKY- Charles Ferguson Josie Oates Paul Hoover TENNESSEE Maury Gilmore Naomi Olson Michaela Lawrence Jeffery Delegates (15) Chad Grundy Abel Paulin Stephen D. Kelley Connie Aitken Jim Hakes Nurilda Perez Dennis Kiley Robbie Anderson Eulita A. Heisey Pedro Perez Kevin Kossick Larry Boughman Minner Labrador Luc Pierre Rob Lang Steve Breece Gary Moyer Nancy Pleasants Tim Leffew Thomas Day Samuel D. Romero Elisa Rahming Olivier Lemaitre Armondo De Leon Rick Russell Jack Rieder Samuel Mihordea Fred R. Fuller John Seaman David Rivera Garry Nudd Xochitl Guerra Lionel Simmons Carmen Rodriguez Neftaly Ortiz Douglas A. Hilliard Freddy Rodriguez Michael Pettengill Marvin G. Lowman Delegates-at-Large (5) Juan M. Rodriguez Neil W. Reid Daniel McFeeters Jim Davidson Mayra Rodriguez Steve Rose Julie Murphy Samuel E. Bonham Duane C. Rollins Gary Rustad Jerry Rimer Bonnie Connelly Frank Runnells Steve Shaw Charles Stone Carlos G. Molina Mark Schiefer John Al Sines Sr. John Watkins Dan Tullock Harold Sookie Jonathan Sumner Stephen Stewart Tiffany Swinney Delegates-at-Large (3) FLORIDA Dave Swinyar Kim Thompson Steve L. Haley Delegates (59) Rickard Szilagyi Obinna B. Ubani-Ebere Nick Bradley Eric R. Allen Oscar Tavera Fernando Verduzco Patricia Sutton Daniel Amich Jeffrey Thompson Judy Anderson Alex Vaz Delegates-at-Large (6) SOUTH ATLANTIC Leann Andino Eugenia Vega Ed Wright Delegates (43) Ivor Angus Marvin Williams Shirley A. Camp Marc R. Borieux Pablo Ayala Phil Younts Lyndon Gallimore Chenetra Brewington Thomas Baker George G. Mercurius Yvonne Brown Gregg Cain Delegates-at-Large (5) John S. Nixon Sr. Carlton P. Byrd Conrad Duncan Rose Beavers Millie Tomei Patrick Carter Ana Maria Escobar Eric Cantillo Natasha E. Chaney Howard Fish Scott Green GULF STATES Herbon Flemming Wanda Forbes Witford Reid Delegates (12) Robert Green Jr. Victor R. Garcia George H. Whitsett Kathy Oakley Aitken Katherlyn P. Hailey Tim Goff Christopher Barr Joyce W. Hairston Keith R. Harding GEORGIA- Eric Bates Lawrence Hamilton Robert Henderschedt CUMBERLAND Kay Buckner Derrick Hinds Debbie Hilton Delegates (37) Roger Burke Darryl L. Howard Newton W. Hoilette Kurt Allen Clara Cisneros Crawford Humphrey Jose Isaac Jeremy Arnall April Hobbs Joseph Jackson Daniela Jean Debbie Baker Kristy Mobley Larry Johnson

