4 Features January 7, 1991 Operation Bearhug North Pacific Evangelists To opcHATIoN Hold Meetings in Russia

By Morten Juberg "The news tells of turmoil and chaos in Europe and Russia. This is a critical time BCAIIHUG because we may have only a short time n a move reminiscent of the early Ad- A Response of Northwest Adventists I frame in which to work:' he added. ventist Church sending its first missionaries to Global Mission Much of the information about condi- overseas, the North Pacific Union Confer- tions in the Soviet Union has come from ence will send evangelists to Russia to hold meetings later in the year. Harold E Otis, Jr. who heads the Depart- meetings. "Our plan is not to Americanize the Rus- ment of Soviet Affairs in the General Con- After careful study a Global Mission sian people," Johnston added. "However, we ference. Strategy Committee chaired by Bruce face the problem of instructing the pastors Otis and his wife Rose have traveled Johnston announced the following un- about the fundamentals of democracy widely in Russia and have gained a knowl- precedented plans: which enter into church affairs. Their edge of the evangelistic opportunities. In • To call the program Operation Bearhug. system is more authoritarian. Only recently addition, Otis held meetings in Siberia • To select three evangelists from the has there been a more formal church where 120 were baptized. An unusual twist North Pacific Union Conference to hold organization as we know it." was that those who attended the meetings evangelistic meetings in Russia in March But while preaching was allowed during were charged a two-ruble fee. and April. This would be the forerunner of the stricter years of Communism, there was Meeting with the Russian Union presi- more campaigns planned later in the year. no proselytizing or public evangelism and dents at their year-end meeting, Otis pro- • To begin a voluntary fund-raising pro- inviting individuals to church was not posed the idea of a sister union with the gram to purchase Russian language Bibles allowed. Consequently, with the easing of North Pacific Union Conference. to be used for evangelism and for funding these restrictions, the doors are now wide Otis said the Russians were somewhat the costs of the meetings. open for public meetings and evangelism. puzzled by the idea of a sister union but • To seek suggestions and ideas from when it was explained to them they were members for programs that can be initiated Bibles Are Needed most enthusiastic. in Russia. The president of the Russian Union gave One of the most pressing needs for evan- • To ask Alfred Birch, North Pacific Otis a big hug and the other presidents gelism in Russia is Bibles. Bibles can be pur- Union Conference Global Mission Strate- asked, "Can't you find someone to love us chased from printing plants in Europe. The gist, to go to Russia to ascertain needs prior too?" plan calls for the copies of the Scriptures to the evangelistic meetings. The Russian Union is the logical one for to be shipped to the Adventist Seminary • To work with the Russian Union as a the North Pacific Union Conference to be in Russia and they will ship them to the cit- sister union to the North Pacific Union Con- affiliated with since St. Lawrence Island, ies where the meetings are to be held. ference. (The Russian Union covers eight off the coast of western Alaska, is only 38 Readers are invited to send donations for time zones from Moscow to the Siberian miles from islands off the Eastern Siberian both the Bibles and the evangelistic ex- Coast.) Coast. Already Adventist natives from the penses to their local conference, either In calling the Global Mission Strategy Island have made contact with Siberian directly or through regular church channels. Committee together, North Pacific Union Eskimos who speak the same Yupik language. Contributions should be marked "Opera- Conference President Bruce Johnston said, tion Bearhug." "There are many opportunities but how long they will be available, we don't know." Three Evangelists Orientation Planned Preliminary plans call for the sending of Present plans call for Birch to travel to three evangelists to Russia in March and Russia shortly after the first of the year to *Z Cut out and return April to hold meetings. The cities range in gain firsthand knowledge of possibilities and size from 100,000 to one million. The problems. Several other individuals, in ad- Yes, I want to have a part in Opera- evangelists would each hold two one-week dition to Otis, who have held meetings in tion Bearhug, the plan to hold meetings in large halls in the cities to be Russia or Eastern Europe, would be asked evangelistic meetings in Russia. designated. The Russian Union will follow to participate in the orientation process. Enclosed is $ to be up on the decisions made. used to purchase Russian language Bibles Alf Birch, after his discussions with Otis, Ideas Solicited for evangelism and to help fund the cost said receptivity among the Russian people of the meetings. for evangelism is excellent. In the plans studied by the committee, I will also pledge $ to be The topics to be covered during the week- Johnston called for the active involvement paid by long meetings would deal with basic Chris- of North Pacific Union Conference lay This coupon should be sent to Opera- tianity such as the truthfulness of Scripture, members in projects for which they have tion Bearhug at your local conference the life of Jesus, His ministry and His skills. office or placed in a tithe envelope and message. One of the functions of the first "We see the possibility in the near future turned in to your local church. series of meetings would be needs assess- of using individuals who can run youth ment, laying the groundwork for more camps and have experience with youth

NPUC Gleaner Features 5

participate on site:' diverse segments of our Northwest popula- "They have not been allowed to conduct tion to find challenges. Wide Open Doors Sabbath Schools until Peristroika came into No Interest Receptivity for evangelism among the effect. I visited our church in Moscow in Russian people is excellent. The doors are 1967 and was given the rare privilege (for There are the hundreds of thousands of re- wide open. those days) to preach:' Johnston said. sidents of the North Pacific Union territory He continued, "It is important for us to who seemingly have no interest in religion. meetings to share their knowledge:' he develop a creative partnership with our Our Northwest area has been called the most stated. "There is very little there for the age sister union in Russia. We have no intention unchurched part of America. group from 16-25?' of dominating them or setting their agenda. There are centers of population to evan- Johnston noted the committee would also We can suggest, but we will respond by their gelize. These represent a special challenge. seek suggestions for Pathfinder organization, invitation. In order to avoid confusion it While sharing Christ with all, we need to stewardship planning, and training and will be especially important to work through identify responsive segments and to espe- equipping both pastors and laity in Russia. the Global Mission Strategist, Alfred Birch, cially target those who are more ready to A dentist has expressed a desire to help who will coordinate Operation Bearhug. respond now At the same time we must find a Russian dentist be upgraded and estab- Any suggestions or ideas for work in the bridges to people's minds and hearts who lished in a private practice. Soviet Union should be sent to Operation now show no interest. "We hope there are individuals in our Bearhug, Box 16677, Portland, OR 97216. Then there are thousands of unchurched union who have skills in areas of need and Phone (503) 255-7300. Fax (503) 253-2455. Adventists — former members who for one would be willing to share them with our reason or another no longer attend church, though their names may be on the books. Russian brethren:' he said. "We are looking We have youth who have drifted away. Many for creative ways in which members can Morten Juberg is editor of the GLEANER. 4 say the Church does not meet their needs. There are the young married couples who are seeking answers to life. The church must be the kind of place where they can come to find acceptance, An Anointed Vision, 4Rk ., love and nurture. A place where they have a piece of the planning as well as the action. ission Our schools, too, are vital to our future as a movement. They need heroic support

A Prime Necessity Glabali beyond anything yet seen. To help meet all of these challenges with By Bruce Johnston Union to help them evangelize in what is God's help, we have devised a strategy called called Operation Bearhug; and with ADRA "Toward the Year 2,000, An Anointed Vision is one of the most important to assist in building bridges of caring and Vision:' senses for a human. To be able to see is im- understanding. This strategy calls for the The Church portant. For a Christian there is another Our Eskimo believers on Saint Lawrence Committed. type of seeing, an Anointed Vision, one Island in the Alaska Conference are free to To accept all that God, through Christ, that is guided by the Holy Spirit and which travel into Siberia. They speak the language. has given. provides direction and insight for the giving There have been friendly exchanges already To be, through the Holy Spirit, all that of the gospel. in both directions. They are making new God wants us to be. Vision has always been an important part friends and witnessing to relatives in their To accomplish, through the power of the of Adventist Church growth planning. The version of Operation Bearhug. Holy Spirit, the mission Christ has given. success of this Anointed Vision can be seen Here in our own Northwest territory we To call again those who once walked with in the successful climax of Harvest 90 when also have a strategy. Like Global Strategy us. there were more than 2.2 million accessions it has as its goal bringing the gospel to rela- These are goals voted by the North Pacific to the church in the five-year period ending tively large untouched segments of our Union Executive Committee for the future. at the General Conference Session in 1990. Northwest population. In our human strength all of these Adventists will be hearing a great deal With some 70,000 members in our North challenges may seem beyond attainment. about another Anointed Vision, Global Pacific Union and a population in excess But we serve a God who does the impossible Strategy, during the decade of the 90s. of 10 million, it can be seen that we have and with the guidance of the Holy Spirit Briefly stated, church planners divided the a great amount of work to do. all things are possible. world's population into 5,000 geographical What are some of the unentered areas of Join us in praying that God will give each units of about one million people each. the Northwest, an important part of our Northwest Seventh-day Adventist an They discovered Adventists had organized Anointed Vision? Anointed Vision for the great tasks that face work in about 3,200 of these units, leaving High on the list is work for the Native us. 1,800 for Global Strategy. Americans. Though Native Ministries North- Plans call for an emphasis on evangelism west is doing an excellent work, we have only in these unreached areas of the world which taken a few faltering steps to evangelize this includes the Moslem world, Russia and large segment of our population. China. While the giving of the gospel is proceed- ing among the Blacks and Hispanics, there is still much to be done. This is also true Walls Are Down for other large segments of our foreign The walls are down in Eastern Europe and population — the Vietnamese, Koreans, Bruce Johnston Russia. Windows of opportunity have opened Chinese, Japanese and other Asians who in unbelievable ways. But we must move have come to America. quickly. We are linking up with the Russian But we don't have to look at the culturally Adventist Group Cruises! 7-days Mexican Riviera May 26,1991: 7-days Alaska Sept. 1,1991; 7-days Ber- muda Oct. 20,1991; FPnama Canal and Caribbean 1992 Early booking and senior citizen dis- 1844 Made Simple counts. Melt Allen, Mt. Tabor Cruise, 6838 S.E. Belmont, Portland, OR 97215. (503) 252-9653 or 1-800-950-9234. (21) on KGTS Radio Sabbath, February 2, 3:00 p.m.

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1If you can't let Lifestyle medicine effectively help at Totai prevents and treats Heart Disease, Evangelists Named Two Health, there is Diabetes, Hypertension, High evangelists have been selected oPciation probably no Cholesterol, Overweight & Stress. by their conference commit- place you can! Call to order your FREE Video tees to hold evangelistic meet- and learn how you can get help! ings in Russia this spring. They are Dave Weigley from the Washington Conference T 1-800-348-0120 and Ron Hockley from Oregon. EPA' H P.O. Box 5, Yakima, WA 98907 One more evangelist will be LIFESTYLE NTER named shortly. B€AIIHUG Each of the evangelists will A Response of Northwest Adventists hold two one-week meetings in to Global Mission cities to be designated. Needs Assessment Alf Birch, who is Union Coordinator for Special Signs Issue Operation Bearhug, will visit Russia in mid-February for a first- hand assessment of the evangelism potential. About 97,000 copies of the special holiday issue Bibles Needed An appeal is being made for funds to purchase Bibles in the Russian language to be used in the evangelistic of the Signs of the Times, "The Greatest Gift;' have meetings. been shipped. The issue was designed to be used dur- ing the Ingathering season. E Yes, I want to have a part in Operation Bearhug, the plan to Pastor Dick Morris from the Portland Stone Tower hold evangelistic meetings in Russia. Church said copies of the issue sent to relatives and Enclosed is $ to be used to purchase Russian the armed forces in Saudia Arabia were well received. language Bibles for evangelism and to help fund the costs of the meetings. Walla Walla College Chaplain John Cress used 500 copies to share with prisoners at the Washington Name State Penitentiary and for other sharing projects. Address City/State ZIP Church Phone This coupon should be sent to your local con- ference office or placed in a tithe envelope and turned in to your local church.

8 Features February 4, 1991

and Pentecostals were in his camp. He remembers the Easter programs those Anchorage Churches Ship Christians put on as one of the brightest spots of his time there:' "It was a very emotional experience for Bibles to Siberia opcsatioll me to fellowship with these people Osborne says. "I sensed their sorrow and By Dorothy Watts on Adventist be- confusion as they try to deal with a difficult liefs and 5,000 past, live in a troubled present, and plan Twenty-two cartons of Russian Bibles copies of The Great B€MIHUG for an uncertain future. I'm glad we could were shipped to Magadan, Siberia, USSR, Controversy. have a small part in bringing them the hope on Dec. 15, a Christmas present to the Osborne tramped through heavy snow in found in God's Wore Magadan Adventist Church from sister 20 degrees below zero weather to see the churches in Anchorage. future site of the Adventist church building. Dorothy Watts writes from Anchorage, Accompanying the gift was Jim Osborne, Volunteers from Moldavia, Kirill Movelyan's Alaska. pastor of the Northside Church, whose home province, will arrive in the spring to efforts had spearheaded the drive for funds. help the congregation erect a stone church Nearly $3,000 came in after Kirill to seat 400 people. The group now crowds Movelyan, Adventist pastor in Magadan, into the small living room of the pastor's spoke at Northside and five other Anchor- one-bedroom apartment. age churches in October. Among recent Magadan converts are a Osborne spent a week in Siberia visiting lady criminologist and two medical doctors. Anadyr and Magadan. While there he spoke Osborne spent time with the pastor and one twice at the Adventist Church, visited several of the doctors listening to their dream of members in their homes, appeared in a erecting a clinic on the church property. "I television interview, and represented wish there was something we could do to Alaskan Adventists at an international con- help them fulfill that dream" says Osborne. ference for religion and culture. While in Magadan Pastor Osborne also According to Osborne there is one visited an orphanage, a home for the Adventist lady in Anadyr and around 30 handicapped, and The Room of Truth in members in Magadan. One carton, 20 a museum which commemorated the more Bibles, was earmarked for Anadyr, the than three million people who suffered in others for Magadan. a hundred concentration camps in the area. "I will never forget the experience of The people of Magadan are descendants of watching Kirill Movelyan, our Adventist the guards and the inmates of these camps. pastor, give one of those Bibles to an elderly The road from the airport to Magadan was woman," says Osborne. "As he handed it to built by prisoners. her, Kirill poiinted to me and said something "I walked with one man, a Jew who sur- in Russian I couldn't understand." vived the camps" reports Osborne. "He said Jim Osborne took 22 cartons of Russian Bibles There was no misunderstanding what that many Adventists as well as Catholics to Magadan, Siberia in December. happened next. The woman clasped the Bible to her breast, tears rolled down her cheeks as she exclaimed, "Spasiba! Spasiba! Spasiba!" With 4,000 names of people who want Bibles, Pastor Movelyan says he will give a Bible only to those who promise to study a set of printed lessons. In addition to the lessons Movelyan has been able to print 20,000 tabloid-style brochures with articles

P .,cCut out and return

Yes, I want to have a part in Opera- tion Bearhug, the plan to hold evange- listic meetings in Russia. Enclosed is $ to be used to purchase Russian language Bibles for evangelism and to help fund the cost of the meetings. This coupon should be sent to Opera- tion Bearhug at your local conference office or placed in a tithe envelope and turned in to your local church. Magadan Adventists meet in the living room of the pastor's home, the right side of this duplex.

NPUC Gleaner Editorial 3 A Modern Miracle

FROM THE By Tom Hooper lungs were gone, my kidneys were of no use and he gave me only seven days to live at EDITOR I am writing this to say that our Lord is the most. He admitted me into the hospital. still alive and answers prayer and performs While I was in the hospital my parents Operation Bearhug has stirred the in- miracles the way He did while here on and church family prayed for me and I terest of Northwestemers, one of the earth. started to do some pretty serious thinking. reasons being the proximity of Alaska In June of this past year, while living in I had been a church member for many years to the Soviet Union. New Mexico, I became so ill I went to the but had lost my way and my faith at best In response to Operation Bearhug we doctor. He put me on some medication but was weak. I started to earnestly pray and I have heard of many people offering after a few days instead of feeling better I told the Lord if He would heal me I would financial help for the evangelistic felt worse. I continued to get worse to the work for Him the rest of my life. I was in meetings that are being planned as well point I could not walk or sleep and I could the hospital nine days. When I left, I was as for Bibles. barely breathe. My feet and ankles swelled confident I was going to live. As an example, there is the program up to one and a half their normal size. I felt It has been several weeks now since I left initiated by the Portland Rockwood that I was dying. the hospital and I am walking four to six Earliteens. A report of this appears in This went on for some time and I finally blocks a day and I feel good. The other day the feature section of this issue. called my folks in Idaho and asked if I could my doctor said that I am doing great but Alf Birch, Operation Bearhug coor- come home and of course they said, "Yes." he confided to me that I was in the worst dinator, is visiting Russia to get firsthand I learned that my folks and my church shape of any 32-year-old patient he ever had. information as to the needs and possi- family had been praying for me. The first While I was in the hospital there were spots bilities. We will carry a report of his find- miracle was my being able to drive myself on my lungs and my heart was not working ings upon his return. home alone. The 1,000 miles from New right at all and it was quite enlarged. If your church or group has plans for Mexico was a long drive and I was excep- Recently he had a couple of tests redone Operation Bearhug, we would like to tionally tired and worn out when I got along with x-rays. When I went in to see hear from you. Send the information home, but I made it. him he told me my, heart size has shrunk, along with pictures to GLEANER The second night I was home I was the spots on my lungs were gone, and that Editor, Box 16677, Portland, OR 97216. having trouble breathing so my father took my heart is pumping fine so I wouldn't need me to the emergency room. The doctor the heart surgery. He told me this never there did not know what to do to help me. happens this fast, but the results were right The next morning I called to see if I could there in front of him. He said to keep up Two More TV Ministries get in to see my old family doctor and I got the good work. I received my GLEANER this which is always an appointment for that very afternoon. I don't know why the Lord spared my life a first in my week's reading. I enjoyed George This was another answer to prayer because or why the healing happened so quickly, but Vandeman's article on the television ministries. I was disappointed that two of them weren't they were booked solid. However, there had I am not questioning His judgment. He mentioned. been a cancellation that morning, so I got knows what He is doing. I am just grateful Amazing Facts is an outstanding fundamental in. that He did spare my life and I want to lead Adventist program. Also LaVeme Tucker's Search The doctor checked me over and they ran as many as I can to the One who answers telecast. We should support all of these good programs whenever possible. They are doing a several tests. Then he told me that he knew prayer, who hears us and does perform wonderful work in preaching the gospel to hasten what was wrong with me, that I had modern miracles. the Lord's return. experienced a bad heart attack and that I Frank Gray should not even be alive. As he put it, my Tom Hooper writes from Twin Falls, Idaho. Baker City, Ore.

---114 We certainly agree with reader Gray's commendations for Amazing Facts and Search. Before Mark left he called a contractor and was They told me they were building a new church They are excellent programs. However, they are assured that he would come the following day. and invited me to come and see it. They wouldn't completely supported by listener donations He didn't come so I called him and he told me accept any pay for their work and they had my while an annual church offering benefits the he was unable to come that day, but would come fence up in a very short time. Their enthusiasm four denominationally sponsored television the next day. This went on for a week and he and pride in what they were doing made quite programs. never came, so I called many people only to find an impression on me. there would be a waiting period of three weeks I went to see the church and was welcomed to a month before anyone could do the job. by such loving, friendly people that I kept going Special People Vivian Harper, a friend of mine, stopped by and and I found the church to be just what I had been saw my problem and said she might be able to looking for in my life. I'm grateful that my A year ago, Mark, my grandson, came to visit help. The next day four men came: Bill Wacker, grandson wasn't able to finish the fence and that me and to build a new fence in my backyard Joe Milicia, Robert Parks and Steven Walker. God sent these special people to help me. where it was needed. . . . We had it all finished They told me they were from the Santa Clara Ruth Burger with the exception of the south side when Mark Adventist Church and would like to help me with Eugene, Ore. received a phone call to return home as soon as my problem. possible. I was amazed to have anyone do this for me. A weft-bafanred character is ABOUT THE COVER formed by single acts well per- Deborah B. Geeseman, M.D., Anchorage, Alaska, calls the cover picture, "The Silent Watcher." She formed: took the picture in Harriman Fjord in Prince William Sound while kayaking. She writes this was a 144 part of the Sound that wasn't defiled by the oil spill. Messages to young Peopfe, p. Dr. Geeseman used her Canon EOS 650 Camera loaded with K-64 film to capture this spectacular shot.

NPUC Gleaner Features 9

process can involve a questionnaire and a spiritual gifts test. The results will be filed for church reference. From the Pastor's Desk When a new member joins by transfer, baptism or profession of faith the Leadership Coordinator will get the necessary Getting People Involved information and endeavor to match the person to positions in the church. By Chad McComas members, but they are often too few to deal Of course, the Leadership Coordinator with the challenge of getting people in- becomes an automatic member of the nomi- Being involved in church office and volved. nating committee to make sure that the mission is vital to each member's spiritual So how can the local church get more committee takes advantage of the gathered health and growth! Church research and people involved? information. statistics document that member involve- I'd like to suggest three solutions to help The Leadership Coordinator can also ment is a must to keep new members in the get people involved in ministry and schedule training events for current leaders church. leadership in your church. In this and the and potential leaders to teach them the next two columns I will deal with: skills they need to hold a certain office. Challenge 1 = Lack of Opportunity 1. Leadership Coordinator For example: The local church may need With a yearly election of officers many 2. Leadership Apprentice Program a Pathfinder Leader. There may be several are left out if they move into the area just 3. Year-round Personnel Committee people willing to help, but no one ready to after the election or if they are not well 4. SEED Ministry (An every member lead. The hesitancy may be due to being known by the election committee. Besides, ministry) unsure about what is expected. The some church members believe that a new Leadership Coordinator can invite skilled member should not be rushed into office, The Leadership Coordinator Pathfinder Leadership to come hold a training seminar on how to be a Pathfinder so by the time the new member is given One way to get new members involved leader. The training will help those willing responsibility, often he has lost his early in church office is to find out their: to move into leadership. spiritual zeal. 1. Skill The potential and opportunities are 2. Interest unlimited. A good Leadership Coordinator Challenge 2 = Lack of Skill 3. Spiritual Gifts can greatly strengthen the local church in The local church Leadership Coordinator Even when the church wants to put new building leaders and getting members office can interview and collect data on all members into office it is faced with an involved. unskilled person walking into a skilled job. members of the church. This data will be The result can lead to frustration and used in the election process to make sure sometimes loss of the member. There are that people are put to work on the basis of Chad McComas is pastor of the Corvallis some jobs that can be shared with new their ability and gifts. The collection and Philomath, Ore., churches.

Rockwood Youth to Raise OPCITATION Money for Russian Bibles By Morten Juberg telling them about your interest in them:' he told the group. ,, e4 The Earliteen Sabbath School class of BCAiTHUG the Portland Rockwood Church has begun Morten Juberg is editor of the GLEANER. A Response of Northwest Adventists a project to raise money to buy Bibles for to Global Mission Russian children. Under the direction of their leader, Shir- ley Jordan, the boys and girls have a goal of $1,000 to purchase 200 Bibles as a part of Operation Bearhug. "They had the option of raising $200 or $500 but they chose a goal of $1,000. We're really proud of them;' Mrs. Jordan said. The Earliteens will be selling food at an upcoming amateur hour, holding a car wash and soliciting funds from relatives, friends and church members. Alf Birch, who is coordinating the program for the North Pacific Union, met with the group recently and commended them for their efforts. "I'll be visiting Russia soon and I'll be The Rockwood Earliteens are enthusiastic about their plans to buy Bibles. Features April 1, 1991

NPUC Bearhug Coordinator oPesiAtioti Finds Many Needs in Russia

Editor's Note: Alf Birch, coordinator of Opera- "While Sabbath School and church were tion Bearhug for the North Pacific Union Con- in progress six buses pulled up periodically ference, recently spent five days in the Russian outside the church with up to 40 passengers Union assessing needs for proposed North at a time. What for? To allow the people BCAHHUG Pacific Union Conference participation. The to step into the church's foyer to witness a A Response of Northwest Adventists following are excerpts from a Needs Assessment Christian service in progress. . . . Imagine, to Global Mission document prepared by Birch on his return. a Christian service becoming a tourist attraction." for the gospel of unparalleled magnitude! The three greatest needs in the Russian Within a few days I would discover that Union are public evangelism, the erection A Thirst for Truth what Operation Bearhug could proffer of church buildings and the provision of would but represent a molehill in relation literature, according to Birch. Continuing, Birch said, "The Holy Spirit to the formidable needs and challenges that In his commentary he said, "From the is impressing the millions of the Soviet face the church in the Soviet Division." outset and throughout the next five days, Union's republics that this magnificent Sabbath afternoon Birch visited the city I was hosted by the most gracious and loving reality can be found in Jesus Christ. It is of Zaokski where the recently completed people I have ever met." an unprecedented display of a thirst for seminary is located. Also under construc- His itinerary began in Moscow where he truth and righteousness; a desire to tion is a publishing house. worshiped with the Adventist congregation. experience their personhood, which they On Sunday, Birch, accompanied by Divi- The 770 baptized members and 25 children were denied by Communism for over 70 sion President Mikhail Kulakov and a and youth filled the church building. years but which may now be realized in the pastor, traveled to the space research center "The audience, made up largely of ladies message of the cross. city Kaluga. There Pastor Alexander Krush- beyond their 40s and 50s, remained atten- "In church growth parlance this repre- kov has conducted Sunday afternoon meet- tive throughout the proceedings:' he wrote. sents a people movement with a receptivity ings in a public hall seating about 300 people.

Rapt Attention An announcement had been made over the local radio station that an American would be the speaker. Upon arrival Birch found the hall packed. "Never before have I witnessed such attention to a presentation of the gospel as I did that day:' he noted. In discussions in other cities in following days the American visitor discovered more about the great needs. He wrote, "It should be remembered that the Adventist community in Russia still has almost nothing by way of an infrastructure to give support to church work. "The Russian Union has no office build- ing out of which to operate. The president This is the Zaokski Theological Seminary. doesn't have a desk to sit at. They have no

Alf Birch works out logistical details with Russian Church officers. From the left are Mikhail Murga, Russian Union president; P.O. Panchenko, Central Conference president; Alf Birch, center front row, meets with Russian pastors and church leaders. On Birch's right is Mikhail Birch; and Peter Kulakov, who is the Kulakov, president of the Adventist Church in the Soviet Union. On Birch's left is Mikhail Murga, Communication director for the Division and president of the Russian Union Conference. the translator for Birch.

NPUC Gleaner Features 7 computer, word processor or even a typewriter, and no car or vehicle of any description that may be used for even the most official business that is normally conducted by the church:'

No Church Offices The president of the Russian Union, the largest in territory of the Soviet unions, runs the church business from his home as do the other presidents. Building materials are in short supply, according to Birch, because of the slowdown The Earliteen Sabbath School Class in the Moscow Church. These youth will receive Bibles from of the Russian economy and because of the Portland Rockwood Earliteen class. The Rockwood youth set a goal of $1,000 for their project and in their first fund raising project brought in $1,060. bureaucratic red tape. But according to current rates of exchange, $5,000 or $10,000 Expertise from those who can lead out in and VCR equipment. will go a long way toward the erection of training is desperately needed. These areas For information about sponsorships or adequate church buildings. include Pathfinders, Youth Ministry, Small participation in any of the listed projects A need for literature of all kinds was Group Ministries and Family Life Ministries. contact Alf Birch, Operation Bearhug, P.O. stressed to Birch. The Russian Union Other needs include felts for children's Box 16677, Portland, OR 97216. Phone Church Ministries director said in many divisions, communion ware, baptismal lobes (503) 255-7300. Fax (503) 253-2455.,,i4 places Adventist pastors are invited to public schools to give the children religious instruction. But a lack of literature to distribute makes this difficult. Birch listed six cities in the Trans-Siberian Lakeview, Ore., Company Union for public evangelism. These are Camchadka, population 700,000, one church, 190 members; Magadan, 350,000, Gains Church Status one church, 22 members; Yakutsk, 350,000, one church 15 members; Sachalin, 200,000, By Jay E. Prall was built with leftover building materials one church, 14 members; Chabarovsk, from the Klamath Falls Church and a 750,000, one church, 100 members; and former World War II Japanese-American Vladivostok, 700,000, one church, 190 Lakeview is over the horizon from the internment camp. The stained glass window members. metropolitan centers of Oregon. Nestled in in front of the church also came from the He suggested two evangelistic teams of no the ranch country of the southeastern camp chapel. more than five persons per team for these corner of the Oregon Conference, the Lake- On this special Sabbath church members locations. The meetings would be scheduled view Church family is more than 300 miles expected to fill the church. "This is the first from mid-August to Sept. 22. or six hours from the conference office. In time I've had to park on the street in many The estimated cost for both groups would fact, the Nevada-Utah Conference is 100 years:' exclaimed Frank Toth. "We ought to be about $4,000 for hotel accommodations miles closer. have . that problem every week?' and food. This doesn't include air fares. Though it may not be conveniently lo- George Fullerton, one of the people who cated near the resources of a conference had worked hard to ensure the survival and office, it is in the center of a priority area River Evangelism growth of the church agreed. "I would like for the Holy Spirit. In fact, some of the to see the church full:' What Birch termed a "Multi-city Blitz" blessings have already been witnessed by the would be conducted in nine cities along the church family. Volga River during May 19-June 23 or Aug. In the spring of 1989, Don Jacobsen, con- 4-31. To facilitate this endeavor, a boat ference president, had been in Lakeview would be rented. when "company" status was granted. In his The cost for six people including hotels, Sabbath sermon he challenged the church food and boat rental would be about $2,000. family. Again, this doesn't include the cost of air "Moving from group to company is a rite fares. of passage. It is like getting the keys to the In addition, Birch's report listed 14 cities car as you are growing up. But it is also a where churches could be provided by con- time to look forward. I hope it won't be long tributions or by volunteer construction until you step from company to church teams such as Maranatha Volunteers Inter- status:' national. That step from adolescence to full adult- Under Miscellaneous Requests Birch hood came this spring when conference listed the need for $10,000 for printing leadership returned to bestow full church 100,000 copies of Thoughts from the Mount status. Representing Don Jacobsen was Larry of Blessing which would be sold by literature Evans, special assistant to the president. evangelists. Another $5,000 would provide Lakeview is a practical town where Sab- materials for literature evangelists in four bath services begin at 10 a.m. and freshly unentered territories with a population in pressed western shirts and polished boots George Fullerton's dream of full church status excess of two and one-half million. are as evident as Bibles. The church itself is signed into the charter member roster.

8 Features April 1, 1991

The Holy Spirit was obviously not willing charter membership roster, senior pastor to let the members of the church become Mike Petricko asked if there was anyone too content with their passage of adulthood. who would like to become part of the Ad- Noting that Lakeview is the highest Oregon ventist family. Two hands reached into the city above sea level, Larry Evans reminded air, answering the pastoral question and the church family of the Biblical story of reaching symbolically to a loving Father. a light set on a hill. "What an opportunity Expressing prayers of dedication, Glenn you have to be a beacon:' he challenged. Way asked God to bring revival to the church How would that happen? First, the local and to power it to be a light in the com- newspaper carried a major feature story re- munity. With tears in his eyes, Jim Hiatt garding the church's history, its special Sab- reminded the Lord that their walk together bath festivities, and even some explanations had started in the Lakeview Church. of Adventism's major beliefs. For many in As the service concluded, it didn't take the community it might be their first much imagination to picture Jesus with His introduction to Seventh-day Adventists. arm firmly around Jim's shoulder, a tear of But Evans, referring to the story's "status gratitude and expectation rolling down His upgraded" headline, reminded church mem- own cheek, as they picked up the melody bers that their personal witness would be the and words "0 let me walk with Thee alone:' most important factor in filling the sanctuary The Lakeview Church family, empowered Sabbath after Sabbath. "Through us God by the Holy Spirit, was on the verge of some spreads the fragrance of Him. Will you be very precious days. the cologne or perfume of Jesus? Will the When you live in a ranch community, the story of the prodigal son's decision to leave the sheep world know that you've been with Him?" Jay E. Prall is Communications director for and cows of the farm for the bright lights of the Before church members signed the the Oregon Conference. city takes on new meaning.