88 T IDINGS • September 2011 Session Delegates

Lloyd M. Johnson Marshall Johnson Michael Owusu Dennis Ross Jr. Shirley Johnson Benjamin Jones Josue Parker Diane Ruff Beulah Kilpatrick Gary L. Jones David L. Peay Sr. Laura Smith Orlando L. King Edmund Julius Curtis Powell William S. Smith Pennie Lister-Smith Christopher Marshall Caesar A. Robinson Richard Stephenson Francis McNeil James T. McGriff Olga H. Simmons Allan Williamson Phillip J. McNeil Sr. Shayla N. Montgomery Anthony T. Smith Carl McRoy James G. Owens Milton Sterling Adventist Health Godwin R. Mitchell Pearlie Richardson Tony Taylor System Carl Nesmith Michael Ross Sr. Bienvenu Theodore Lars Houmann John Patrickson Shirley P. Scott Gwendolyn Turner-Parker Don Jernigan Anthony Philips Temika Simmons Brent Waldon Sr. Terry Shaw Efrain Poloche Sargent Simms Kalisha Waldon Roscoe J. Howard III Calvin B. Preston Alfred Lewellyn Williams Clarence L. Wright Melvin Preston Seth Yelorda Theus Young Southern Adven- Juan Reyes tist University Stephen P. Ruff Delegates-at-Large (6) Delegates-at-Large (5) Gordon Bietz Gregory Saunders Dana C. Edmond Hubert J. Morel Jr. Robert Young Oscar Sherrod Jr. Laurene R.W. Brown Ricardo C. Major Tom Verrill Cheryl Simmons Brenda J. Cowan Patrick Vincent Harold Thomas III Sheila P. Davis John Washington II Florida Hospital Karen E. Thrower Albert L. Dudley Eugenia Weaver College of Health Jean Hercule Toussaint Marshall Henley Sciences Richard Watkins SOUTHERN UNION Calvin Watkins SOUTHEASTERN DELEGATES-AT-LARGE David E. Greenlaw Henry Wilson Delegates (42) (44) Don Williams William L. Winston Evelyn Johnson Adams Bob Curren Roger Alvarez Administration Delegates-at-Large (6) T. George Aristide Gordon Retzer Oakwood Vanard J. Mendinghall Barry Bonner Ron C. Smith University Drake P. Barber Nicolle Brisé Randy Robinson Leslie N. Pollard Ronald Chunn Ronald A. Brisé Dennis Millburn R. Timothy McDonald Jean-Jacques Medastin Darlene Brooks Carlos C. Salazar Sabrina Cotton Joyce Thrower Mark Brown Iris Wray Carol Byrd Departmental Directors North American William C. Byrd and Associates Division SOUTH CENTRAL McKinley Crockett Jr. Amireh Al-Haddad Daniel R. Jackson Delegates (30) Herman L. Davis Sr. Gene Brewer G. Alexander Bryant Barbara R. Barnes Lewis W. Edwards G. Tom Carter Tom Evans Marvin Belcher Shelley Garner Peter DeVries Jennifer Bennett Olinto Groce Debra Fryson TOTALS: Michelle Brown Robert Henley Diana Gunter Delegates...... 259 Lillie M. Buckingham Renée P. Hodge Jim Ingersoll Delegates-at-large...... 84 Sonja Crayton Sherrie Hodge Kevin R. James TOTAL...... 343 Albert Dudley II Lesly Jacques Tamara Lopez Libonati James Curtis Elmore Edson Jarvis Todd Mace Vandeon Griffin Magaly Jeanty Jorge Mayer Curtis Hall Sharon R. Lewis Merkita Mosley Michael A. Harpe David A. Long Sr. R. Steven Norman III Sandra Hawkins Gregory Mack Keith W. Reid Edgardo Jose Herrera Nicola McClymont Les Rilea Alex Horton Jean-Allah Monestime Ralph L. Ringer Auldwin T. Humphrey Betty F. Nugent Fred L. Rogers

September 2011 • T IDINGS 89 Filmed LIVE The “P” in PB&J at the Atlanta Berean The Seventh-day keeps your Adventist Church heart HEALTHY Unwrapping the Gift of Christmas Special guest artists Grammy-award winning Take 6

Vocalist Violinist Jennifer LaMountain Jaime Jorge

Featuring Dr. Carlton P. Byrd Speaker/Director of the Breath of Life Telecast

Monosaturated fats found in peanuts reduce the risk of heart disease.

A few positive steps can help you reach your optimal health. Start your journey by exploring www.CreationHealth.com

COMING IN DECEMBER on most NBC stations. For a list of stations and airdates, go to www.breathoflife.tv Winter Park, Florida | www.AdventistHealthSystem.com | Explore employment, call 407-975-3792 or call 805-955-7681 after November 1. Filmed LIVE at the Atlanta Berean The Seventh-day Adventist Church

Unwrapping the Gift of Christmas Special guest artists Grammy-award winning Take 6

Vocalist Violinist Jennifer LaMountain Jaime Jorge

Featuring Dr. Carlton P. Byrd Speaker/Director of the Breath of Life Telecast

COMING IN DECEMBER on most NBC stations. For a list of stations and airdates, go to www.breathoflife.tv or call 805-955-7681 after November 1. For less than 2¢ per household you can reach more than 84,000 households with this space. Call Nathan Zinner at 404-299-1832, x412 for information.

The Great Controversy Project (GCP) is a Spirit-filled witnessing opportunity of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The purpose of GCP is to spread the life-changing message ofThe Great Controversy (The Great Hope), by Ellen G. White, around the world. Members are personally invited to join with their Division, Union, Conference and church as each makes plans for mass distribution of this powerful volume. Every church department is challenged to make distribution plans a part of their ministry outreach. The GCP has two powerful phases, each made up of three words. Phase One: Personally Read It. Allow the Holy Spirit to revive and reform you as you read and study it during 2011 and beyond. Phase Two: Personally Share It. Purchase multiple copies and distribute to family, friends and strangers throughout 2012 and 2013. God will use this volume to awaken consciousness, highlight the Word and point to Christ.

Each specially - discounted book, available 2012 through 2013, will contain an introduction letter, Bible study, local denominational contact information and The Great Hope public website address.

Please visit us at: www.TheGreatHope.org

92 T IDINGS • September 2011 Be Green Southern Tidings delivered by e-mail

Learn more and subscribe at www.SouthernUnion.com/Green Advertisements

monthly rental agreement. Contact RN Administrator partially finished. 21x27x15 living room/meeting How to Submit Your Advertising Laura Morrison. 423-775-7658 or e-mail quietoaks@ room. Orchard, blueberries. Ideal for sanitarium/ (1) Have your pastor or a local church elder comcast.net. View our website at quietoak.com. [9] multi-family, 1200 ft on large creek, 112-yr-old write “Approved” and his signature on the sheet liveable log cabin, RV/picnic area, seclusion. of paper containing the advertisement, (2) write your name and address on the same sheet, (3) SUMMIT RIDGE RETIREMENT VILLAGE is a $309,000. More at: http://sites.google.com/site/ specify how many times the ad is to run, (4) place where you can live independently in your own billsherm/greenacres, 423-488-7010, bsher68@ send the approved ad to your conference office home. Lawn mowing and maintenance provided. aol.com. [9] 6 weeks in advance of the publication date and Church and nursing home on grounds. Make friends (5) don’t forget to enclose payment in full for each NORTH GEORGIA MOUNTAINS month the ad is to run. Make checks payable to with Adventist neighbors, and enjoy the low cost of – 3 bed (2 SOUTHERN UNION. living in the Oklahoma countryside. Call Bill Norman, are master suites), 3.5 bath + more. Blueberries, RATES: Southern Union: $40 for 20 words or 405-454-6538. Website: www.summit-ridge-village. strawberries, and garden. 1.3 acres or up to 5+ acres. less, including address. $45 for anything longer org. © Call Carol at 828-361-9713. [9] than 20 words up to 45 words. $1.30 per word beyond 45. Out of Union: $50 for 20 words or COLLEGEDALE AREA HOMES AND LAND FOR MOUNTAIN PROPERTY FOR SALE – 20 acres less, including address. $55 for anything longer SALE: than 20 words up to 45 words. $1.50 per word 5 acres/Cleveland $69,000; 3 bed, 2 bath of undeveloped wooded, rolling land on top of beyond 45. Accepted as space is available. Ads home 5 minutes to SAU, $112,900; horse property Monteagle, Tennessee. Great location for country may run in successive months as space permits. with barn and 5+ acres $450,000; horse property living in a pleasant rural environment. Small SDA SOUTHERN TIDINGS makes every reason- with barn and 6+ acres $545,000. Call The Wendy church nearby. Property must sell as one tract. Price able effort to screen all advertising, but in no Dixon Team with Crye-Leike Realtors 423-883-0656; reduced! Call 978-549-2477. [9, 10] case can the periodical assume responsiblity for Office 423-238-5440. Ask for Herby, Stephanie or advertisements appearing in its columns, or for Wendy. [9] IS LOCATION IMPORTANT? typographical errors. Then how about Portland, TN? Just minutes from Highland Academy/ GREAT INVESTMENT PROPERTY NEAR SAU – Elementary. 1000+ square foot siding home with PROPERTY AVAILABLE well-maintained duplex with consistent rental history. 4.75 acres, detached garage/shop. 1000 square foot Both sides currently rented for $565.00 per month. brick home/shop. Call Pat Briley, Coldwell Banker QUIET OAKS ASSISTED LIVING in Graysville, Two units each offer 2 bedrooms, 1 bath. Gross Barnes. (O) 615-452-0040, (C) 615-426-2992, TN (45 miles from SAU). 25 acre mountain estate monthly income approx. $1,200 per month. Good pbrileyrealtracs.com. [9] is surrounded by state park and walking trails. Our tenants. $115,000. Call Vincent Lopez @ 423-316- licensed home offers private rooms, vegetarian 1880 with Crye-Leike Realtors. [9] 56 SECLUDED ACRES in Lyles, TN (45 minutes meals, SDA TV, activities and transportation to from Nashville) on private dead end road. 7 years church, Dr appointments and shopping. Now CENTERVILLE, TN – 28 acres, 4500 square foot old, 3000 square foot well maintained home, 4 available: new independent living patio homes; lodge-type home. 4 bed/3 bath, 4 more bedrooms bedrooms, 2 bath, full walk-out basement, 2 out-