Northwest Called World Leader in Adventist Broadcasting

By Ed Schwisow The time was right. He'd just completed a flawless two-hour, phone-in interview be- When Robert Folkenberg, president of fore an audience of 500. In turn, the inter- the General Conference, pronounced view had been carried live by KUIS-FM in Northwestemers "head and shoulders" above College Place, 100 miles away, and through the world field in Adventist broadcasting, he its translator facilities, had been heard on expected some hand-clapping. radios throughout most of eastern Washing- The place was right. He was speaking ton and much of northwestern Oregon. at the 1991 convention of Northwest Applause seemed appropriate. Adventist Broadcasters in Yakima, Wash., co-hosted by the Upper Columbia Con- Applause for a Proposal ference, the North Pacific Union Conference and the Yakima Adventist Church. But in addition to hearty applause, he Roger Johnson, Lynelle Child and Max Torkel- received the gift of a challenge. In the spirit sen display three Federal Communication Com- of a group responsible in the previous eight mission TV licenses given this past January to Blue Mountain Broadcasting Association. The months for placing Adventist programming licenses allow the corporation to transmit Chris- on seven new TV channels, creating one tian programming 24 hours a day from three new full-power FM radio station, and achiev- antenna sites in the Walla Walla Valley. Roger ing first-place market status for its KG1S-FM Johnson is Blue Mountain president; Lynelle Child is station manager, and Max Torkelsen base station in College Place, the Northwest- is Upper Columbia Conference communication emers handed him a proposal that must have director. drawn applause in Heaven itself. It called on the world church to work with Church. Local churches would then be able Northwestern broadcasters in the creation of to inexpensively rebroadcast the program- a Global Net which would supply the world ming in their communities, equipped only field with satellite-carried radio programming with legal clearance, a satellite dish/receiver of uniform quality and voice. Many observers join the broadcasters in their and a small transmitter. afternoon convention, including Carl Campbell, The programming suggested by the pro- right, of Wenatchee, Wash., who provided posal would occupy four channels, each dedi- private air transport for the General Conference A Watershed Year president and Stan Folkenberg, father of the cated to either a prominent language or a General Conference president, with whom he group of prominent languages, as outlined When Folkenberg spoke of Northwestern converses. in the Global Mission of the Adventist broadcasters as "head and shoulders" above

Features April 15, 1991

Heavy Evangelism Series Large Planned for Soviet Union Offering At least 20 cities in the Soviet Union are on the public evangelism schedule as a part of the North Pacific Union Confer- For ence Operation Bearhug according to Alf OPCSIATION Birch who is coordinating the program. The following schedule is subject to final confirmation by Robert Spangler, retired Bibles Ministerial Department head, who is the General Conference coordinator for Russian Bruce Moore, pastor of work. the Auburn, Wash., City A team from Walla Walla College will Church, reports that a spe- work in the Trans-Siberian Conference with BEASIHUG cial offering earmarked for meetings scheduled in Camchadka, Aug. A Response of Northwest Adventists the purchase of Bibles for 14-19; Magadan, Aug. 21-26; and Yakutsk, to Global Mission Aug. 28-Sept. 1. the Soviet Union brought Oregon evangelist, Ron Hockley, travels in $4,403! to the Trans-Siberian Conference in for meetings in Sverdlovsk and Chelyabinsk September. His meetings are set for the first two weeks of October. Sachalin, Sept. 4-8; Chabarovsk, Sept. Fred Comforth, Senior Youth coordinator mark your tithe envelope "Operation Bear- 11-15; and Vladivostok, Sept. 16-22. for the Idaho Conference, goes to the North hug" and turn it in with your regular offerings. Dave Weigley, who is the Washington Caucasian Conference for campaigns in For further information you can contact Conference Ministerial director, has a Grozni and Mahachkali June 16-30. Alf Birch, Operation Bearhug, P.O. Box month-long, multi-blitz program along the If you would like to help financially with 16677, Portland, OR 97216. Phone (503) Volga River. During the period of May any of these evangelistic campaigns, you can 255-7300. Fax (503) 253-2455. 19-June 16 his work takes him to the cities of Astrahan, Volgograd, Samara, Uljanovsk, Kazank, Cheboksary, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Tver for meetings. All of these cities are in the Volga-Uralian Conference. Also working in the Volga-Uralian Con- ference is Jim Reinking, Upper Columbia StayWell Conference evangelist. His schedule calls Nurturing Yourself

By Janet Wilkinson, M.P.H. Being good to yourself is not selfish. It's self-preserving. When you take the time to care for yourself you will find the time and Monday was one of those days. I had energy to effectively reach out to others. five appointments and errands which my There is often a direct parallel between the three children and I raced through. They way we treat others and the way we treat were bored and pokey and I was rushed and ourselves. We find it difficult to be kind impatient. By day's end I was exhausted and when we feel out of kilter ourselves. When drained. After tucking them in, I flopped you're impatient and neglectful of others it's my weary body on the bed. I still needed usually because you've been treating yourself to clean up the kitchen, write a letter, and badly. When you are thoughtful and gentle pack for tomorrow's trip. No, what I really with others, you probably have been kind needed to do was nothing. So I quickly to yourself. packed, and then eased myself into a tub If you give untiringly to your spouse, full of hot water and camomile herbal bath. children, friends, bosses, and co-workers Ahhhh! Then I crawled into bed with a with no time to relax and nourish yourself; good book. I felt restored and ready to give you'll become overwhelmed and burned again. out. Then you're no use to anyone. Each day we deplete our energy, our spirit, No one can give you the gift of private and we need to replenish it by nurturing The Russian bear in a Seattle museum holds time but yourself. Take it. Now. no terror for Dave and Becky Weigley who will ourselves — slowing down to read, meditate, hold evangelistic meetings along the Volga River write, pray, study, play tennis, sew, go for a Janet Wilkinson, M.P.H., writes from in October. walk, or whatever refills the inner soul. Yakima, Wash.

12 News April 15, 1991

Colville School Has Strong PE Program The Colville Valley, Wash., Adventist School has just completed a four-day ski program at Red Mountain, B.C., Canada. The economical skiing package included rental, lift ticket and lessons. It provided students an opportunity to discover a new sport that they might not have otherwise had access to. Students at CVAS are encouraged to take part in many aspects of physical fitness. Ron Eckert, principal at CVAS, commented that there is more to physical education than team sports. "They have their place in our curriculum but we believe there needs to be a balance. Students should be led to cultivate activities that they can do later in life. It's not often practical in our busy world to recruit enough players for team sports:' added Eckert. In addition to skiing, the school has started a running program. This is another Mite Makes Might activity that carries over into adult life skills. The start of a spring running program is just Students of the Kelso-Longview, Wash., Church School believe the same God who fed the 5,000 will bless their offering of pennies, nickles, dimes and quarters toward the purchase of Bibles for Russia. in time for Spokane's Lilac Bloomsday Fun Impressed by GLEANER articles and a television program, students of Mrs. Eleanore Tarangul Run. Plans are under way to have a repre- and Walter Wilson decided to save their change and send it to the conference to be used for the Russian sentation of students at the Bloomsday run work. Walter Wilson to be held May 5. For more variety, several times a year the students go into Spokane for roller skating. Elaine Huey, a teacher at CVAS, reports Heyburn Students Have interests have been located it takes only a that, "Most of the student body takes part recess period to make the distribution. in this after school program. It is a nice Area Magazine Route Since the territory is around the school, opportunity because we can rent the rink For nearly a year the seven students of the the students need no transportation but with our other Adventist schools in Heybum, Idaho, Church School have been walk to their assigned territory. The students Spokane passing out Signs of the Times around their enjoy the project and work with three In other CVAS news, after a tie breaking school. members. Since there is an interest, plans round of five questions between Ryan Cris- Each month the students give 10 copies call for increasing the number of homes man and Allison Bacon, Ryan became the of the magazine. It took several months to contacted. school's winner of the National Geographic find 10 interested people. Now that the Ted Martsch Geography Bee. Ryan has since turned in a written geography test. This enters him into the Washington state contest. Recently, CVAS sponsored a Talent Show.

Heyburn students enjoy their monthly magazine route.

NPUC Gleaner Features 7 An Open Letter To My Son

Editor's Note: D. Reid McCrary, head proud. Proud that I was working for the got into any difficulty he wanted to be with teacher at the St. Manes, Idaho, Church Lord. us. School, wrote this to his son Andrew who is Granted, someone else could have done Sure enough, we did. We came upon a 1991 theology graduate of Walla Walla it better and faster. But the kingdom of some snow and thought it was fantastic. But College and has been hired as a ministerial heaven is not necessarily for the better and after awhile the sun went down and we were intern by the Upper Columbia Conference. faster. walking in snow up to our waists. Still Pastor I'll never forget Pastor Bliss asking us kids Bliss did not say a word. About 11 o'clock to help on a building project. He hauled we realized we were in deep trouble. rear Son, in lumber for the project in a big flatbed We turned to the pastor and asked him You are just about done with your college truck. When he got off of the public road if he would pray for us and take the lead in years. You have set your goal in life to and on to church property he got out from finding a way off the mountain. His re- minister to others and have accepted a call behind the wheel and asked us if we wanted sponse was very simple, "I've been waiting to Upper Columbia Conference. You now to maneuver it around to where it was for you to ask:' He did not chide us. He get to put into practice what you have needed. He knew the hearts of teenage never said, "I told you so!" He knew we were boys. We knew he cared about us and we studied. But, Son, there is more to pastoring sorry. He led us in prayer and then led your than Hebrew and Homiletics. That more is loved and respected him. mother and me along with the rest of the people. The hearts of teenagers sometimes get kids off the mountain. These last few months I have been stubborn and they do stupid things. Like the In high school I wanted to join the wrest- reminiscing about my early years as a church time our MV society went to Yosemite for ling team. So I went to my pastor and asked member and a very special person who a weekend. Pastor Bliss went along to be touched my life in so many ways. That with us for the weekend. He didn't need to him whether I should or shouldn't. His person was my pastor — Vernon Bliss. I feel go. We had our fearless leaders and chaper- answer, "Ask Jesus about it:' He was not compelled to relate these incidents to you ones. But I'm thankful he did. For some going to give me a yes or a no. I'm sure he because in him I see the kind of pastor I reason and I'm not sure why, we as young would like to have told me what to do but hope you will be. people did not get along very well with our he wasn't about to take my responsibility nor My first remembrance of Pastor Bliss was church appointed MV leader. to assume God's job. He wanted me to know when I was about 12 years old and newly On Sabbath afternoon we decided to go Jesus and to visit with Him. He gave me baptized into the church. He must have for a short walk up the side of a mountain. some questions to ask myself about the ac- sensed my need to belong and to be needed. When our leader heard about it he told us tivity and some suggestions to read in the He gave me the job of printing the bulletin. not go to. As I said, kids can be stubborn Bible, but he would not make my decisions That was back in the "hunt and peck" at times and because he said not to we for me. days at an ancient typewriter, "cutting" the determined to go ahead. So we started on Son, what more can I say than that in old stencils, gluing the halves together and up the mountain. Pastor Bliss did not say all probability if it were not for my special using the correction fluid. And then bicy- a word to us about going or not going. He pastor — you would not be an aspiring cling over to his house to run it off on the read our hearts and knew that we needed pastor today. old black-inked mimeograph. On Sabbath, him whether we knew it or not. So he just Love, when everyone read the bulletin — I felt walked along behind determined that if we Papa

Publisher to Print Bearhug Briefs • The Earliteen Sabbath School class of the Portland Rockwood Church, under the Bibles for Soviet Union direction of Shirley Jordan, set a goal of raising $1,000 to buy Russian Bibles. To By Morten Juberg price he has been OPCHATION date they have raised $1,400. able to get any- • Upper Columbia President Jere Patzer where. and his wife Sue will head an evangelistic he Review and Herald Publishing Birch stressed T team going to Magadan, Siberia, in Association will print 100,000 Bibles to be the urgent need for August. used in Russia and will ship them to the the Scriptures. "It Adventist Publishing House in Zaokski. is most essential BCA}IHUG • Idaho President Steve McPherson will A &spanned Northwest Adventists These will be available for use by North that we do all we Ginbel Miamian join the team headed by Senior Youth Pacific evangelists who will be holding can in raising our portion of the $250,000 Coordinator Fred Comforth for evangelis- meetings in Russia this summer and fall. needed to print these Bibles:' he said. tic campaigns in Grozni and Mahachkali They will also be used for field schools of Readers are urged to use the coupon on in the Caucasian Conference in June. evangelism. the back cover of the GLEANER to • Funds are still needed to sponsor these According to Alf Birch, Operation Bear- indicate their participation in the Bible and other teams listed in the April 15 hug coordinator, the Bibles will be printed project. at a cost of $2.50 each. James Zachary of GLEANER. the General Conference says this is the best Morten Juberg is editor of the GLEANER. BOOKS YOU JUST CAN'T PUT DOWN And young people won't Get the Becka Bailey want to put down the new series today at your Becka Bailey series by Adventist Book Center! Paula Montgomery. Four enchanting books— US$24.95/Cdn$31.20 Coyotes in the Wind, Paper, set of four books Down the River Road, A Summer to Grow On, and When November Comes— tell the story of an energetic ©1991 Pacific Press young lady with big dreams. Publishing Association 2256

,------, We Need Your Help FOR BIBLES OPESIATIMN For the Soviet Union iii*,a'ro* BeARIIUG These Bibles will be distributed at evangelistic meetings the Adventist Publishing House in Zaokski for $2.50 each. that will be held in the Soviet Union this summer. Complete the tear-off coupon below and turn it in with your Complete Russian Bibles can be printed and shipped to offering. Be sure to mark it Operation Bearhug Bibles.

Yes, I want to sponsor Russian Bibles for evangelism in the Soviet Union. My check for $ is enclosed for:

El 10 Bibles @ $2.50 each $25.00 0 100 Bibles @ $2.50 each $250.00 0 50 Bibles @ $2.50 each $125.00 0 Bibles @ $2.50 each $

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City, State, ZIP

NPUC Gleaner Features 7 to the front of the sanctuary for prayer. Keynote speaker William Johnsson, editor conference, said, "We are trying to reveal However, it was not the purpose of the of the Adventist Review, set the tone for the that Adventists can be leaders in spirit-filled Worship Conference to promote the style conference. worship which centers on Jesus, the great of worship followed by celebration churches. "We have come to worship the Living truths of Scripture and the great God of Oregon Conference President Don Jacobsen God, to enter into that worship and to learn heaven:' explained the reasons for the sessions. how better to bring out that experience. For In his concluding remarks at the close of "We are being belatedly proactive. We are we are called to worship Him, the Creator the sessions, Alf Birch, chairman of the seeing churches across North America of heaven and earth, who is judge of all and program, said, "We haven't tried to model wanting to have a revitalization of their who is the soon appearing King, to call any particular worship service that may be worship services:' he said. "Some churches others to the worship of the God of heaven. conducted in a church on a Sabbath mor- have gone ahead of the pack; some have Johnsson said Jesus should be the central ning, except that you have come and been attempted to mimic the format without the figure in all preaching, adding, "Unless our inspired to go back to your churches with substance:' hearts have been redeemed by the blood of new ideas:' "We have brought in some of the best the Lamb, we will never worship in spirit Changes in worship formats will come, minds from across the country to share with or in truth. True worship comes from a heart though not without some struggles and us how to worship," he added. "There are that has been changed:' perhaps some controversy. But as several many who felt we were going to showcase speakers noted, "Let's be tolerant of others the celebration churches. This isn't the case. Non-Members Speak who don't share our ideas. We are simply trying to understand better Joe Englekemier, from Andrews Univer- how the Adventist Church should worship Morten Juberg is editor of the GLEANER. sity, told about large rapidly growing God:' Protestant churches he had visited. These churches surveyed the attitudes of non- Why the Fuss? members in their area. One of the workshop chairmen, Craig "Respondents said the services were Dossman, a Black pastor from the New York boring, that the church was always after City area, looked at the stir caused by cele- money, that members were cliquish and bration churches with a smile. hard to get acquainted with, and that they "I don't know much about the celebration wanted quality child care he said. churches. Black people have been cele- "Maybe all of this is telling us it is time brating God for years. We wonder what all to really focus on worship, even making it the fuss is about:' he said. more important than witnessing because Dossman repeated a statement heard in people are worshiping in a life changing various forms during the conference. way:' Engelkemier noted. "Unless people are "God realizes each one of us that He worshiping in a life changing way, they don't made is different. We come with different have the motivation it takes to go and make backgrounds and experience. But when we friendships with non-church people who are come to Him He gives us a large flexibility our target audience:' when we worship Him. He gives us room Garrie Williams, Oregon ministerial di- Hyveth Williams, pastor of Boston Temple, to worship Him as His children:' rector, and one of the organizers of the prepares to show an overhead projection.

Businessman Tells of Adventist opeHAtioH

Work in the Soviet Union B€AHHUG Robert Paulsen, a Puyallup, Wash., They are grasping at these freedoms and businessman, spent 10 days in the Soviet don't know how to handle them:' Union last autumn and related his ex- Paulsen praised the North Pacific Union periences to the recent ASI gathering. Conference Operation Bearhug saying Half of his stay was at the Adventist evangelism is much needed. Seminary in Zaokski where housing for students has been a problem. "We have an opportunity right now that "We hope some of these problems have we will never have again:' he said. been alleviated because the seminary is very The Washington businessman has learned much needed:' Paulsen said. to love the Russian Adventists. He first got Projects move slowly in the Soviet Union, closely acquainted with some of them when according to Paulsen because of a lack of he manned the Soviet booth at the General leadership experience. Conference session this past summer. "It is frustrating because some projects won't be finished for seven to eight, even "They are wonderful people who love the 10 years:' he noted. "For 70 years the Lord, he said. "They are so kind. They Russian people hadn't much to look forward treated me with tremendous kindness:' Robert Paulsen, a Puyallup, Wash., business- to. Then all of a sudden democracy has Paulsen said another a great need in the man, told the ASI about his recent visit to the come with freedoms they have never had. Soviet Union is Christian literature.,a4 Soviet Union.

6 Features June 3, 1991 Flower Sales Help Educate Family Children

By Melissa Neal Hawes what incredible customers He has sent! I think of the busy summer evening I met Flowers! At first glance, it's impossible Uli, her warm German accent querying, to see the connection between raising and "Would you like to meet my children?" As selling fresh-cut flowers and organic she opened the car door, I beheld two tiny vegetables with Christian education. Yet replicas of "European dolls" gazing sleepily the value my husband and I place on a out. Later her husband, a neurosurgeon, Christian education for our boys is high. performed a successful operation on Lee A simple lifestyle, older cars, lots of hard that enhanced his life a hundredfold. work — these aspects cannot dampen the Or the man who came early one Sunday spirits of a family who has harvested too to have flowers for his wife to awaken to, many bumper crops of blessings over the five and later treated Lee and I to a rare evening years we have worked together. What began out at a romantic restaurant. The child who as 30 rows of dried flower seeds painstak- comes clutching his $2, thoughtfully pick- Melissa Hawes with some of her flowers and ingly planted by hand while I was nine ing out flowers and vegetables for his son Daniel. Photo courtesy of The Oregonian months pregnant, has blossomed into a mommy, who smiles from their older car. and photographer Roger Jensen. thriving small business conducted from a The owner of Thompson Berry Farms, gra- handmade cart in my front yard and several ciously bringing his valued field hands to I'm tempted to wonder about the validity accounts to whom we deliver. buy flowers for their senoritas. The two in- of it all. Then, driving a beat-up truck, My husband Lee and I decided that it was surance brokers, wearing dresses and stroll- arrives the father who has saved his lunch imperative for me to be able to stay at home ing in suede heels down the dirt paths of money to buy a big bouquet for his wife while our children were still young. After the garden, choosing blossoms between because, "She loves flowers, you know." As home-schooling each of our older boys, we mobile phone calls. I watch my children rush out to help him, started them in the second grade at Hood Then there are the moms, proudly intro- wrapping his flowers in paper, giving him View Junior Academy in Boring, Ore. Our ducing their teenage daughters, who leave change with such boyish charm, a verse oldest,. Sid, with his recent report card delighted to have flowers in their bedrooms from Psalms comes to mind, "Oh that I touting six As, has again shown to me that . . . the youths walking up the road to buy would praise the Lord for his goodness, and character development and quality academ- their first flowers for a special young lady, for his wonderful works to the children of ics coupled with an ability to work effec- and the list goes on. men." I am renewed, because after all, my tively toward a goal is still a viable reality. Sometimes when I'm really tired, and the business partner is God. I have an outstanding business partner; rows aren't weeded and the dishes need to He is responsible for providing customers be done, the laundry needs to be hung on Melissa Neal Hawes writes from Gresham, and empowering my crops to grow. And the line, and I've still got to create dinner, Ore.

Oregon Trio Holding opoutoll Field School in Siberia

Oregon Conference President Don their families live there. It is also the home Jacobsen heads one of five teams asked by of 100 colleges and universities. the General Conference to hold Field During their stay the three will lead out BCAiIHUG Schools of Evangelism in the Soviet Union in the field school during the daytime and A Response of Northwest Adventists this summer. hold evangelistic meetings in the evenings. to Global Mission Jacobsen has as members of this team Dr. Emori will hold health classes. Jacobsen Pastor Ed Gienger, Vancouver, Wash., and expects to train the 40 pastors and lay the team will be about $25,000. Oregon H. Walter Emori, a Jacksonville, Ore., leaders in evangelistic methods. GLEANER readers can contribute to this physician. "This is the most challenging assignment phase of Operation Bearhug by so marking The trio left for their assignment in my church has given me in the 36 years I their gifts and sending them to the confer- Novosibirsk the last of May and will be in have served it:' he said. ence office or putting it in the offering plate. the Siberian city for five weeks. Located Jacobsen said the new Soviet Division Funds are still needed for the evangelistic about 2,000 miles east of Moscow, it is about isn't able to provide all of the funding teams that will be going to the Soviet 500 miles north of Mongolia. needed. Transportation expenses are needed Union this summer. Again, donations can Jacobsen says the city of 1.6 million is for the team. be made directly to your conference office unusual in that about 100,000 scientists and The total expenses for the crusade and or given through your church.

NPUC Gleaner Features 7

A Letter Of Thanks Editor's Note: Larry Gasser, a literature evangelist in the Washington Conference, received this letter from one of his cusstomers.

ust a letter to say hello. I want to thank youJ for your colporteur ministry. If you remember, you came to my house to sell some books. It wasn't just a house, it was the parsonage of the Pentecostal Church of God in Enumclaw. If I remember right, you sort of looked intrigued to be talking to a Pentecostal pastor about buying Adventist books. After buying the books we started to talk about the Adventist Church. You loaned us your per- sonal copy of the book, A Biblical Exposition of 27 Fundamental Doctrines. We read it and believed it. I am delighted Pop Cans for Bibles to say we gave up our pastorate because our The La Grande, Ore., Kindergarten division has for the past three months raised church wasn't preaching the whole truth. money for Russian Bibles by collecting pop cans. We started attending an Adventist Church They have raised $192.40 and that's 3,848 cans. They are excited in looking for- in Reedley, Calif., and were baptized into ward to seeing Russian boys and girls in Heaven that were helped by Operation membership on March 16, 1991. Thank you Bearhug. for your time, prayers and ministry. Kim Kelsay In His Service, Terry, Tammy and Becky

Fighting Bear Wins Big Battle

By Antonia (Toni) Lupinacci Toni felt the Lord was asking her to do five years. He has a great burden for his something, so she began writing very simple brothers and sisters and wants them to know Roy Fighting Bear, a member of the letters to Roy asking for "yes" and "no" the love and peace of Jesus as he knows it. Northern Cheyenne Tribe of eastern answers which he could circle because he He asks that his "new" brothers and sisters Montana, was baptized in the Santa Fe had lost his ability to write or speak in Christ everywhere pray for his people. Adventist Church recently, the culmination coherently due to his injuries. Assisting Roy The most outstanding dream that Toni of Christian witnessing, prayers, dreams, a with his letters was nursing attendant, had was one in which she and Roy's sister, miraculous healing and a full commitment Barbara Loumer, a member of the Adventist Serena, planted seeds in rich, dark dirt, to his best Friend. Church. watered it and went to bed. Upon rising in In 1975, due to severe injuries in an By now, 1977, Roy was praying along with the morning the seeds had sprouted into automobile accident at the age of 26, Roy Barbara and Toni that the Lord would lush, green, magnificent plants standing was in a nursing home in Miles City, Mont., intervene in his problemed life and the Lord several feet tall and all of his family were waiting to die, when Toni, a non-Adventist heard their prayers. After a move and three there looking at the plants in amazement. Christian, began leaving Christian reading months of physical therapy and exercise Toni and Roy feel that his family are the material in his room and, to her joy, Toni under a good therapist and Toni's watchful "rich soil" and the "seeds" need only to be discovered that Roy was reading it when he prodding, Roy walked with a walker and planted and watered to bring forth abundant thought no one was watching. began to do virtually everything for himself. growth and fruit. Four months later Toni moved 770 miles In 1982 he began living independently and away and what should have been the end in 1983 was the groomsman at Toni's Antonia Lupinacci writes from Santa Fe, of the story was only the beginning. For wedding when she married David New Mexico. eight months she had a series of dreams Lupinacci. In 1985, David and Toni were about Roy in which he was always walking baptized as members of the Adventist and talking with his family on the Church, and now, Roy is also a member. great characters are formed by reservation, though to all reasonable Like many of his people on the Tittle acts and efforts. appearance because of his accident, this reservation, Roy had an alcohol problem but 4 Testimonies, p. 603 would never be possible. has enjoyed the freedom of being sober for

NPUC Gleaner Features 9 Commitment Service Held

For Operation Bearhug Workers BEAHHUG

By Morten Juberg

An unprecedented wave of Adventist evangelism will be felt in many sections of the Soviet Union this summer and fall. As many as 50 or more individuals from the Northwest will share the good news of the gospel as a part of Operation Bearhug. The participants from most parts of the North Pacific Union Conference includes church administrators, pastors, lay members and youth. At the recent North Pacific Union Con- stituency Session a special commitment service was held for those present who will be traveling to the Soviet Union as part of Operation Bearhug. Alf Birch, left, Operation Bearhug coordinator for the North Pacific Union Conference, led out in Alfred C. McClure, president of the a commitment service for those going to the Soviet Union this summer and fall. North American Division, told the au- From the left are Bruce and Marianette Johnston, North Pacific Union Conference; Ruthie and dience, "As a result of what was born here, Don Jacobsen, Oregon Conference; Douglas Clark, Walla Walla College; Sue and Jere Patzer, Upper Columbia Conference; Lynn Martel, General Conference; Dave Weigley, Washington Conference; it has caught fire across the division. In and Jac and 'dena Colon, Washington Conference. addition to what you have seen here this afternoon, there are others going from Alf Birch, Operation Bearhug coordina- June 15. unions in the North American Division to tor for the NPUC, said Alaska Airlines is "This will greatly expedite travel by saving other parts of the Soviet Union. beginning a schedule to Eastern Siberia on time and money:' he said.

North Pacific Union Conference Comparative Statement of Tithe and Mission Offerings 4 Months (17 Weeks) Ended April 30, 1991

COMPARATIVE STATEMENT OF TITHE Increase or % Increase Conference Membership 1990 Tithe 1990 Tithe 1991 Decrease - Decrease - Alaska 2,133 381,126.93 480,801.73 99,674.80 26.15 Idaho 4,907 856,308.13 886,800.70 30,492.57 3.56 Bruce and Marianette Johnston, who will hold evangelistic meetings in the Soviet Union, Montana 3,256 458,979.06 449,718.94 -9,260.12 -2.02 received a reminder of Operation Bearhug in Oregon 26,899 4,976,551.81 5,302,932.00 326,380.19 6.56 the form of two specially made bears. The presentation was made by Washington Upper Columbia 18,726 3,179,016.14 3,569,232.80 390,216.66 12.27 Conference President Lenard Jaecks and his Washington 13,630 2,465,819.33 2,745,059.81 279,240.48 11.32 wife Lois. The Johnstons are scheduled for meetings in Union 69,551 12,317,801.40 13,434,545.98 1,116,744.58 9.07 Moscow, Tule and Leningrad Aug. 28-Sept. 29.