With an unselfish love for God, the Church, and the community Dr. Charles and Bonnie Wilkens moved to Jellico, TN with a desire to expand an Adventist hospital, plant a new church, and grow an Adventist school.

These values are being instilled throughout the family. The Wilkens, along with their children, have established estate plans that ensure their hopes and dreams will continue to live on. The Wilke ns Contact your local conference or university Planned Giving and Trust Services representative today to plan how you can pass on your values.

To read the Wilkens’ story, go to www.southernunion.com/PlannedGiving and click on their story.

Kentucky-Tennessee: Lin Powell, 615-859-1391 Oakwood University: Fred Pullins, 256-726-8278 Carolina: Ken Ford, 704-596-3200 South Atlantic: Lawrence Hamilton, 404-792-0535 Florida: Jose LeGrand, 407-644-5000 South Central: Michael Harpe, 615-226-6500 Georgia-Cumberland: Mitch Hazekamp, 706-629-7951 Southeastern: David Long, 352-735-3142 Gulf States: Rick Hutchinson, 334-272-7493 Southern Adventist University: Carolyn Liers, 423-236-2818

94 T IDINGS • September 2011 Advertisements

buildings, some fencing. $350,000. call 931-242- University is only a 45 minute drive. Please preferably with a subspecialty fellowship (e.g. 1822 for more info. [9, 10] contact [email protected] , 706-602- Cornea, glaucoma, Peds, Plastic etc.). Willing 7800, extension 2345 for more information or to sell or arrange transition as needed. Practice FOR SALE – God’s country, private, ponds, creek, apply online, www.gordonhospital.com. [9] currently extremely busy with strong surgical woods, pure water, nearby SDA church. Rich soil, volume. Fully equipped state of the art (OCT, rolling, pasture. Fenced, double fenced, scenic, FAMILY PRACTICE OPPORTUNITY located GDx,FA,VF, etc.) office with multiple refracting off Natchez Trace Parkway. Wild berries, closest in North Georgia. Gordon Hospital is seeking lanes, including in-office minor surgery suite. neighbor one mile, financing available, can subdivide, Board Certified/Board Eligible FP Physician. Please send CV to: 7405 Shallowford Rd., suite 176 acres. 48 S. Creek Rd, Waynesboro, TN. Phil: Highly respected, busy practice. Excellent 420, Chattanooga, TN 37421. Phone: 423-855- 863-873-3801. [9] salary. Excellent benefits. Outstanding 8522 ext 214. [9] Adventist elementary and high school. Southern BEAUTIFUL 2.45 ACRE BUILDING LOT in gated University within a 45-minute drive. For more MERCHANDISE FOR SALE mountain community of Forest Heights II, 3 miles information contact [email protected], outside Marion, NC near Lake James. Also, 2.17 acre or call 800-264-8642. www.gordonhospital. ADVENTIST SATELLITE SYSTEMS – For country building lot on quiet paved road in Columbus com. [9-12] sales & installation in the Atlanta area, call Kaz County, NC outside Myrtle Beach. Both properties Sanocki, 404-791-3093. [9] near SDA churches. Call 843-236-1336. [9] JELLICO COMMUNITY HOSPITAL is looking for physicians to work in our hospital. We VEGETARIAN/VEGAN NUTRITIONAL POSITIONS AVAILABLE are currently seeking the following positions: SUPPLEMENTS & NEW ANTIMICROBIAL Family Practice, Family Practice/OB, AGENT: Immune Ammunition is a unique Orthopedic, Nephrology, Internal Medicine LAURELBROOK ADACEMY NEEDS YOU: . blend of five herbs to help fight virus, Positions open are RNs, LPNs, CNAs, Please contact Jason Dunkel @ jason.dunkel@ bacteria, fungus, infection and inflammation. Cooks, Greenhouse/Garden Manager, and ahss.org or 423-784-1187 for more information. Other Vegetarian/Vegan supplements include Construction Staff. Housing and stipend [9-7] vitamin D, multiple vitamins and more. provided. Located in the beautiful mountains Buy now. 423-238-7467, of Dayton, TN and only 60 miles from SAU. ADVENTIST HEALTH SYSTEM is seeking website: www.bonherbals.com. Contact Roger Westfall at 423-775-0771; or qualified candidates in clinical and non-clinical Bon Herbals, PO Box 1038, Collegedale, TN email [email protected]. [9-1] capacities to further its mission of Extending the 37315. [9] Healing Ministry of Christ. If you have a passion UROLOGY OPPORTUNITY IN NORTH to be part of the Seventh-day Adventist health NEED A PIANIST? “Hymns Alive”, The SDA GEORGIA. Gordon Hospital is seeking Board ministry, email your resume to David Gordon, Hymnal on 33 CD’s. Quality accompaniment Certified/Board Eligible Urologist. Live AHS System Recruiter, at david.gordon@ahss. music to sing God’s praises. Organ and piano. within a beautiful southern community which org! [9, 10] Also “He Is Our Song” and kid’s hymnals offers a gorgeous Adventist hospital (www. on CD’s. 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For information, OPHTHAMOLOGIST OPPORTUNITY with Gordon Hospital, a member of Adventist : send large self-addressed stamped envelope Health System. PharmD preferred. The ideal Busy long-established practice in scenic to ASO-40, 2747 Nonpareil, Sutherlin, OR candidate will have three or more years director Chattanooga, TN., seeking full-time 97479. © level experience in a hospital setting. Gordon ophthalmologist to take over the founder’s cataract, general and refractive volume. MD/ Hospital is located within 1 hour of Chattanooga, AdventistSingles.org Free 14-day Trial! Join physician interested in comprehensive care, TN and Atlanta, GA. Southern Adventist thousands of Adventist singles online. Free chat, search, profiles, match notifications! Adventist owners since 1993. Visit www. Adventist Satellite TV For Less! ElliotDylan.com for the Undercover Angels series of novels for Christian teens that build on Biblical principles and encourage integrity. 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5.11 Email: darlenekeith@gmail. com. [9]

96 T IDINGS • September 2011 Advertisements on eligible meeting space when you mention Announcements year. We hope to see many professional and this ad. Call Conference Services and Events, local church communicators there. Sometimes 423-236-2555 or email conferenceservices@ it is hard for them to attend because of finances. southern.edu. Let Southern be the solution for Southern Society of Adventist Attorneys’ Would you consider sponsoring some of them your event needs! [9-12] Annual Fall Retreat – Sept. 9, 10. Tradewinds to come to the convention? Imagine if more of Resort, St. Pete Beach, FL. Details: email the local church communicators would be able [email protected]. SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY offers to get training on how to do communication master’s degrees in business, counseling, for their local church — how great would education, nursing, religion and social work. Manchester, KY, Church and Memorial that be? Please download the flier and pass Flexibility is provided through online and Hospital Homecoming Weekend – Sept. 9-11. on this opportunity to your local church and/ on-campus programs. Financial aid may Details: [email protected]. or school communication leaders. Visit, be available. For more information, call adventistcommunicator.org for further details. 423-236-2585 or visit www.southern.edu/ Oak Park Academy Alumni Reunion – Oct. graduatedegrees. [9-6] 7, 8. Gates Memorial Hall, 825 15th Street, Southern Singles Fall Retreat – Oct. 21-23. Nevada. Honor classes: ’36, ’41, ‘46’, ’51, ‘56’, Sterchi Lodge, NC. Pastor Daniel Royo, guest REBUILD, REFRESH, AND REVIVE at ’61, ‘66’, ’71, ’76, (’81, ‘82, ’83) Details: www. speaker. Details: [email protected] Home for Health Lifestyle Center. Hands-on opainiowa.com. or 423-243-4011. health experience great for anyone desiring a lasting improvement in health and a deeper Southern Singles Ministries Alumni Reunion Festival of Praise Revival and Reformation Christian walk. Sessions last 1-3 weeks, are Potluck – Sept. 10. First Church, Chattanooga, – Nov. 19. A joint convocation for Georgia- quality, affordable, and family friendly. For more TN. Details: [email protected] or Cumberland and South Atlantic conferences information visit www.HomeforHealth.net or call 423-243-4011. at the 7,000-seat Greater Travelers Rest 606-663-6671. [9-11] Baptist Church, formerly Cathedral of the Holy Association of Adventist Women’s Annual Spirit at 4650 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur, SEE FORKS OVER KNIVES ONLINE: $4.99 Convention – Oct. 13-16. La Sierra University. GA. The Thanksgiving season celebration will at www.ReformYourOwnHealth.com. Looking “Total You - Body, Mind, and Spirit.” Keynote provide a unique opportunity for the children, for medical missionaries & cooking school speaker is Chris Oberg. Registration fee, $125. youth, senior members, and leaders within the facilitators to join us. 770-324-4585. [9] Register online at www.aaw.cc. multi-cultural, multi-ethnic, and multi-lingual sisterhood of churches of both conferences to Peachtree City, GA, Church 35th foster bonding, communicate information, and Homecoming Anniversary nurture inspiration to expand the kingdom of – Oct. 14, 15. God. Additionally, the convocation will cast a Harold Cunningham, Sabbath speaker. Details: vision for evangelistic outreach and kingdom Joanne Anderson 770- building for 2012. Special features will include 487-8505. the following: 1. Children and Youth Sabbath School at Andrews Academy 9:30 a.m. Homecoming Weekend 2. Youth Divine Worship Celebration at 11:00 – Oct. 14-16. a.m. All alumni of Emmanuel 3. Festival of Praise at 4:00 p.m. Featuring Missionary College the best choirs, groups, and instrumentalists of Academy, Andrews University Academy, and both conferences. Andrews Academy plan 4. Colors of the World - Pathfinders parade now to join us for special of flags representing the nations of the services on Friday conferences. evening and all day 5. Introduction and report from South Atlantic, Sabbath. Honor classes Georgia-Cumberland, and new Southern Union are 1937, ‘42, ‘47, ‘52, Conference president. ‘57, ‘62, ‘67, ‘72, ‘77, 6. Children’s Church. ‘82, ‘87, ‘92, ‘97, ’02 and 7. Youth Rap Sessions. 2007. Details: contact 8. 100+ Mass Choir. the Academy Alumni 9. Youth vs. SAC/GCC pastors basketball office at 269-471-6140 game. or e-mail acadalum@ andrews.edu. 10. Social activities for the young and young at heart. Society of Adventist Communicators “Mysteries of the Mark of the Beast – Revealed” Convention – Oct. – Dec. 9, 10. Elim Church, Saint 20-22. Chicago, IL. Petersburg, FL. Steve Wohlberg, author/ Keynote speaker: evangelist, will conduct a weekend series of David Neff, Christianity evangelistic meetings. Lifelong Adventists, new Today editor-in-chief. members, and guests are invited to attend the Theme: Integrated series of four meetings that will begin with a Communication: The service on Friday evening, Dec. 9 at 7 p.m., and Hub of Excellence. The conclude on Sabbath, Dec. 10, with meetings 23rd annual convention at 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., and Sabbath afternoon. is in Chicago, IL, this Details: Jim R. Davis, Elim pastor, 727-327- 2374 or [email protected].