COMPARATIVE STATEMENT OF MISSION OFFERINGS Increase or % Increase Per Capita Per Week The plan for our redemption Conference 1990 1991 Decrease - Decrease - 1990 1991 was not an afterthought, a plan Alaska 20,468.83 24,575.00 4,106.17 20.06 0.59 0.68 formulated after the fall of Idaho 54,119.87 54,920.31 800.44 1.48.. 0.65 0.66 Adam. 5t was a revelation of Montana 30,659.27 26,510.42 -4,148.85 -13.53 0.56 0.48 "the mysiery which had been Oregon 357,560.58 369,404.05 11,843.47 3.31 0.79 0.81 kept in silence through times Upper Col. 232,859.55 240,700.14 7,840.59 3.37 0.74 0.76 Washington 132,399.06 146,641.69 14,242.63 10.76 0.59 0.63 eternal" *pans 16:25 Desire of Ages, p. 22 Union 828,067.16 862,751.61 34,684.45 4.19 0.71 0.73

Editorial July 15, 1991 Musings of a Northwestern Adventist

By Ed Schwisow name "Schwisow" came from; ever won- God are pioneer-minded enough to value dered how to pronounce it? Family lexico- the virtues of the past. It's exciting to be Northwestern graphers tell me: "It used to be spelled part of a movement willing and eager to Adventists probably `Schwiesow; and that's the way it's pro- take the lead in innovation. It enriches my make up one of the nounced." Other family members would just Christian walk to feel accepted by all of my more hard-to-under- as soon start over with something simple Christian brothers and sisters, regardless of stand groups of like "Anderson:' but our Prussian forebears my cultural past or present. Christians in North would rise up in Teutonic ire, so we let We enjoy this enriched spiritual environ- America. sleeping ghosts lie.) ment, I believe, because, as Mort Juberg We tend natur- As offspring of fairly recent immigrant taught us so well in these pages during the ally to accept new families, we Northwestemers still have few past 13 years, we must "speak often to one ideas, new ways, traditions to anchor us. We don't find it at another:' Ed Schwisow new styles of doing all unusual to leave sisters, brothers, and And if as a responsive reader, you can help things. Yet we also instinctively defend the even elderly parents, to devote years of life us speak more fluently, more graciously, ideals of our conservative pioneers. Paradox to mission service. In keeping with this trait, more winsomely through these pages, I enough, some would say. the GLEANER will continue to give high believe the GLEANER will continue to be But then, we complicate things more by priority to news of Northwestemers' out- the kind of paper Northwestern Adventists offering a bearhug of welcome to thousands reach to foreign lands, as with the ongoing throughout the world hunger to read. of immigrants, some of whom spring from OPERATION BEARHUG to Russia. An editor by any other name or a maga- traditions far different from our own. How zine under any other masthead could not can such a church be governed? hope for higher success. Innovation Some say it can't be done. Yet, the North- western Church is now on a soul-winning Second, we in the Northwest thrive on Ed Schwisow is acting editor of the GLEANER. surge; school enrollment is increasing; innovation. The GLEANER, as we know unchurched Adventists are returning. True, it today, is a product of innovation. It has the paradoxes of our way of life seem to set the standard for the style and content engulf us in eternal dialogue. But that of most Adventist news magazines in the dialogue, reported and discussed in a bal- church today. And as the GLEANER goes, anced, Christian way, is undoubtedly one so goes the Northwestern church, innova- reason Northwest Adventists enjoy amazing ting new worship styles, new approaches to brotherhood. church government, new methods of out- July 15, 1991 reach. Yet, at the heart of these innovations, Native Northwesterner we often find extremely conservative principles. I say this as a native Northwesterner. I was To deny its readers informed reports on born in Heppner, Ore., in 1952 and spent North Pacific Union Conference these innovations would be to inflict a cul- the first three years of my life in Condon, (USPS 394-560) ture-killing travesty on the heart and soul Ore., and later in Goldendale, Wash., right Address all correspondence to: of Northwestern Adventism. The GLEANER across the Columbia River. I was graduated GLEANER will continue as a forum for innovative re- from Columbia Adventist Academy and North Pacific Union Conference porting and thinking. P.O. Box 16677, Portland, OR 97216 Walla Walla College. As many Northwest- (503) 255-7300 emers of devout Adventist parentage, I became, at age eight, a missionary's kid, Climate of Acceptance Acting Editor, Ed Schwisow Advertising Assistant, Pam Groff destined for a diet of Home Study Interna- And finally, I have found Northwest Editorial Assistant, Greg Alekel tional, and the challenge of learning a new Adventists to be highly accepting, patient, Editorial Secretary, Lorraine Juberg language and holding onto my Northwest- understanding people. Yes, we often berate Published by the North Pacific Union Con- ern identity during nine years in Bolivia, ourselves for being too insensitive, too self- ference of Seventh-day Adventists South America. centered, too cold. We all could stand to Please Note — Every reasonable effort is made There, my dad, Don Schwisow, M.D., ran be a bit more "Northwestern" in our hearty to screen both editorial and advertising materials a 25-bed mission hospital; Mom Marcella ran greetings, in our ready welcome to the His- and to avoid error in this publication. But the the local Dorcas Department, the local panic, to the Black, to the Asian, to the North Pacific Union Conference GLEANER church childreris divisions, and of course, the does not accept responsibility for categorical or Californian in our midst. home front. We three kids ran her — crazy. typographical errors, nor for advertisers' claims. But I find, overall, an amazing cultural Through those years, we received the openness. The fear of the unknown or of North Pacific Union Conference GLEANER, GLEANER. In fact, Dad paid several dollars ISSN number 0746-5874, is published semi- the not-yet-understood has not yet (and pray to have the magazine flown into monthly except July and December for $10.00 per issue God, never will) become a phobia that La Paz, Bolivia. On missionary salary, that per year by Color Press, 312 S. College Ave., Col- drives us to subcultural cloistering. was a big commitment. But it was worth lege Place, Wash. 99324. Second-class postage Yet, as the Northwest becomes more com- paid at College Place, Wash. LITHO USA. CP44204 those extra dollars to keep in touch with plicated, tensions can build. They could our roots back home. POSTMASTERS: Send form 3579 to North heat us to the point of cauterizing sub- Pacific Union GLEANER, P.O. Box 397, Col- communities of Adventists into exclusive lege Place, Washington 99324. Pioneering Spirit enclaves. This, the GLEANER will do all Don't send correspondence, GLEANER copy or We Northwesterners have a strong pio- within its power to diffuse. advertisements to the above address. All such neering spirit. We're often sons and daugh- It's reassuring to live, work and worship materials should be sent to GLEANER, Box ters of immigrants (ever wondered where my in a Christian arena where the people of 16677, Portland, OR 97216.

NPUC Gleaner Features 5 Northwest Evangelists in Russia Report Heartwarming Response

By Ed Schwisow Pastoral visitation, notes Jacobsen, is a new concept to many leaders in Russia. Be- Northwest evangelists, pastors and cause of political constraints in the past, it administrators who have journeyed to Russia was not practiced, and is only now being to hold meetings and to train Russian reestablished. OPCIIATION leaders, report outstanding public response. Adventist membership of 25 to 150 in Dave Weigley, director of the Washington cities of half a million persons are not Conference Ministerial Association, held uncommon, says Jacobsen. One pastor has several large crusades along the Volga River. only eight members in a city of 600,000. Normal attendance was standing room only It is hoped that with the training provided in halls with 1,000 or more capacity. by such seasoned evengelists as Weigley, Don Jacobsen, president of the Oregon Jacobsen and others, Russian pastors will be Conference, reports that in his crusade, able to begin to reach out effectively in attendance each night fills 1,100 chairs and these large metropolitan areas. leaves standing room only. During his The evangelistic campaigns have been co- BCAHHUG crusade, Jacobsen is also providing practical ordinated, and Bibles for distribution in A Response of Northwest Adventists training for several Russian pastors, none of Russia have been made possible, through to Global Mission whom have attended formal seminary. Operation Bearhug, working with the Gen- Jacobsen notes that problems in translat- eral Conference and the Soviet Division. ing his sermons have led to some trying Donations for Operation Bearhug, espe- to any local conference in the Northwest, moments. Terms such as victory, mansion, cially for the expenses of young people who or in a marked donation envelope placed and storage, must be explained to the inter- will be traveling to Russia as evangelistic in any Northwestern Seventh-day Adventist preters themselves before the translation assistants and for Russian Bibles, can be Church offering plate, according to Alf can be completed. earmarked "Operation Bearhug" and sent Birch, Operation Bearhug coordinator.

From the Pastor's Desk Encouragement Cards

By Chad McComas from one of the first churches in which I 97333. We'll be happy to mail you one used encouragement cards. The writer of Hebrews instructs us: Brian was in his early 20s when he began Chad McComas is pastor of the Corvallis, "Let us consider how we may spur one attending church. He was coming out of a Ore., Church. another on toward love and good deeds. Let background of drug abuse and loneliness. us not give up meeting together, as some The church people opened their arms and are in the habit of doing, but let us encour- loved Brian. Periodically different people in age one another—and all the more as you see the church would send an encouragement the Day approaching!" Hebrews 10:24, 25 card to Brian. I remember visiting Brian in (italics mine). his home and finding all the encourage- One of the best and most practical ideas ment cards pinned on his wall. He was so that I have run across to follow the above proud of them. They had done their job! instruction is the use of "Encouragement To ensure the success of the Encourage- Cards" at church. The "Encouragement ment Card ministry the cards need: Card" is a postal-sized card that is perfect 1.To be available in the pews at church. for writing a short message of encourage- 2. To be mentioned each Sabbath. ment. It can be used for uplifting someone 3. To be collected with the offering. going through a difficult time or illness. It 4. To be mailed by the church as a can be used to let people missing from ministry. (If members take them home, church know that someone cares. It can be they often forget to mail them.) used to affirm leadership and say a well- Many churches in the Northwest are timed thank you. The uses are endless. using encouragement cards. If you'd like to Perhaps the best part about encourage- see one, send a stamped, addressed envelope ment cards is the ministry of caring that is to: Encouragement Card, Corvallis SDA created. Let me illustrate by sharing a story Church, 3160 SW. Western, Corvallis, OR

6 Features July 15, 1991

Our Roots German and Scandinavian Influences

By Doug Johnson This writer's great grandparents, Phillip and Katherine Rudy, joined this church in Editor's Note: This is a continuing series of 1911. They were Germans who had been articles by Doug Johnson, pastor of the Blue living along the Volga River in Russia. The Mountain Valley and the Mission Native night before they were to leave for America, American churches, both located between Katherine Rudy had a dream. In it she saw Pendleton, Ore., and Walla Walla, Wash. In two men preaching about the Sabbath. this series he explores the early beginnings of Even though they were Lutherans, she was the Adventist Church in the Northwest. impressed that they should join the church of the two men when they came to Amer- Today the Seventh-day Adventist ica. A little more than four years later the Church is working among a number of Rudys were invited to some religious ethnic groups in the Northwest. They meetings at Conrad Schierman's home, include the Hispanics, Blacks, Native along the Palouse River. When Katherine Americans, Koreans, Samoans and Vietna- entered the home she could not believe her mese. But in the early days we directed our eyes. The men speaking were the very men of her dream. They were Gottfried F. Haff- ethnic work toward two totally different Philip and Katherine Rudy groups — the Germans and Scandinavians. ner and Jacob Riffel. At the end of the In 1861 a group of Scandinavians in Midwest began accepting Adventism during meetings the ministers baptized the Rudys in the Palouse River through a hole in the Southern Wisconsin joined the newly- the 1870s. One of them was Louis Conradi. ice. Several years later the Rudys bought a formed Seventh-day Adventist Church and After joining the church he attended Battle farm west of Colfax. Here they attended the organized the denomination's first ethnic Creek College where he finished the four- Wilcox German Church. congregation. Two years later a Scandina- year course in a little over a year. Conradi By 1906 there were nine German churches vian minister of the Baptist Church, John began working in 1881 for the German im- in the Upper Columbia Conference with Matteson, also united with Adventism migrants of the Midwest. He was joined the a total membership of about 200. Other along with most of his members. Before long next year by another German, Henry conferences in the Northwest also had a Matteson was traveling to groups of Shultz, who had been working since 1874 number of German churches. A few of these Scandinavian immigrants throughout the for English-speaking people. locations are: West Union, Ore.; Albina, Midwest and raising up churches. The work among the Germans grew rap- In 1890 two Scandinavian families who Ore.; Billings, Mont.; Marsh, Mont.; idly. By 1925 there were more than 100 had accepted Adventism in Minnesota Spokane, Wash.; Wilcox (Dusty), Wash.; German-speaking churches west of the Mis- moved to Monitor, Ore. Here they estab- Endicott, Wash.; Farmington, Wash.; and sissippi River with a total membership of lished a small Adventist church of seven College Place, Wash. 4,000. East of the Mississippi there were 17 members. By 1900 this church, which Though today we are directing our ethnic churches with a membership of 900. boasted a membership of 67, had become work toward different groups than a century In the late 1880s, E Jorg raised up several the largest Scandinavian church in the ago, our goal is still the same. To preach the German churches in the North Pacific Con- West. everlasting gospel "to every nation, tribe, ference of western Oregon (Albina and West Adventists started many Scandinavian tongue, and people" (Revelation 14:6, NKJ). Union). Then in 1891 Henry Shultz visited churches in the Northwest during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Several of these the Upper Columbia Conference and churches, which in later years switched to started a German church in Farmington, using the English language, are still in Wash. The next year Gottfried F. Haffner, operation today. who had been working in the North Pacific In early copies of the GLEANER there Conference since 1890, moved to the Upper were church lists for each of the North- Columbia Conference to get the German western conferences. But these lists did not work rolling. He met with good success. indicate whether or not a church was In 1893 Haffner started a German church Scandinavian or German unless it was the of 40 members in Walla Walla. This church second Adventist Church in town. So this later moved to College Place where in 1911 writer was not able to find out how many a building was erected on the northwest Northwestern churches were originally corner of Sixth and Bade. As late as 1942 Scandinavian or German. A few of the this church was still functioning and had locations that had Scandinavian churches a membership of 97 members. were: Bellingham, Wash.; Ferndale, Wash.; Also in 1893 Haffner visited the German The Wilcox German Seventh-day Adventist Monitor, Ore.; Lebanon, Ore.; Tacoma, colony along the Palouse River. Here he Church building still stands along Highway 26 Wash.; Everett, Wash.; Ballard (Seattle), baptized members of the Ochs, Schierman about 15 miles west of Colfax, Wash. This church started in 1901 and was closed in 1953. Wash.; Portland, Ore.; and Spokane, Wash. and Weitz families and established the For many years this church had over 60 A number of German immigrants in the Endicott Church. members and operated a church school.

2 Editorial August 5, 1991 How Far Can I Kick the Ball on Sabbath?

By Ed Schwisow we won a lot more hearts for God. We had The GLEANER must draw us together. become more than a special interest group It must make us family. It must help us feel on the fringes of the family. We now family pride, at times, and sometimes, in When I was a belonged. all fairness, family shame. But the point is, teenager and cap- it must make us feel. tain of my club's A Strategic Issue: The GLEANER volleyball and foot- Family Feelings ball teams, the urge We spend hundreds of thousands of hard- to hold team prac- earned and cheerfully-given Northwest I solicit your prayers, your letters, your tice on Sabbath Adventist dollars each year to send out more intuition and your advice. Maybe we should afternoons was hard than 800,000 copies of the GLEANER. put aside questions such as "What is the to resist. As Russians cry for Bibles, we print birth tolerance level for celebration in church?", Ed Schwisow We tried drills announcements; as spiritually orphaned and instead ask unifying ones such as: "How where we "kicked South Americans plead for pastors, we print can we bring whole communities to softer" on Sabbaths, or didn't spike the ads for pen pals and marriage partners. As celebrate with us and with us to prepare for volleyball during the holy hours. Filipinos house new members in makeshift the awesome days ahead?" But, somehow, we felt transgression in the huts, we feature dedications of rich We must look for questions that lead to air, until, one Sabbath morning, the sanctuaries that may be less than half filled unifying fellowship. Discussions that personal ministries director invited the team on Sabbath mornings. produce action and cooperation. Questions to help the church members give Bible It doesn't seem to make sense. that will bring independent-minded studies. (We chuckled. Imagine, Sabbath Northwesterners into unity of purpose. breakers and competitive sportsmen giving Help me put my fingers on those family A Family Magazine Bible studies!) questions. If we can do that, the Filipinos, But we accepted, offering to take the Editors stay awake at night thinking about the Russians and the South Americans will homes farthest away from the church. (We such things. And the temptation comes to not begrudge us our paper. Instead, we'll rode and raced bicycles, too, and we edit the GLEANER as one would change begin to receive requests for multilingual somewhat irreverently reasoned that we his soccer kick on Sabbath. You know, a bit editions. could do some cross training while we did more subdued than TV Guide; more good. We knew the Bible study giving sanctified than the National Geographic; Ed Schwisow is acting editor of the GLEANER. would be simple: we had hundreds of more sanitized than the local newspaper. friends, many of whom often asked us why Softer and holier. we were Adventists.) But such editorial attitudes can never We were right. Soon we had 125 people justify this publication. They can lead to (all high schoolers) signed up for Voice of a boring magazine few will read twice, yes. August 5, 1991 V.I. 86, No. 14 Prophecy lessons. We were so busy But unless this magazine helps our mouths delivering the lessons and bringing our parch with the thirst of the Russian brother friends to church meetings that we had no for the Word of God; unless we shiver with time left to plot an acceptable trajectory of the Filipino caught in the monsoon on North Pacific Union Conference a soccer ball on the Lord's Day. Sabbath morning; unless we cry with the (USPS 394-560) Our taciturn debates with "church letter-writer distraught over a loved one who Address all editorial and advertising authorities" changed to warm strategy has left the church, this magazine isn't correspondence to: sessions. We won some games that year, but justified. GLEANER North Pacific Union Conference P.O. Box 16677, Portland, OR 97216 (503) 255-7300 Acting Editor, Ed Schwisow Change Advertising Assistant, Pam Groff Editorial Assistant, Greg Alekel of Place mailing label here Editorial Secretary, Lorraine Juberg Published by the North Pacific Union Con- Address ference of Seventh-day Adventists Please Note — Every reasonable effort is made to screen both editorial and advertising materials and to avoid error in this publication. But the Mail change notice to: Name North Pacific Union Conference GLEANER GLEANER does not accept responsibility for categorical or typographical errors, nor for advertisers' claims. P.O. Box 16677 New Address Portland, OR 97216 North Pacific Union Conference GLEANER, ISSN number 0746-5874, is published semi- For uninterrupted delivery, City State monthly except July and December for $10.00 send notice four weeks in advance of your move. per year by Color Press, 312 S. College Ave., Col- lege Place, Wash. 99324. Second-class postage ZIP (+4) paid at College Place, Wash. LITHO U.S.A. CP44277 Please help us save S by putting ZIP +4 Check with the US Postal service POSTMASTERS ONLY: Send form 3579 to if you are unsure what your +4 code is North Pacific Union GLEANER, P.O. Box 397, College Place, Washington 99324.

Features August 5, 1991 Operation Bearhug Brings Bible to Life for Russian Children

By Hazel Bums with Helen Heavirland the felts and the Bible characters portrayed. In the hands of many willing workers, the Considering the desperate need in the stack of felts dwindled to nothing by Soviet Union for gospel materials, I was evening vespers. We rejoiced in a completed OPCHATION excited that our church decided to help job and in the privilege of helping Soviet Soviet children visualize the gospel. children learn of Jesus. The pastors' wives in the Upper Colum- If your family or church family would like bia Conference had encouraged churches to to join in the work and satisfaction of provide Bible felt sets for child evangelism actively helping the Soviet children, in the Russian Union. Little Folk Visuals contact your local conference church min- agreed to provide the three-year Bible in Felt istries director. BCAIIHUG set at approximately half the usual cost. A Response of Northwest Adventists I explained the project to our 54-member Hazel Bums and Helen Heavirland unite from to Global Mission Country Haven congregation and asked, Pasco, Wash. "Are you interested in this project?" Dea- cons provided paper and I asked those interested to indicate (1) the amount of money they would like to pledge and (2) if they were willing to prepare the felts for shipping. The congregation's response to both questions surpassed my expectations. So I ordered two sets of felts and invited members to sharpen all their scissors and bring them to the fellowship dinner June 1. When the first set of felts arrived, I cut the large sheets into manageable sizes and made sure everything was ready for cutters. Nature delivered a blue-sky day. Members and guests worked together in the open air. A few felt men and oxen ran off on one occasion, but we corralled them as soon as the whirlwind passed. The "cut-cut-cut" was accompanied by speculation on how the Soviet children and teachers would enjoy The Country Haven members prepare felts for Soviet children.

From the Pastor's Desk Church Maintenance Coordinator

By Chad McComas The Church Maintenance Coordinator may tend to overspend its maintenance is responsible, as repairs are needed, to care funds. But, how terrible is it to spend more for them. This doesn't mean that he or she on maintenance and have a church that is Who's in charge of taking care of does all the work. It means that the main- caught up on repairs? I'd rather have a neat, maintenance and repairs at your church? Is tenance coordinator makes sure that the clean, well-running church! It feels great to it assumed that the pastor takes care of work is done either by volunteers or paid be able to call our Church Maintenance broken windows or leaky faucets? Do the professionals. The coordinator is also re- Coordinator and to pass word on that a light deacons of your church take care of the sponsible for scheduling routine mainten- needs to be replaced or a toilet leaks. I know maintenance? Is there a master plan for the ance and keeping records of what was done maintenance at your church? Who decides I won't have to worry about it. when the carpets are cleaned or the walls and when it was done. This helps the You may want to add the position of painted? church plan for routine painting, carpet Church Maintenance Coordinator to your The uncertain answers to these questions cleaning, light changing, and so forth. It church offices list this summer as you elect in my church led me to ask my church to also helps the church budgeters plan how new officers. You'll never be sorry you 444 develop a new position in church leadership. much will be needed each year to take care We call it Church Maintenance Coordina- of ongoing maintenance. tor. The creation of this position is one of If the coordinator is sharp, finds what Chad McComas is pastor of the Corvallis and the best decisions we have ever made! needs to be done and does it, the church Philomath, Ore., churches. 12 News August 5, 1991

Bill Legg, Pathfinder director, led the club Baker City, Ore. Pathfinders Conclude with 59 Pathfinders and 20 staff. The Idaho Helps Russians Successful Year Conference presented him the Pathfinder Director of the Year Award. During a special Sabbath fellowship hour Nampa/Caldwell Pathfinders deserve The club is grateful to the Idaho Con- recently, the Baker City Church partici- recognition for their accomplishments this ference and to sister clubs for the support pated in their own Operation Bearhug event year. they give the young people of the Nampa/ during a farewell dinner honoring A 50-mile bicycle run brought in funds Caldwell club. Alexander Souslov, a retired astronomy pro- for club operation and produced first place Mary E. Day fessor from the Ukraine, U.S.S.R. winner Kelly Lewis; Sandi Kelly, second The new Soviet freedoms made it possible place; Christy Day, third place; Melissa for Souslov to visit his cousin, Othilie Taylor, fourth place; and Kevin Bartlet, fifth Fagenstrom, of Baker City. place. Souslov, who speaks practically no En- Ingenuity and originality produced glish, and Cregor Fagenstrom, who speaks pinewood derby cars for the annual race in no Russian, solved their communication February. problem with their mutual knowledge of At the April 9 conference wide Kite-A- German. Together they responded to a Rama, club members also were active published appeal from City Hall for a assembling kit kites and competing with Counselor Jerry Jones supervises camp cleanup Russian speaking person to translate a members of other clubs. at Ida Haven by some of his unit of eight sixth- "Please Help Us" letter received from Elviza The winners for the longest flight were grade boys named The Conquerers. Yanko of Moscow, U.S.S.R. all from the club: Travis Adams, first; Souslov has a decided empathy with the Charlie Wade, second; and Angela Kreuder, woman who wrote the open letter, having third. Club member Corrie Day took first lived "under deprivation" in Leningrad after place for best design. World War II. Scott Trace, a pre-Pathfinder, brought The resulting translation published in the home first place for best kite. Jessica Brown Baker City Herald created widespread com- of Caldwell took third place. munity interest. Copies of the article were The club brought home the coveted posted on most church bulletin boards in Giant Trophy as Club #1 of Idaho on May town. 5 at the Idaho Conference Pathfinder Fair. The translation revealed the desperate The award was presented to the club with need of the Yanko family for warm clothing. the highest number of points earned. The Milford Terrell, Conference Pathfinder director, "It is now wintertime Mrs. Yanko wrote, club booth won a blue ribbon. The club honors Bill Legg with a plaque as the chosen Pathfinder Director of the Year Award. "and we suffer greatly. We have no winter food booth was also a success. shoes or clothing. The shops are empty . . . The club also took part in the Caldwell we cannot sew because we have no thread Club Retreat in January; the Junior Retreat, and little material." last November and the Teen Retreat in Mrs. Yanko included a special plea for a March. During these times, the club mem- Bible, because, she said, "We have recently bers learned to assist in meal preparation, joined to God." Bibles are hard to get and serving and cleanup. very expensive, about 25 percent of a Teen Club Pathfinders of the Year are Russian's monthly salary. Sandi Kelley and Travis Johnston. Junior Mrs. Yanko closed her letter with a cordial Club Pathfinders of the Year are Angela invitation to visit them in their three-room Kreuder and Kevin Bartlett. apartment with bath which the three of On the spiritual side, the club members them share with two toddlers. take small gifts, Valentines and Easter Although we have no full report as to the baskets to their adopted elderly grand- extent of church and community response parents. At Halloween time, they collected Bill Legg, Caldwell/Nampa Crusader club to Mrs. Yanko's letter, it is our sincere hope canned goods to make up food baskets for director, in cap, supports the winners at the Pathfinder Fair at GSAA. First place was won and prayer that next winter will find the needy families. They give prayers and spirit- by Connie Lawrence (center), second place by Yanko family supplied with that new Bible, ual talks and present musical and vocal Nichole Kreuder (left), and third place by and warm clothing for the bitter Soviet numbers. Angela Kreuder. weather. Wreatha Hudson

Othilie Fagenstrom of Baker City, Ore., with The 58 Pathfinders and 20 staff with Director Bill Legg which make up the Caldwell/Nampa Crusaders Alexander Souslov of Lvov, Ukraine, U.S.S.R. brought home the coveted giant trophy this year at the Idaho Conference-sponsored Pathfinder Fair Photo courtesy of Baker City Herald. at Gem State Adventist Academy. 16 News August 5, 1991

MiVoden Retreat Teaches Health Principles A full weekend retreat featuring health information and tips on prevention of disease was conducted recently at Camp MiVoden by Melvin Beltz, M.D., medical director of Black Hills Health and Education Center, and his wife Muriel, instructor and co-lecturer, from South Dakota. Staff from Total Health, a Yakima, Wash., health center, prepared healthful meals for approximately 60 persons in attendance. Central to the theme of the weekend retreat was the point that Christ and His righteousness form the basis of our faith, not the health message. Christ will lead individually in attaining health goals, said Beltz. We are not to push and condemn others, for each person is at a different point in their experience with the principles of health. Muriel Beltz contrasted the perfect diet Ellensburg, Wash., Educator Awarded of Genesis 1:29 with a normal American Carrie Tow, teacher at Valley Christian School in Ellensburg, Wash., has received a $300 teacher diet. The meals for one day of a typical project award from the North Pacific Union Association of Educators. This will be used for a special project in crystal growing and molecular construction kits which will aid in her teaching of chemical American contain almost a pint of sugar. and physical science. Sugar is known to clog the blood and acts At the school's award assembly, students gathered around Congressman Sid Morrison who handed much as a fat in the system. out national and presidential academic and physical fitness awards. From the left are back row: Car- The lecturing team also told of the rie Tow, teacher/principal; Jennifer Cross; Philip Morton; Danny Moor. Middle row: Danyel Zacharias; Tami Young; Jaida Detwiler; Anna Detwiler; Levi Christy; Stevie Moor. Front row: Georgianna Holli- importance of including fiber in the diet. day; Brooke Chasteen; Kellie Zacharias; and Joshua Christy. The produce department in the grocery store is the safest and best place to shop, they said. Carol Martin Russian Evangelism "This is really an exciting opportunity to take the gospel message to a society that Planned By Team has been largely isolated from Christian The Upper Columbia Conference is send- influences for decades:' said Evangelist ing a team, under the leadership of Con- Reinking. "For the Soviet Union, this rep- ference Evangelist Jim Reinking, to the resents an historical period of time, when Soviet Union this fall. They will be in the every human institution has seemingly Volga/Urulian Conference as a part of the failed and the population is particularly North Pacific Union Conference Operation responsive to the hope that is ours in Bearhug. Christ:' he concluded. The team is still in the process of being If you would like to contribute directly for organized, but it appears that Harold and this team, you can give your gift by marking Van Kostenko from Walla Walla and Donna your tithe envelope "Operation Bearhug — Reinking and Janice Renck from the the Volga/Urulian Conference Team" and Spokane area will be a part of the team. placing it in the church offering, or you can Melvin Beltz, M.D., medical director of Black They have been asked to conduct two send your gift to: Upper Columbia Hills Health and Education, S.D., speaks at the one-week series in an area just east of the Conference, Volga/Urulian Conference retreat. Ural Mountains, about 900 miles east of Team, P.O. Box 19039, Spokane, WA 99219. Moscow. From Sept. 30 to Oct. 4, the team will be in Sverdlovsk, a city with a popula- Blue Mountain Church tion of 1.5 million and an Adventist church membership of 50. The team will spend the Saves on Project second week in Chelyabinsk, a city of 1.2 This spring, members of the Blue Moun- million and a church of 30 members. tain Church in Athena, Ore., built and paid Reinking will use a rear-projection audio- for a hookup to the city waterline. visual system to present the essentials of the When the church was built 20 years ago gospel, while the other team members will the city was unwilling to bring the waterline provide music for the prograrri. The Volga/ out the quarter mile to the church. So the Urulian Conference will provide a trans- church used a huge buried water tank. lator, Bibles and Bible courses, along with This year, after much negotiating with Camp MiVoden was the lakeside setting for the the necessary workers to continue the the city it was agreed that the church could health retreat. program in the weeks and months to follow. go ahead with the waterline. The city

NPUC Gleaner News 17 officials were confident that it would take the church a long time to complete the project. Windows of Heaven Many volunteers came to work on this project, directed by LaVeme Nelson. Harold Lund brought his backhoe from College The Plants Were Place. The waterline was completed and the fire hydrant hooked up within two days, and the cost was only $11,602.89 instead of the White With Frost! $55,000 estimated by the city. Dottie LeFore By Roy A. Wesson neighbors' berries had all been struck by the As Shared by Elsie Arnold frost and destroyed, but I had a huge crop. As I shared my berries it was so delightful "I looked out at my garden. The lush berry to tell how the Lord had blessed and how bushes looked healthy and beautiful to my I had claimed the promise of Malachi 4:8-11 WASHINGTON eager eyes. The hard work and labor of love for my berry patch. had paid off this year and the bushes were "One couple I shared the berries with loaded with berries. I was filled with wanted Bible studies and they later joined satisfaction as I looked upon God's our church and became active members. handiwork and thought how He had blessed Upon their death they left to the Lord's my digging, pruning and watering. I went work several thousands of dollars:' to bed with a contented heart. In my 51 years of being an Adventist this "Morning came and oh, it was so cold. is only one of the miraculous stories of God's I slipped on a jacket and went out to look working and opening• the 'Windows of at my garden. What a change in the Heaven: weather. I couldn't believe my eyes. The Praise the Lord! He is still pouring out his blessing. Are you being faithful in your tithe ground and plants were white with frost. and offerings so you too can experience " 'Oh Lord, what will happen to my God's wonderful blessings? berries?' I quickly took my Bible and went Ramona and I know from our experience out to the berry patch. I read Malachi 4:8-11 that after we give the Lord tithe and and claimed God's promise for protection offerings the amount which remains of my plants. As I prayed over my berries, provides for more than our needs. I told the Lord that I believed his promise Do you have a tithe experience that you and knew He would rebuke the devourer, would like to share? Please send it to me. Operation Bearhug Car Wash this unwelcome frost. As I finished my The Juniors in the Arlington Church held a prayer I told the Lord it was now up to Him. Roy A. Wesson is treasurer for Washington car wash this summer to benefit Operation "A few days later I discovered that my Conference. Bearhug. All the profit went toward buying 61 Bibles for Russia. Directing the project were Herb Hainey and Dave Patrick. Jack Criddle The Annual Washington Conference Women's Fellowship Retreat presents `The Victorious Woman' Step Towards Being the Victorious Woman God Wants You to Be! Learn how to experience — • Victory in your everyday walk with God, prayer life, and devotional studies • Victory in your physical and mental life • Victory as you face adversity • Victory in your everyday associations and social life • Victory in Jesus! Guest Speakers: Barbara Nelson and Bobbie Oetman Also Featuring Optional Workshops addressing issues facing Christian women today presented by: Dr. Angela Chan Nancy Gruesbeck Dr. Toini Harrison Jeanne Koester Mount Tahoma Thank You Karen Nuessle Barbara Roberts Treasurers are very special and they do a lot September 6-8, 1991 of work, say Mount Tahoma, Wash., members. Camp Hope, British Columbia Elfreda Hurcomb, treasurer, and Geneva Martin, assistant treasurer, were recognized for their hard Sponsored by Women's Ministries, Washington Conference work. 20015 Bothell Way S.E., Bothell, WA 98012 or call (206) 481-7171 Mount Tahoma says thank you for a job well done. Don't Miss This Opportunity!