September 2011 • T IDINGS 97 Events Calender

Carolina Lakeland. friends and neighbors. Puppetry, Gulf States Oct. 15. Jacksonville Southpoint. nature, fitness fun, interactive Hispanic Men’s Convention Complete Calendar online – Oct. 16. Jacksonville First, storytelling, ballooning, music, Sept. 2-4. Nosoca. Orange Cove, Palatka, Palm and more. Cost: free. Bring http://www.gscsda.org ShareHim Bootcamp – Sept. Coast, New Smyrna Beach. your own lunch. Details: http:// Prayer Summit – Sept. 9-11. 9-11. Nosoca. (Southeastern Conference: www.floridaconference.com/ Canoeing Teen Invitational – Carolina Retiree’s Retreat – Jacksonville Ephesus.) childrenandfamily/, rhoda.burrill@ Sept. 16, 17. Sept. 12-15. Nosoca. Oct. 22. Tallahassee. floridaconference.com, 407-644- Elders’ Certification Training 5000 x136, or 321-303-7699. Eastern Carolina Camp Oct. 23. Lake City, Ocala, Silver #1 – Sept. 24. Cody Road Meeting – Sept. 17. Summerville. Springs Shores, Belleview, Lady Church, Mobile, AL. Eastern Carolina Camp Lake, Inverness. Family Ministries Couples’