4 Features August 19, 1991 Thousands Respond As Northwestern Evangelists Reach Russian People

By Alf Birch more and that maybe that could be done through an Adventist church near his Northwestern evangelists, returning home. OPCJIATION from evangelistic meetings in the Soviet He discovered that the nearest church to Union, all tell stories of people accepting his home was 800 kilometers away. He said, Jesus Christ by the hundreds, just as we read "If you baptize me, I will start a church:' about in Acts of the Apostles. Again he was told that he would need to Jac Colon, director of the Northwest do some further study in order to be better Evangelism Institute, assisted by his wife prepared for baptism. He was very dis- 'dena, started a series of evangelistic meet- appointed, but agreed to study more. ings in Riga, Latvia, on June 7, 1991. Up Somehow the bookings for his flight were BCAHHUG A Response of Northwest Adventists to 1,000 people attended meetings each mixed up, and he was scheduled to leave to Global Mission night. on Sunday instead of Thursday. He felt sure A young man from Siberia, searching for that this was God, telling him to be baptized something better, was told by a friend about in Riga. ference. He was accompanied by his wife a Pentecostal evangelist going to Riga. It was finally decided to give him a cram Ruthie, as well as Walter Emori, M.D., a Upon arriving at the airport, he asked about course, and he was baptized at 11 p.m. physician from Medford, Ore., and Ed the meetings, and someone told him about Saturday night after the meeting, in a Gienger, pastor of the Vancouver, Wash., the meetings being conducted by the nearby river. When he was handed his Church. During the next five weeks they Colons. He arrived just after the meeting baptismal certificate he said, "This is just led out in a Field School of Evangelism for ended, but one of the members invited him like a passport!" 40 pastors and conducted public evange- to stay in their home. He left Sunday morning with the love of listic meetings at night. They brought him to church on Sabbath those who had led him to Christ, a lot of Oregon Conference members contributed morning, the meeting that evening, and the literature and determination to start a little $40,000 to conduct this evangelistic pro- Pentecostal meeting on Sunday. He was not church in his home town. gram. More than 2,000 Bibles were distrib- satisfied with the Pentecostal meeting and During this series of meetings, 122 uted during these meetings. Two thousand became deeply moved by what he heard persons were baptized. This evangelistic additional copies were purchased and from Jac Colon. campaign was conducted in conjunction donated for meetings in Moscow. Four Tuesday night he decided that he wanted with a Field School of Evangelism for 40 thousand three hundred other books, such to be baptized and join the Adventist pastors, administrators, and Bible workers as Steps to Christ and Thoughts From the Church, after hearing only four sermons. of the Baltic Union. It was conducted Mount of Blessing, were purchased and dis- Since his plane left on Thursday morning, jointly under the auspices of the General tributed. he wanted to be baptized the next night. Conference and OPERATION BEAR- More than 1,300 people attended the He was told that he would need to study HUG, a North Pacific Union Conference evangelistic meetings each night. Two initiative. baptismal services were conducted toward Don Jacobsen, president of the Oregon the end of the campaign. Two hundred six Conference, left Portland, Ore., on May 28 persons were baptized into Christ during for Novosibirsk, in the Trans-Siberian Con- these meetings and joined the fellowship of the Adventist world family. Many more are expected to be baptized as time prog- resses. While the meetings were being con- ducted in Novosibirsk, a lady was walking down one of the city streets and noticed a kiosk where literature was being sold. One of the books for sale was Steps to Christ in the Russian language, which she started reading while waiting to pay the cashier. People pressed in about her until she was pushed outside of the circle of people sur- rounding the kiosk. She promptly "stole" the book, left, and completed reading it in her apartment. Don Jacobsen says, "As she kept reading the book, it just broke her heart as she learned about Jesus Christ. She accepted Him as her Savior. She was con- victed to go back and pay for the book. Don and Ruthie Jacobsen enjoy some sightsee- As she returned to her apartment she saw ing, but spend most of their waking hours in More than 200 persons are baptized from a sign advertising the gospel meetings being pastoral education and in evangelism. Jacobsen's meetings. More will follow. conducted by Don Jacobsen and his team.

NPUC Gleaner Features 5

Having just become a Christian and want- ing to learn more she decided to attend. That night as she came to the meeting it WWC Students, so happened that Steps to Christ was being distributed. She said to herself, "This must Faculty Go to Siberia be a good meeting because they have the If you were to ask most college students same book here that I just purchased:' where they wanted to spend the month She stayed by, attended all the rest of the of August, it is unlikely that Siberia meetings, became fully convicted about would make the list. But three Walla what she'd heard, and was baptized the last Jac Colon, right, assists a young Siberian bap- Walla College students and a 1991 WWC Sabbath of the campaign. tismal candidate. graduate are in the middle of a three-week Upon his return to Oregon, Emori started project in the eastern-most cities of the raising $35,000 for the building of a Soviet Union. The group also includes 400-seat church in Novosibirsk. Most of this Doug Clark, dean of the WWC school amount has already been raised. of theology, and a Soviet translator. Gienger put the challenge to his church The students involved are Laura Con- in Vancouver to become part of the stantinescu, a sophomore psychology Novosibirsk project. This church decided major from Salem, Ore.; Tami Galusha, to assist the Trans-Siberian Conference with a junior elementary education major the expenses of moving a pastor to the from Loma Linda; and David Springer, church from the Ukraine, buy him a a senior theology major from Auburn, Don Jacobsen, president of the Oregon Con- Wash. parsonage, and sponsor his salary for three ference speaks in evangelistic meetings most The itinerary includes Yakutask, years. All of that for $4,500! evenings, but during the day, he trains young Magadon and Camchadka, three east- Beginning the second week of May, Dave Russian pastors such as these. ern-seaboard cities with populations that and Becky Weigley, Mardene Bartholomew, range from 350,000 to more than and Tae Kim, two students from Auburn weeks of evangelistic emphasis. Of that 700,000. Each city has only one Advent- Adventist Academy, evangelized seven number, more than 1,200 signed up for Bible studies with Russian pastors. ist church, ranging from 15 members to different cities along the Volga River, which about 100. The WWC group is planning It is ironic that for their travel on the flows more than 2,200 miles through the to put on three, six-day series of meetings, Volga River, the Weigley team rented the interior of the Soviet Union. but with the newness of the program, and boat called "The Propagandist" During the Presentations were made on the gospel, the difficulty of communication and heyday of Communism, this boat was used Daniel 2 and the Second Coming for three translation, Clark says they are preparing nights in each city. The purpose was to by the Communist Party to proclaim the for anything. arouse interest in a 12-week Bible study teachings of Marx and Lenin. It was now "This is a pioneering effort;' says program that would be conducted by the used to go up the river proclaiming the Clark, who will be the main speaker. pastors of our churches in these cities. Each gospel of Jesus Christ. We may recall Nikita "There are unknowns — we don't know 12-week series would close with another Kruschev's comment regarding Christianity. our daily schedules, we don't know who three nights of reaping meetings. Ruling the Communist Party from 1953 to we'll be visiting. It's a territory no one It is estimated that more than 12,000 1964, he once boasted that by 1965 Chris- knows much about:' listeners heard the presentations that were tianity would become obsolete. Sponsored by the North Pacific given in the seven cities during the four "When that happens;' he said, "I will Union's Operation Bearhug, the WWC insist that at least one Christian be pre- group is one of five Northwest groups served and placed in a museum so that that are planning to participate in the future generations of Soviets can view an project. Their meetings will include Operation Bearhug extinct species:' Contrary to his predictions, children's stories, health messages, mu- Projects Communism is now obsolete while sic, and sermons that focus on the basics Christianity is bringing hope again to the of Christianity. The group is also respon- Please remember the following places Soviet people. sible for filming video footage that will and people in your prayers. When Weigley asked a student at the be used to put together promotional university in the city of Uljanovsk after his videos about Operation Bearhug. The Hockley/Corwin team (Oregon meeting whether she had understood his Steve Dunston Conference) in Juzhno-Sakhalinsk, presentation, she said, "Yes, very much. I Khabarovsk, and Vladivostok (July can hardly speak;' and her eyes began to 29-Aug. 29). well up with tears. "I'm trembling inside, A Walla Walla College team, led by Dr. for you have brought sunshine to my heart Doug Clark, in Petropavlovsk- today by what you shared with us from the Kamchatski, Yakutsk, and Komsomolsk Word of God:' na Amur (Aug. 12-Sept. 2). She is now studying the Bible with our The Jere Patzer team (Upper Columbia Russian pastor. She symbolizes many of the Conference) in Magadan (Aug. 14-24). people who attended the Weigley meetings. The Jim Reinking team (Upper Co- Many had never heard the gospel lumbia Conference) in Sverdlovsk and preached during their lifetime. In Saratov A team of students and a professor of no one had preached the gospel there theology are teaming up to enter Russia on Chelyabinsk (Sept. 27-Oct. 16). an evangelistic mission. Shown, left to right, The Fred Comforth team (Idaho Con- during the past 70 years. The Weigley team are Laura Constantinescu, Larry Witzel, ference) in Makhachkala, Grozni, and was the first group from outside the Soviet Doug Clark, David Springer and Tami Nalchik (Oct. 1-16). Union permitted to enter that enclave with Galusha. the preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

6 Features August 19, 1991

The Upper Columbia Conference has tallied to sponsor their president, Jere Patzer, to establish an ongoing relationship with the Magadan Adventist Church in Siberia. The intent is to provide resources and expertise to build up the work in this cultural and political center of the Soviet Far East. During a recent preparatory visit to Magadan, Patzer, who was accompanied by Jim Osborne, Ministerial Association secretary of the Alaska Conference, met Dave Weigley and team travel the Volga River aboard The Propagandist, a ship once used by the with the Minister of Religion, who in turn Communist Party to promote Marxist-Leninist philosophy. introduced them to the vice-chairman of the Communist Party for that entire region. in Magadan, a city approximately the size and other meetings for adults, youth and They were anxious to know what the Ad- of Spokane. children. The Belko Brass will accompany ventist Church could offer their community. In mid-August Magadan will hear more the group. Extensive newspaper, radio and television from Adventists as Patzer, his wife Sue, a coverage presented our leaders' reports in physician, dentist, engineer, several musi- Alf Birch is Church Ministries director of the a very positive way, giving credibility and cians, and a group of young people will be North Pacific Union Conference and coordina- exposure to the small group of 42 Adventists traveling to conduct a series of evangelistic tor of Operation Bearhug. Lents Church Services on Cable TV By Mort Juberg of the programming being seen in Van- couver, Tigard and Oregon City. There is The large showroom of the Gresham, no charge for this local access coverage, now Ore., Chrysler-Plymouth dealership had called community television. been cleared of automobiles. In their place A little more than two years ago when stood a bride and groom. Salesmen, me- Pastor Brown transferred to Lents from a chanics and office personnel gathered for pastorate near Spokane, Wash., he was this unusual wedding presided over by Pastor approached by one of his members with a Ewart Brown, minister of the Lents Advent- suggestion. ist Church in Portland. "I watch cable television and I don't like This uncustomary wedding was a result what I see. This should be an opportunity of "Words For Life a television ministry of to present the gospel. Why don't we have the Lents Church. a program on cable?" he asked the pastor. Carol Leak with Pastor Ewart Brown. She "I went to have my car repaired at this With some hesitation Brown presented watched the program and decided to attend church, which she has done regularly. "What dealership:' Pastor Brown said. "A man the idea to his church board and they said, Pastor Brown had to say really hit me;' she said. stopped me and said, 'I know you. I have "Go for it:' been watching your program.' " On a later Members had already been videotaping visit to the garage Brown received an un- the Sabbath sermon for shut-ins, so the door to me but in the comfort of their usual request, "Would you like to have my transition to a regular format wasn't too homes they listen to the gospel." wedding?" difficult. The Oregon Conference provided A lady met the pastor at the Lents "I'll be happy to work with you:' Brown one camera and two more have come from Church saying she had been watching the replied. the Communication Department of the program every Saturday morning for the past "Words For Life" is seen eight times weekly North Pacific Union Conference. two months. "This morning I decided to at a variety of times on Channel 21 and Pastor Brown gives an introduction and come to church:' she said. once on Channel 11. The cable company conclusion to the program, videotaped She has been attending regularly and is covers much of the Portland area with some separately. During these two time periods receiving studies. Also, Pastor Brown per- he invites listeners to write or call for free formed her wedding. books. These segments, added to the taping One of the parishioners, a beautician, said of the Sabbath service which begins the six of her clients are pastors. Several, program with the special music, make an knowing she is a Lents member, have told hour-long presentation. her they watch "Words For Life." "Words For Life" has been aired for a little In addition, ministers from other congre- more than two years. Pastor Brown is pleased gations have phoned requesting a book or with the response. Twenty Bible studies by a tape, identifying themselves as pastors. members are currently in progress and many Another minister phoned saying, "I'm books have been sent to listeners. One calling to encourage you and to let you person has been baptized. know I'm thinking of you." "I am happy for the response from our Brown sees another benefit of the pro- Cameraman Richize Lian watches the image of viewers:' the pastor noted. "There are gram. "There are many shut-ins for whom Ewart Brown on the viewing screen. people who most likely wouldn't open their this is their Sabbath church:' he noted.

18 News August 19, 1991

The first Sabbath morning speaker was Featured speaker for the program was Auburn Camp Meeting Neal Wilson, General Conference presi- Michael Kulakov, Jr., who is dean of the Features Russia Theme dent, 1978-1990, who has been much in- Seventh-day Adventist Seminary in the volved in the development of the work of Soviet Union. He told of the experiences "Camp keeps faith with tradition" was the the Adventist church in the Soviet Union. of Seventh-day Adventist young people of large headline of a half-page report in the Sabbath afternoon, June 29, was dedi- the Soviet Union which tested their faith Tacoma News Tribune about the Washington cated to an Operation Bearhug report. and commitment to Christian principles. Conference camp meeting, now 105 years old. "We are planning to continue each year with a strong camp meeting program:' confirmed Conference President Lenard Jaecks. "We have the advantage of using our spacious Auburn Academy campus, a very comfortable and pleasant place for camp meeting," he said. Jaecks explained that he and his staff had considered ways for providing more space for campers and tents to accommodate growing crowds. This year's attendance was larger than in recent years. More than 3,000 people were on campus during the week. On the two Sabbaths of camp meeting, June 22 and 29, there were nearly 7,000 people on campus. The Russia Connection was a special ongoing feature of this year's camp meeting featuring a number of individuals who have been to Russia or were planning to go there as guest evangelists. The evening speaker, Mark Finley, went directly to Moscow from the Auburn camp meeting for a series of The Russia connection at the recent Washington Conference Camp Meeting was emphasized by gather- evangelistic meetings. ing of those who had recently been to Russia with the family of Michael Kulakov, Jr. Washington During camp meeting Jac and 'dena Conference president, Lenard Jaecks, left, wears a hat which was a gift from the Dave Weigleys and Colon, of the Northwest Evangelism Center purchased in Russia. Beside him are Mardene Bartholomew and Tae Kim, Auburn Adventist Academy students who accompanied the Weigleys for the month-long Russia evangelistic tour. Center are Dave and senior pastor of the Federal Way and Becky Weigley, in the front on the right is Michael Kolakov, Jr., his wife Louda, and children Church, were in the Soviet Union holding Constantine and Tanya, and in the background on the right are Bob and Carol Paulsen, members evangelistic meetings. Washington Confer- of the Puyallup Church, who were part of the Russia Connection. ence ministerial secretary, Dave Weigley, and his wife Becky, along with two Auburn Academy students, Mardene Bartholomew and Tae Kim, returned from a month-long The Annual Washington Conference evangelistic tour along the Volga River just Women's Fellowship Retreat prior to camp meeting. presents 'The Victorious Woman' Step Towards Being the Victorious Woman God Wants You to Be! Learn how to experience — • Victory in your everyday walk with God, prayer life, and devotional studies • Victory in your physical and mental life • Victory as you face adversity • Victory in your everyday associations and social life American Red Cross • Victory in Jesus! Guest Speakers: Barbara Nelson and Bobbie Oetman Also Featuring Optional Workshops Be the first addressing issues facing Christian women today presented by: on your block Dr. Angela Chan Nancy Gruesbeck to learn how to Dr. Toini Harrison Jeanne Koester save a life. Karen Nuessle Barbara Roberts September 6-8, 1991 Take the Camp Hope, British Columbia Red Cross Sponsored by Women's Ministries, Washington Conference CPR course. 20015 Bothell Way S.E., Bothell, WA 98012 or call (206) 481-7171 Don't Miss This Opportunity!

NPUC Gleaner News 19

He was accompanied by his wife, Louda, illustrated firsthand report of the work to anxiety and depression, the day hospital and two young children, Constantine and construct a publishing house and the Ad- team began to address problems related to Tanya. ventist Seminary. a learning disability that had been un- The Operation Bearhug report began The pastoral and office team of the Wash- covered during an in-depth psychological with a re-created welcoming party who had ington Conference worked long hours in assessment. recently gone to SeaTac International preparation for camp meeting and during "He'd had it for probably 30 years and no Airport to welcome the Weigley group as the nine days of camp meeting to provide one had picked it up," says Brady. "He was they returned from Russia. A special report the best possible experience for the camp- having some auditory and communication of their evangelistic work in several cities ers. Each of the youth departments reported problems related to it most of his life. But on the Volga River was illustrated by slides. larger numbers than in previous years. no one had found it before and said, 'You're Weigley reported that 1,200 of the 12,000 Nearly 1,500 people attended the 28 classes not stupid or crazy, you have a learning dis- people who attended meetings in the cities offered at camp meeting. order: " where they visited had signed up for Bible The theme for the 1992 Washington Con- Joe attended the program five days a week correspondence courses. ference Camp Meeting is "Ye Shall Receive early in his therapy. In individual and group Puyallup Church leader, Bob Paulsen, Power, Ye Shall be Witnesses',' and the dates sessions he learned coping and assertiveness who has traveled with denominational lead- are June 18-27, 1992. skills and relaxation techniques. As his en in the Soviet Union, gave his slide- Dennis Carlson progress continued, his visits were gradually decreased. Joe's wife and daughter actively partici- pated in his therapy. Family involvement in therapy is strongly encouraged, Brady says. Day hospital staff worked with Worker's ADVENTIST HEALTH Compensation personnel to assist Joe in his vocational rehabilitation. A rehabilitation counselor helped him address the psycho- SYSTEM/WEST social implications of being unable to work. Joe has made significant progress toward fulfilling his goal of returning to work, and state:' Brady says. "He had incredible family the family's relationship is well on the way Program Helps Patients stress; he was tense and hostile. He wasn't to recovery. On Verge of Collapse sleeping and he was drinking 14 to 15 cups of coffee a day. There's no way he ever would *"Joe" is a pseudonym. Joe* was teetering on the scaffolding of have agreed to hospitalization. He felt that life, stressed and shaken by the pressures of was just too great a loss of freedom" joblessness and family turmoil. He was one Joe is typical of the group of patients best step from losing his dangerous balancing act suited for the environment of the day Care for Needy Part and falling into a hospital bed or a jail cell. hospital program, Brady says. Instead, he found the stability of the adult "Our typical patient is the person you run Of WWGH Plan psychiatric day hospital, a new service of into in the grocery store," says Brady. "They Service is a catch phrase, a cliche for Portland Adventist Medical Center's be- may have been functioning okay for a long many hospitals today. havioral medicine division. time, but then some situation happens — However, since Walla Walla General The program offers intensive psychiatric family stress, a job loss, the death of a loved Hospital started in 1899, it has been com- services to help people to return to or one—that for the first time puts them in the mitted to care. As a result, service has not enhance their functioning at home, on the position of being unable to cope:' been a catch phrase, rather, it has been a job and within the community. Patients It was a combination of those situations quiet, constant way of practice. spend their days participating in a wide that brought Joe to Portland Adventist. For example, take the Russian who con- range of therapeutic programs, then return Once accepted into the day hospital pro- tracted leukemia after the Chernobyl acci- home in the evening to practice their new gram, Joe entered into a contract with the dent. He has joined his family in Walla skills. staff and set goals for what he wanted to Walla, and is receiving care at no cost from Besides being significantly less costly than achieve. the hospital. inpatient care, the day hospital is often a Joe's goals were to repair his family life and Or the heart attack victim who worked more appropriate therapeutic environment get back to work, and the day hospital staff with the hospital after his hospitalization, for many patients. set to work designing a plan of therapy. and received both a health care grant and "The day hospital program reinforces the Joe's psychiatrist provided medical care assistance in financing the repayment of the research that says patients make better prog- and supervision, and worked with the rest of his bill to help avoid financial fail- ress when it's possible to keep them in their therapy team to develop a treatment plan ure as he worked to rebuild his life. natural environment:' says Barbara Brady, for him. The multidisciplinary members of Or the little boy, whose family had no the program's coordinator. Joe's therapy team included a clinical social medical insurance and whose father makes At the time he connected with Portland worker as clinical care coordinator (this can only $6 an hour. After a medical emergency Adventist, Joe had been out of work for a also be a clinical nurse specialist). involving the child, the hospital provided year and a half, and his family was on the The coordinator met with Joe individ- a health care grant. verge of falling apart. He was severely ually and with his family, and organized the Altogether, each year the hospital com- depressed (a trait he shared with most pa- services of nurses, mental health therapists, mits nearly $20,000 to help meet the needs tients in the program), and his explosive dis- occupational therapists, psychologists, of patients who cannot afford hospitali- order symptoms had caused several run-ins clergy and the many other professionals and zation. with the police. resources available to him. This money is distributed as the hospital "He came here in a pretty bad emotional While medications helped control Joe's takes careful time each week to review the NPUC Gleaner Editorial 3

It's not that hard to approach other denomina- missioned leadership) to appoint a guiding in- tions with "a Christian challenge?' If advertised frastructure (deacons, deaconesses, bishops, properly, even "non-denominational Christians" teachers, and so forth) to carry the burdens of LETTERS could join in — and most probably would. the people. This is commonly known as "ser- We could also team up by twos (Adventist and vant leadership," and is modeled after the Mas- Letters are we corned for publication. The Baptist, for example) and do a door-to-door cam- ter Servant, Jesus. editor reserves the right to reject letters and paign that should be "less frighteninig" to non- As we have no Biblical authority to change where necessary, to edit for continuity and space Christians. (This would also show non-Christians the Sabbath, so there is no scriptural injunc- requirements. Letters must be signed and should what Christianity is all about — love that tion to modify the primitive Christian govern- not be more than 150 words in length except, transcends all borders, country borders and ment role where leaders at various levels served where, in the editor's discretion, more space is denominational borders as well.) It should be a the congregation of saints. available. Address letters to Editor, Box 16677, good witnessing tool for all of us. Portland, OR 97216. N. Starzinger Salem, Ore. Unity, Not Uniformity Based on what I have read in the GLEANER Enjoyed Convocation during the past year, and in the spirit of Ed Schwisow's concluding remarks in "Musings of In recent months several Portland-area Advent- Russia a Northwestern Adventist" (July 15 issue) I believe ists asked me, "Are you going to Convocation?" that we could "speak more fluently, more gra- After I indicated I wasn't sure, and then reversed ciously, more winsomely" in our letters and ar- the question, the response was, "It won't be Update ticles if we would: 1) differentiate between anything like Gladstone Camp Meeting?' opinion and fact-report and impressions; 2) give I, along with others, wasn't too enthusiastic By Ed Schwisow the source of information or the basis of conclu- about enduring the hassle of riding the freeway, sions; . . . 3) be careful when quoting the Bible finding parking space and elbowing crowds in the to support our ideas. . . . big city atmosphere of the Portland Coliseum. As this issue goes to press, the cities We often hear expressed the need for church But I did go, with my husband. I found it to of Moscow and Leningrad and Kiev face unity. Some are uncomfortable with a call to be a pleasant experience. The freeway drive and armed civil conflict. What may occur unity because they confuse unity with uniformity. finding parking were easy. God does not desire that. What is it that will We relaxed in the padded chairs. The temper- remains a question of prayer among unite us? The same issue that divided God's ature-controlled arena added to our comfort and Christians; of wild speculation among family to begin with: The kind of person we believe the sloped seating afforded a perfect view of pro- secular analysts. God to be (pp. 68, 69). The prophet said, "Let ceedings. The mood was reverent, not noisy as Among Northwestern Adventists, him who glorifies glory in this, that he at camp meeting. The coliseum was clean and understands and knows Me" (Jeremiah 9:24, attractive with ample rest rooms. Outside, dur- however, the most pressing issue of prayer NKJV). ing meal breaks many people spread out blankets concerns Operation Bearhug. North- Jesus said, "And eternal life means to know you on the lawn or sat on folding chairs under the western evangelists, during the past four the only true God and to know Jesus Christ, trees. months, have spoken to thousands of whom you sent. I have shown your glory on earth; The Oregon Conference planners had lined up I have finished the work you gave me to do . . . an outstanding slate of speakers and musicians. Russians, baptizing hundreds. Tens of I have made you known (John 17:3-6 TEV). Ellen I felt inspired and spiritually filled. thousands of Bibles have been distrib- White echoed this when she wrote: ". . our Lorraine Juberg uted. As we go to press, 22 Northwest- whole spiritual life will be molded by our con- Boring, Oregon ern Adventist evangelists, including cepts of God's character (Review & Herald, April 5, 1887). (Emphasis supplied.) spouses and assistants, remain in Siberia. If, then, we truly worship and admire the same The two teams involved, one lead by God, we will soon reflect His character; that will Don't Follow Leaders Jere Patzer, president of the Upper Co- make us a loving and lovable people and, "So lumbia Conference, and the other by shall we all at least attain to the unity inherent The person who, in a recent issue of the Doug Clark, chairman of the Walla in our faith" (Ephesians 4:13 NEB). (Emphasis GLEANER, admonishes us to "follow the lead- supplied.) ers" must never have read Isaiah 9:16: "The Walla College School of Theology, ap- H. Lloyd Leno leaders of this people cause them to err; and they pear to be continuing their evangelistic Vancouver, Wash. that are led of them are destroyed?' activities in Russia. Reports by friends Also, Christ did not admonish the people to follow their leaders in His day. and relatives of the team members, as The leaders rejected the 1888 message as have well as contacts with Russian sources, Christian Challenge the leaders all down the line — killing and ston- indicate that those areas where the ing the prophets. teams are at work have not yet felt the In response to your editorial of Aug. 5, 1991, Ellen White never admonished us to follow the I would like to submit an idea. leaders, but only the Spirit of God. effects of the civil unrest. We pray that Why not invite a little competition among the Alice Rhoads this apparent tranquility will grace their various Christian churches (not just Adventist) Spokane, Wash. missions to conclusion; that this unrest to see how much money for each of these "causes" will be quickly resolved; that the Opera- can be raised? We could begin with Russian --1,441i I don't understand, Alice, by what scrip- Bibles, for example. tural foundation one can justify a blanket tion Bearhug outreach will continue to The individual churches can decide how best denunciation of leadership. If I read my Bible grow. to raise the money (we might even get some great correctly, severe Divine discipline was fre- Some postponement of evangelistic fund-raising ideas ourselves), the end result be- quently meted out to those who "murmured" efforts may occur; however, no North- ing the Christian community pulling together or who attempted to assume the reins of to help Russian people who are starving to re- leadership. western outreach to Russia has been ceive God's Word. The Spirit of God inspired the Apostles (com- canceled at press time. We pray that this window of opportunity, darkened now by the clouds of civil tension, will re- main open to the gospel. Clearly, the Holy Spirit is at work. Operation Bear- ABOUT THE COVER hug remains in effect, ready to reach out, As one can readily see, this is a double exposure, something that isn't easily done. Lorayn Beaver, perhaps in new and more innovative Caldwell, Idaho, a retired professional portrait photographer, writes "There was a lot of testing and a ways, as events unfold in Russia. lot of fun doing this photograph of Cindy Lauterbach, a Walla Walla College student who lives in Nampa?' Mrs. Beaver uses Professional Ektachrome EPP 100 Plus film in her Canon A-1 Camera.