Georgia-Cumberland Meeting – Sept. 24. Greenville. Oct. 29. Sunrise. Retreat – Sept. 30-Oct. 2. Hispanic Atlanta Metro Women’s Retreat – Sept. 30- Oct. 30. Plantation, Lauderhill, Principal’s Retreat – Oct. 7-9. Evangelism Crusade Oct. 1. Nosoca. Ambassador in Lauderdale – Sept. Camp Alamisco. Hispanic Women’s Retreat – Lakes. 3-10. Atlanta, GA. Gulf States/Kentucky- Festival of the Laity Oct. 7-9. Nosoca. (Southeastern Conference: Mt. – Sept. Tennessee Pathfinder Retreat Lav Pastoral Training – Oct. Olivet.) 7-10. Dallas, TX. – Oct. 13-16. Adventurer Ministries 7-9. Nosoca. Nov. 5. Naples. Convention Annual Council – Oct. 7-12. Nov. 6. Ft. Myers, Ft. Myers – Sept. 9, 10. Cohutta Springs Youth Camp. Community Service Retreat – Shores, Arcadia, Avon Park, Kentucky-Tennessee Crandall, GA. Oct. 14-16. Winter Haven. Conference Association Board Family Togetherness Week Nov. 12. West Palm Beach. – Sept. 11-17. Oct. 4. Dec. 6. Nov. 13. Midport, Ft. Pierce, Pathfinder Drill Instructor Conference Executive Florida Cocoa, Titusville. (Southeastern Training Committee Conference: Port St. Lucie, Palm – Sept. 16-18. Cohutta Complete calendar online – Oct. 4. Dec. 6. Bay. Springs Youth Camp. Crandall, http://www.floridaconference.com/ GA. Young Women’s Retreat – calendar/ Nov. 19. Port Charlotte. Hispanic Small Groups’ Sept. 9-11. Indian Creek Camp. Nov. 20. North Port, Sarasota, Florida Pathfinder events – Evangelism – Sept. 17-24. Women’s Retreat I – Sept. 23- West Coast Christian Academy in http://www.floridaconference.com/ Northern Region. 25. Indian Creek Camp. Bradenton, Brandon, Tampa First. youth/ or call 407-644-5000 x127. Health Rally – Sept. 17. Women’s Retreat II – Sept. 30- Dec. 3. Maranatha in Miami Singles’ Ministries events Adairsville, GA. Oct. 2. Indian Creek Camp. and mailing list information. Gardens. “God in Shoes” Evangelism – Hispanic Women’s Retreat – Dec. 4. Ft. Lauderdale, Lauderhill, Spiritual study groups, fellowship Sept. 18-25. To be determined. Oct. 7-9. Indian Creek Camp. Ambassador in Lauderdale dinners, outings, and more. http:// Church Planting Training – www.floridaconference.com/ Lakes, Pompano Beach, Jupiter- Tequesta. Sept. 23-25. Cohutta Springs childrenandfamily/, djmiller4000@ Conference Center, Crandall, GA. Southeastern gmail.com, or 407-703-3050. Dec. 10. St. Petersburg. Young Adult LifeGroup South Florida Adventist Youth Florida Hospital DeLand Dec. 11. Clearwater, New Port Experience – Sept. 30-Oct. 1. Federation Support Groups Richey, Spring Hill, Brooksville, – Sept. 16-18. Fort – Florida Cohutta Springs Youth Camp, East Pasco in Zephyrhills. Lauderdale, FL. Hospital DeLand offers