Editorial September 16, 1991 On the Withering Away of Leaders

By Ed Schwisow free market to avoid the threat of tyrannical mind. Everything He did carried the prospect leaders and the canker of taxation. To this of a deeper application, from His decision to A mountain of day, moderate and conservative free-marketers, allow the death of His best friend Lazarus, to cartons (huge boxes, and to a more severe degree, far-right political His willingness to order His life according to brown, white and parties, still preach this idea. a punctilious time schedule which, apparently, gray) grew in the Early Adventists, who were, in effect, pro- could not deviate from plan by even one day. lobby of the North testing the protestantism and renaissance- What Christ did, He did perfectly; no Pacific Union office bound Catholicism of their day, saw little leader today can stand before us with His un- in Portland. need for church government. Leaders just failing perfection, and even if one did, that Men and women happened; the Lord provided. Leaders farmed perfection would be seen only in retrospect, who usually sit at and they wrote and they held camp meetings, as the disciples perceived their master only desks and encode Ed Schwisow and that was enough. after His resurrection. Therefore, by definition, their thoughts on And so, in a way, each system — commu- we should not expect perfection from our lead- video display terminals, now marshalled nist, democratic and Adventist — harbors a ers, though we should hope and pray for it. amazing athletic skills. They pushed, tugged, tinge of anarchy, and to this day, we see But in the divine system, unlike other strained and wheeled the boxes toward the vestiges of these feelings. failed utopian ideas, God calls for leaders front door. Bruce Johnston, union president, to stand as models and parable speakers managed the maze in open-necked knit shirt The Bible Norm before their peers; neither higher, nor lower, and casual slacks. With the volunteers, he nor apart from nor special in any sense of sorted, counted, labeled, thanked and smiled Despite the trends at Adventist World glory, except that the congregation sees in as the cardboard-swathed baggage grew to Headquarters (a historic reorganization is now them a special calling to devote their lives ruinous proportions, destroying the simple occurring, attempting to cut down on ex- to a special gospel-modeling career. interior decorating of the lobby. penses, and to make more funds available for That some leaders become living parodies But we didn't care about interior decorating. direct evangelism) there's little prospect that rather than living parables of Gospel power Adventist organization will "wither awaV.' Nor Bruce Johnston, our president, was bound for Continued on next page Russia to reach out to thousands in the name has that ever been promised. of the Lord. And not just any place in Russia. We will remain organized, as a church. But He was going to Leningrad, the pride of the in order to work together, we need to under- Russian people; the city which every Russian stand what we should expect of leaders. leader since Peter the Great has longed to Organization — the allotting of responsi- Sept. 16, 1991 Vol. 86, No. 17 name his own. bility — is Biblical. The cloud alone could have guided the Israelites through the Red One Way to Siberia Sea, but God chose to honor the man Moses with the responsibility of modeling (through When Operation Bearhug news started his outstretched arm) His power. And though North Pacific Union Conference showing up in the GLEANER a few months God began with an autocracy, that one-man (USPS 394.560) ago, a lot of phone calls came in. Most callers president, congress and supreme court Address all editorial, advertising and address change correspondence to: seemed to like the idea of Northwestemers wrapped into one soon gave way to a system sharing the gospel with Russians. But others that employed a good number of the people GLEANER North Pacific Union Conference took a more open-clawed approach to Bear- in camp administration. Though that hug. It would clearly be just fine with them, P.O. Box 16677, Portland, OR 97216-0677 generation failed in its mission, the problem (503) 255-7300 it seemed, if some of our leaders declined to was one of the communal heart, not one of Acting Editor, Ed Schwisow use the return half of their tickets. camp organization. Now, as we Northwestemers try to adapt Advertising Assistant, Pam Groff Editorial Assistant, Greg Alekel to the World Church challenge of Global Parabolic Leaders Editorial Secretary, Lorraine Juberg Mission, it may be a good time to think about Published by the North Pacific Union Con- leadership. Does God really need humans to What, then, should we expect of our lead- ference of Seventh-day Adventists help Him lead? ers? It seems that we should expect much the Please Note — Every reasonable effort is made Amazingly enough, if there is one thing same sort of thing that God expected of a to screen both editorial and advertising materials that Adventists share with Communists and Moses, or of an Elijah, or even of a Daniel. and to avoid error in this publication. But the American Capitalists (some company!), it's a We should expect technical skills, of course. North Pacific Union Conference GLEANER cynicism about the whole idea of leaders, But if we look closely at the lives of these does not accept responsibility for categorical or period. Bible men, we will see humble servants who typographical errors, nor for advertisers' claims. Each movement came about because of a accomplished their greatest roles as their lives North Pacific Union Conference GLEANER, revolt against "kingly power": America against served as walking parables of the power of ISSN number 0746-5874, is published semi- British royalty; Communism against Czarist God. monthly except July and December for $10.00 per year by Color Press, 312 S. College Ave., Col- Russia; Adventism against any and all empire It's often been said that the sermon of the lege Place, Wash. 99324-1222. Second-class post- building in the here and now. Our Kingdom life speaks 100 times more convincingly than age paid at College Place, Wash. was not of this world. that of the mouth. Christ led, and His life, LITHO U.S.A. CP44184 Communism promised that government as well as His utterances, were a parable; like would "wither away" in a utopian society. (It's a parabolic minor, they reflected perfect linear POSTMASTERS ONLY: Send form 3579 to withering away, all right, but hardly in utopia.) reality, as it could be in God. North Pacific Union GLEANER, P.O. Box American capitalism, likewise, needed He spoke unforgettable parables that re- 397, College Place, Washington 993240397. nothing more than the "invisible hand" of flected new realities every time they came to

NPUC Gleaner Editorial 3 is occasionally true. Yet, the calling to member, if you aren't afraid of change, you're out leadership, in and of itself, is inherently a Give Jesus the Keys of step with 95 percent of the rest of the flock, who ARE afraid of it. If you try to bring substan- humbling one, and carries with it the pale I am writing in response to the letter "Wants tive change to a religious community, you'll need of depression and disillusionment. ("Jesus the Car Keys (July 15 issue). . . . the wisdom of Solomon, the diplomacy of Kiss- Christ:' a minister once cried, "is a very The statement that the younger generation inger, the iron will of Thatcher, the drive and does all the compromising is false. Rather, there tough act to follow:') political savvy of Gorbachev, and the ability to is an attempt to force the lovers of truth into com- make people think your idea came straight from Recognizing this, I have chosen to hold promise so the devil can bring false worship into God Himself (or better yet, from themselves). up the hands of the Moseses and the the church, telling people they can be saved in Then you might succeed. Aarons, the Elijahs and the Daniels among their sins. For starters, if you can force readers to THINK By the way, I'm 15. As for me, I'll let Jesus drive us today. with the brains God gave us, He will one day say the car! to you, "Well done!" I'm as independent as they come here in Ezrela Palmer R.E. Cook the Northwest. But I do plan to be at the Fall Creek, Ore. Portland, Ore. airport when Bruce Johnston's plane So rarely do we hear from articulate touches down from Russia. Bruce is the kind Thanks, R.E. You pose a daunting young letter writers such as Ezrela, that we gauntlet for a new editor. I believe that the ma- of leader who won't need any help with his printed excerpts from this letter, despite its men- jority of Adventists prefer change to stagnation. luggage when he returns. You see, he will tion of worship format. As stated in Aug. 19 A certain tidal current must flow, intellectually issue, however, we will generally cease coverage probably have given everything away to the and spiritually. of the Celebration Church question as a quid- Russian people. We are a church dedicated to changing the pro-quo discussion among our readers. world. We stand, immutable on principle, yet That's the kind of leadership even a child highly elastic in seizing new opportunities to can understand and follow. —,64 Apostate Anthems present our case to an ever-changing society. Ed Schwisow is Acting Editor of the GLEANER. This letter is in regard to your response to M.L. King of Portland, Ore., in Letters to the Editor, Aug. 5, 1991. GLEANER Cover To declare loud religious rock music, which is desecrating some churches today, as grandiose an- Pictures Needed thems, shows what an awful state of apostasy our Each fall the GLEANER purchases transparen- LETTE S beloved church is in. However, let it be known cies for the next year's covers. This year the cover that amid all this Babylonianism a true revival judges will look at submissions in early December. Letters are we corned for publication. The of primitive godliness is going on amongst many editor reserves the right to reject letters and The following rules will apply. Read them of the laity in our church. Sadly enough, many carefully. where necessary, to edit for continuity and space others don't even know it's happening. requirements. Letters must be signed and should 1. All transparencies must be mailed or deliv- Harry A. Knopper, M.D. ered in person so as to be in the GLEANER of- not be more than 150 words in length except, Pasco, Wash. where, in the editor's discretion, more space is fice by Wednesday noon, Nov. 27. For mailing available. Address letters to Editor, Box 16677, Indeed, we should daily seek for Godly from distant areas you should allow a week or 10 Portland, OR 97216. revival. Please note, however, that the issue set days. before GLEANER readers was that of the harm- 2. Each photographer may submit up to 10 ful effects of high-volume music. The letter transparencies. Submissions of greater amounts Looking to God writer suggested rock music as an example; I from one individual won't be considered. (Slides submitted "grandiose anthem" as an alternative and transparencies mean the same to us.) 3. Transparencies should be 35mm only. Don't In response to Ed Schwisow's letter of Aug. 5, form of high-volume worship. The ability to in- dict a whole church on the basis of two words send larger transparencies or color negative prints. it seems as though we have an editor who is con- They can't be used. cerned as to where we are going with all our talk from one editor's pen shows amazing precocity of judgment. 4. All transparencies must be of a vertical and priorities. format. I wouldn't want to put anyone down who feels 5. The slides must be taken in the Northwest, strongly about any issue, but only to ask some which includes the states of Alaska, Idaho, Mon- questions of each one. . . . When we strike out I agree the musical instruments are too loud. ... The organ and piano (they put [al microphone tana, Oregon and Washington. against the behavior or beliefs of others, of what 6. Put your name and address on the frame of spirit are we? When we point a finger at some- in by [the] hammers and strings) played so loudly each slide. thing, do we realize we have three pointing back for congregational singing thbt you can not hear 7. Send original slides only. Duplicates will not at us? Are we praying prayers like, "Lord, thank [the] singing or pick out the tune for all these he considered. you that I am not as other men?" Are we gen- new hymns we are to sing. 8. Slides submitted shouldn't be similar to uinely concerned about the behavior of our I have noticed this in more than one church. covers used during the past two years. If you have brothers and sisters or (just) that we might be em- Loud music does not bring walk softly, talk softly, recognizable people in the picture, you should barrassed to be linked with them? . . . and reverence to my mind. . . . be prepared to furnish a model release for each Having our conversation and questions on Ronica Hopkins one. what our God is like just might lead us to behold Algona, Wash. 9. Him instead of a certain kind of belief or The GLEANER is interested in having slides of church activities such as baptisms, Pathfinders, behavior. It's doubtful that we will ever see Community Services work, etc. everything alike, but to be unified on what our Thoughtful Advice 10. Be prepared to furnish your biographical in- God has to be like, could be a start toward com- formation as well as photographic data on your ing away from fault-finding and finger pointing. Your editorial "How Far Can I Kick the Ball slide if it is purchased. You will receive forms for For by beholding Him we can become changed on Sabbath?" was thoughtfully done. It suggested this information. into His likeness. willingness to examine imponderable, existential 11.The GLEANER pays $50 for a one-time Ed Sager questions. . . . cover use for each transparency purchased. All Vancouver, Wash. I commend your desire for change. But re- slides submitted will be returned promptly. Those selected for publication will be held for approx- imately two months or until color separations are made. ABOUT THE COVER 12. Slides will be returned at regular postal rates which are paid by the GLEANER. If you want This old miner's cabin is a relic of Alaska gold mining days. The slide was taken by Danny Whatley, your slides insured or handled in a different man- Palmer, Alaska, near Hatcher Pass, a recreation area in the Talkeetna Mountains, about 20 miles from ner, include extra postage. Palmer. 13. Submissions for GLEANER covers, should Whatley writes that the area was the center for hard rock gold mining in the 1930s. For this picture be sent to GLEANER, Box 16677, Portland, OR he used his Minolta SRT-101 Camera with K-64 film. He currently works in construction management 97216-0677. but also labors seasonally as a guide and bush pilot.

4 Features September 16, 1991 Northwesterners Help In Moscow Outreach

By Don Gray Adventists in Moscow had made the dire prediction that few would attend our Mos- It could have been just another line to cow meetings in July, since nearly everyone buy imported shoes or fresh bread. But this would be away on vacation. However, the line beside the Palace of Culture in down- first night we had to lock the doors at 7:30 town Moscow was different. because we realized that safety would not From three o'clock in the afternoon, they permit all to come in. gathered to await their turn for a place to Every spot where a person could sit or sit or stand that evening — not to buy, not stand was occupied, so we announced a to eat, but simply to hear the Word of God. second meeting for 8:30 that night and two When the doors finally opened, the meetings each night thereafter, one at 5 crowd surged into the auditorium, nearly p.m. and one at 7 p.m. The hall was con- People line up early to get into the meetings. over-running anyone in its path. Never, in tinuously packed for both sessions. . 40 years of evangelism, have I seen such More than 3,500 persons enrolled in the hunger for the Word of God! Bible Course offered at the meetings. The ministers simultaneously baptized 462 can- As we faced opening night of the crusade, lessons, The Bible Says, which Marge and didates. Sunday, June 30, our team had had no way I had written, had been translated into An audience, estimated at 3,000 people, of knowing the outcome of this, the first Russian and were used to instruct those in eagerly crowded around the lake to witness full-scale series of modern evangelistic attendance on the details of the Adventist this spectacular event. Cameramen from the meetings ever held by Adventists in the city message. More than 70,000 lessons were local television station videotaped the hour- of Moscow. completed and corrected by 40 Adventist long service. The Moscow Adventist con- Our team featured Mark and Ernestine ministers who participated in the field gregation provided an exceptional back- Finley from Berrien Springs, Mich. (Mark school. ground of sacred music. had just flown in from Seattle, where he had On the fourth weekend, a new church was This baptism brought to 502 the number been speaking at the Washington started in the Palace of Culture. More than baptized thus far in the Moscow Crusade. Conference Camp Meeting; he had also just 1,400 people crowded into the church serv- Another 200 were in a baptismal class in been named associate speaker of It Is ice. Only about 300 of these were church preparation for baptism in the near future. Written telecast.) members. One of the ladies who was baptized in the Dr. DeWayne and Carla Butcher of The services on Sabbath continue to be Moscow meetings is the chief English trans- Fletcher, N.C., were to speak on health and filled to capacity, with double sessions lator for the government publishing house. preventive medicine; my wife, Marge, and conducted on Wednesday nights to study She has negotiated with them to put into I served as crusade assistants and, later, as the Book of Revelation. print the books, Open Secrets, and Good an advance team for similar meetings in But the culmination of the meetings News for Today's Kids lessons, evangelistic Leningrad, which are in progress this month came in a beautiful Moscow park. Here, the materials Marge and I have written, and with Bruce Johnston, North Pacific Union largest Adventist baptism ever conducted which we have released. This means that Conference president, as speaker. there or in Europe, took place when 32 every bookstore in the U.S.S.R. will carry these books. It is said that God works in mysterious ways! Now Russian Adventists will be able to share a full-message book for adults and a children's book of lessons about the good news of salvation. Plans are progressing to produce a set of slide/tape Bible studies to help Russian pastors and laymen present the Adventist

Russians are eager to study the Bible school A baptism of 462 persons takes place in this lake in a Moscow park. lessons.

NPUC Gleaner Features 5

faith in evangelistic meetings. Marge and I will coordinate the production of these Russian-language audio-visual programs. The Oregon Conference is moving a large Forox camera from Union College to Oregon for this project. James and Joyce Dutro of Washougal, Wash., have set up a trust fund with the North Pacific Union Conference that will match the General Conference funds to pay for the development of these film programs. It is hoped that these will be completed by the end of the year so the Russian Adventists can use them in 1992. As dramatic events unfold in Russia, let us pray that the work of the church will permit even greater opportunities to reach those who are anxious and hungry to hear God's Word. We believe the angels of Revelation 7 are now holding back "The winds of strife" so that the Gospel will reach everyone possible, and the servants of God may be The auditorium is packed with people. sealed with the Seal of God. Now is the time to support Russian broth- welcome from their Northwestern Ad- Don Gray is a retired minister/evangelist now en and sisters as never before, while they ventist family, in the name of Jesus. residing in Washougal, Wash. await with open arms for that bear-hug Bruce Johnston

Begins Leningrad Crusade BCASIHUG By Ed Schwisow to Leningrad in early August. He reports that the city, then, and possibly even more In the wake of political turmoil that first so today, with the deposing of the recent threatened freedom in Russia, but which, coup, is basking in a glow of freedom-loving in its passing, has widened the windows of tolerance and interest in Western society. gospel opportunity, Bruce Johnston, presi- "Seventh-day Adventists, in particular, are dent of the North Pacific Union Confer- seen in the city as highly intelligent and ence, has begun a four-week, citywide evan- prosperous people says Gray. "To attend gelistic crusade in Leningrad. Adventist meetings is a highly desirable Working with Duane McKey, pastor of thing. People want to find out how they can the Pendleton, Ore., Church, Dan and enjoy the benefits of the Adventist way of Lillian Guild and Duane Bietz, a surgeon life." from Portland, Ore., Johnston and his wife Gray believes that the number of people Marianette will remain in Russia through- who will be touched by Johnston's preaching out the month of September. The evange- during the first week of evangelism could stretch into the tens of thousands. Provi- Bruce and Marianette Johnston depart for listic meetings will be similar in format to Russia on Aug. 25. those in the Moscow crusade described by sions for up to 3,500 Bible students have Don Gray in the preceding article. been taken to the city. ventism as a religion that helps in the here- Johnston will speak in the Leningrad Equal to the Russian interest in the teach- and-now while preparing the soul for the Civic Theater in the center of the city, ings of the church is their attraction to the hereafter. directly across from one of the subway main message of physical and mental prosperity In a city of millions, the Leningrad terminals. Thirty Russian Adventist min- offered by Adventist physicians. Adventist Seventh-day Adventist Church consisted of isters will assist in the crusade. Johnston will physicians who have traveled to Russia re- between 170 and 180 members when John- also hold seminary-style classes for these port that they have been permitted to ad- ston set foot in Russia. What he leaves ministers in a course of practical instruction dress some of the highest officials of the behind on the final evening of the crusade, known as a "field school:' regions where they have visited. The mes- Sept. 26, could well form the nucleus for The spiritual and intellectual climate for sage of well-being they carry has sparked many new congregations in this, one of the the crusade is ideal, reports Gray, who laid dialogue with influential Russian people, most progressive cities of a Russia reborn in the groundwork for the meetings with a visit and has added luster to the image of Ad- the spirit of Operation Bearhug.

Features September 16, 1991 Growing Northwest Convocations Strengthen Ethnic Outreach

By Ed Schwisow it should come as little surprise that their to the Korean event. Average attendance annual cultural rallies, or camp meetings, at these events grows each year, says Wayne Many Northwestern Adventist parents are growing rapidly. Shepperd, director of the North Pacific of Korean descent send their children to Union Conference Multicultural Department. Sunday school. They do it, they say, so that Convocations Increase future generations will keep the Sabbath. Hispanic Convocation The logic baffles most of us. But to the The decline of some general camp Korean parent, the issue is clear. Should meetings in North America has placed no No convocation has been so explosive in their children lose their native tongue, the damper on the appeal of ethnic growth as the yearly Hispanic convocations, Northwest ministry to Korean immigrants, convocations. German and Scandinavian usually held in July or early August in one begun at such sacrifice during the past 15 camp meetings no longer convene, prey to of four places: College Place, Wash.; years, would die away. years of low European immigration. Seattle, Wash.; Portland, Ore., or, as it was So, on Sabbaths, Korean Adventist chil- Yet, with the upswing in Eastern Euro- this year, for the first time, Caldwell, Idaho. dren go to church, but on Sundays, they go pean migration to the Northwest, (Portland, With nearly 2,000 Spanish-speaking Ad- to language school. Korean parents are Ore., it is said, is a favored destination for ventists in the Northwest, and with an determined to keep their Northwestern Russians) Operation Bearhug may soon have annual growth rate in excess of 10 percent, churches alive and young. to go earnestly into the camp meeting this event can attract 1,000 persons on a Does such long-term planning make business. clement weekend. sense? Apparently so. During calendar year During the late 1970s and 1980s, yearly Eliseo Briseno, Hispanic coordinator for 1990, in terms of percentage increase, the convocations of Samoans, Native Ameri- the North Pacific Union, believes that the Korean-speaking churches of the Northwest cans, Hispanics and Blacks were organized, Hispanic convocations fill a deep need for were the fastest-growing in the union. And on a union or bi-union basis, in addition religious identity among North American Hispanic peoples, the majority of whom PREPADATE, PARA EL ENCUENTFiii TU DIOS have moved geographically in the same 11.1111111Jalill transaction as they have responded to the Holy Spirit. 9,5 AMMAN Aside from being only marginally fluent in English, many of the new converts value the chance to mingle in a larger group of believers. The assembly of many hundreds reassures them that Adventism has a wide and supportive network. A Ph.D. at the pulpit confirms that the faith makes intel- lectual sense; that, as an Adventist, their family will be given opportunities consistent with the promise of the new land. The building of new church structures and the Christian education of young people have become major themes of recent convocations. "We must keep the Hispanic culture alive in America:' I was told by Pastor Javier Soto Valle, guest speaker at the recent convoca- "Prepare to Meet Your God" proclaims the banner as representatives of different Hispanic nations tion. Soto pastors a large Hispanic church show the diversity of the Latin American culture. in mid-city Los Angeles. "If our children lose the culture and the language, we will not retain our evangelistic potential with the Hispanics in this country."

Native American Camp Meeting

Usually in mid-June, the Native North American Camp Meeting is held in the Pa- cific Northwest or Canada. Now in its 10th year, it attracts consistent worshipers from thousands of miles away. Regional camp meetings are also held in Alaska and Canada. Black Convocation is held in Seattle, with heavy participation, in 1991. An unusual feature of this camp meeting

NPUC Gleaner Features 7

is that many of the worshipers are Anglos tation to laity, and which seems to exclude who have lived near, or in, reservation areas, union departmental directors from and who have raised up groups of Native membership. American belivers. The reason for this lay The constitution is now being analyzed Anglo involvement soon becomes apparent; by attorneys to determine if such a reading for decades, the church offered no system- is justified, and whether the Multicultural atic outreach to all Native Americans. director (who represents all cultural entities A tribute to lay Adventists' willingness within the union) could be instated on the to place their talents where the organized committee under the current document. church could offer few resources, Anglo Ad- "Black worship and methods of outreach ventists, many now well past retirement, are quite distinct from those employed by have often spent years of their lives near other cultures:' says Shepperd. "This is not reservations, specifically to raise up groups a racial issue; it's a cultural issue, and we of believers. must respect these differences, for they are In some cases they have succeeded within deeply engrained and come down to Black a few years; in others, limited success has members through hundreds and hundreds Wayne Shepperd exhorts at Black Convocation, come only after 30 or 40 years of prayerful of years time. 1991. and careful cultivation of interest. These "What the Black Adventist community congregations, however, now form the back- is saying is: 'We want to grow; we want to bone of Native American work in North succeed in the Northwest, and we want America. every possible chance to succeed: " says With the installation, nearly three years Shepperd. "This is a serious issue, and it is ago, of a Native American director, Monte being handled in a serious way, through Church, in the North Pacific Union office, channels:' the North American Division has signalled As with other ethnic camp meetings, the a concerted interest in evangelizing Native Black Convocation serves to energize the North Americans. cultural identity of Northwestern Advent- At camp meetings such as the one held ists, Shepperd says. "It gives us an identity; this year at the Adventist Indian Center on it helps tell us where we're going. We have the Umatilla Reservation near Pendleton, a mission to reach our culture. Black Con- Ore., testimonies flow as plans are an- vocation helps us focus on that mission:' nounced for added faith incursions into the Anglo-American leaders often take part in Native American communities of North A Sacred Heritage ethnic convocations, as does Stephen McPher- America. son, president of the Idaho Conference, in Church, himself a Native American, is Amazingly, says Shepperd, unity thrives greeting the Hispanic Convocation crowd currently producing a multi-tape series of best when cultural differences are respected through an interpreter, in this case, Eliseo Briseno of the North Pacific Union Conference. evangelistic videotapes that cover all Ad- and allowed to flourish. "It's when you in- ventist doctrines, but employs the imagery vade, when you try to lump together, when and story-telling format of all Native you try to dilute, that differences become then you're dividing to be conquered:' says American spiritual instruction. difficulties:' says Shepperd. Shepperd. Though promoting Christian unity by de- "But when you're strengthening your own fining cultural differences may seem about as cultural identity so that you can live your Black Convocation logical as sending children to Sunday school Christian culture to the fullest, and share so more will keep the Sabbath, the logic The annual Black Convocation is the it to the fullest, you have a Powerful force does seem to hold true in human relations. most venerable, and also the most complex for good. We need this kind of reinforce- "When you're putting down other cul- of the ethnic events. ment in the Northwest. And it's happen- tures; when you're professing your own The convocation this past spring coin- ing, not just at convocation time, but every superiority; when you're attacking others, cided with the mid-point of a three-year Sabbath. And that's good. unionwide plan for Black church growth. That the coordinator of these goals and objectives on the union level is not a voting member of the NPUC Executive Commit- tee has perplexed many in the Black Adventist community, who point out that the NPUC is not only the only such body in North America which has no Black leader at an executive level; it is also the only union with no Black departmental representation on its executive committee. A general dialog on this issue was con- ducted during the recent Convocation, and continues, in search of resolution. It was pointed out, during a recent dialog between Black and North Pacific Union Conference leaders, that the North Pacific Union is sub- ject to a constitution which was drafted in An out-of-door setting with nearby tents proves an ideal setting for Native North American Camp the mid-1980s to grant 50 percent represen- Meeting, 1991, near Pendleton.

14 News October 7, 1991

to visualize its impact in your community, plan to visit this event. A people-powered Cans for Jesus ferris wheel, built by local member Prince Baker, will be a prime attraction. By Michelle Liggett these things. The Lord is coming soon and For more information, contact Ardie it is important to teach the children of His Earhart by phoning (503) 757-7406. works:' said Katie's mom, Bonnie. Cans for Jesus" is the expression used Katie's dad, Gene, has donated damaged by two-year-old Ryan Herbel every time he farm pipe and scrap metal for recycling. But Two Women's Retreats sees a can. His older sister, Katie, has been Katie has to do most of the work. She has recycling to earn money for Russian Bibles. already raised $130 and plans on raising Scheduled in Oregon The Bibles will be used in the outreach of more. She has also influenced many of her Oregon's Women's Ministries has ex- the Idaho Conference in Operation Bear- cousins and friends. Katie's cousins have panded its support programs by establish- hug to Russia in October. already started to recycle, too. ing an Adventist Widowed of Oregon Katie is five years old and the daughter support group (see August 5 issue) and by of Gene and Bonnie Herbel. They live on Michelle Liggett is a senior at Gem State publishing a newsletter designed for women the campus of Gem State Academy in Cald- Adventist Academy. elders. well, Idaho. Katie has been collecting cans, In addition to seminars, prayer circles and jars, tin, newspapers, pipes, stainless steel, study groups, annual retreats have become cardboard, and anything else that can be a significant part of the friendship develop- recycled. All of the money is applied to the ment among Oregon Conference women. Bibles. "It's more than getting together as women She got the idea from Our Little Friend. that binds us:' says Janet Haley, avid retreat The magazine ran a story about children Ryan and mender. "It's an opportunity like no other who were helping do things for Jesus. Katie Katie Herbel in our busy lives to share miracles as well was concerned because she wasn't helping as problems, to focus on our spiritual needs, Jesus. and to join together in unified prayer:' "I am glad Katie is doing this as a child. Five years ago, Haley brought her friend, I hope she will do it when she is old. . . . who was studying to be baptized, to Oregon's You have to take time to teach your children first women's retreat at Trestleglen Camp. "It was wonderful!" Haley says. "We laughed, we cried, we walked together in the woods, we sang, we prayed. It brought OREGON us close to each other and to the Lord:' Others express similar sentiments as they recount the favorite parts of their retreat experiences. Warm fellowship, good food and peaceful surroundings are memories as meaningful as learning more about God's plan for women, His abiding love, and rec- ognizing that others understand where they have been, and where they want to be. In the past, conference retreats in the north and south of the state have been held at camp-like settings. This year's schedule again offers two choices, but only one is at a traditional away-from-it-all spot near Med- ford, Oct. 25-27. The other will be at Lin- coln City's Shilo Inn, Oregon's newest con- vention center, Nov. 8-10. Retreats have been so successful that local church groups are planning their own. Ruthie Jacobsen, Women's Ministries direc- Youngsters Give Shower tor, explains the philosophy of retreats: "Our Forest Grove Earliteen girls brought together the ladies of the Church recently for breakfast in honor lives today are often hectic as well as lonely, of Renee Apple, expectant mother. The girls, with the help of their mothers and leaders, gave a baby and sometimes it doesn't seem we have time shower. Shown with Renee Apple (in chair) are (clockwise from right of Renee), Krista Rice, Melissa for reflection. More than ever, we need to Sturgis, Brittany Apple, Carrera Lizzi, Lisa Shelton, Rachel Fjarli, and Tami Rice. reach out to other women. In a retreat Geri Warmanen setting there is ample opportunity for restoration and for rejoicing:' being co-sponsored by the Corvallis Kiwanis Helen R. Smith Corvallis Health Fair Club and will include various runs, a yolks- Invites Participation walk, healthful food, and more than 25 The Corvallis, Ore., Seventh-day booths manned by local health organi- 5t is a solemn thing to die, Adventist Church is planning its second zations including the local hospital and but a far mow solemn thing to health fair on Sunday, Oct. 20, at the medical clinic. live. 5 Eestimordes, p. 466 LaSells Stewart Center in Corvallis. It is To discover what a health fair is like, and

16 News October 7, 1991 tion for the church as it faces challenges arbitrary words and judgmental attitudes room for necessary growth and develop- before it. abound. ment, searching the Scriptures diligently. The "code book" approach to understand- In contrast, the "case book" approach Teachers are not afraid to present the Scrip- ing Scriptural truths paints a picture of a paints a surprisingly different picture of a tures in their full light, exposing both the God with a short fuse. This view results in God who has a very long fuse; a God who good and brutal elements. Lewiston mem- fear of deep Bible study; young people dis- is willing to roll up His sleeves and get His bers feel a fresh determination to work to- illusioned by inconsistent standards and hands dirty in order to get through the gether to hasten that day of Holy Spirit out- behaviors; people afraid to think for roadblocks in our minds, all the while pouring because of the insights shared by themselves; teachers who present the Scrip- preserving dignity and freedom of choice. Dr. Thompson. tures "glossy side up"; and churches where In this scenario, churches give time and Cheri Stowers

Operation Bearhug in Cheney, Wash. June Christensen's K-4 students at Four Winds Christian Academy in Cheney, Wash., prepare felts that will be taken to the Soviet Union this summer as a part of Operation Bearhug. Along with the felts, the FWCA students will also send 30 boxes of crayons and small colorbooks to children of the Soviet Union. Sue Patzer

Christian Fourth Annual Upper Columbia Conference Women's Retreat October 18-20, 1991 Camp MiVoden Hayden Lake, Idaho Retreat brochures are available in all UCC churches or contact: GUEST SPEAKER: LONDA Mrs. Sharon Hanson Upper Columbia Conference Corona, California P.O. Box 19039 Spokane, WA 99219 Because of limited space, reservations can only be accepted by written application—no phone reservations. 2 Editorial October 21, 1991 OP€1141011 From Russia With a Bearhug BC,AIIIIUG Editor's Note: The fol- tremendous. The advantage of having an lowing are significant ex- American come in to Russia to preach and cerpts from an interview conducted by Ed teach is that it helps broaden their vision. For Schwisow with Bruce Johnston, president of the instance, we told them that we needed a North Pacific Union Conference, just hours after minimum of 10 churches in St. Petersburg; Bruce Johnston Johnston's return to Portland, Ore., after a you know, it just blew their minds. But by the month of evangelism in Leningrad/St. Petersburg time we were through, that's what they were Russia;. talking about. They were saying, "We've got to have more churches!' around a man, a civilian, and we crowded GLEANER: While Operation Bearhug GLEANER: And yet, to do what you did in and I asked the interpreter who this was. may create sensational headlines and tingle with the help of Duane Bietz, M.D.; Duane She found out this was Alexander Rutskow, our spines with exotic imaginings, does it McKey, and others, couldn't have been easy. vice president of the Russian Federation, really bring the Northwestern Adventist any Time, preparation, legal technicalities, ques- and he was commending these officers. real advantages? It could become a "foreign tions about coup de'tats. . . . How did you These were the officers who had gone down policy diversion" to keep our eyes off real surmount these obstacles? and brought Gorbachev back after the coup. problems at home? JOHNSTON: You know, we were sche- It was an historic moment, and then I JOHNSTON: Russia, with its new open- duled to leave on Aug. 25, and on Aug. 19, stepped up and got acquainted with the vice ness, has captivated our imagination, and they had a coup in which all public assembly president, and through my interpreter, I has drawn us together into a sense of was outlawed. But the coup failed rapidly, talked and commended him and Mr. Yeltsin coherence as a union. We're a team. You will beyond anybody's expectation, and we were for their courage in sustaining the country. note that Northwestern pastors are always right on schedule going in. We had no dif- Then he shook my hand and said: "The first involved in these campaigns, and they are ficulty. And the airlines were just super good priority is peace on this planet, and we must returning to their churches with enthu- to us. We had 27 pieces of luggage, includ- work together to accomplish that!' That was siasm. I believe that, in the end, this Op- ing big, big boxes. You can't imagine what a beautiful statement and I was able to use eration Bearhug experience will produce a a pile of stuff we had to take in, and they that in my meetings and also on my tele- companion upswing of evangelistic and wanted $109 per bag for any overage beyond vision interview. missionary fervor in the Northwest. His- our two that were allowed, and both Alaska Continued on page 6, col. 2 torically it's been true: One of the best ways and SAS (Airlines) took those bags and sent to revitalize the church locally is to mobilize them without any charge. It could have cost to serve others in missionary outreach. us well over $1,000. When we got into cus- toms, a young customs man looked at our A New Pitcairn luggage and just about threw up his hands. Operation Bearhug serves as a focus for the "What are they?" he asks, and I said, "Well, church. Even the kids are involved. We've they are equipment we have. We are having some public seminars and we've brought needed something like this, a new Pitcairn, North Pacific Union Conference some gifts, clothing. . . ." as it were. (A mission ship was outfitted (USPS 394-560) "Gifts!" he said. "Gifts?", and he called over earlier this century as a ministry to the South Address all editorial, advertising and address Sea Islands. It was named the Pitcairn, and a senior customs man and I explained. He change correspondence to: served as a symbol of Adventist commitment spoke fair English and I spoke to him and told him what we were there for, to help the GLEANER to mission. The funds were contributed North Pacific Union Conference people, and he let us on through, no problem. primarily by children, mostly in pennies, P.O. Box 16677, Portland, OR 97216-0677 nickels and dimes.) (503) 255-7300 • Fax (503) 253-2455 Barricade to Catapult GLEANER: Let's talk about the impact of Acting Editor, Ed Schwisow Operation Bearhug on the Russian people. GLEANER: Did you see or feel the effects Advertising Assistant, Pam Groff For four weeks you were an evangelist in the of the recent coup? Editorial Assistant, Greg Alekel Editorial Secretary, Lorraine Juberg second-largest city in that country. You JOHNSTON: In Moscow, we visited the Published by the North Pacific Union Con- trained pastors for evangelism while you parliament building where the people had ference of Seventh-day Adventists were there. Did you achieve your goals? erected barricades to guani Boris Yeltsin, Please Note — Every reasonable effort is made JOHNSTON: Yes, really, it was almost be- and I actually climbed up over the to screen both editorial and advertising materials yond our expectations. We had 25 ordained barricades. On the other side, I saw a group and to avoid error in this publication. But the pastors with us and about 15 laymen who of soldiers. There must have been, oh, North Pacific Union Conference GLEANER attended our classes. The response was just probably 15 or so, and they were all standing does not accept responsibility for categorical or typographical errors, nor for advertisers' claims. North Pacific Union Conference GLEANER, ISSN number 0746-5874, is printed semimonthly except July and December for $10.00 per year by Color Press, 312 S. College Ave., College Place, Wash. 99324-1222. Second-class postage paid at College Place, Wash. LITHO U.S.A. CP445I7

POSTMASTERS ONLY: Send form 3579 to North Pacific Union GLEANER, P.O. Box 397, College Place, Washington 99324-0397. An Olympic swimming pool is used for the baptisms of 212 persons in one day in St. Petersburg, Russia.

6 Features October 21, 1991 weight-loss program to take part in, while more than 36,000 callers each year, every rode two hours a night, each way, to attend providing an accepting environment in day, around the clock. The service provides the meetings after she saw me on TV. which to pursue and monitor weight loss; not only health information directly to • A variety of pregnancy related classes, community residents, but also refers them Professionals of Faith including early pregnancy, childbirth and to health classes, physicians and to emer- sibling courses; gency care when needed. GLEANER: Were these people curiosity • Mother/Daughter Seminar, which helps These health programs assure that WWGH seekers or spiritually driven? these women understand different person- continues to meet its commitment to care for JOHNSTON: Some were curiosity seekers, ality traits while improving communication; the health needs of the Walla Walla Valley, but it was just incredible the way they opened • Break Free stop-smoking program, which in the tradition of Adventists caring for the up their hearts. The interesting thing is that helped 16 out of 19 in the first class of this complete person in the name of Jesus. ft* the intellectual level of the audience was year to quit. very high. We had many professional people Another of the hospital's community- Stephen Payne writes for Walla Walla General attending, and their comments to us oriented programs is Ask-A-Nurse, which is Hospital's planning, marketing and communi- specifically was that when they went to other paid for entirely by the hospital. It helps cations department. Christian meetings, there was no meaning to it. It was exciting, but there was no content, and that in our meeting they got both the emotional satisfaction and the intellectual fulfillment as well. GLEANER: And then what happened? From the Pastor's Desk JOHNSTON: We had 212 candidates during our first baptism. But instead of treating them as a mass of people — and Promise Cards this is significant — we broke them up into small groups, and they began to meet in By Chad McComas 141 these groups. We realized that no pastor could handle that many new people, especially so many professionals on a mass God's Word has a way of touching basis. So, then, we asked for a report from people's lives that can't be matched by difillkti tab each small group, and that was exciting. anything else. Combine that with the joy One pastor said there were four physicians of giving people a small gift and you have in his group. What is happening is that the "Promise Card." to Promise Card, Corvallis SDA Church, there is a whole new church being created For several years now I've been using these 3160 S.W. Western, Corvallis, OR 97333. in Russia. There'll be some growing pains little cards at church, with friends and in in Russia, because it will not be the old ministry situations. I've found that the Holy Chad McComas is pastor of the Corvallis, church of the faithful who went through Spirit uses the messages in the cards to Ore., Church. persecution. (A report directly from St. touch hearts. There are nearly 100 different Petersburg, received in the GLEANER promises, but the giver of the card doesn't office, indicates that since that first baptism, know which message is in the card. It is 111 additional candidates have joined the sealed and must be opened by the recipient. church, with 65 to 70 preparing for baptism. In giving a person a card, I explain that °PeHANN FROM RUSSIA On Sabbath, Sept. 28, 500 persons from the Holy Spirit knows the message they ga cont. from page 2 Johnston's meetings met as a new con- gregation in a public meeting hall.) need. Sure enough — it happens! I've often BEAKRUGA been accused of peeking at the promise GLEANER: So that barri- GLEANER: Operation Bearhug. What before I give it so that I know that the cade, instead of being an obstacle, became can you extrapolate? What can you tell us promise in the card will match the situation. a catapult. about its future, based on your recent ex- God knows what the person needs. periences in Russia? People will often have tears well up in Television Exposure JOHNSTON: I think now we need to eval- their eyes after opening the cards and ask JOHNSTON: Yes. When we arrived in St. uate very carefully what we have accom- how I knew what they were going through. Petersburg, only a few handbills had been plished. That's why I'm sending Alf Birch I didn't, but God did. passed out. No television, no newspaper, no (Operation Bearhug coordinator) to Russia Recently I went to the bank to make a radio advertising, no posters put up, either. this month because we want a very, very deposit and the teller asked me where her We started Friday night with 375 people in thorough evaluation of the program. I sat promise card was. She knew me and expected an auditorium that seated 2,000. Can you with the union president, the local confer- the blessing the card brought. My wife used imagine? ence president, and also with Mikhail one in a department store when she saw a Fortunately, the conference was able to get Kulakov, the division president, and they are clerk having a rough day. The clerk later an interview on television for me, and that just radiant. It's transforming the Russian called and explained how the promise in the interview came between Saturday night and church. I asked them specifically, now, to eval- card helped her make the important decision Sunday morning, and was aired from St. uate the Bearhug programs, and they were to move back to live with her parents. Her Petersburg to the Finnish border. I had 10 very high on what our people have done dur- parents had been praying for that decision minutes between the evening news and a ing the past few months. They felt the Jere and the card was their answer. speech by the mayor of Leningrad. And that Patzer group, the Hockley-Corwin group, the I'd be glad to send you a promise card and really boosted our attendance on Sunday Jacobsen group, the Weigley group, all had form so that you can order a bulk supply. night. We jumped from 375 to 1,250. The done exceptional work. (At that point, the We use thousands each year. Send a quarter downstairs was full most nights from then Walla Walla College group's results had not and stamped, self-addressed return envelope on. One girl who spoke English told me she yet come into Moscow headquarters.)

NPUC Gleaner News 7

More Excitement Ahead channels. But before I proposed Operation power of the Holy Spirit to move a whole Bearhug, I read very carefully in the writings nation. I have to say that we can open our GLEANER: It does appear, since Opera- of Ellen White what this might mean to our hearts more, here at home, to make the tion Bearhug began, that mission giving is field, and if the down side of it might be that mission of the church our first priority. It's up, or at least, we have halted the continual we would be emphasizing Russia so much not going to be finished anywhere until it's decline of recent years. that we would forget our systematic giving. finished everywhere. And we need to realize JOHNS1ON: The Northwest is leading the I was encouraged to read that there would there are many opportunities, many hungry NAD at the moment in mission giving, and be a reflex action; that in giving to support people, here in the United States, who will we will be evaluating to see if all the money foreign fields, we would find increasing study the Bible. We need to seek them out that has gone into Operation Bearhug has support for the home field. There is evidence and see to it that evangelism is a priority. had a negative effect on what has usually that this is already happening here. The excitement of Operation Bearhug is gone through the regular Sabbath offerings My experience in Russia has shown me the only just beginning. WALLA WALLA COLLEGE

cerity, and warmth of response we experi- enced from hundreds of new friends — Expecting the Unexpected church members as well as individuals and BeAfIHUG families newly acquainted with the gospel. By Doug Clark basic subject material of the presentations. There are no words in any language to de- Following a visit to the Moscow Church scribe our feelings. Our feeble Russian The Walla Walla College Operation Bear- and the new theological seminary in "spasiba (thank you)" hardly conveyed our hug team traveled to the Soviet Union in Zaokski, our task was to conduct meetings deep gratitude to these people for their gifts August expecting the unexpected. No one as an initial evangelistic outreach for our and support. Their hearty bear hugs and was disappointed! Although our flight small churches in three eastern Siberian attempts at "thank you" and "good bye" also around the world began on time from cities. Because two of these cities hugged the only partially expressed how totally awe- Seattle and returned on schedule, nearly Pacific Ocean of eastern Asia, the imagery struck they were at the comforting and lib- everything in between was a surprise. The of Americans and Soviet citizens extending erating message of the Bible. unexpected ranged from swarms of flies on their reach across the sea lent itself very well We also left this city not knowing exactly air flights, to 95-cent-per-night hotel ex- to the Operation Bearhug logo and program. how our future in Russia would unfold. Two penses; it included an unnerving, if unsuc- Our goal was to share the gospel with our days before our planned departure to cessful, coup attempt to overthrow the Soviet brothers and sisters and to learn from Yakutsk, the news of the coup reached us Soviet government to the warm and won- them, as well, about what it meant to live as we entered our meeting hall on Monday derful response of Siberians to the gospel. in a society once officially set against evening, Aug. 19. Our limited sources of in- My group from WWC included four stu- religion. This mutual sharing and the warm formation initially indicated that President dents: Laura Constantinescu, sophomore responses to our presentations only intensi- Gorbachev was ill and, therefore, only tem- music and history major from Salem, Ore.; fied our appreciation for bear hugging. porarily being replaced by the small group Tami Galusha, junior elementary education Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, a city of of hardliners in control. Only later, with the major from Grand Terrace, Calif.; senior 250,000 on the Pacific coast of the Kam- aid of a short-wave radio and a couple of David Springer from Auburn, Wash., major- chatsky Peninsula, was our first stop. chance calls to the states (these take hours ing in theology; and theology graduate Among the surprises we enjoyed early on to set up, in fact, sometimes even days), did Larry Witzel (1991), who will be working the trip (en route to Russia, in fact) was the we come to realize the seriousness of the sit- this year with the Orchard, Wash., Church. discovery that we had no visa to visit this uation in Moscow. city; it was closed to all foreigners not spe- It was decision time. We agreed at the cifically invited by government officials. A beginning of this project that Operation Basic Bible day and a half of hectic activity on the part continued on next page The public meetings which occupied of the local ministry of religion office and most of our time, incorporated a variety of divine intervention finally resulted in a tem- student musical presentations — choruses porary permit allowing us to complete the accompanied by a guitar, flute solos and series of meetings. duets, and piano pieces. In addition, stu- dents were responsible for a health talk and TV Interviews a very poopular children's story each eve- ning. A brief archaeological slide program By the time we left Petropavlovsk-Kam- followed, which tied into the sermon. And, chatsky, our team had given seven two-hour since our purpose was a broad-stroke intro- programs, two 30.40 minute live television duction to the Bible and biblical themes, broadcasts, and one surprise (totally unex- the sermons emphasized major concepts pected until three minutes before it began) from the Scriptures' beginning to their end. one-hour program for the scientists and Creation, heros of faith under adverse cir- their families of an internationally recog- cumstances, the pressing problem of a good nized institute for the study of volcanos. God and an evil world, the gospel story and We left this city overwhelmed, com- WWC team at Red Square six days before coup the second coming of Jesus provided the pletely non-plussed, by the intensity, sin- attempt 8 News October 21, 1991

EXPECTING Beyond row #31 there was only a storage was unanimous to find a way to honor the continued from previous page closet and the "water closet" with all the church's request that we come, a way which appropriate pleasantries, odors, and flies added new meaning to flight in the late 20th attached to unattended outdoor plumbing. century. We managed, sight unseen, to charter Bearhug would function in a democratic fa- There were, we are certain, enough flies on a vintage (must have been from the 50s as shion. (We certainly didn't want another coup we estimated two minutes before boarding) or a mutiny, for that matter.) So we took a the ceiling of the plane to keep the jet 12-passenger bi-plane for one way and then vote. Although we never sensed any threat airborne in the event of engine failure. rode an overnight train on the return. to our personal safety and well-being, since Only a day after our arrival in Yakutsk did Although we only had three evening we were so far removed from Moscow, it did we learn with some relief of the end of the meetings in Komsomolsk, the rewards from give us pause to realize that we were without ill-fated coup attempt. But we also found that visit can only be measured with some- visas in a closed city (likely for military out then that, even with our tickets in thing other than a human yardstick. Not reasons) and that our next stop was 1,200 hand, we had no seats for the flight out of only was appreciation obvious among church miles inland, somewhere above the latitude the city and wouldn't be able to leave until members and the hundreds of people who of Anchorage, Alaska. Traveling to Yakutsk after the date of our connecting flight out attended. The team once again discovered would put us in an extremely vulnerable po- of the country. So, it appeared we were and was overwhelmed by the depth of heart- sition if a threatened nationwide strike of the trapped. We actually, and quite miracu- felt expression — an unfettered outpouring country's only airline would have taken place. lously, did work out new arrangements for the flight we wanted, only to see them of kindness and generosity that placed in dashed and our departure delayed a day for unique and humbling perspective some of Democratic Solutions other reasons. This gave us one more night our attempts at giving ourselves. We feel that We discussed the problem, playing our in our 95-cent-per-night hotel. By this time, we came home with much more than we purpose for coming to Siberia against not we had come to expect the unexpected. took (except for Laura who, unexpectedly, only understandable personal feelings, but Our meetings in Yakutsk met with the became separated from her appendix in a also what our families, parents, and friends same enthusiasm as in the previous city. Honolulu hospital on the return). must be going through. We prayed about it, Typically, from 200-300 people attended. Operation Bearhug provided a grand oppor- then tallied the vote. The decision was a Once the protective psychological barriers, tunity for Americans and Siberians to em- courageous one — to proceed with our plans formed from years of avoiding potential brace each other across the Pacific in the light in spite of the potential of being stranded KGB informants and from disillusionment of the gospel. We want to thank God for the in a Siberian prison town and to inform our due to failed promises from leaders, gave way privilege we have enjoyed in being a part of families of the vote. (Because of the tele- to trust, these gracious and grateful people its outreach and express gratitude to the phone system in the interior, however, we exploded with enthusiastic applause at the people behind the project, especially Alf had no further contact with the United good news they were hearing, most for the Birch of the North Pacific Union Conference States for a full week.) first time. The response was indescribable, and John Cress, Chaplain of Walla Walla Col- Without knowing the outcome of the simply beyond conception. lege. To those who supported our trip and who coup, we went to the airport for the trip Our final meeting location was Kom- prayed for our safety during momentous inland. Upon receiving boarding passes for somolsk na Amur, a military city established historical events in the U.S.S.R., we also owe row #32 on our flight, we located the proper by young, idealistic communists in 1932. We a deep debt of thanks. Operation Bearhug will plane (there was no one to show us which had no visa for this city, either, and were need your continuing help. We have only be- was the correct one and there were six forced to arrive too late at a connecting city gun to hug this bear. planes on the tarmac to choose from), only to catch the commercial flight to Kom- Doug Clark is dean of the WWC School of to discover that the craft had but 31 rows. somolsk. Decision time again and the vote Theology.

Adventist in the EDUCATION Northwest

AAA Faculty Notes • Auburn Adventist Academy teacher UCA Enrollment Takes Tom Allen was selected to participate in the • Tom Allen, Auburn Adventist Acad- 1991 summer "Space Orientation for Pro- Dramatic Jump emy physics teacher, has received a grant fessional Educators" program designed to from the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Upper Columbia Academy's year began provide a firsthand look at state-of-the-art with a bang, both literally and figuratively. Center to do studies in their flow cytometry technology. Allen spent one week at the laboratory. Of teachers in private and public The Sunday evening of registration, 242 Center in extensive historical and opera- schools in the Pacific Northwest who ap- students began the new year with the tradi- tions training from current and former plied for the grant, Allen was selected to tional handshake and a not so traditional NASA astronauts. fill the single opening in physics research fireworks display, courtesy of the Associated because of his intense interest in laser tech- • Under the leadership of its new prin- Student Body. nology. cipal, D. Wayne Culmore, Auburn Advent- UCA's enrollment also seemed to explode Following completion of his work at the ist Academy will continue with modifica- with approximately 40 more students than Hutchinson Center, Allen was also assigned tions of its drug abuse awareness and preven- last year joining the "Lion's Pride." So large a project in their flow-cytometry laboratory tion program, once known as youth to youth. was the sophomore class (78 at last count) at the University of Washington. Janet Neumann that additional sections in English, biology,

2 Editorial November 4, 1991 Reverie on a Dented Hubcap

By Ed Schwisow church, Northwestern in particular. If you of the conclusion of the event reported. readers don't approve, you can always write A few weeks ago, letters. You've never failed in the past. High Technology I bought a book called, Why Trade It New Stylebook The payoff for the GLEANER and the In? My car had just church will be profound. We will be able turned over 394,000 We're going to work on putting more to nearly instantaneously scan materials articles, tightly condensed, in each issue. We miles, and frankly, directly to computer for editing. We will like the old cowboy feel that many of you ate GLEANER brows- avoid errors of transcription and save valu- on his lame horse, ers. You like your news quickly, not boiled able operator time by typesetting from edited the hardest part of away, but, yes, boiled down. Not superficial, disks. The GLEANER will emerge with but neither to the depths of the last amen. fewer typographical errors, and with less Ed Schwisow letting go is deciding how to bring things Happiness is news rightly apportioned. personnel overhead. Your letters to us say For our writers and pastors, we'll release, to an honorable end. So, I bought the book. it loud and clear; it's time to put new tires Well, wouldn't you know. The book tells by year's end, a printed, tabbed manual for on the GLEANER. me everything I've already learned about GLEANER writers. The good things to do, how to keep a car going forever. There's the no-nos to foreswear; a glimpse at the Thanks for Your Help production process, the ways to use the sys- nothing — not one redeeming argument — Without the writing of Northwestern about how the economy will be strength- tem. The payoff to attentive writers will, indeed, be handsome. conference correspondents, church com- ened, how the starving will be fed, if I, only munication secretaries, pastors and laymen, I, will buy that new red 1992 T-Bird. the publication of this journal could not Which means I could have saved the Elementary Concerns continue. We value those of you, especially, $5.95 cover price on that paperback and who "jump" at interesting events; who sense picked up a couple of rebuilt hubcaps at the Last week, directors of communication the tastes and inclinations of GLEANER local Boring Junkyard. from the local conferences of the North continued on next page But what really puts a piston through my Pacific Union Conference spent two full days oil pan is that I could have WRITTEN that of their valuable time discussing with me book in a comfortable evening or two at my ways to make the GLEANER a better vehi- Commodore 64 computer. And with the cle of Northwestern information. (I learned, royalty checks, I could be coasting (oops, bad among other things, that local conferences word) home with a new long-block under the are extremely interested in the content and hood of my venerable 1976 Plymouth. process of placing material into the maga- zine.) These were some of their preliminary Long Live the GLEANER recommendations (subject to ratification by the GLEANER editorial board later this North Pacific Union Conference Those who named and published the month:) (USPS 394-560) GLEANER for the first time on April 17, (1)All news and announcements for con- Address all editorial, advertising and address change correspondence to: 1906, probably figured it would go through ference sections will be submitted to the local conference offices. There it will be GLEANER a few editions, then the Lord would come. North Pacific Union Conference But the Lord, in His mercy, has given us collated, processed, and sent on to the P.O. Box 16677, Portland, OR 97216-0677 more time: time for Operation Bearhug; GLEANER office. (503) 255-7300 • Fax (503) 253-2455 time to reach the world through radio (2) Letters, advertising, milestones, births, Acting Editor, Ed Schwisow satellites; time to glean the corners of the weddings and obituaries may be sent di- Advertising Assistant, Pam Groff harvest in the Northwest. rectly to the GLEANER, or may be routed Editorial Assistant, Greg Alekel Remember when the speed limit on the through the conference office. However, Editorial Secretary, Lorraine Juberg interstates sputtered from 55 to 65 mph, mailing them directly to the GLEANER Published by the North Pacific Union Con- back in September 1987? Back then, I put may speed the process on these items. ference of Seventh-day Adventists larger tires on the Plymouth. It rode like a (3) All material for GLEANER use Please Note — Every reasonable effort is made should be typed, DOUBLE SPACED, with to screen both editorial and advertising materials Thunderbird . . . well, almost. Now it's time and to avoid error in this publication. But the to apply the same concept to the few, if any strike-outs per page. We will also North Pacific Union Conference GLEANER GLEANER. accept material on computer diskette and does not accept responsibility for categorical or Letters you've been sending me tell me will return diskettes to owners, if diskettes typographical errors, nor for advertisers' claims. it's time to put bigger tires on the are labeled with return addresses. North Pacific Union Conference GLEANER, GLEANER. It needs to go farther, faster, (4) Newswriters will be encouraged to sub- ISSN number 0746-5874, is printed semimonthly more nimbly, with greater touring elan. mit photos with their stories, and to attempt except July and December for $10.00 per year by to condense their stories into extended Color Press, 312 S. College Ave., College Place, captions, rather than lengthy articles of Wash. 99324-1222. Second-class postage paid at Deeper Issues College Place, Wash. L111-10 URA. CP44572 print. The intent of this recommendation We're going to try some new things in is to make the GLEANER more browser 1992. More GLEANER issues will be friendly in its news sections. POSTMASTERS ONLY: Send form 3579 to North Pacific Union GLEANER, P.O. Box topical, looking more deeply, inquisitively, (5) Material should be dated, and sub- 397, College Place, Washington 99324-0397. into fascinating questions (issues) about the mitted to local conferences, within 30 days NPUC Gleaner Editorial 3 readers, and reward them with good stories Dave Snyder and Chaplain LeRoy Klein for go- Among the converts were my great-grandparents, aptly written. ing through a lot of trouble in fighting to come Gustave and Henrietta (Maas) Westphal. Their in and preach to us. . . . Mike Haynes son, Frank H. Westphal, later was the first Letters tell us that the GLEANER is Salem, Ore. Seventh-day Adventist minister to be sent to greatly loved and heavily read. The maga- South America in 1894. His brother, Joseph W., zine is lay oriented, so much so, in fact, that later joined him in 1901, and was the organizer we find that pastors often pass it by. This Keep It Coming of the work in South America, and later labored in Germany and Spain. Together with their is, perhaps, because pastors lean more to My GLEANER arrived today and I just had wives, these two spent a total of more than 100 topical informaiton than to news of the to write. After reading the letters I felt you would years in foreign mission service. Their direct Adventist culture. The GLEANER, while like to know someone enjoys the paper, from the descendants, counting spouses and in-laws, have remaining true to our culture, will attempt beautiful cover right through to the Person-to- spent well over 800 years in foreign mission Person, I don't miss any part of it. There is service. . . . to draw out this important readership. something interesting on each page. It is nice to I'm sure that Elder Decker little realized, as he A few letters have called for the hear what other churches are doing. Please keep held his meetings in New London, the far- GLEANER to be "retiree They make a it coming. Bertha Lawson reaching effects and results of his effort. I am plaintive case. But they're talking to the Bonners Ferry, Idaho thankful for it, as I have grandchildren and grand- nephews and grand-nieces who are sixth- wrong editor. We need a vehicle like the —414 A bow, please, to the volunteer writers, generation Adventists because of him. GLEANER to help us travel together to the one and all, who make this all possible! To you, Franklin A. Messinger, D.D.S. kingdom. It's the family sedan, and it's writers, a sincere and welcome echo: "Please Billings, Mont. worked great for 86 years. keep it coming:' The only way we're going to "retire" this Appreciates 'Old Friend' magazine is in changing the way the Lost Power GLEANER rubber meets the road. Tighter Your invitation to "jot down your thoughts" gripping on the corners of change; less I read your editorial with interest in the has given me the perfect opportunity to do just GLEANER of Sept. 16. that. It's been only recently that I've come to oversteer on the switchbacks of debate; pun- I'd like to know what has happened to our — and forgive me — appreciate the GLEANER. chier on the acceleration of running news; power of evangelism here in the Northwest. . . . It was about seven years ago that my Grand- smoother in its tour of current church We have not had a series of meetings. . . for father subscribed my name to the GLEANER. events. close to 10 years or more, probably more. . . . Since that time, I graduated from Academy, I am 67 years of age, but I still work. You guys moved to Connecticut for a year, then back to I think we'll enjoy the ride together. sitting up there with a barrel of ink probably feel College Place, Wash., then to Walla Walla, like writing me and asking why I don't get with Wash., and now most recently to Seattle, Wash. it. I am not a preacher. If I was, I would make All the while my faithful postmen delivering the my living that way. But I could sure ask my GLEANER to each and every new location I had friends, neighbors and relations to attend a se- been. ries of meetings. I have been attending a Methodist Church The last minister I asked about a series of with my husband and am really not satisfied with meetings asked me how would be the best way the fellowship, or lack thereof. I miss going to LETTE to go about it. I told him that was his job. church on the Sabbath and I feel that the Letters are welcomed for publ'cation. The Walden Davis GLEANER is really my last link to the life that editor reserves the right to reject letters and Roseburg,. Ore. I miss so dearly. where necessary, to edit for continuity and space I have been thinking about going to an Advent- requirements. Letters must be signed and should ist Church here to find the fellowship that I need not be more than 150 words in length except, Needs Large Print so that my Christian walk can be once again led where, in the editor's discretion, more space is to the right path that I suppose I have taken a available. Address letters to Editor, Box 16677, We are regular recipients of the GLEANER. few wrong turns on. Portland, OR 97216. We enjoy the magazine very much but rarely are I really just wanted you to know what the able to read all of it. GLEANER means to me. Like an "old friend" I just finished with much difficulty the letters it finds its way to me no matter where I am. in the front of the magazine. Now my eyes fail Name withheld by request Praise Behind Bars to focus for further reading. . . . We get the Reader's Digest and another This is a special "Thank you" letter from all magazine in large print and are able to read them GLEANER Covers the Christians at Oregon Correctional Institu- cover to cover. . . . tion (OCI, Salem, Ore.) to all the brothers and Has the GLEANER ever considered an issue Update sisters at New Life Celebration Church in Port- in large print? Grace Williams land, Ore. Through their love and understand- Pendleton, Ore. Those interested in submitting slides for 1992 ing many prisoners have found Jesus... GLEANER covers must have their slides deliv- When I decided to become a Seventh-day Ad- ered to the GLEANER office by Wednesday ventist Christian, there were only four Advent- noon, Nov. 27. A limit of 10 slides per submis- ists in OCI. The number (attending services) rose Likes History sion is in effect. The GLEANER pays $50 for to 54 in less than a month, and made it the one-time use of selected photos. Slides submit- largest Christian congregation, in one denomina- Being interested in denominational history, I ted must have been taken in the Northwest, and tion, in Oregon's prison system. . . . have enjoyed the articles by Doug Johnson on each slide frame should bear the name and ad- I was baptized during a Sabbath service by the history of the Adventist work in the Northwest. dress of the photographer. A complete set of Pastor Dave Snyder. The Sabbath service was the Of special interest was the mention of the name guidelines was printed on page 3 of the Sept. 16, biggest turnout in the OCI chapel in my six years of Elder Henry W. Decker. In the fall of 1878, 1991, GLEANER. Those who need copies of of being here. It soon became the talk of this Elder H.W. Decker held a tent effort in the small those guidelines should contact the GLEANER prison. . . . city of New London, Wis., resulting in the office immediately. So all of us guys want to say thanks to Pastor organizing of a church there in early 1879.

ABOUT THE COVER OViany whom God has qualified to do excellent work Harold Wilson, Anchorage, Alaska, lists his occupation as "aircraft mechanic and photographer:' This picture of the two puffins was taken on Round Island, 70 miles southwest of Dillingham in the Bering Sea. accomplish very little, because He writes, "Access is difficult and is regulated by state permit. It is a true wilderness experience. There they attempt little. are no facilities or services and one must bring everything. Tents must withstand winds in excess of 60 knots." Christ's Object Lessons, p. 331. Wilson used his Canon Fl Camera with a 500 mm lens and Fuji 100 film.

6 Features November 4, 1991

area. . . . Through their Bible study groups, as we moved through the area; the language Africa's harvest is ripe. Wherever we build several Muslims have already been baptized of love spoken with big smiles; and the de- a church, there are whole villages that will . . . Golden invited me to come and bap- dication of people stepping out from their join . . . filling it before it is finished. If you tize 23 people he and Emmi had led to a family and cultural ties to surrender their would like to have a part in building decision for Christ. The Lapanis didn't lives to Jesus Christ. churches in Malawi, remember us on know I was bringing two new bicycles for I wish all my friends in the North Pacific Thirteenth Sabbath in December this year. them. I wish you could have seen their Union Conference could have had the thrill For all the pastors in Malawi, the mission million-dollar smiles when they saw that of watching as the village headman (or chief), director, Wenson Masoka, and I say a big matched set of bikes! a Muslim, stepped into the pool to declare thank you to the people of the North Pacific I wish, too, that I had words to describe publicly that he was now a Christian. That Union Conference for what you did for us. that baptism event: the singing of the same chief has given us a plot on which to Please remember to pray for the wheels members as we walked two kilometers build a church. He didn't just give us the land; to keep spinning in Malawi. through villages and fields down to a small he has been out there. With his own hands river; the hundreds of spectators joining us he has been molding bricks. . . .

Epilogue: In a faxed message Before receiving the donated dated Oct. 9, 1991, from the bicycles, most pastors in General Conference Annual Malawi, with 20 to 40 churches Council in Perth, Australia, each, walked to carry on their Bruce Johnston writes, "Elder work. It was almost impossible Masoka of Malawi says, 'As a to get a bicycle which, if result of greater mobility with available, would cost two to four bicycles, we have doubled the month's wages and could take baptisms in Malawi!' " much longer to be delivered. This "oldie" bike is going to work many more years for the Voice of Prophecy Bible School, delivering lessons to the post office to be mailed.