a Crandall, GA. variety of support groups such Florida Conference Evangelism Fall Workers’ Meeting – Sept. Health Rally – Sept. 24. Atlanta as attention deficit disorder, Series 26-28. Hawthorne, FL. First Brazilian, Smyrna, GA. Hispanic Convention bereavement, brain injury, Oct. 1-Nov. 12. Altamonte – Oct. Hispanic Men’s Retreat – Sept. celiac disease, diabetes, sleep Springs. Bill and Sunshine 14, 15. 30-Oct. 1. Cohutta Springs Youth disorders, and more. Details are Waters. available under the “Support Camp, Crandall, GA. Oct. 14-Nov. 19. Clermont. Lester NE Tennessee Church Retreat Groups” link in the “Patients and Zula Pratt and Visitors” box at http://www. – Sept. 30-Oct. 1. Cohutta Nov. 5-19. Northwest Miami fhdeland.org/ Springs Youth Camp, Crandall, Florida Adventist Book Center Spanish. Rolando and Rebeca de GA. los Ríos. – Winter Park: 877-55-FLABC Young At Heart Retreat. Oct. (877-553-5222). Miami: 305-805- 9-13. Camp Kulaqua, High 9900. High Springs: 386-454- Springs. A camp experience Sunset 7956. Shop online: http://www. designed just for the young floridaconference.com/abc/ or Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 oct. 7 at heart (ages 50+). Events order by e-mail: FloridaABC@ Atlanta, GA 7:59 7:49 7:39 7:30 7:20 7:11 include a classic movie night, floridaconference.com Charleston, SC 7:40 7:31 7:21 7:12 7:03 6:54 Florida Adventist Bookmobile the Kulaqua 500, and plenty Charlotte, NC 7:45 7:36 8:25 8:15 7:05 6:56 Schedule of fellowship moments. Cost Collegedale, TN 8:02 7:52 7:42 7:32 7:22 7:13 varies depending on choice of Huntsville, AL 7:08 6:58 6:48 6:38 6:28 6:19 Oct. 1. Port Charlotte. accommodations, meals, and Jackson, MS 7:21 7:12 7:02 6:53 6:44 6:35 Oct. 2. North Port, Sarasota, activities. Details and registration: Louisville, KY 8:08 7:57 7:46 7:35 7:24 7:13 West Coast Christian Academy in summercamp@campkulaqua. Memphis, TN 7:22 7:12 7:02 6:52 6:42 6:32 Bradenton, Brandon, Tampa First. com or 386-454-1351. Miami, FL 7:37 7:29 7:21 7:14 7:06 6:59 Oct. 8. St. Petersburg. Go Fish For Kids. Oct. 22. Fort Montgomery, AL 7:05 6:56 6:47 6:37 6:28 6:19 Oct. 9. Clearwater, New Port Myers Church. 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Nashville, TN 7:10 7:00 6:49 6:39 6:29 6:19 Richey, Spring Hill, Brooksville, Kids are invited to come and Orlando, FL 7:43 7:35 7:26 7:18 7:10 7:02 East Pasco in Zephyrhills, learn great ways to witness to Wilmington, NC 7:33 7:23 7:14 7:04 6:54 6:45

98 T IDINGS • September 2011 April 2011 Contents | SOUTHERN ADVENTIST the magaZine From adventist Frontier missions 08.2011 Frontiers

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