Idaho Conference Bearhug Team Returns OPCSIATION

By Russell Johnson Steve McPherson, a junior from Gem state Adventist Academy, took a supply of pens, lapel pins and gum to share with the The political unrest, the flight over the people. Both Steve and Robin were selected North Pole and the enormity of what they for the team by a vote of their fellow have accomplished in Russia found the students. Idaho Conference Operation Bearhug team Ed Scheresky, associate director of Idaho BCAHHUG brimming with excitement as they returned Conference trust services, had less culture from Russia, Oct. 17. shock than his teammates in Russia. Be- Though they experienced the aftermath an attendance of 450. Six hundred attended cause of his Russian-American upbringing, of the recent coup, saw picketing for politi- the meetings in Nalchik. Results from sub- he already spoke the language and under- cal power, and sensed the mass uncertainty, sequent meetings are being assessed and will stood the history, lifestyle and geography of as Fred Comforth, the group leader, says: appear as an Operation Bearhug report in the land. The whole group was surprised, "We felt we were under God's protection the December issue of the GLEANER. , there however, by the extent of poverty, the poor The group mission was to share the good public transportation and the evidences of Russell Johnson is executive secretary and com-~~ news of salvation with a gospel-starved past oppression. munication director of the Idaho Conference. people in Siberia. Gary Dennis, teacher at The team visited three cities during their the Eagle, Idaho, school, left his changes of itinerary, all between the Caspian and Black clothes behind for the people, when he left, Seas: Makhachkala, Nalchik and Grozny. . . . 21. Christlike fife is the a practice of other team members as well. Phoning home to Idaho from Grozny, a city most powerful argument that Robin Logan, a Gem State Adventist of a million population, proved difficult. can be advanced in favor of Academy senior, who served as evangelistic Only 12 phones in the city were equipped team pianist, gave away a supply of specially- to handle international calls. Christianity... printed bookmarks from her father's print During a call for baptism, nearly 100 per- 9 Testimonies, p. 21 shop in Caldwell, Idaho. sons came forward in Maklachkala, out of

NPUC Gleaner News 9

Conference to Host Major Youth Rally An all-day youth festival hosted by the Idaho Conference at the Boise State Uni- versity Pavilion is expected to draw between two and five thousand Christian Treasure Valley young people, Nov. 24. The festival, billed as "Summit 91," will Pastor Frank Dunn, right, baptized these peo- feature Christian composer-musician David ple in Sitka on Sept. 14, left to right: George Meece; Adventist minister/Christian rapper Eliason, Dana Van Mechlen and Tammy Jo Rodney Draggon; inspirational speaker Bart Weissberg. Campolo; Christian athlete Nick Jones: former Miss Idaho Becki Trueblood; Chris- where he met Kathy Parsons. They were tian musician Bryan Duncan and Christian married a year later in Oregon vocalist Patty Cabrera. Frank and Kathy moved to Walla Walla Also featured will be Christian choirs College where Frank earned a B.A. in from the Treasure Valley. Gary Rust, Oregon theology in 1983. They then accepted a call Conference Youth director, will also speak. from the Alaska Conference to pastor the The Frank Dunn Family The 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. all-day Sunday Valdez Church. It was there that their event will be underwritten by ticket sales, children, Evan and Kelsey were born. and is being co-sponsored by KTSY-FM, the moved to Sitka where they have enjoyed In 1985, Frank began his graduate studies Idaho Conference Christian music radio sta- pasturing since 1988. at Andrews University and earned a Mas- tion located on the campus of Gem State The Dunns are now in the process of ter of Divinity degree in 1987. They then Adventist Academy. moving to the Kenai area where they will moved back to Alaska wheree they pastored "Calls have been coming in from all over continue their service as pastoral couple of the Dillingham and Aleknagik churches for the West Coast, Utah and Nevada, asking the Kenai and Homer district. approximately one year. From there, they about this festival;' says Fred Comforth, Idaho Conference youth director. "We ex- pect a tremendous turnout:' Comforth, who returned last month from an evangelistic tour of Russia under the auspices of Operation Bearhug, planned Summit 91 as an expanded approach to youth ministries in which young Adventists, IDAHO ministers and musicians can directly in- fluence the Christian culture of the Trea- sure Valley. Mike Agee, general manager of KTSY- FM, took an active role in planning and Romanian Baptized programming the 12-hour event. The sta- tion is co-promoting the event, as well, and The Twin Falls, Idaho, Sabbath school hosts a class in the Roman- those interested in individual tickets or ian language, led by Lucien Caval, special group-rate discounts can phone (208) the first Adventist Romanian to ar- 459-5879 (KTSY). Information is also avail- rive in Twin Falls. able at all Treasure Valley Christian book Recently, class member Georgel Saca requested baptism. Caval stores. studied with him in the Romanian language and Pastor Floyd Arnold met with the Caval and Saca fam- ilies to complete the studies. George! was baptized on a recent Sabbath morning. As he was ac- cepted into church membership, his parents, Toma and Lidia, his brother, Adrien, and Petra Vatui, Lucien's mother, were accepted into membership on profession of faith. Pictured, back row from the left, are: Lidia Saca, Adrian Saca, Georgel Saca, Pastor Floyd Arnold, Roma Saca, Lucien and Gina Caval. Front row: Olga Caval, Petra Vatui and Betty Caval. Vicki Arnold

`true success in any line of work is not the insult of chance or accident or destiny. ..7t is the outworking of God's providences, the rewanf of faith and disclaim, of virtue and perseverance. Prophets and 7Crrr95, p. 486.

NPUC Gleaner Announcements 17

Writer's Magazine Rockwood Meetings Christian Scribes, an organization of "Explore Prophecy 2000" meetings Adventist writers in the Portland, Ore., are continuing at the Rockwood ANNOUNCE area, invites those interested in begin- Church, 1910 S.E. 182nd Ave., Gre- ning or continuing a career in Chris- sham, Ore., at 7:15 p.m. each Friday, tian writing to request a free introduc- Saturday, Monday and Tuesday through MENTS tory copy of the club newsletter, Chris- Nov. 23. Speaker is Robert Fetrick, tian Scripts. Christian Scribes is a pro- Washington Conference Evangelist. fessional association organized to assist Child care is provided for children serious Christian writers, especially up to 4 years old, and Bible classes and Everett Concert new talent, in their quest for publica- crafts for those aged 5 through 9. About Announcements tion. Members meet on the second Evangelist Fetrick has lived in the The GLEANER no longer Rod Scherencel, pastor of the Sunday of each month, 1-3 p.m., at Amazon jungles of Peru and the cosmo- accepts free announcements Graham, Wash., Church, a tenor so- 10225 E. Burnside, Portland, Ore., in politan city of Hong Kong. He has from outside of the North Pa- loist and recording artist, will present the board mom of the North Pacific preached in Hungary and visited the cific Union Conference. Be- a concert at the Everett, Wash., For- Union Conference office. Program Middle East. With pastoral experience cause of a lack of space, no est Park Church on Sabbath, Nov. 16, items include presentations by promi- with both rural and urban congrega- announcement will be run at 3:30m.p. There will be a potluck nent Portland-area writers, discussion tions, he understands the needs of peo- more than one time. supper fo11owing the concert. and critique of members' manuscripts ple. Hear him present the positive Word in process, and reviews of promising of God, bringing peace and enthusiasm! topics and/or styles in Christian Deadline Schedule Adventist Widowed writing. Phone Ed Schwisow, president, Sunnyside Concert at (503) 255-7300, ext. 241. Issue Material Adventist Widowed of Oregon, a Alexander Henderson, an interna- Date Due at 11 a.m. support group for widowed men and tional recording artist from Boston, women, will meet Nov. 10 at 4 p.m. Kelso Marrieds Mass., will be in concert 4 p.m., Sab- Dec. 16** Nov. 22 at the Oregon Conference Office, bath, Nov. 23, at the Sunnyside Jan. 6 Dec. 13 13455 S.E. 97th Ave., Clackamas. Sue The Kelso-Longview Church at 1624 Church in Portland, Ore. An offering Honnell, a Portland counselor and lec- E. Kessler Blvd., in Longview, Wash., will be taken to assist an urban mis- turer, is speaking on "Handling the will host a "Successful Marriage" class sion school. For details call (503) Russia Report Holidays and Special Occasions:' on Sabbath, Nov. 16, at 2:30 p.m., with 281-8596. Meetings are the second Sunday of speakers Harvey and Kathy Corwin. The Hockinson Heights Church in each month. For more information call The Corwins will present ideas on how Brush Prairie, Wash., will host a slide (503) 652-2225, ext. 313. to keep intimacy and romance alive in Bluegrass at Boring program report from the Soviet Union marriage, share specific tips for marital The Sawtooth Mountain Boys, one on Sabbath, Nov. 16, at 5:30 p.m. You oneness and give helpful suggestions of Oregon's top Bluegrass bands, will will hear faith-building stories about Children's Visuals for rekindling emotional closeness. present a gospel concert, Saturday, the Internal Affairs government offi- For information contact Pastor Philip Nov. 9, 7:30 p.m., at the Hood View cials, radio and television news media Visual aids for children's Sabbath Welklin at (206) 423-7344. schools are urgently needed in many Jr. Academy auditorium, 26505 S.E. and the miracle exit from Vladivostok Kelso Rd., Boring, Ore. For informa- just as the coup began. places, especially countries emerging from Communism. Following are ad- tion, phone (503) 663.5611 or (503) Harvey and Kathy Corwin from the Green Lake Series 658-7594. Oregon Conference Family Life De- dresses where these can be sent: Eastern European and Soviet Coun- The 1991 Fall Lecture Series on Nov. partment will share experiences from 15 and 16 at the Green Lake Church their recent trip to Sakhalin, tries — Richard Wilcox, do Adventist Salem Concert Review, 55 W. Oakridge Dr., Hagers- in Seattle, Wash., will feature one of Khabarovsk, and Vladivostok. its own members, Alvin L. Kwiram, The Belko Brass with Ed Wagner at town, Md 21740. On the package near the keyboard will be joined by vocalist your return address, mark the name of Vice Provost for Research at the Family Life, Ore. University of Washington, presenting Meryl Mote in a 4 p.m. concert, Sab- the intended country (Bulgaria, Hun- bath, Nov. 9, at the Salem Central gary, Czechoslovakia, Romania, or a Christian perspective of environmen- A Family Life Ministries Workshop talism. Church, 1330 Summer St., N.E. Hear will be held on Sunday, Nov. 17, 10 Russia). For an acknowledgement, send about this California-based group's re- itemized list to Wilcox, do General The weekend meetings will begin a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Oregon Con- Friday evening at 7:30, when Dr. cent experience of helping at an evan- ference office, 13455 S.E. 97th Ave., Conference, 12501 Old Columbia Pike, gelistic series in Magadan, Siberia. MD 20904-1608. Kwiram will discuss "The Environment Clackamas, Ore. You will receive a new and Christian Responsibility?' The A freewill offering will be taken. planning manual, see training tools, For Other Countries — Inquire of Their latest Chapel Record release, FAITH ADVENTURES, do Lew and Nov. 16 Sabbath school program will hear about the 1992 FL Resource Man- feature a personal interview. Topic for Belko Brass Hymn Favorites, and Meryl ual, meet and hear 10 resource seminar Frieda Tanner, 2521 Erin Way, Eugene, Mote's new book, On Borrowed Time, OR 97401. the 11 a.m. service is "The Ecology of speakers, and enter to win a five-star Faith:' will be available. resort vacation honeymoon marriage Packaging Suggestions — Send only: 1) Good, used felt, painted and The noon potluck dinner will be fol- retreat. lowed by the 2:30 p.m. lecture, "Green- To reserve your free lunch at the cut out, with ideas for use. Place in new Sojourners at Stayton ziplock plastic bags. 2) Packs of 10 to house, Hothouse, Poorhouse?' A recep- The Sojourners male quartet will Olive Garden following the workshop, tion will be held at 7:30 p.m., provid- call the 24-hour Family Life Line at 20 neatly trimmed teaching pictures present two concerts in the Stayton, (503) 654-6054 and leave your name (religious, nature, animals, children or ing opportunity to meet Dr. Kwiram Ore., Church: at the 11 a.m. church family) in new one-gallon size ziplock personally and continue with informal service and at 4:30 p.m., Nov. 16. and the church you represent. RSVP discussion. before Sunday, Nov. 10. bags. 3) Appropriate Christmas and greeting card fronts, with no writing on backs, in groups of 100 and so Mt. Tabor Classes Portland Soviet Report labeled, bundled with rubber bands. Ethics Seminar, Ore. In addition to regular Sabbath school The Portland Adventist Community 4) "Take-homes" such as memory verses Join other thoughtful and stimulat- Bible study classes, the Mt. Tabor Services Center at 6611 S.E. Powell with pictures, in 100s, so labeled, in ing Christians at the 13th annual Church, Portland, Ore., will offer the Blvd., in Portland, Ore., will host a So- small ziplock bags. "Ethical Dilemmas of Our Time" semi- following instructional classes at 9:45 viet Union report by Harvey and Kathy Mass Production — If your group is nar at the Sunnyside Church in Port- a.m. Corwin on Thursday, Nov. 14, at 1 p.m. willing to color and prepare quantities land, Ore. Ginger Hanks-Harwood, Nov. 2 and 9: "Twelve Steps to For information call Barbara Nelson of children's "take-homes?' contact Ph.D., from Pacific Union College will Overcoming Habits:' taught by Karen (503) 775-6741. FAITH ADVENTURES. be guest ethicist at 7 p.m., Friday, Nov. Buchanan. Nov. 16 and 23: "How to Donating Funds or Materials — If 15, and 2 p.m., Sabbath, Nov. 16. Know God:' taught by Ginny Allen. your group wishes to provide funds for Seven 10-minute papers will be (Themes: "Prayer, Bible Study, and The East Salem Addresses a Three Year Bible Felts set (at $70) for opened for discussion. A 12:30 noon Holy Spirit:') Nov. 30 and Dec. 31: Addresses are needed for the follow- missions, send to FAITH ADVEN- salad potluck on Sabbath and child "Enhancing Self-Esteem:" taught by Dr. ing: Wendy Crowson and Ron and Pat TURES. Specify to which country. All care for both sessions will enhance your Bob Hunter. Wise. Send information to: Clerk, East donations will be acknowledged and enjoyment of this weekend. The classes meet in the church at Salem Church, 5575 Fruitland Rd., are tax deductible. At present, felt yard- Call (503) 252-8080 for further in- S.E. 60th and Yamhill Streets in N.E., Salem, OR 97301. age is needed. formation. Portland.

NPUC Gleaner News 11 overall and first among PAA runners, fin- Adventist and Upper Columbia academies. ished the 1.9-mile course in 14:58. Cheri They will build a church for one of the In- Klam crossed the finish line six seconds dian villages near Colegio del Pacifico in later to take third place overall. Sonora, Mexico. "Toward the end I was trying to get Cheri For the past two Christmas vacations, to go faster but she had a sideache," Zach- groups of students from CAA have traveled rison said. to Colegio del Pacifico and have worked on Klam wasn't interested in setting speed various projects in area villages while records. "I was too tired at the end to even staying at the school. care whether we'd won or lost:' she said. Until recently, little effort had been made The girls found the course challenging. to evangelize the nearby Indian villages. "It was a tough course:' said Carrie Roy, who These are some of the poorest of all villages; finished sixth overall in 15:17. "It was hot recently, however, groups have been formed too, but I didn't stop to walk?' in Talamante, about five kilometers away, "We had run the course before (in prac- and at San Ignacio about 10 kilometers tice) and we knew the first part was uphill away. With great sacrifice, the group in Auburn Woodworker Videotaped and no shade Kristin Shiroma said. "The Talamante was able to buy land and has One of the most extensive videotape series course also gets narrow after the beginning been waiting for a meeting place to be built. ever produced on woodworking features Auburn so we knew we had to run faster at the CAA is committed to building a church for Adventist Academy teacher, Dale Hyde. beginning." Shiroma finished seventh each of these three groups within the next Hyde demonstrates woodworking techniques overall at 15:29. five years. in six of the 39 videotapes in the series. The programs are aimed at woodworking students Roy said winning the meet was satisfying. To build an entire block structure in one and serious woodworkers. The tapes are being "It was thoroughly enjoyable to receive a short vacation seems too much to expect distributed to public and private schools around trophy:' she said. from a group of unskilled high school stu- the nation by Meridian Education Corporation In the boys' 3.1-mile race Brandon Sand- dents. With this in mind, Dave Allen, of Illinois. Some of the tapes are also available in video stores, lumber and hardware outlets and ers placed second overall, coming in at mission trip director invited Olin Peach and large retailers, such as Sears. They are also being 20:00. students from Upper Columbia Academy to translated into Greek. A distributor in Todd Hanchett, Scott Rivas, Jon Loven- join them. Consequently, the CAA crew Singapore will sell to the Orient. guth and Jeff Youker finished 20:48, 20:59, will be leaving for Mexico on Dec. 18, 1991, The producer of the Woodworking series, Roy Williams, became acquainted with Dale Hyde 23:44 and 24:27 respectively. and the UCA group will be continuing the while shooting the student recruiting video for Angie Kirkpatrick and Shelley Banpe project to completion when they arrive Auburn Adventist Academy last Spring. around Dec. 29, 1991. Williams said, "I wish I had met Dale earlier. The students are now in the process of He knew the subject of woodworking so well he made my job a lot easier. I would like to have raising the necessary funds — approximately used him in all the shows." Academy Volunteers $13,000 — for building supplies and travel. Readers may help with the project by To Build Churches sending contributions to the academies in The coming Christmas vacation will be the name of project participants. unusual for select students from Columbia Kenneth Dull

Auburn Elects Officers Eagle School Operation Bearhug The 93-member 1992 graduating class of Eagle, Idaho, church school students helped raise funds to buy Russian Bibles to send with a team Auburn Adventist Academy held its annual of five persons from Idaho who left Oct. 1 on a three-week Operation Bearhug mission in the Soviet senior retreat, Oct. 4-6, at Camp Casey on Union. The team held evangelistic meetings in three cities. Whidbey Island in the Puget Sound. Highlight- Eagle teacher Gary Dennis was one of the team. The students raised nearly $500 to send with ing the weekend was the election of senior Dennis — enough to purchase 183 Russian-language Bibles. They were told that the average Russian officers. Top to bottom, Larra Miller, treasurer; needs to save an equivalent of $150 in U.S. currency to buy a Bible, and calculated that the gift Angela Drury, secretary; Doug Quast, presi- of the students was worth $27,450 at the prices in the Soviet Union. dent; Donna Ahlers, spiritual vicepresident; Pictured is the Idaho Conference Operation Bearhug team. They are, from the left, Gary Dennis, Rick Armstrong, sergeant-at-arms; and Tae Kim, Ed Sheresky, Eagle pastor; Robin Logan; Fred Cornforth; and Stevie McPherson. vice president. Shirley Rogers Janet Neumann 2 Editorial December 16, 1991

State of the Union Report A Year of Conflict and Victory

By Bruce Johnston the feelings I experienced, the anguish I felt work depends largely, under God, upon when I heard of the Russian coup, and the the reflex influence of the evangelical work relief when we learned it was aborted almost done in countries afar off The year began as soon as it began. Operation Bearhug 6 Testimonies, p. 27 with a bang! Opera- could continue to be a channel of support, In spite of a slow recovery in the economy, tion Desert Storm inspiration and action to help our brothers tithe gain in the North Pacific Union Con- left indelible images and sisters in Russia reap an unprecedented ference has increased significantly. The of high-tech destruc- harvest. I think there is nothing in the North Pacific Union Conference has led all tion. We watched in history of our church to compare. Fifty-five unions in the North American Division, disbelief as the So- Northwest Adventists in nine teams parti- throughout 1991, in percentage of tithe viet Union disinte- cipated in youth programs, family life, gain. That to me is a statement that our Bruce Johnston grated, and with health education and direct evangelism, church members believe in their church and wonder as America resulting in 953 baptisms. New churches its mission. Interestingly, regular mission emerged to stand were formed. offerings, which have tended to be weak, alone as the only world super power. It I have no apologies for our response to have also increased. In addition, our people makes a tingle go up the spine of any careful Russia's needs. How could a Christian do have supported their local churches and student of Bible prophecy. We sense a world otherwise? I do not believe that our involve- schools as well as conference and local poised for final rapid movements. We ment in a foreign field has broken our stride projects. entered this year with a deeper conviction here in our own territory, which is our Our schools have completed the 1990- that what we do must be marked with primary responsibility. I recall the words of 1991 academic year and have now opened greater urgency. Ellen White: Continued on page 13 To our astonishment God has suddenly The home missionary work will be further opened windows of opportunity of which advanced in every way when a more we never -dreamed. We caught our breath liberal, self-denying, self-sacrificing spirit on Aug. 19 and wondered if we had done is manifested for the prosperity of foreign too little, too late. I cannot begin to describe missions; for the prosperity of the home

North Pacific Union Conference Urgent Appeal: (USPS 394-560) Address all editorial, advertising and address change correspondence to: Food for Russia GLEANER North Pacific Union Conference P.O. Box 16677, Portland, OR 97216-0677 Adventists in Russia are running out of food. The nations of the (503) 255.7300 • Fax (503) 253-2455 world, faced with a precarious global economy, can supply only to- Editor, Ed Schwisow ken help. Advertising Assistant, Pam Groff Editorial Assistant, Greg Alekel The leaders of our union and conferences now appeal to you to Editorial Secretary, Lorraine Juberg Published by the North Pacific Union Con- go the extra mile this Christmas season to help raise $40,000 to ference of Seventh-day Adventists provide winter food for our Russian Adventists. Let's help them Please Note — Every reasonable effort is made not only to survive, but also to carry on an energetic work. to screen both editorial and advertising materials and to avoid error in this publication. But the This Food for Russia Appeal needs funding urgently. Each day North Pacific Union Conference GLEANER the crisis deepens. Your funds will help buy food in Europe and does not accept responsibility for categorical or typographical errors, nor for advertisers' claims. allow ADRA to transport it by truck to Adventist centers in Russia. North Pacific Union Conference GLEANER, Send your tax-deductible contribution before Dec. 31 directly to: ISSN number 07465874, is printed semimonthly except July and December for $10.00 per year by Color Press, 312 S. College Ave., College Place, Food for Russia Appeal Wash. 99324-1222. Second-class postage paid at North Pacific Union Conference College Place, Wash. LITHO USA. CP44693 P.O. Box 16677 POSTMASTERS ONLY: Send form 3579 to Portland, OR 97216 North Pacific Union GLEANER, P.O. Box 397, College Place, Washington 99324-0397.

4 Features December 16, 1991 OPERATION BEARHUG REPORT

Russia, Birch points out that the General Conference is coordinating a great deal of Operation Bearhug: additional physical and personnel outreach from North America to former Eastern Bloc nations. Some have questioned whether What Hath God Wrought? Operation Bearhug is needed, in the face of capable General Conference leadership. By Ed Schwisow why he's giving away his piggy-bank savings "There's no question that the General to buy Russian Bibles. Conference must coordinate this immense The conscience of the world today But where "sister union" and "Northwest endeavor, and Operation Bearhug is coop- squirms as the black-feathered fiends of link" failed, "Operation Bearhug" caught erating fully with General Conference famine nest on the snow-dusted Russian on, helped, perhaps, by the graphic news leadership;' says Birch. "However, long steppes. coverage of "Operation Desert Shield;' a before the General Conference published And as they did one year ago in helping plan for the United States forces to help their plans, the North Pacific Union to feed the starving Russian spirit, North- defend moderate Middle Eastern govern- Conference had already established western Adventists are linking continents ments. A commercial artist of Eastern Euro- contacts in Russia and had made commit- to bring physical respite to the Russian pean descent with a special understanding ments. We feel that we have assumed a people. of Russian art and symbolism completed the special and personal responsibility to the Last year, cracks in a rusting curtain burst two-bear "Operation Bearhug" logo within Russian Union, and we don't want to open. Communism had put the spirit of a 10 days of commissioning. disappoint our Russian brethren." nation to sleep, but as that spirit awoke, it "Operation Bearhug" was cross-cultural, So stimulating has been this cultural and sought food, as surely as a bear brought out clear of Communist overtones, and univer- missionary exchange with Russia, says of 73-year-long hibernation. sally linked to the historical Russian bear and Birch, that it is now being recommended Northwest Seventh-day Adventists met its fraternal bear-hug greeting. It could be that NPUC local conferences study the that long-sleeping bear with a hug and a translated, even to Northwest Hispanics, who chances of linking up with local Russian spiritual Northwest breakfast. Now, with grasped the spirit of "Operative Abrazo Ruso." conferences, not only in evangelism, but physical starvation threatening, the church It caught on with the Russians, as well. also in economic assistance. And, going a is acting again to feed its Northeastern When Northwest evangelists began to hold step further, as more churches are organized neighbors. (See Urgent Appeal, p. 2.) meetings in Russia, the Russian people would in Russia, Northwestern local churches can ponder in good fun "which bear this one link with these congregations in physical, spiritual and cultural mutual support. Operation Bearhug Beginnings looks like, the black or the white depend- ing on dominant physical proportions. "The Shattering the illusion that action in the white one is bigger and fatter" they said. church takes months and even years of Results in 1991 committee study, Operation Bearhug, a On paper the impact of Operation Bear- Northwestern Adventist outreach to the Continents Meet hug dazzles even the most severe critic. Russian people, was conceived and born in In January, Alf Birch, then newly-elected Nine-hundred-fifty-three persons were bap- fewer than five months time. North Pacific Union Conference Church tized as a result of contacts initiated by In autumn 1989, the iron curtain had be- Ministries director and coordinator of Northwestern evangelistic teams, account- gun to crumple with the breaching of the Ber- Operation Bearhug, bought a round-trip ticket ing for a significant percentage of baptisms lin Wall and the deposing of Eastern Bloc to Moscow to confer with Adventist Russian dictators. A window of opportunity had leaders and to bring back to Portland the final opened; yet Northwestemets were being given Operation Bearhug proposal for 1991. little opportunity to share their faith with The first Northwest evangelist would set their nearest out-of-division neighbors. foot on Russian soil in May 1991, followed The feeling lingered with Bruce Johnston, by eight more teams, the last to return in North Pacific Union Conference president, late October. in July 1990, as he attended the church General Conference session in Indianapolis. Divine or Divisive? There, an idea began to gel in his mind: Why not ask the Adventist Russian leaders Now, during the winter of Russian discon- to share in a "sister union relationship" with tent, Operation Bearhug is being evaluated the Northwest, whose Alaskan island coasts and fine tuned, says Birch, who returned on nearly touch Siberia? Oct. 30 from his second conference with The Russian leaders showed interest. Russian leaders. Beset with a union territory larger than that His written report, presented to the of the United States and with only one NPUC Executive Committee in a two-hour Bibles are distributed to children, Oct. 28, 1991, ordained pastor, the offer of assistance came session on Nov. 20, notes strengths and at the first private school established by any as an answer to prayer. General Conference weaknesses, but ends with a promising Christian group. This school is known as the coordinators approved the linkage. By Oc- conclusion: Operation Bearhug will go on "Russian Christian Gymnasium of the Seventh- tober 1990, the idea had caught on among in 1992, or as long as the windows of gospel day Adventist Church:' located in Tula, 150 miles south of Moscow. Funds for the purchase NPUC members, though "sister union" and opportunity remain open. of these Bibles were partly raised by children "Northwest link with Russia" seemed trite, Lest Operation Bearhug be seen as the and their teachers at Portland Adventist Ele- of little use to a kindergartner explaining only North American assistance going to mentary School.

NPUC Gleaner Features 5 OPERATION BEARHUG REPORT

in the Euro-Asian Division (formerly the Bearhug resource people sent to Russia is the Russian Union by arranging for the Soviet Division) in 1991. highly valuable, according to Russian donation of a powerful personal computer Total division membership will rise at a leaders. and laser printer, as well as facsimile ma- projected 18 percent rate during 1991, giv- Operation Bearhug evangelism will be chines for each of the Russian local con- ing it the fastest rate of percentile growth even more closely integrated with that of ferences. The personal computer will be in the General Conference. the General Conference in 1992, to allow used at union headquarters. "The model of Operation Bearhug is be- for better use of English-Russian translators Operation Bearhug will continue to ing closely observed by some unions in and Russian advance facilitation. supply Bibles and evangelistic lessons and North America. It complements General slides. It will also help arrange for sister Conference leadership and it adds a grass- NPUC Financial Help church relationships, and sending out of roots dimension that has always existed in In 1992, all Operation Bearhug outreach medical, dental and other health profes- Seventh-day Adventist foreign missions:' will be funded by North Pacific Union sionals, and the coordinating of evangelistic says Birch. entities, given the extreme financial diffi- campaigns and leadership training, with emphasis on youth programs. A Year of Learning culties facing the Russian church. Budgets will be prepared and submitted to Operation Operation Bearhug will also be active in Nineteen-ninety-one has been a year of Bearhug by Russian leaders. helping to establish and build churches and learning, and in his recent visit to Russia, Teams in 1992 will tend to be smaller, church schools. (Adventists made Russian Birch carefully sought the counsel of Rus- consisting of a maximum of four persons history in September by establishing the sian leaders on ways to improve Operation each. Sometimes, larger groups can lead to very first private Christian school since the Bearhug. complications in transportation and can revolution. The school functions in Tula, Suggestions were forthcoming. First, it absorb valuable translation talent. and has 54 students. The school remains was seen that Northwest evangelists, a mini- Already, Operation Bearhug has assisted in dire need of equipment.) mum of three weeks in length, and that, only if a new theme is presented each night. A four-week campaign is seen as even more productive. The Russian Union has determined to appoint a full-time coordinator of evange- lism, and the North Pacific Union will be more explicit in profiling the personalities of those it sends. This will help in attracting media coverage, not only of preachers, but of medical and instructional support staff, as well. The Russian Union has voiced deep ap- preciation of the cultural sensitivity shown by Operation Bearhug teams, in particu- lar that of Bruce Johnston, who had re- searched the history and culture of Lenin- grad/St. Petersburg before his series of meet- ings. His historical understanding of the city assisted immensely in reaching the Russian people, and such preparation by Operation

Alf Birch distributes Bibles to Sabbath school children at the Moscow church, Sabbath, Oct. 26. Funds for the purchase of these Bibles were raised by the Rockwood, Ore., earliteen Sabbath school class. Their leader at Rockwood Church is Shirley Jordan.

On Oct. 28, 1991, Alf Birch hands over a fax machine to Pastor Mikhail Murga, president of the Russian Union Conference. Additional fax machines were donated to each of the Con- ferences as well. This will improve communi- cations within that Union as well as contact about Operation Bearhug activities. These machines were donated by Adventist business- men in Southern California. Faculty at the Tula School

6 Features December 16, 1991 OPERATION BEARHUG REPORT

Miracles Operation Bearhug teams have been saved at a pace far above that of sister unions in thousands of dollars by airline representatives North America. Likewise, Northwest church Several miraculous healings have taken who, moved by the commitment of the team growth remains solid, with a prospect of an place during Operation Bearhug evangelis- members, have forgiven most, if not all, increase for 1991. tic meetings. In another evangelistic cam- charges for extra baggage. "For too long, we have allowed ourselves paign, special prayer has resulted in the to focus on ourselves, on our problems, on lifting of severe drought conditions, in this Bread on Russian Waters our needs, on our structure, on our frailties. case leading to the conversion of an airline It's good to admit one's faults and to seek pilot who recognized that the rain had With few exceptions, Operation Bearhug solutions. However, to become obsessed come, against all meterological predictions, funds have come directly from local with the negative leads to selfish introspec- by divine intervention. churches, not from conference budgets. tion and loss of faith in the outcome of our Operation Bearhug has been blessed with (Conference budgets remain tightly con- faith:' says Johnston. audiences filled with highly-educated trolled and focused on domestic needs.) "We have given cheerfully, and continue persons who often testify that "Adventists Children, adults, and teen-agers have to give cheerfully to Russia, with no strings have a message for the heart as well as a helped with thousands of Bibles, as well as attached and with no expectation of per- message for the mind. We have never seen with airfare and evangelistic supplies. It sonal benefit. God has blessed Operation this in any other denomination." The St. remains a grassroot-driven ministry. Bearhug, and through it He has blessed us." Petersburg campaign concluded with a high Yet, in casting bread upon Russian waters, number of physicians and lawyers forming Northwestern Adventists, far from forsaking the nucleus of a new church in the city. needs at home, have increased benevolence Ed Schwisow is editor of the GLEANER. My Eyes Fill With Tears

By Donna Reinking bouquets. In the lobby of our hotel we saw ently than you had planned. You will prob- two large posters announcing our meetings ably see firsthand how God will alter things and listing all of our names (in Russian, of according to His will and later you will un- As I looked over at Janice Renck seated course.) That was a thrill — even at 1 a.m.! derstand why:' Her words were absolutely next to me in the Aeroflot jet, I noticed that Our six-member team was led by my correct! she was crying softly. "Ate you wondering husband, Jim, evangelist for the Upper We had originally been scheduled to hold what we've gotten ourselves into?" I asked. Columbia Conference. Other members six nights of meetings in both Sverdolovsk She nodded. Leaving the Moscow airport included Janice and me from the Spokane and Chelyabinsk, another city of more than had been a tense experience, and we were Valley Church, Harold and Vanice a million in population and also in the Urals. still feeling the anxiety. (Because of a ticket Kostenko from the Walla Walla City However, the Lord intervened, and instead error, our team had been delayed by airport Church, and Paul Volk from Port Townsend. of going to Chelyabinsk (which was still security and police in front of a screaming Janice and I provided special music and closed), we stayed in Sverdlovsk for two weeks. jet engine, as our translator straightened out presented the children' story each night, The morning after our arrival, as we the problem.) But even more on our minds Paul had lectures on health, Vanice played headed for breakfast, we were surprised to was where we were headed — Sverdlovsk — piano, and Harold, who speaks fluent meet a large team of pastors, conference hometown of Boris Yeltsin. Ukranian, was a great help in working with This city of nearly 1.5 million had been workers, and musicians who had been sent the people. (Harold became an instant to help with our meetings. There were featured in an article in the June '91 issue "VIP" the night he played "Jesus Loves Me" smiles, hugs and warm greetings from our of Life magazine. "Yeltsin's Backyard" spoke on his saw!) of a city with oppressed and desperate Russian workers. Everyone was so excited about our being there, and we found a city people looking for a new "hero?' Its citizens Changes in Plans were described as rude; factories had been with more positive qualities than we had on strike because there was no bread; there About a week before we left the states, read about. Thank you, Lord! had been riots and smashing of windows Sue Patzer, wife of Upper Columbia's Everyone was a bit nervous and in sus- because there was no sugar, and the city was president Jere Patzer, said to me, "Don't be pense the first night, since we had no idea so lacking in food that only mothers of surprised, Donna, if things go very differ- how many would come (the only advertising babies could purchase milk if they had a doctor's prescription. Added to that, Sverdlovsk (now renamed Catherinesburg) had been closed to all foreigners for 70 years and had opened only this year. Just what would we find when we landed at midnight in this Siberian city on the edge of the Ural Mountains? We all felt great relief when two hours later, we were met at the airport by a smiling group of conference workers and their wives, who not only gave us all hugs of welcome, but also gave us ladies beautiful floral A new church is started with 140 baptized in Sverdlovsk.

Features 7 NPUC Gleaner OPERATION BEARHUG REPORT ots.mtios BEAHHUG had been with posters). A fine auditorium which seated about 850 had been rented for our use. Approximately 600 attended the first night, and after TV, radio, and news- paper interviews, we increased to 800 the second night and nearly 1,200 the third! We discovered later that the management would not let any more people in. They were sitting anywhere they possibly could, even on speakers, and it was "standing room P64141Hr. ROHM PE4Klilli only." On the first day of our meetings we XPOADA KOCTEHKO had a fine time passing out little handbills to the people in the streets and they took BAHRKA KOCTEHKO them with great interest, but a few days later iiii,)KA,H1.1KA PERK we were told not to pass any more out 5PI.oc BoAK because there simply was no more room for the people. limn It was at this time that my husband, in .1,,.,,,,r,10„ consultation with the conference brethren, decided to have a baptism at the end of our series — something we would never attempt here in the states. But we could sense such a hungering for spiritual food among these people. They were like dry sponges soaking Left to right, Janice Renck, Harold and Vanice Kostenko, and Jim and Donna Reinking stand beside a billboard advertising their meetings. Each member's name was listed in Russian. Team-member Paul in every word of truth from the Bible. Many Volk is not pictured. questions were handed in each night reveal- ing to us that these people were giving very life. I'm done with smoking because of your biggest lie they've told you is that there is careful thought to the presentations. The sermons. We shall never forget you. God no God!" I remember the precious kiss of mixture of people were from all walks of life, bless you!" Paul and Jim received "buried love from a young mother who pointed to rich and poor, scientists, teachers, physi- treasure" from a physician named Helen. heaven and said to me, "We are sisters:' and cians, army officers, opera singers, and even Her father had been sent to prison in the old peasant woman with tears in her the members of a ladies' rock band! Some Siberia for 60 years because he was a eyes who hugged me and said, "In heaven were already believers and some were Christian (he died there at age 90). He had there will be only one language:' But the atheists, but they all wanted to know more buried beneath the floor of his house a cast- memory that continues to haunt all of us about God. iron picture of Christ and other icons. She is of the overwhelming desire that these gave the picture to Jim and one of the icons people have to know God and to know of Gifts of Gratitude to Paul. She wrote on a note to us, "You His unconditional love. We were given many gifts of gratitude, opened my heart for Jesus Christ:' including paintings and drawings by the During the second week of meetings we A Touching Letter students of two teachers who attended (they began a baptismal class attended by more The following excerpts from a letter say are now on display at the Spokane Valley than 300, and had our first baptism of 140 it much better than I can. It was written School). One note given to my husband the last day of our series. I've read about by a 66-year-old woman who was a said, "Dear Jim, You have transformed my these "mass" baptisms, but this was the first communist as a youth, but in her late teens that any of us had ever experienced. The and early 20s had a great desire to know conference administrators who assisted us more about God. She was arrested when she were overjoyed by this unexpected blessing was 22 and sent to prison and concentration of a new church, and we've been given camps for seven years where she was mocked reports that 400 people are continuing to and tortured. In her oppressed country such attend services each Sabbath and are very a story could be repeated thousands of excited about organizing. One of their first times. She says to us: priorities is to form a choir. "Who are you and how can I thank you There are so many memories, some good, for this miracle that you have revealed to some not so good (like the cockroaches in our lost prodigal souls? I've read the Bible our hotel rooms and brown bathwater). for four days. I can't understand why or what Janice and I had the privilege to sing goodness we have, or how we could possibly "People Need the Lord" in the prestigious deserve to get this precious gift, and to Lenin University (attended by both whom we should be grateful. Gorbachev and Yeltsin) and see a university "How, where, and when is it possible to student wipe tears from her eyes. At the thank those messengers who are presenting same university we wanted to shout a this sincere fellowship with us? We are tired Volga/Urulian Conference secretary Michael "hallelujah!" when Paul boldly told these of being made fools of because of all the Begus, left; conference president Basil Demetrovich, center, and evangelist Jim students, "For years the leaders of your hate and brainwashing we've had through Reinking country have filled you with lies, and the all our lives. In such a kind, friendly,

8 Features December 16, 1991 OPERATION BEARHUG REPORT

trusting spirit you were talking to us about to hear your greetings. And your singing is we possibly can. A pastor's salary is $10 per the most comforting and dearest topic in outstanding. What wonderful voices — like month and conference funds are extremely the world — about our Savior and God, honey pouring into my heart:' limited. In the Volga/Urulian Conference Jesus Christ. Whenever I read this letter my eyes fill where we had our meetings, there are 100 "These are special days. In spite of our with tears. I think of the millions like this cities of 300,000 or more people with no hard and dull life I feel wings behind me. dear woman who want to know Jesus, and Adventist Church, and there are 15 cities I get us happy in the morning and feel I am so thankful that I was given an oppor- of more than a million with churches of 35 unexpected joy in my soul. All of my respon- tunity to have a part in this outreach. members or less. What a great opportunity sibilities are done so quickly in my kitchen, Adventists have prayed for nearly 75 years we have to start a flame in this country and with only one desire, to come as soon as that the Soviet Union would open its doors let the fire spread. Thank you, Operation possible to the House of Officers so that I and allow freedom of religion. These doors Bearhug, for this great vision! .4.4 can again be with you and meet you. How are now open and we must not take time much generosity and friendliness there is to walk through in single file! We have to in you. I am so happy to see your smiles and run through and take as much with us as Donna Reinking writes from Spokane, Wash.

Bearhug: Junkets for the Privileged?

By Ed Schwisow where. The Bearhug travel cushion is And amid all this coming and going, strictly straw tick. tithing, mission offerings and baptisms in Are those who visit Russia on Opera- Every Bearhug account includes some the Northwest have been holding steady or tion Bearhug gospel-sharing business enjoy- mention of the number of pieces of luggage increasing. The blessings of Operation ing the trips too much? Are the glowing involved. The Jere Patzer team recently Bearhug appear to be echoing back to the GLEANER reports proof that these gospel journeyed to Magadan with 57 pieces; they Northwest as evangelistic zeal and mission bear-huggers find themselves on the claws returned with 10. What had happened? The awareness. of an ethical dilemma? afore-mentioned giving did take place. But If these trips are in any sense indulgences Some have suggested that the trips to several of those boxes contained food and to privilege, the hundreds of slides, photo- Russia are somehow a reward for hierarchical provisions for the team; Russia is nearing graphs, videos and anecdotes I have studied privilege, and that administrators have ar- starvation conditions. Fishing for souls in and heard have been most cunningly forged. ranged to reward themselves with round-trip Russia yields no caviar. If such a conspiracy of misinformation Aeroflot tickets at tithers' expense. (Two re- Are the teams busy? Especially in the exists, these teams should be holding field cent letters to the editor note that one-way large city crusades where Northwest ad- schools at KGB headquarters rather than tickets to Siberia would be appropriate ministrators hold field schools to train in seminaries. reward for such rascality.) pastors during the day and preach before If a round-trip Aeroflot ticket showed up As one who has not yet received my thousands each evening, followed by small- on my desk tomorrow morning, what would round-trip tickets to Russia, and feeling, per- group discussions long into the evenings, I do? I do know that I would be humbled haps, professionally beset by having only the experience is physically draining. Those and driven to my knees in prayer, and that, secondhand accounts to report, I decided with more complex itineraries in Siberia furthermore, I would urge my brethren to to seek evidences of junketry among our and elsewhere, likewise, invest daunting seek a more worthy participant. Operation Russia-bound emissaries. This is what I have hours in meeting preparation and ministry. Bearhug is more than love and kisses; it's found. All evening banquets are strictly spiritual. the embracing of an entire culture — hotels, First, those who travel to Russia usually Are Bearhug teams qualified for their food shortages, work schedules, coups and invest hundreds, and sometimes thousands, assignments? A look at the resumes of Bruce all — in the name of urgent, end-time of their personal and donated dollars in Johnston, NPUC president, and Don Jacob- outreach. It's serious, and it's the Lord's outfitting for the trip and for the buying of sen, Oregon Conference president, show business. gifts to share with their Russian hosts. that these men prefaced their entry into ad- Spouses take leaves of absence without pay. ministration with years of effective public Clearly, any enrichment from Bearhug evangelism and seminary teaching. Jere travel is strictly cultural and spiritual. Patzer, president of the Upper Columbia if we would humble ourselves Most of those who have traveled to Si- Conference, has spent nearly 10 years as a before God, and be kind and beria have stayed in sub-standard (by west- youth director; little wonder that in Russia ern standards) hotels, sometimes so infested he specialized in coordinating youth meet- courteous and tenderhearted and with vermin that whole nights have been ings. The remainder of the teams have all pitiful, there would be one hun- spent in wakefulness. The blame for such been led by current or former evangelists dred conversions to the truth accommodations cannot be laid to poor or by youth specialists. The baptisms (953 where now there is only one. hospitality; the fact remains that in a di- through Dec. 1, 1991) and the invitations spirited and depressed nation, such accom- to these teams to return to Russia show that 9 Testimonies, p. 189 modations may be the best available any- Bearhug trips are professionally significant.

NPUC Gleaner Features 9 OPERATION BEARHUG REPORT Magadan Team Reaches Youth

By Ruth Harms chance to visit openly with children and relatively new. The Alaska and Upper Co- adults, Christians and atheists, Communists lumbia conferences have both participated From the Alaska Airlines jet, the first and non-Communists. The Russians wanted in developing a relationship with the sight of the Union of Sovereign States to know about America and about how be- believers in Magadan, which is only a four (USS) territory, resurrected childhood ing Christian affects people's lives. Their and one-half hour flight from Anchorage, images of a harsh and empty wilderness — questions reflected their experience under Alaska. In December 1990, Jim Osborne, an isolated land to which hundreds of thou- an atheistic system: pastor from Anchorage, made the first sands of prisoners of conscience were • When the controversy between Christ contact with Adventist Pastor Kirill banished in the days of Stalin. Twenty-two and Satan was explained to one young man, Movelyan. He took Bibles to him and met prisons, or gulags, were in the Magadan he asked, "Is there any chance Satan will with the minister of religious affairs of the Region of the Soviet Far East in those days, win?" Magadan Region to help establish a Se- and it is estimated that only one out of every • A question asked over and over of the venth-day Adventist identity in this city. six prisoners survived the horrors they ex- teens as well as the adults was: "In America, Prior to this visit, Pastor Movelyan had perienced. what do people think of you when you be- been working for 18 months in Magadan. In August, the city of Magadan, Russia, lieve in God? How do people in school treat A native of Moldavia, Movelyan, his wife was the site of a spiritual "search and rescue you? How does it affect your work?" and two young children had chosen to be mission" in which 17 persons took part. • One woman, after receiving as a gift art- "missionaries" and travel to the Soviet Far While in the city, members of the group, ist Darrel Tank's picture of Jesus carrying the East to establish a Seventh-day Adventist under the leadership of Jere Patzer, president .cross, studied it for a while, then walked presence in Magadan. of the Upper Columbia Conference, and his over to someone in the group and asked, In less than two years he has raised up a wife, Sue, held an eight-day series of evan- "Who is this?" church of about 40 members. In addition, gelistic meetings, vacation Bible school Christian work in the Soviet Far East is he has established a society of craftsmen programs for children and a youth rally for which is available for believers who lose teens. their jobs when becoming Sabbathkeepers Support staff included the Belko Brass from California; Len, Ruth, Sherilyn and Renee Harms of Pasco, Wash.; Glyn and Rachel Marsh, Clarkston, Wash.; Sherrice Neil, Auburn, Wash.; Darin and Troy Patzer, Spokane, Wash.; and Jon and Cheryl Wag- ner, Pendleton, Ore. These individuals provided music, health education and fam- ily features, VBS stories and crafts, and technical expertise. The team also visited with inmates and staff at a prison, conducted two live afternoon meetings and one television interview on health issues (particularly women's health problems), and had many appointments with government officials who are in a position to assist the future growth of Christianity in the Jere Patzer and a Russian army major answer city of Magadan. questions at a prison near Magadan. Pastor Kirill Movelyan with his wife and children The response was warm and enthusiastic everywhere. • From 10-year-old Dema to Rachel Marsh, VBS teacher: "I've decided not to wait until I get older to accept Jesus. I'm going to do it now before my life is broken and used up:' • From Alex, a college student, to Sherilyn Harms, one of the teens, after the last meeting: "I just wanted you to know that I believe in God now" • From the director of the prison to Jere Patzer after discussing plans for building a medical clinic in Magadan: "There are many words in Russian to express apprecia- tion, but there are no words to express my appreciation?' With that he removed his watch and gave it to Patzer. Sue Patzer, center, tells the children about Heaven during one of the afternoon meetings attended by Throughout the week the group had a more than 300 children.

10 Features December 16, 1991 OPERATION BEARHUG REPORT

and has begun to have meetings in the local prison. He plans to establish a half-way house for released prisoners and a home for the homeless there. During the August meetings, about 100 individuals made commitments to continue having weekly Bible studies with the local pastor and church members. The August trip also resulted in commitments by government officials to assist in procuring land and scarce building materials for the construction of a church and medical clinic. Maranatha Volunteers International are laying plans to build the clinic next spring. Personnel at the Walla Walla, Wash., Gen- eral Hospital are studying ways to staff the clinic by sending medical personnel to Magadan on a rotating basis. Needs in Russia today are greater than any individual or organization can hope to ade- quately address. But the Lord's arm is not shortened; miracles are taking place; and for Christians everywhere, now is the time to act.

Ruth Harms writes from Pasco, Wash. Sherilyn and Renee Harms and Darin and Troy Patzer with Russian young people

MONTANA Northwest Liberty Tour Billings: Sabbath, Jan. 4, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. (Justice preaches to the combined Billings-Bridger congregations, then con- Features Roland Hegstad ducts a rally for all area churches.) Bozeman: Conference, Sunday, Jan.5, 7 The Great Northwest Liberty Tour of Anchorage: O'Malley, Sabbath, Jan. 4, 11 p.m. (Hegstad, Justice, and Bill Whitney 1992 is under way. a.m. (Fenn). address the Montana Conference Minis- It started last month when North Pacific Fairbanks: Friday, Jan. 3, 7 p.m. (Fenn). terial Council.) Union Conference PARL director, Richard Palmer: Saturday evening, Jan. 4 (Fenn). Lee Fenn visited Yakima's 35th Ave. Talkeetna: Sunshine, Sabbath afternoon, Church, then continued on to Great Falls, Jan. 4 (Fenn). OREGON Shelby, Butte, Hot Springs, Ronan, and Beaverton: Sabbath, Jan. 25, 10:30 a.m. Hamilton, Mont.; and Osbum, Idaho. and 3 p.m. (Justice's afternoon rally includes Liberty editor Roland R. Hegstad and his IDAHO churches on Portland's west side.) Northwest colleagues will be appearing next Boise: Central, Sabbath, Jan. 4, 4 p.m. Gladstone: Gladstone Park, Sabbath, Jan. month in many Northwest locations. Check (Hegstad addresses a major rally for the 11, 4 p.m. (Hegstad, Fenn, Justice, and Dan the list following — it's arranged by state (not entire Treasure Valley.) McCulloch conduct a major Liberty rally for conference), city, place, day, date, time, and Caldwell: Sabbath, Jan. 4, 11 a.m. (Heg- the greater Portland Vancouver area.) speaker. stad). Lincoln City: Thursday, Jan. 9, 7 p.m. McCall: Camp Ida-Haven, Monday, Jan. (Hegstad, Fenn, Justice). ALASKA 6, 7:30 p.m. (Hegstad, Justice address the Milton-Freewater: Stateline, Friday, Jan. Anchorage: Conference, Tues. afternoon, Idaho Conference Ministerial Council.) 24, 7 p.m. (Hegstad). Jan. 7. (Hegstad, Fenn address Alaska Con- Moscow: Moscow-Pullman, Sabbath, Feb. Milwaukie: New Life Celebration ference Ministerial Council.) 1, 4:30 p.m. (Hegstad). (meeting at Portland's New Hope Church), Anchorage: Jewell Lake, Sabbath, Jan. 4, Nampa: Sabbath, Jan. 4, 9:30 a.m. (Heg- Wednesday, Jan. 8, 7:30 p.m. (Hegstad, 9:30 a.m. (Fenn). stad). Fenn, Justice). Anchorage: Northside, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 7 Payette: Friday, Jan. 3, 7 p.m. (Hetstad). Portland: Stone Tower, Friday, Jan. 31, 7 p.m. (Hegstad, Fenn). Sandpoint: Friday, Jan. 31, 7 p.m. (Hegstad). p.m. (Justice).

NPUC Gleaner News 13

Staywell Make a Christmas Memory

By Janet Wilkinson, M.P.H. five courses. Store up memories, not calories. What kinds of memories does Christ- C. Create some new customs that focus mas bring to mind? A lot of work? on Jesus, family, and friends. Shopping, baking, decorating, mailing, and • Have children tell the story of Jesus' spending? Hurry, hurry, rush, rush? birth with a nativity scene or felts. Here are some ideas to help sweep away • Plan a Christmas tea with Grandma or some of the unnecessary holiday clutter and a lonely friend. Grandma can share stories focus on what's important. of her childhood. A. Evaluate your traditions. Separate • Have a birthday party for Jesus complete those that bring real satisfaction from the with prayer and gifts. Let children decorate When thinking of past celebrations, ones that are unrealistic, have lost their the cake and blow out the candles. people usually remember the special things meaning, or are excessively time, money, • Say "I love you" to spouse, children, or they did together. This year, give your family and/or energy consuming. parents with a personal message on a card. and friends one of the best gifts . . . happy B. Simplify some traditions. Buy fewer • Read the Christmas story from a new memories. presents. Bake half the cookies and sweets version of the Bible or write your own. you usually do. Instead of a seven-course • Buy some simple gifts to take to a needy Janet Wilkinson, M.P.H., writes from Yakima, dinner that leaves everyone stuffed, plan family. Wash.

You and Your Trust Services If You Have a Will Now, Check to See . . . AIN

By Dale R. Beaulieu • Am I happy with my choice of executor name a charity in your Will, be sure to use and alternate executor? its full, legally incorporated name.) • Have I moved to another state since • Do I still own the specific properties Contact your attorney or local conference making this Will? mentioned? Trust Department today if your Will needs • Do I now live in a community property • Have I acquired new properties? to be reviewed. state? (In our union, Idaho and Washington • Will my estate receive the full advantages are community property states). of the marital deduction? • Are the beneficiaries still living? Are their • Am I able and willing to add bequests to Dale R. Beaulieu is assistant director of Trust needs still the same? the charitable causes I support? (When you Services North Pacific Union Conference.

CONFLICT AND VICTORY constituency through every changing era Hispanics are setting an example I wish Continued from page 2 and will continue to do so. Enrollment this our Anglo churches would copy. We could year is above projections. Conventional end the year ahead of last year in soulwin- again. We find an increase in academy and wisdom said that enrollment this year would ning. It is too early at this point to tell. college enrollment but a drop in elementary. go down, but it has gone up. Niels-Erik Oregon expects the best harvest in a decade. I admit that there are warts and freckles and Andreasen and his team of administrators While in Perth at Annual Council I re- imperfections in our schools, but Christian and faculty are leading Walla Walla College newed fellowship with W.L. Masoka, direc- education still plays a vital role. We have toward objectives of academic and spiritual tor of the Southeast Africa Union Mission. more reason than ever to support and excellence. He sends thanks to the North Pacific Union encourage our parents to support Seventh- Soulwinning remains a top priority. We Conference staff and all those who donated day Adventist schools. have broken the 70,000 barrier in member- the needed, and much appreciated, bicycles The 100-year hourglass is running low for ship. One of the largest baptisms this year to his pastors. More than 100 bicycles were Walla Walla College, 1991 marks a cele- was in connection with a series of evan- given! "We have doubled our baptisms dur- bration that none of my college class gelistic meetings conducted by Evangelist ing the past year because of increased mo- members believed would occur, but here it George Rainey working with the Sharon bility:' he stated. He continued, "Our pas- comes. One hundred years! Celebrate or Church. A new black church was tors were able to double their contacts:' weep, but don't blame any delay on Walla established in Portland — a new, strong, Their baptisms rose from 3,000 to 6,000. Walla College. It has been here to serve this black church! We don't report these baptisms to the North

14 News December 16, 1991

American Division. Celestial bookkeepers 1. Giving our children a slice of the pie committed to us for the end time. will know where to credit the baptisms! And after we have let them help us cut it. It is 6. Helping the caring church to be so in I must hasten to add that the credit goes their church too. real life. to Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. It is not 2. Strengthening family life Our strength 7. Inviting home those who have wan- the work of man. We did not even think is no greater than the sum total of family life. dered away and making "home" a place that about baptisms, we just did it because we 3. Helping our schools be centers of aca- is warm, accepting and attractive. were impressed that there was a need and demic and spiritual excellence And helping 8. Calling the dissidents and disen- we could fill it. It is fun to make a difference parents see the strength of our schools, that chanted away from side issues that divide through direct or indirect influence, and in they are God's ordained agencies for our and inviting them to work with us in ac- the end we are really recipients of the bless- Seventh-day Adventist children. This is very complishing the mission. ings returned to us. critical. While secondary and college enroll- 9. Reaffirming the truths that have made Our conferences have passed through ments have increased, elementary enroll- us a people. another season of spiritual refreshment at ment has declined. Small elementary schools 10. A more effective, dynamic use of camp meetings and convocations. Oregon are quietly closing. This is a cause of great media to reach our population. met its challenge bravely. Gladstone has concern. 11.Greater flow of literature and more been the mother of camp meetings. It is a 4. Increased stewardship of time, talents effective follow-up of interests. hard act to follow. Few had any illusions that and money. The Seventh-day Adventist 12. Continued and strengthened encour- the Portland Coliseum would duplicate it. Church, in my opinion, is a sleeping giant. agement for the Russian Union, our sister But a highly condensed, yet deeply spiritual, If active participation by our members in- union in the Euro-Asia Division. experience rewarded those who came. creased only 10 percent we would see won- Two Sabbaths ago an elder of the New ders here in the Northwest. Life Celebration Church, near Portland, 5. Reaching and evangelizing the popu- Bruce Johnston is president of the North Pacific told me about a young woman he and his lation centers with the relevant truths Union Conference. wife had brought to the Friday night meet- ing in the Coliseum. He said that she had been impressed by the sermon that uplifted Jesus. She said "I wanted to hold up my hand to indicate that I was accepting Jesus as my Savior and Lord, but my other hand held it down:' Those familiar with the issues of the Great Controversy can understand CONFERENCE the struggle that she went through. Since then, however, she has taken a series of Bible studies and has made her decision for NEWS baptism. Many others have experienced that same saving grace at the Coliseum and each given a toothbrush in their favorite in all the camp meetings. color, and on another Sabbath, a bar of The Native American camp meetings soap. The hour-long programs end with were attended beyond expectation. I spoke cookies and juice, and memory verse cards at the one in Mission, Ore., in the Upper and Little Friends handed to each child. Columbia Conference. The spirit was beau- IDAHO Because of the successes this year, the tiful. The Native American work has fairly Mountain Home Church plans to start the exploded into new life. Monte Church, Branch Sabbath School in the early director of our Native American Affairs, summer of 1992. Members base their mis- says "My people know their church really Labor Camp Ministry sion on the text: "Suffer the little children, cares:' And not in just words only. Reaches Hispanic Kids and forbid them not, to come unto me: for The GLEANER is functioning with a of such is the kingdom heaven" Matthew 19:14. new editor. A lot of thought goes into The members of the Mountain Home Lorna Johnson editing the GLEANER and there is a strong Church recently began a new outreach commitment to the Northwest family. Ed program. Every Sabbath afternoon, church Schwisow wishes to do all that is possible members from Mountain Home Air Force to pull the Northwest Adventists into a Base, Mountain Home, and the Hammett sense of family and mission. area, gather on the central interior lawn of There are many more exciting things that the Hammett Labor Camp. The Branch have occurred this year. What I have shared Sabbath School begins at 4 p.m., directed is but a few of many memorable events. by Ethylan Fester, Martha Heisler, Caroline Someone may say "Thanks for the mem- Ingram, and Annie Stricker, who speak Spanish. They begin by leading out in ories, but what about the future?" The North Spanish songs, accompanied by Pastor Mel Pacific Union Conference has many chal- Grasbast on the guitar. Within minutes, the lenges and many opportunities as we face Spanish children (an average of 20 each 1992. I personally face it with increased con- week) come running to join in with the fidence. The promises of God have sustained songs and listen to Bible and nature stories and ever spurred us on to greater exploits. provided by different church members. Because most Hispanic children are bilingual, The momentum builds. The challenges As an added treat, Ethel Wilson gives a include: songs are sung with both Spanish and English health talk. The first week the children were verses.

18 News December 16, 1991

The first half gives information about ad- dictions, the last half hour is devoted to answering questions on air. The series is Goldendale underwritten by the Blalock Foundation, Baptism allowing the station to purchase badly- Pastor Vernon Chase, needed equipment. far right, is shown with, With additional equipment, and close co- left to right, David Will- iams, Susan Williams operation from the Communication Depart- and Marty Enslow, who ment at WWC, the station has been able were recently baptized to produce higher quality productions. at Goldendale, Wash. If you have any questions concerning BMBA, call the station manager, Lynelle Childs, at (509) 529-9149. Jim Roe

GENERAL NEWS

"Food for Russia" plan is urgently needed Northwest Multicultural to help members remain in good health dur- ing the winter. Also that local NPUC conferences should form "sister conference" Leader to Join Executive Team relationships with local missions in Russia, and that Northwestern churches should By Ed Schwisow Ed Schwisow, Communication Department carry that relationship to the local level director and formerly acting editor. under Operation Bearhug coordination. By unanimous vote, the North Pacific Also established was a GLEANER editorial Union Conference Executive Committee, board consisting of Paul Nelson, chairman, Youth Cabinet in regular session, has approved the naming Portland, Ore.; Ed Schwisow, secretary, of the current multicultural/regional affairs Portland, Ore.; Vicky Ballou, Portland, Ore.; Fred Comforth, youth director of Idaho director as assistant to the president. Ronald Carroll, Payette, Idaho; Byron Dulan, Conference, and senior NPUC representative The recommendation for this appoint- Bellevue, Wash.; Mumtaz Fargo, Billings, to the North American Division youth cabi- ment came from the NPUC Administrative Mont.; Lenard Jaecks, Bothell, Wash.; Bruce net of General Conference, presented a report Council, which has been studying ways to Johnston, Portland, Ore.; James Osborne, of interaction taking place on the North enhance the executive presence of ethnic Anchorage, Alaska; Jere Patzer, Spokane, American Division level to help prepare local leaders on the union level. Wash.; Robert Rawson, Portland, Ore., and churches to better assimilate young people. As assistant to President Wayne Shep- Raquel Santillana, Wenatchee, Wash. Also reporting was Mark Williams, an Au- perd, multicultural regional affairs director The editorial board considers all and associate church ministries director, be- GLEANER policies that have to do with burn Adventist Academy senior, who is junior comes a voting member of the local admin- processing and printing of editorial and member of the NPUC delegation to the cabi- istrative council at North Pacific Union advertising copy submitted to GLEANER, or net. Both Comforth and Williams suggested Conference headquarters, and of the ex- generated by the editorial staff. that opportunity for rewarding involvement tended administrative council which con- must be presented to youth at younger ages, sists of the NPUC executive officers and especially to those reared in the church. local conference presidents. These councils Operation Bearhug set the agenda for the North Pacific Union Bruce Johnston, NPUC president, and Alf Publishing Board Conference Executive Committee, the high- Birch, NPUC Church Ministries director, An additional step in a plan, authorized est church authority on Northwestern soil. and Operation Bearhug coordinator, pre- previously by the committee, was taken to Shepperd retains all former departmental sented a two-hour wrap-up report of achieve- responsibilities, as well. place Northwest literature evangelists ments of Northwest laymen, pastors and directly under a support system operated by evangelists in Russia. Operation Bearhug is the North Pacific Union Conference office, a Northwest outreach to Russia, intended to New Committee Members effective Jan. 1, 1992. assist the Russian Union Mission materially, Elected to the NPUC executive commit- evangelistically and educationally. Under this plan, local conferences will tee were Byron Dulan, Seattle, Wash.; James Birch reported that during the past seven close their publishing offices; however, Osborne, Anchorage, Alaska; and Don months, 55 Northwestemers have traveled to approximately the same level of support for Keele, Boring, Ore. These replace board Russia, resulting in 953 baptisms, evangelistic literature evangelists will be given by district members who have resigned due to retire- education of scores of Russian pastors and the publishing directors operating directly under ment and reassignments. distribution of thousands of Russian-language the auspices of the North Pacific Union adult and children's Bibles. Conference office, at a conservatively- GLEANER Items Birch, who recently traveled to Russia to valued annual savings of $120,000, accord- Named as editor for the GLEANER was evaluate Operation Bearhug, said that a ing to Mel Lyon, NPUC publishing director.